Category: Comic Books & Graphic Novels

Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks

SUPERMAN/BATMAN: BIG NOISE (DC Comics)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date November 25, 2023

Written by Joe Casey & Joshua Williamson.

Art by Scott Kolins; Ardian Syaf; Jay Fabok; Vincente Cifuentes; David Enebral; Norm Rapmund; Marlo Alquiza; Prentis Rollins; Rebecca Buchman; Derek Fridolfs; Walden Wong; Michael Atiyeh; Ulises Arreola; Pete Pantazis; & Rob Leigh.

Collection Cover Art by Ardian Syaf; Vicente Cifuentes; & Ulises Arreola.

SUMMARY:

DC Comics, in 2010, released this 144-page paperback compiling Superman/Batman # 64 and # 68-71 from 2009 and 2010. Thousands of years before, homicidal Durlan terrorists aboard a hijacked Kryptonian vessel flee local justice through a space-time portal. The shape-shifting Durlans intend to exterminate all Kryptonians to finally achieve victory in their intergalactic feud.

In the present-day (amidst the aftermath of Our Worlds At War), Batman & Superman grimly investigate this same vessel they have found now derelict in a secluded asteroid belt. Given a missing escape pod and the ship’s uneasy proximity to Earth, they conclude that an alien hostile is apparently now hiding somewhere on the planet.

What confounds the World’s Finest Duo is how this Kryptonian ship could have jumped through time – more so, the reason why. Meanwhile, in the Himalayan Mountains, reclusive billionaire (and STAR Labs silent partner) Anderson Gaines evidently makes a sinister discovery.

A seemingly routine assignment weeks later for Clark Kent has him interviewing the enigmatic Gaines. Soon afterward, an incendiary assassin named NRG-X launches fiery attacks targeting Clark Kent at The Daily Planet and then the Man of Steel in his own Fortress of Solitude. Having probed his own suspicions of Gaines’ unusually public activities, Bruce Wayne contemplates the identity of NRG-X’s shadowy employer. Whoever it is knows Clark’s secret and is unleashing a very personal vendetta to kill Superman.

Against two formidable adversaries, the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel must go on offense to end a predator’s wrath bent on finally destroying Krypton’s legacy.

Note: This title is presently available in a trade paperback format only.

REVIEW:

Considering this title’s brevity, readers could construe Big Noise either as a tight, plot-driven space/action thriller or a fast and forgettable read. Squandering excellent artwork (specifically, Issues # 68-71), one makes a more convincing case for the latter. Suffice to say, Big Noise’s storyline is, at most, superficially entertaining.

A lack of depth is glaring, such as the absence of pivotal supporting characters – apart from Alfred Pennyworth making some contributions, the plot leaves one wondering: where is Clark’s spouse, Lois Lane? Or Perry White, for that matter, especially if The Daily Planet’s upper deck has been firebombed? Writer Joe Casey doesn’t provide any answers, let alone seems to care.

As adequate compensation, Casey might have pitched some welcome plot twists, but the Superman-targeted-for-death storyline doesn’t bother with a single surprise. Minimal creativity isn’t a deal breaker, but this story’s business-as-usual outcome has no impact. The predictable Superman/Batman: Big Noise, if anything, is strictly a library find.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

The full-page cover precedes each story. The cover artists are for Issue # 64: Scott Kolins & Mike Auyeh; and for Issues # 68-71: Ardian Syaf; Vicente Cifuentes; & Ulises Arreola.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 4½ Stars

Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

THOR BY JASON AARON: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, VOLUME 3 (MARVEL Comics)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date August 29, 2023

Written by Jason Aaron.

Art by Russell Dauterman; Matthew Wilson; Rafa Garres; Frazer Irving; Frank Martin; Valerio Schiti; Mat Lopes; & VC’s Joe Sabino.

Collection Cover Art by Russell Dauterman & Matthew Wilson.

SUMMARY:

Released by Marvel Comics in 2021, this 448-page paperback compendium collects Mighty Thor # 1-19 (from 2015-2017). With a disgraced Odinson (the original Thor) presently missing, a terminally ill Jane Foster wields Mjolnir as a masked Goddess of Thunder. Few are privy to Jane’s guarded dual existence as Thor, even among her fellow Avengers.

Worse for Jane, she is fully aware that the ancient magic transforming her into Thor subsequently dissipates any progress her chemotherapy has made. In effect, her heroics as the new Thor is prolonging her cancer death sentence and now killing her a little bit at a time. Case in point: Jane calmly chooses to leave a chemo session to save a crashing Roxxon satellite plummeting from Earth’s orbit to save innocent lives. Her fellow Avengers (in a cameo) can only observe her in awe.

Baited by the sight of hundreds of murdered Light Elf corpses falling out of space towards Earth, Jane’s Thor senses the Dark Elf, Malekith, has now started a War of Elves. With chaos igniting among Asgard’s realms, Malekith’s shadowy alliance (including a link to Earth) intends to install him as the ruler of all Elves, by any unscrupulous means necessary.

Destroying Jane’s Thor means one less obstacle to his growing reign of terror. Unable to convince Asgard’s Council to intervene, Jane knows it’s up to Thor and her trusted friends to thwart the War of Elves and free a captive Queen Aelsa as Malekith’s unwilling new bride.

