Month: December 2020

Written by Len Wein

Lead Feature Art by Jesus Saiz; Tom Derenick; Robin Riggs; Scott Kolins; Karl Story; Mike Atiyeh; Tom Chu; & Rob Leigh. Back-Up Feature Art by Gary Frank; Brad Anderson; & Jon Sibal.

Cover Art by Jesus Saiz & Brad Anderson

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for May 2011 for this twelve-issue series, the lead feature is entitled “Truth and Consequences!”  Claiming to be a retired Metropolis cop, elderly Paul Lincoln recalls how, with one notable exception, he has collected super-hero press clippings for decades.  A flashback explains how he and his terminally ill wife, Peg, cope with her cancer prognosis.   

At that same time, Elongated Man (Ralph Dibny) suffers the tragic homicide of his spouse, Sue.  Paul describes the Justice League’s fiery reaction during the Identity Crisis saga.  Paul and their daughter, Diana, are at Peg’s bedside at the time of her cancer-related death.  In mourning, Paul describes his subsequent encounter with a deadly OMAC robot at S.T.A.R. Labs. during Infinite Crisis.  At the retirement home, it’s ambiguous if Paul’s reminiscences are figments of his own senile imagination.

Blue Beetle (Ted Kord) has the eight-page back-up tale entitled, “Snapshot: Redemption!”  Per Ted’s narrative blog, he describes how his friendship with the original Blue Beetle, Dan Garrett, led him to become Dan’s driven successor.  Ted’s triumphs and travails are recounted prior to his homicide leading into Infinite Crisis.

Note: The alternate cover art team is Gary Frank & Brad Anderson, though their variant image isn’t provided in this comic.

REVIEW:

The misleading cover art is a non-existent scene with Zatanna; Green Lantern (Hal Jordan); Black Canary (Dinah Lance); Flash (Wally West); and the Spectre (Crispus Allen) together.  Still, writer Len Wein’s poignant feature nicely interweaves Paul’s seemingly ordinary life (and its inevitable tragedies) with those of his beloved super-heroes.  Considering the number of artists involved, the feature’s imagery is mostly excellent. 

Backed by artist Gary Frank’s impressive penciling, Wein admirably hits two in a row with a stellar homage to Ted Kord’s Blue Beetle.  Hence, DC Universe: Legacies # 10 is a solid read for long-time DC Comics fans. 

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Ian Sattler’s single-page “DC Nation” column hypes the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:             7 Stars

Written by Bill Willingham & Judd Winick

Art by Howard Porter; Wayne Faucher; Travis Lanham; & Alex Bleyaert

Cover Art by Stephane Roux

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for December 2008, the finale of this mini-series is entitled “Power to the People.”  With the ex-Teen Titan, Jericho, running amok, he pits Green Lantern Hal Jordan against Superman, Green Arrow, Robotman, and Zatanna Zatara.  Told in flashback, a recuperating Hal recalls to Green Arrow & Wonder Woman what ultimately seals Jericho’s defeat.  Steve Dayton’s Mento aids the Justice League’s determination re: what may be causing Jericho’s chilling psychosis. 

In a Daily Planet exclusive, Superman (somewhat condescendingly) tells Lois Lane why he and other heroes shouldn’t get involved in politics.  Later, spouses Clark Kent and Lois Lane egg each other on during Election Day.       

REVIEW:

Considering the last page conveys a PSA re: voting, Decisions # 4 reveals exactly all what DC Comics meant this preachy mini-series was supposed to do.  Frankly, Decisions # 4 does far too little to salvage a disappointing storyline and a pretentious lecture on the importance of voting.  It’s more like a passionate company edict than a legitimate Justice League adventure. 

Though the cover image is terrific, the interior artwork appears half-hearted at best.  Decisions # 4 offers a few worthy moments (i.e. Hal Jordan vs. Jericho and Lois & Clark’s voting experience), but it’s not worth the price of admission. Ultimately, this mini-series proves a DC mediocrity, despite some intriguing potential along the way.     

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In the single-page “DC Nation” column, DC Senior Story Editor Ian Sattler promotes a Halloween theme.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 5 Stars

Written by Bill Willingham & Judd Winick

Art by Rick Leonardi; Dan Green; Travis Lanham; & Alex Bleyaert

Cover Art by Stephane Roux

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for December 2008, this third installment of the four-part mini-series is entitled “Time to Take a Stand!”  With the startling news that Bruce Wayne is backing a presidential candidate, Wonder Woman steps up to back an opposing candidate.  The public fallout continues, as the Flash’s controversial statement lambasting politics embarrasses the Justice League. 

Superman and Lois Lane privately squabble over his less-than-subtle public blow-off of her probing of his preferred candidate.  The Huntress and Blackhawk Zinda further contribute to the heroes’ arguments over the candidates.  As Batman’s strategy unfolds, another political rally is attacked.  After Green Lantern falls to mind control, Superman & Green Arrow are among those stunned to confirm who the assassin is.     

REVIEW:

As disappointingly heavy-handed as this storyline is, this issue still has a relatively decent script.  As with Issue # 1, the artwork is far too often a letdown.  The assassin’s identity is handled fairly well, but more build-up from the culprit’s point-of-view would have helped.  Also, another stretch of revealing various heroes’ political ideals quickly becomes tiresome.  Decisions # 3 is okay, but it doesn’t likely merit multiple reads.     

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In the single-page “DC Nation” column, Dan DiDio promotes some Final Crisis tie-ins.  There’s also a thumbnail cover reveal for the climatic Decisions # 4.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 6 Stars

Written by Bill Willingham & Judd Winick

Art by Howard Porter; Travis Lanham; & Alex Bleyaert

Cover Art by Stephane Roux & ‘Badass’

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for November 2008, this second installment of the four-part mini-series is entitled “The Great Debate.”  Green Lantern Hal Jordan and Green Arrow’s fistfight is broken up by Black Canary.  While the unknown assassin determines the next intended victim, the Justice League’s dissension grows re: political endorsements by super-heroes.  Guy Gardner jumps into the fray backing a presidential candidate.  Pushed by her boss, Lois Lane reluctantly seeks public presidential endorsements by other DC super-heroes.  Green Lantern’s team breaks up another attempted bombing at a candidate’s rally.  Elsewhere, Bruce Wayne drops a bombshell of his own.  

REVIEW:

As heavy-handed as this storyline is, at least a needed switch from the art team of the middling first issue delivers a welcome upgrade in the visuals.  The brief Green Lantern-Green Arrow slugfest; Lois being chastised by her boss; and the thwarted bombing sequence make for some intriguing sequences.  For the most part, Decisions # 2 proves a relatively good read.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In the single-page “DC Nation” column, DC Editor Mike Carlin hypes Trinity # 17.  There is also a thumbnail cover reveal for Decisions # 3.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:              7 Stars

Written by Bill Willingham & Judd Winick

Art by Rick Leonardi; Karl Story; Dan Green; Steve Wands; & Alex Bleyaert

Cover Art by Stephane Roux & ‘Badass’

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for November 2008, the opener of this four-part mini-series is entitled “The Green Endorsement.”  The Doom Patrol’s Robotman partially thwarts a terrorist bombing attack on a presidential candidate’s campaign rally in Cincinnati, OH.  Subsequent evidence collected by the Justice League indicates that the remaining candidates are being targeted by an unknown adversary for assassination.  Superman & Batman divide a League task force for various assignments.  Assigned to candidate Davis Brewster, Green Arrow’s heroics suggests to Batman that mind-controlled pawns connected to the candidates are expendable and hiding-in-plain-sight assassins.

Though the Justice League generally doesn’t discuss their political views (even Superman refuses to reveal his politics to his wife, Lois Lane), Green Arrow is swayed to publicly endorse an opportunistic Brewster.  Green Lantern Hal Jordan, for one, is dismayed by his old friend’s dubious judgment.  Others, like Lois Lane, sense a hot news story is imminent. 

REVIEW:

The spot-on cover image is likely this comic’s best element.  Deliberately timed to profit off 2008’s presidential election, its mass assassination conspiracy storyline is mildly intriguing.  However, what isn’t so cool is DC’s dubious advertising of its characters’ political views.  Though Superman and Green Lantern Hal Jordan refuse to be baited, do readers really need to know which political party Lois Lane votes for (as she so heavily hints)?  Or Green Arrow?  Or any of the other Justice Leaguers, for that matter?  Writers Bill Willingham and Judd Winick take an unnecessary gamble with their less-than-subtle approach, as if the world doesn’t already endure a non-stop political barrage in the news media. 

This concept would likely flow better as a Green Arrow solo storyline (with the JLA as guest stars), rather than making Decisions into a Justice League event.  Further sabotaged by inconsistent artwork quality, DC Universe: Decisions # 1 is merely an okay single read.     