Having already imprisoned his own wife, Freyja, a mentally imbalanced Odin’s wrath is challenged by opportunistic in-fighting in a fractured Asgard. Hunted as a fugitive impersonator, Jane’s Thor faces off vs. Loki and even Odin himself to protect Asgard’s downtrodden. Along with her allies (Sif and The Warriors Three, among them), Jane’s Thor attempts to quell insurrection, though Loki is an unpredictable wildcard.

Trying to still maintain her mortal existence on Earth, Jane poignantly puts Asgard’s needs before her own. Not only is a suspicious SHIELD probing Jane’s connection to Thor, but the Shi’ar Empire’s Imperial Guard intends to capture her as a prize amidst Asgardian civil war.

Again challenged by a skeptical foe, Jane defennds herself against one of the galaxy’s mightiest aliens: the Imperial Guard’s Gladiator. Yet, even he pales in comparison to the two ethereal Shi’ar adversaries demanding the Goddess of Thunder answer to them.

Assuming she even survives battling the Shi’ar’s own gods, what still awaits Jane’s Thor and guest star Quentin Quire is a defiant stand against the cosmic firepower of the Phoenix Force. Jane’s fate may well hinge upon the return of Odinson to Asgard. Unlike old times, her odds of a climatic rescue have shifted – Jane’s Thor, with her mystical hammer, Mjolnir, refuses to be a damsel-in-distress.

Note: This title is also available in a digital format.

REVIEW:

Fans of Jane Foster’s Thor ought to find Volume 3 a superb read. Along with writer Jason Aaron consistently at the top of his creative game, the book’s visuals are mostly high-caliber. Still, nineteen issues (with virtually zero humor and minimal downtime) is a lot to absorb for anybody.

Casual readers may find themselves overwhelmed, as Aaron doesn’t simplify his sophisticated plotting for newcomers. That’s really where this volume’s entertainment value becomes subjective – if one stays patient, Aaron’s epic storytelling gradually becomes immersing.

Thor by Jason Aaron: The Complete Collection, Volume 3, suffice to say, is for mature fantasy saga buffs, who appreciate a creative long game.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

After each issue, its full-page variant cover(s) follows. Following the table of contents, the original full-paged cover by artists Russell Dauterman & Matthew Wilson precedes each story. The 24-page extras gallery consists of:

Dauterman’s two-page, black-and-white (inked) spread of Issue # 1’s cover;
quarter-page cover sketches by Dauterman from Thor # 6-8 and # 10-12;
in a half-page format, Dauterman’s character designs of Jane Foster, Odinson (Thor), Roz Solomon, Exterminatrix, Ancient Loki, Titania, Bloodroot, Kurse, armored Asgardian warrior, Quentin Quire, Shi’ar Gods, Blue Witches,. Mangog, and characters from the ‘Congress of Worlds;’
a full-page variant of Mighty Thor # 1 variant of Dauterman’s Jane Foster character design;
the same for Mighty Thor # 2 features Dauterman’s takes on Odin and Freyja;
the same for Mighty Thor # 3 featuring Dauterman’s renditions of Hela, Queen of Cinders, & Karnilla;
the full-page Mighty Thor # 5 cover variant by artist Laura Braga;
a full-page Mighty Thor # 6 cover variant by artists Joyce Chin; & Laura Martin; and
full-page cover variants: Greg Hildebrandt’s Mighty Thor # 8; Natacha Bustos’ Mighty Thor # 10; Pasqual Ferry & Frank D’Armata’s Mighty Thor # 11; Mike Deodato Jr. & Frank Martin’s Mighty Thor # 15; Andrea Sorrentino’s Mighty Thor # 15; Ryan Sook’s Mighty Thor # 15; and Joe Jusko’s Mighty Thor # 16.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC-Related DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks Movies & Television (Videos)

BATMAN: THE 1989 MOVIE ADAPTATION (2019/2023 DC Comics)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date July 24, 2023

Written by Dennis O’Neil.

Art by Jerry Ordway; Steve Oliff; & John Costanza.

Cover Art by Jerry Ordway.

SUMMARY:

First released in 2019 by DC Comics for the film’s 30^th Anniversary, this 134-page ‘deluxe edition’ reprints the comic book adaptation of 1989’s Batman movie co-starring Michael Keaton, Kim Basinger, and Jack Nicholson. A subsequent 2023 reprinting was issued – presumably, to capitalize on Keaton’s much-anticipated return as Batman in The Flash.

In only a month, the nocturnal Batman has become a terrifying urban legend to street thugs in decrepit Gotham City. Local reporter Alexander Knox and his glamorous new partner, photojournalist Vicki Vale, attempt to solve this mystery. Meanwhile, Vicki falls in love with enigmatic 35-year-old billionaire Bruce Wayne, who is reluctant to share his dark secrets with her.

Upon being double-crossed by his boss, Carl Grissom, psychotic mobster Jack Napier has transformed into Gotham’s latest warped creation: the Joker. Hence, Batman and his new arch-enemy commence a dangerous series of face-offs. Batman, with Vicki’s help, attempts to thwart the Joker’s mass poisoning of Gotham’s public with his sinister Smylex laughing gas. An ominous catch-phrase has Batman subsequently realize where his obsession with Jack Napier first began.

With an abducted Vicki’s life at stake, Gotham’s Dark Knight pursues the maniacal Joker into a climatic final showdown. The question becomes: who rules Gotham City’s nights?

Note: This title is also available digitally.

REVIEW:

Reading this adaptation, one will immediately recognize the 1989 comic book’s limitations, in fairness to O’Neil’s lackluster rehash. First, multiple scenes and characters are omitted – i.e. Bruce & Vicki’s initial meeting; no Harvey Dent seen; a drugged Alicia’s disfigurement revealed to Vicki, etc. The maximum page count no doubt prioritized what O’Neil could do with the plot’s content.

Secondly, aside from minor tweaking, O’Neil sticks close to the script’s dialogue. Like Craig Shaw Gardner’s novelization, the cast’s improvisations (i.e. Keaton’s memorable “I’m Batman” intro) aren’t represented. Frankly, they wouldn’t have the same effect in this medium. The reliable O’Neil, overall, does a decent job given how he’s creatively boxed in.

As for artist Jerry Ordway, he has a knack for conveying terrific close-up likenesses of the cast much of the time. Still, though generally faithful to the cast’s costuming, the visuals are otherwise pedestrian. Suffice to say, the art squad falls far short of recapturing Anton Furst’s innovative art deco design, let alone a welcome sense of the mega-budget cinematography.

It’s unfortunate that, back in 1989, DC Comics didn’t prioritize this project to merit its artistic A-game. It appears that DC has since refreshened (to a degree) the comic’s weak-looking inks with a more worthwhile upgrade, aesthetics-wise.

Even if this ‘deluxe edition’ isn’t a must-have, it’s a decent slice of Bat-nostalgia from DC’s archives.

Notes: O’Neil includes one brief scene (likely deleted from the finished film) where Knox poses as Batman’s ‘corpse.’ In one set of images (replicated on the back cover), Ordway presents nice head shot close-ups of Keaton, Basinger, & Michael Gough’s Alfred. Keaton’s depiction has a longer-hair comb-over, which, amusingly, resembles a toupee.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In a full-page format, both covers of the comic’s prior release are included. A scanned copy of Ordway’s artwork, as obvious padding, effectively doubles this book’s size. Ironically, Ordway’s black-and-white sketches are more vividly noir than the inked version.

BRIAN’S OOD MOON RATING: 5½ Stars

Note: Craig Shaw Gardner’s intriguing novelization depicts the movie’s intended script before Basinger replaced an injured Sean Young as ‘Vicki Vale.’

Hence, subsequently deleted/un-filmed scenes include Bruce & Vicki’s horseback riding sequence and a masked Bruce’s improvised horseback rescue of Vicki from the Joker and his henchmen. This latter action sequence was replaced in the film by Bruce faking his apparent death in Vicki’s apartment before discreetly escaping to the Batcave.

Books & Novels Children's Books Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC-Related DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks

JUSTICE LEAGUE: THE JOKER AND HARLEY QUINN’S JUSTICE LEAGUE JAILHOUSE

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date July 24, 2023

Written by Louise Simonson.

Illustrated & Cover Art by Tim Levins.

SUMMARY:

Based off the Justice League Unlimited animated program’s continuity, Stone Arch Brooks released this 88-page paperback in 2018. It’s among at least eight titles in this series.

Hired by Lex Luthor, the Joker & Harley Quinn conspire to abduct the Justice League by holding them captive in a secret subterranean cavern below Arkham Asylum. The big prize is Luthor’s ulterior motive: a defeated Superman at his mercy (or lack thereof).

With the Huntress and Flash as their first prisoners, the villains reveal that the Leaguers have been chained to an elaborate death trap where Gotham would be decimated by a bomb. One catch is that the heroes’ vast powers have been conveniently neutralized. The far more diabolical one is that the sole means to prevent detonation is steady (forced) laughter at video replays of the Joker’s favorite ‘greatest hits’ schemes.

Despite already knowing the identities of their adversaries, the Man of Steel is lured into a kryptonite trap. It’s up to Wonder Woman, Batman, Cyborg, and John Stewart’s Green Lantern to launch a counter-strike to save their teammates. To make their strategy work, Wonder Woman risks her life to infiltrate the villainous duo’s lair by posing as their next prisoner.

The question becomes: will this dangerous gamble save Gotham City and her teammates in time?

Notes: Neither Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern nor Aquaman appear in this story. The back cover reiterates the League roster, including its reserves.

REVIEW:

With excellent production values (including an easily readable font), this book doesn’t cheat its young target audience.

Veteran comics writer Louise Simonson devises a fun little plot that seemingly evens the odds pitting two wacky Bat-villains vs. seven Justice Leaguers. While ‘screen time’ is generally well-divided, Wonder Woman earns this story’s MVP award as Simonson’s best-written character. As for the visuals, Tim Levins’ artwork nicely homages the look of Justice League Unlimited. Suffice to say, this Justice League caper should be a fast read where kids will outgrow it sooner vs. later.