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In the single-page “DC Nation” column, Senior Story Editor Ian Sattler hypes Kevin Smith’s Batman: Cacophony project.  There is also a thumbnail cover reveal for Decisions # 2. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 5 Stars

Written by (See Credits Below)

Art by (See Credits Below)

Cover Art by George Pérez & Romeo Tanghal

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for November 1981, this 98-page digest-size volume features the fledging New Teen Titans in action followed by four reprints (three of which form a Silver Age Teen Titans epic).  

• “Reunion!”: Written by Marv Wolfman, with art by Carmine Infantino & Romeo Tanghal.  Speedy is saved by Aqualad from certain death by an international drug smuggling cartel.  Recruiting the New Teen Titans (Starfire; Cyborg; Robin; Wonder Girl; and Kid Flash), a squad of seven Titans go into battle in this short anti-drug message. 
• “Titans Fight the Battle of Jericho” [Part I] (from 1969’s Teen Titans # 20): Writing & Art Credits Aren’t Provided.  A costumed crusader dubbed ‘Joshua’ draws the Silver Age Teen Titans (Robin; Wonder Girl; Speedy; & Kid Flash) into an effort to thwart a terrorist group’s recruitment of some local teenage boys.
• “The Citadel of Fear” [Part II] (from 1969’s Teen Titans # 21): Writing & Art Credits Aren’t Provided.  In a tenuous alliance with Hawk (Hank Hall) and Dove (Don Hall), the Titans find themselves the targets of an extradimensional alien conspiracy threatening Earth.   
• “Halfway to Holocaust” [Part III] (from 1969’s Teen Titans # 22): Writing & Art Credits Aren’t Provided.  With Robin and Kid Flash held captive, the remaining Titans need an unexpected ally to rescue them from the ominous Dimension X.  
• “Skis of Death” (from 1969’s Teen Titans # 24): Script by Bob Haney, with art by Gil Kane & Nick Cardy.  The Titans’ scenic ski trip vacation is upended by a ruthless criminal gang. 

Note: Despite their presence on the cover, neither Raven nor Changeling/Beast Boy appear in this issue.

REVIEW:

Despite the opener’s primitive artwork (not to mention, the script’s heavy-handed approach), “Reunion!” is an entertaining short ride for Titans fans.  Offering better artwork than the opener, the reprinted three-part epic has some thrills,  Yet, a forgettable Moon Knight look-alike early on and an excessive helping of hippie lingo aren’t endearing.  Suffice to say, the over-inflated “Dimension X” plot co-starring a secret terrorist cell isn’t a keeper. 

The trilogy’s best part (including the artwork) proves the middle segment guest-starring Hawk & Dove.  Living up to a mildly amusing title, “Skis of Death” is a good Titans one-shot adventure, complete with Scooby-Doo-style plot twists late in the game.  While none of the tales are gems, DC Blue Ribbon Digest # 18 is still a time warp to a refreshingly less complicated era with the original Teen Titans.     

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

None, as images of the original covers aren’t included. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 6 Stars

Written by Will Pfeifer

Art by David Lopez; Alvaro Lopez; Brad Anderson; & Jared K. Fletcher

Cover Art by Adam Hughes

SUMMARY:

Published for October 2006 by DC Comics, it’s entitled “Memories Are Made of This.”  After a quick flashback of a blood-stained Catwoman’s murder of Black Mask the year before, the scene reverts to Selina Kyle & Zatanna Zatara standing in Selina’s Gotham City apartment.  They grimly stare at their captives: a demented Angle Man and his cohort, Film Freak.  These hoodlums will gladly divulge Selina’s new alias and the existence of Selina’s infant daughter, Helena.  While Selina comforts a crying Helena, Zatanna hears Angle Man explain his disturbing past.  Elsewhere, Selina’s captured friend, Holly, faces a police interrogation that suggests she is the Catwoman who murdered Black Mask. 

With Holly facing intense police pressure to betray Selina, a reliable old friend helps bail her out of trouble.  Upon mind-wiping their hypnotized captives, Zatanna & Selina affirm a friendly truce.  Another flashback depicts Catwoman’s attempted rescue of a sedated Slam Bradley’s son from a mob hit in his hospital room.  Zatanna’s confession spell upon Film Freak takes an unexpectedly homicidal twist.   