Still, Justice League: The Joker and Harley Quinn’s Justice League Jailhouse is a welcome find for an elementary school library.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

There is a table of contents. The League’s ‘roll call’ highlights its primary seven members: Wonder Woman; Batman; Superman; Cyborg; Flash; Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern; and Aquaman. Another twenty League reserves are also depicted. The League’s ‘database’ reviews a quick profile on the Joker and Harley Quinn, along with images of another thirty-four Legion of Doom villains. An ad also identifies the covers for all eight (so far) titles in this series.

While there is a single-page glossary, it ironically omits the climax’s biggest word: “doppelgänger.” A few questions and some creative writing prompts are then provided for students. Paragraph-length bios on Simonson and Levins are on the last page.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars

Books & Novels Children's Books Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC-Related DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks

JUSTICE LEAGUE: GORILLA GRODD AND THE PRIMATE PROTOCOL

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date July 14, 2023

Written by Brandon T. Snider.

Illustrated & Cover Art by Tim Levins.

SUMMARY:

Based off the Justice League Unlimited animated program’s continuity, Stone Arch Brooks released this 88-page paperback in 2018. It’s among at least eight titles in this series.

With the League already short-handed due to various emergencies, Batman deploys a six-member squad under Wonder Woman & Vixen’s command to Gorilla City. This contingent consists of John Stewart’s Green Lantern; Hawkman; Green Arrow; & Ronnie Raymond/Professor Martin Stein’s rookie Firestorm. Their mission is to recapture a fugitive Gorilla Grodd.

A routine skirmish seemingly lands Grodd and his mind-controlling gold helmet in League custody. Yet, aboard a mid-air League Javelin jet, the conniving Gorilla Grodd’s latest evil scheme is unleashed. Transforming Firestorm, Green Arrow, Hawkman, and Wonder Woman into his rampaging gorilla minions, Grodd sends them against Vixen & Green Lantern in downtown New York City.

It’s up to Professor Stein to reach Ronnie’s mind to save their League teammates while there’s still time.

Notes: While Batman plays a supporting role in this plot, Superman, Cyborg, & Flash make cameo appearances. Neither Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern nor Aquaman appear in this story. The back cover reiterates the League roster, including its reserves. There are at least seven other titles in this particular Stone Arch Books series.

REVIEW:

Its production values are remarkably good, including an easily readable font. Both its comic book-faithful plot (i.e. Hawkman & Green Arrow’s mutual disdain) and appealing visuals ensure a decent diversion for the intended elementary school audience. As the team’s rookie powerhouse, Firestorm (Ronnie Raymond & Professor Martin Stein) is highlighted in a plot reminiscent of the mid-80’s Super-Friends TV incarnations as The Super Powers Team/Galactic Guardians animated series.

There’s nothing remarkable about the story itself, as kids will likely outgrow it fast. Still, Justice League: Gorilla Grodd and The Primate Protocol makes a fun library read for ages 8 and up.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

There’s a table of contents. The League’s ‘roll call’ highlights its primary seven members: Wonder Woman; Batman; Superman; Cyborg; Flash; Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern; and Aquaman. Another twenty League reserves are also depicted. The League’s ‘database’ reviews a quick profile on Gorilla Grodd, along with images of another thirty-five Legion of Doom villains.

An ad identifies the covers for all eight (so far) titles in this series. Following a single-page glossary, a few questions and some creative writing prompts are provided for students. Paragraph-length bios on Snider and Levins are saved for last.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars

Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC-Related DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks

GIRL TAKING OVER: A LOIS LANE STORY (DC Comics)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date June 30, 2023

Written by Sarah Kuhn.

Art by Arielle Jovellanos; Olivia Pecini; Melanie Ujimori; & Sam Lotfi.

Cover Art by Arielle Jovellanos; Olivia Pecini; & Melanie Ujimori.

SUMMARY:

Released by DC Comics in 2023, this 185-page Young Adult graphic novel re-imagines Lois Lane as an ultra-ambitious 18-year-old first-generation Asian American high school graduate seeking her first big break.

For the summer prior to pursuing a journalism degree at the University of Metropolis, Lois (or “Lo-chan,” as her doting mother calls her) embraces a promising internship with Cat Grant’s urban website in National City. If anything, she is at least far away from her quaint and excessively dull hometown of Macville – evidently located somewhere on the West Coast.

Lois considers this big city gig a precursor to phenomenal career accomplishments awaiting her back East at The Daily Planet someday. Yet, first she finds out that her mother has secretly arranged for Miki Mahara (Lois’ long-estranged, ex-best friend) as a summer roommate. Suffice to say, there is instant friction between Lois & Miki’s vibrant yet seemingly dissimilar personalities.

Note: It isn’t clarified if Lois & Miki are in fact cousins, as they evidently share an ‘Uncle Ronnie.’

Lois’ ‘epic’ life plan further unravels the next day as her professional idol, Cat Grant, is summarily dismissed due to corporate chicanery leaving Lois reduced to a coffee gofer. Later defending an artistic Miki’s principles to avant-garde actor/theater owner Dante Alexander, Lois smells a rat.

Having confirmed Alexander’s fraudulent scheme, Lois is dismayed that her snide boss, Bradley Beauregard Belmont (aka Triple B), has suppressed her exposé and threatens revoking her internship. With help from their shared friends, an emboldened Miki convinces Lois to collaborate on an anonymous website, “Novice Nooz!,” geared towards honest journalism for their generation.

Success and potential romances quietly blossom for both Lois and Miki. Impacting the young journalist’s newfound momentum is a spirit-crushing encounter with a downcast Cat Grant. Even worse is vengeful repercussions threatened by Belmont and Alexander once they realize how Lois & Miki have blatantly defied them. With public exposure meant to ruin their promising futures, the two friends must make a pivotal stand, regardless of the consequences.

Notes: This title is also available digitally. As a parental advisory, there are sporadic profanities, including one f-word.

REVIEW:

With unabashed exuberance, writer Sarah Kuhn’s storyline explores a bevy of contemporary themes, including racism, both gender and workplace discrimination, ethical journalism, and youthful yet non-violent rebellion. More so, Kuhn packages her plot twists to embolden girls with resiliency and a belief that dreams can come true … even if they necessitate some occasional tweaking/reality checks.

In that sense, the down-to-earth title character doesn’t really need Lois Lane’s name value for this book’s upbeat content to succeed. The ‘Lois Lane’ element, however, only further enhances Girl Taking Over’s innate charm by living up to the comic book icon’s reputation. The same applies to this art squad’s colorful visuals, which prove an ideal fit for Kuhn’s effervescent storytelling.

There is one caveat: Kuhn’s two stock villains are strictly one-dimensional egomaniacs. It isn’t necessary that either one ‘magically’ reforms by the story’s end (a cookie-cutter cliché that Kuhn doesn’t resort to). Had either Alexander or Belmont exhibited one unexpected hint of compassion, then Girl Taking Over would be a more complete story where all ethnicities deserve a level playing field.

Aside from some unnecessary profanities, Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story is a treat to read. More so, Kuhn and her collaborators supply convincing evidence that terrific Lois Lane stories don’t require a Man of Steel.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Collaborators Kuhn and Jovellanos each have a photo and biography page. Exploring their re-imagining of Cassandra Cain, there is a thirteen-page preview of Kuhn & artist Nicole Goux’s Shadow of the Batgirl graphic novel.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

HARLEY QUINN SERIES – POISON IVY (aka IVY): SEEDLING (Episode 201)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date June 6, 2023

SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 9:37 Min.

Through his production company, Imagination Upgraded!, Brandon Champ Robinson co-wrote the script (with Samantha Briggs) and directed this live-action fan film/webisode. It was evidently released in 2020. Inspired by DC Comics’ Poison Ivy, this fan film depicts Ivy/’Ms. P’ (Biosah) as an enigmatic African American woman who possesses telepathic powers with all plants. The city where she lives isn’t identified.

At her suburban home, Ivy’s use of a cannabis-like smoking device is interrupted by two teens, Chris & TK (Brown & Curtis), who playfully pose as burglars. She senses their presence through her home’s array of plants. After a round of shooting foam bullets back and forth with the kids, she agrees to help TK with a project. Ivy then returns to her private relaxation.

Leaving Ivy’s home, the teens are approached by a neighborhood drug dealer, Vic (Walker). While much preferring Ivy’s mysterious substance, Vic prods a reluctant TK into pushing a new designer drug. Vic claims these pills have five times the potency of Ivy’s personal concoction.

At home with TK, Chris naively stumbles upon Vic’s pills in TK’s backpack. Leading into a cliffhanger, plants in proximity to Chris send a dire alert to Ivy – that her friend is imminent danger just as the naive teenager is about to sample one of Vic’s illicit pills.

Pamela/Poison Ivy aka ‘Ms. P:’ Justina Biosah

TK: Charles Curtis

Chris: Kaitlyn Brown

Vic: Nathan Walker.

Notes: George Ross Bridgman and Jon Finfera’s names appear in the cast’s opening credits, but their roles aren’t identified. There’s two possibilities: either A. they are the voice actors for Ivy’s telepathic plants, or B. perhaps their footage was edited out of the finalized episode.

For clarification, DC Comics isn’t acknowledged in the credits. Also, despite the series title, there isn’t a Harley Quinn referenced in this film. One may infer that “Ivy: Seedling (Episode 201)” is meant to be a ‘spin-off’ of a Harley Quinn fan film.

REVIEW:

Despite the drug-related plot, this low-budget film’s visual vibe demonstrates some welcome potential. Case in point: combined with nature sounds, the opening credits sequence’s cinematography is stylish. As to the acting, Justina Biosah makes Pamela Isley/Poison Ivy an intriguing heroine, in what little is seen of her sultry character. By comparison, her castmates’ performances come off as somewhat amateurish, but this TV-caliber mini-film is nonetheless watchable.

Fans of DC’s Poison Ivy might want to check this neat little production out, at least for curiosity’s sake. If Brandon Champ Robinson devised this project as a work sample for DC Entertainment to contemplate hiring him, then he makes a reasonably convincing case. The same applies to Biosah for potential TV/film roles in the DC Universe.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars

IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE

Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks

BATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST, VOLUME 1: THE DEVIL NEZHA

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date June 3, 2023

Written by Mark Waid.

Art by Dan Mora; Tamra Bonvillain; & Aditya Bidikar.