REVIEW:

Well-played!  Not only is the artwork simply dynamite, writer Will Pfeifer’s noir-like script realistically captures Selina’s conflicted mindset.  Forced to trust one another, the simmering tension between Selina & Zatanna delivers some excellent scenes, as their divergent personalities make for an intriguing team-up.  Accordingly, Catwoman # 58 is highly recommended for Catwoman & Zatanna fans.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Dan DiDio’s single-page “DC Nation” talks about Infinite Crisis, Brave New World, and Nightwing.  The cover reveals includes a goof re: next month’s Catwoman # 59.  Due to a printing mistake, the entire page was evidently lifted from Catwoman # 57 (see the copyright info in small print); hence, the cover reveal depicts this issue. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                  8½ Stars

Written by Jeph Loeb

Art by Tim Sale; Richard Starkings; & & Dave Stewart

Cover Art by Tim Sale

SUMMARY:

Published by DC Comics for April 2005, this penultimate issue of the six-part mini-series is entitled “Chapter Five: Friday.” After punting him off a private yacht, an infuriated Selina Kyle evidently gets some vital intel from an overboard Riddler.  Dangling a prized ring in front of feared albino mobster Guillermo Verinni and his cronies, she soon discovers where the elusive Louisa Falcone is.  Scaling a heavily-secured compound, Selina makes a heartfelt effort to confirm whether or not the ex-Mrs. Falcone is really her biological mother.  Batman’s nebulous presence continues to haunt Selina’s sub-conscious.  The endgame begins, as a solo Catwoman is targeted by multiple enemies seeking her imminent death.

REVIEW:

Co-storytellers Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale do an excellent job conjuring up this stylish segment of Catwoman’s Italian crime drama.  In particular, Sale’s visuals sell the storyline’s film noir aspects exceptionally well.  Despite making one too many references to her sex life, Loeb’s tough-talking, street-smart Selina makes a relatable protagonist, particularly without Batman available as her convenient back-up. 

The hostility a suspicious Selina exudes toward the Riddler is well-played, as she realizes that her uneasy Gotham City ally is a bigger threat than anticipated.  Loeb only stumbles by rendering a few dialogue sequences solely in Italian per the plot’s setting – yes, their general meaning is rendered, but it’s still somewhat pretentious to not provide any specific sub-titles for readers.  

Ultimately, Catwoman: When in Rome # 5 is a great adult read.  It’s an enticing advertisement to track down this mini-series in its entirety, with the best bet being its trade paperback form.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

DC’s mystery ‘mole’ pens another “DC in Demand” column.  Thumbnail cover reveals are for Flash # 219; Seven Soldiers # 0; DC Countdown Special; and Legion of Super-Heroes # 3.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                  8½ Stars

Written by Gardner Fox

Art by Mike Sekowsky; Bernard Sachs; Joe Giella; Murphy Anderson;  & Gaspar Saladino

Cover Art by Mike Sekowsky; Murphy Anderson; & Jack Adler

Note: The credits are based upon the original issue.

SUMMARY:

Released in 2017 by DC Comics, this ‘loot crate’ edition exactly replicates the Justice League’s debut in The Brave and the Bold # 28 – clear down to the obligatory ads – from March 1960.  Already a fledging team, the roster consists of Wonder Woman; Green Lantern (Hal Jordan); Flash (Barry Allen); Martian Manhunter; Aquaman, and, in cameo appearances, Superman & Batman. 

Against the giant alien starfish, Starro, and three duplicates it has created, the League divides its forces.  Green Lantern faces a Starro clone in the Rocky Mountains, with a stolen atomic bomb at stake.  Wonder Woman and Martian Manhunter confront another Starro clone, while Flash contends with the third clone.  Along with help from hip teenager Snapper Carr, the team re-assembles to face off vs. the real Starro.

REVIEW:

Loaded with innocent nostalgia (including a glimpse of Wonder Woman’s romance with Steve Trevor), it’s a bit ironic that the story’s cardboard storytelling might cause contemporary readers to nod off.  Still, its abundance of good intentions is admirable.  Writer Gardner Fox makes this first Justice League tale a genuinely kid-friendly caper  — including some real-life science as to the use of deploying lime for starfish infestations.  The equally legendary art team doesn’t let Fox down by conjuring up visuals that spell out the Silver Age’s undeniable magic.  

Even better is that this reprint completely refreshes this classic issue, appearing in mint condition as it would have sixty years ago.  In that sense, this comic is a gem to read, even if its monetary value is sadly non-existent compared to a real Brave and the Bold # 28.   

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

A single-page science section illustrates varieties of starfish.  There’s also a full-page excerpt from an undated transcript discussing faster-than-light space travel.  It’s apparently from a roundtable discussion by the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Science and Astronautics.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 9 Stars