Collection Cover Art by Dan Mora.

SUMMARY:

Released by DC Comics in 2023, this 160-page hardcover reprints 2022’s Batman/Superman: World’s Finest # 1-5 and material from Detective Comics # 1050 (its cover isn’t included).

Though the exact DC continuity is murky, this ‘flashback’ tale is set in the early days of the World’s Finest team-ups. With Poison Ivy & Metallo attacking The Daily Planet, Batman & Dick Grayson’s Robin are unable to stop Metallo from poisoning a defenseless Man of Steel with a syringe containing multiple different pieces of red kryptonite.

Teaming with Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, and the original Doom Patrol, the Dynamic Duo are able to contain a gravely injured and ultra-volatile Superman. Emergency intervention by Dr. Niles Caulder and Negative Man at the Doom Patrol’s mansion is subsequently necessary to save Superman’s life.

Batman and Superman are then advised by Caulder’s Doom Patrol that they have been targeted by an ancient immortal sorcerer, Nezha, who has somehow escaped eternal imprisonment. Between Elasti-Girl, Negative Man, and Robotman, they reveal Nezha’s purported origin from more than a millennium ago, which involves his cursed blade. Afterwards, the heroes split into teams.

The Doom Patrol seeks out word on Nezha’s lost Tomb in Mont Blanc, Switzlerand, where their perennial foe, General Immortus, may (or may not) have the necessary answers. Amidst a time-traveling mission to China of 1579 B.C., teenagers Supergirl & Robin allude to an awkward first date they had shared. Consisting of a team of magical Chinese super-heroes, Nezha’s ancient enemies might reveal the only possible means of thwarting the sorcerer a second time.

Near Philadelphia, Superman & Batman must save a terrorized Billy Batson from Felix Faust. It becomes readily apparent that Nezha is amplifying the heroes’ current foes as pawns to try and destroy them. Nezha’s corruption expands, as he resorts to mind-controlling Justice Leaguers and Teen Titans as well. Appearances include: Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern; Wonder Woman; Barry Allen’s Flash; Black Canary; Martian Manhunter; Firestorm; Wally West’s Kid Flash; Donna Troy’s Wonder Girl; and Red Tornado.

Already bearing mixed news, Supergirl is unable to save Robin from plummeting somewhere into the timestream amidst their return to the present-day. It is now desperation time against Nezha, as the combined firepower of Superman, Supergirl (guilt-ridden over losing Robin), Batman, and the Doom Patrol is no match against this magical adversary’s onslaught. An ultimate sacrifice is seemingly the last option, but the question is: who will do so? Cliffhangers further linger, as to the unresolved fates of Robin and Wonder Woman.

Notes: This title is also available digitally. Presumably, DC Comics will release it in trade paperback form in the future. Despite their presence on the collection’s cover, the following do not appear in this book: Catwoman; Commissioner Gordon; Bane; Scarecrow; the Joker; Brainiac; and Darkseid. Lex Luthor only makes a brief cameo in a hallucination.

REVIEW:

Writer Mark Waid conjures up a timeless and entertaining ode to Silver Age DC nostalgia. Not only is Waid absolutely on his storytelling game, his unpredictable plot twists should keep readers engaged from start to finish.

Among this books’ gems is a welcome opportunity of catching the original Doom Patrol in all its glory. The same applies to a rare chance for this underrated trio (along with Niles Caulder) to interact with DC’s mainstream icons with worthwhile depth. Waid further demonstrates his knack for making a variety of characters simultaneously shine by distinguishing their familiar personalities spot-on. Suffice to say, Waid’s snappy dialogue ensures that these characters are neither interchangeable nor simply talking cardboard. They all serve specific plot functions as he intended them.

Aside from Waid, this book’s art squad also deserves kudos for supplying terrific visuals ideally matching this storyline’s adventurous tone. For all Batman and Superman fans, World’s Finest, Volume 1: The Devil Nezha concocts a first-class treat for DC fans. Definitely recommended!

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In a full-page format, each of Dan Mora’s five covers and then an additional replica darkened in blue precedes its story. As full pages, there is a twenty-page variant cover gallery. Issue # 1 consists of these artists: 1. Jim Lee, Scott Williams, & Alex Sinclair; 2. Stanley “Artgerm” Lau; 3. Jason Fabok & Brad Anderson; 4. Evan “Doc” Shaner; 5. & 6. Chip Zdarsky; and 7. Lee Weeks & Brad Anderson). Issue # 2 has these artists: 1. Tim Sale & Dave Stewart; 2. Pete Woods; and 3. Jorge Jimenez & Alejandro Sanchez).

For Issue # 3, the artists are: 1. Lucio Parillo; 2. Rafael Sarmento; and 3. Jorge Corona & Matt Herms. Issue # 4 has artists: 1. Derrick Chew; 2. Freddie E. Williams II; 3. Riley Rossmo & Ivan Plascenia; and 4. Dan Mora. Finally, the fifth issue has these artists 1. Francesco Mattina; 2. Pete Woods; and 3. Alexander Lozano.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8½ Stars

Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

DAREDEVIL & ELEKTRA, VOLUME 1: THE RED FIST SAGA (MARVEL Comics)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date June 3, 2023

Written by Chip Zdarsky.

Art by Marco Checchetto; Rafael De Latorre; Alex Maleev; Paul Azaceta; Phil Noto; Chris Samnee; Klaus Janson; Mike Hawthorne; John Romita Jr.; Scott Hanna; Matthew Wilson; & VC’s Clayton Cowles.

“The Hand” Written by Ann Nocenti, with Art by Chip Zdarsky & VC’s Clayton Cowles.

“Mini-Marvels” Writer/Artist/Letterer: Chris Giarrusso.

Cover Art by Marco Checchetto & Matthew Wilson.

SUMMARY:

Released by Marvel Comics in early 2023, this 144-page trade paperback reprints 2022’s Daredevil # 1-5. Previously, the world’s knowledge of now ex-convict Matt Murdock’s secret identity has been magically erased.

Maintaining her intimate partnership with Matt, Elektra Natchios continues to operate as a masked Daredevil. After the murder of Matt’s ‘twin brother,’ Mike, and Wilson “Kingpin” Fisk’s murky departure, an undercover Matt and Spider-Man retaliate by leaving Fisk’s latest heir a grim warning to behave himself.

Before joining Elektra overseas to set up The Fist’s secret base, Matt has an ominous encounter with his former law school classmate and now assistant New York district attorney: Robert “Goldy” Goldman. Deluding himself as an archangel of God, Goldman demonstrates explosive powers of mass destruction, which he claims has ‘helped’ spurn Matt into becoming the best possible hero for several years now. Among the possible casualties of Goldman’s latest terrorist act is Matt’s beloved ex-girlfriend, Kirsten McDuffie.

Matt also discovers that Mayor Luke Cage is considering city business with the nefarious Stromwyn family. Luke subsequently confirms Matt’s dire warning about the billionaire Stromwyns’ true nature. Matt himself is ambushed by Aka, most likely The Hand’s deadliest operative. Collecting his best friend first, Matt abandons his prior life in New York City to commit himself as the co-leader of the underground Fist group.

On a remote island between Russia and Japan, Elektra, Stick, & Matt train their Fist ninja recruits, including Foggy Nelson and NYPD police detective Cole North. A mutated Dr. Leonard “Doc” Samson, whose nickname is now ‘Doc Sasquatch,’ also accompanies them. Committed through an ancient ceremony as the Fist’s ‘King’ and ‘Queen,’ Matt & Elektra are married.

In therapy sessions with “Doc” Samson, a zealot-like Matt increasingly expresses the intent of his Fist to conquer The Hand cult making the world a better place. Before their group can decisively confront The Hand, Elektra & Matt command a shocking raid on The Myrmidon – a prison for super-villains in an undisclosed ocean. Its troubleshooter, John Walker’s U.S. Agent, and his armored troops prove no match for an intense Matt.

Reviewing security camera footage, this brazen jailbreak for fifteen notorious super-villains leaves The Avengers no choice. The two fugitive Daredevils are now on the team’s ‘Most Wanted’ list.

Note: This title is also available digitally.

REVIEW:

Relaunching its Daredevil title yet again, Marvel Comics has opted for a huge tonal shift in Matt Murdock’s long-time wars against criminals like The Kingpin, Bullseye, and others familiar foes he shares with Spider-Man.

Deviating far from Daredevil’s street-level defense of the innocents residing in Hell’s Kitchen, Chip Zdarsky’s “Red Fist” storyline is an acquired taste where one must suspend disbelief at the outset. Envisioning Matt & Elektra’s modern take on an ancient ninja cult challenging its evil counterpart – seemingly with the fate of the world at stake, Zdarsky is taking his time setting up Marvel’s equivalent of Batman’s perennial feud with Ra’s al Ghul’s sinister forces for a new phase.

With some caveats, the result is somehow a relatively good read. Among this plot’s most implausible elements, the quasi-religious “Goldy” Goldman sequences likely do the most harm to a convoluted storyline. Since Zdarsky’s scripting already pitches cult leader Matt Murdock/Daredevil out of character as is, adding an enigmatic supernatural adversary indulges the creative envelope too far.

Even so, the art squad’s terrific visuals are this compilation’s best asset, as far as making Zdarsky’s plot seem more engaging that it really is. Curiously, Elektra’s eyes are consistently depicted to resemble Matt’s, as if implying that she, too, is now blind (though it is clearly stated that she isn’t). If anything, perhaps it is a subtle artistic nod by the creative team indicating how devoted Elektra and Matt’s union has become.

As appealing as the artwork is, “The Red Fist Saga” is likely best perused as a library option first. This high-concept story arc is not the gritty Daredevil most casual fans would expect, so a ‘test drive’ prior to purchase makes good sense.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In a full-page format, each Marco Checchetto/Matthew Wilson cover precedes its story. Entitled “The Hand,” a four-page back-up story depicts Daredevil’s interaction with a young Irish family reluctantly mixed up with Hell’s Kitchen mob. As fair warning, this tale’s poor taste is peculiar. Specficially, a gruesome revelation hidden in a cooler prompts an inappropriately lighthearted finish with a smiling Daredevil’s approval.

A single-page “Mini Marvels” comic strip subsequently parodies the two Daredevils by depicting Bullseye ineptly ‘horning’ in on Daredevil & Elektra’s partnership. As compared to the prior bonus feature, this spoofy “Mini Marvels” is at least mildly amusing.

Consisting of quarter-sized displays and full-page images, a six-page variant cover gallery consists of: Issue # 1 (seven variants alone): 1. (artist: Jorge Fornes – full-page); 2. (artist: Peach Momoko – quarter-sized); 3. (artist: David Nakayama -quarter-sized); 4. (artist: Dan Panosian – quarter-sized); 5. (artists: John Romita Jr., John Romita Sr., & Richard Isanove – quarter-sized); 6. (artists: Ryan Stegman & Marte Gracia – full-page); and 7. (artist Joe Quesada – quarter-sized). For Issue # 2, there are two quarter-sized entries: one from artists Gary Frank & Brad Anderson, and the other from artist Pete Woods.

For Issue # 3, artists Alev Maleev and Paolo Siqueira & Rachelle Rosenberg each provide quarter-sized variants. Both Siquiera & Rosenberg and Checchetto & Menyz provide their own quarter-sized variants for Issue # 4. For Issue # 5, artists Scott Williams & Sebastian Chang provide a quarter-sized variant before Checchetto concludes with a full-page sketch and color design variant.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars

Comic Books & Graphic Novels DC Comics DC's Hardcovers & Trade Paperbacks

BATMAN: EARTH ONE, VOLUME THREE (DC Comics)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date June 3, 2023

Written by Geoff Johns.

Art by Gary Frank; Jon Sibal; Brad Anderson; & Rob Leigh.

Cover Art by Gary Frank & Brad Anderson.

SUMMARY:

In 2021, DC Comics released this 160-page hardcover completing the Batman: Earth One trilogy. In Earth One’s alternate reality, Bruce Wayne’s late mother was Martha Arkham making him the last heir of both the Wayne fortune and the controversial Arkham legacy. Amidst Martha’s haunted childhood, her parents were both lost to bleak fates.

In the present day, along with allies Alfred Pennyworth and Killer Croc, Bruce secretly excavates his way underneath Arkham Asylum to set up the first Batcave. The GCPD’s Captain James Gordon remains Batman’s trusted police contact.

Shocking DNA evidence is uncovered proving that an elderly and mentally deranged transient is Wayne’s long-believed-dead maternal grandfather: Adrian Arkham. Bruce desperately tries to connect with Adrian, who grimly believes that his grandson will inevitably soon fall victim to the Arkham family curse.

Simultaneously, Batman and his allies encounter the first wave of mass quantities of military-grade weaponry being smuggled into Gotham for an incendiary criminal revolution. Bruce isn’t sure how much he can confide in his ally and would-be girlfriend: Mayor Jessica Dent. Currently, she is still recovering emotionally and physically from her psychotic brother Harvey’s recent death.

Worse yet, it appears that a zombie-like Harvey is somehow the ghostly mastermind plotting Gotham’s imminent destruction. Another wildcard in this combustible mix is a goofy-looking Catwoman (possibly Selina Kyle), who may join the Bat-team for the right price. As both Bruce Wayne and Batman, Gotham’s Dark Knight races the clock to uncover the murky truth before he falls to shadowy forces targeting him.

Threads are left teasing a potential Volume Four, including this reality’s Joker and a young Outsiders team.

Note: This title is also available digitally.

REVIEW:

Akin to their prior DC works (i.e. Superman: Secret Origin), this project’s art squad again delivers top-caliber visuals. Yet, such reliable artwork compensates only so much for Geoff Johns’ middling storyline.

Negating Two-Face’s intriguing new incarnation (two thumbs up for some originality), Johns’ ‘realistic’ Bruce Wayne/Batman struggles to be compelling as an old-school masked man pitted against such evil adversaries. Volume Three, in that sense, falls short of conveying Gotham’s Dark Knight as the human force of nature fans are hoping for.

Instead, it focuses far more on Bruce Wayne comingling his Arkham family heritage with his Bat-destiny, which frankly isn’t that interesting come the final few twists. Pitching a woefully underwritten Catwoman (whose ridiculous fashion sense far more befits Harley Quinn) into this mix doesn’t improve the situation. As for the dubious Adrian Arkham sub-plot, one might say its ‘mind games’ climax is just too reminiscent of Batman: Under the Red Hood.

In that sense, Johns’ simplistic take on Batman is disappointing. The excitement and fun he generated years ago with stellar pre-52 creative runs on Wally West’s Flash, Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern, JLA, and Superman: Secret Origin is sorely missed upon reading this underwhelming adventure.

Resorting to occasional profanities and gore doesn’t hide that a third round of Earth One’s Batman is frankly a nonessential Elseworlds caper. For Bat-fans, it is unfortunate that Batman: Earth One, Volume Three’s stellar visual look isn’t matched by an engaging mystery/horror tale worthy of this vibe.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In a two-page art gallery, two different panels are sampled depicting the evolution from sketch (Frank) to inked version (Sibal) and then on to the finished product (Frank, Sibal, Anderson, & Leigh). The last page provides paragraph-length bios on the creative team – excluding Sibal.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 5½ Stars