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Quick Critiques for 7/23
There's no way that Randy and I can cover all of the material we have for review in full reviews, so these capsule reviews will offer some brief comments on other recent releases.
EYE OF THE STORM ANNUAL #1
by various (DC Comics/Wildstorm Productions)
 This anthology set in the Wildstorm universe brings Whilce Portacio's Wetworks property back into the limelight. To my surprise, the story -- both written and pencilled by the creator -- is quite strong. Richard Friend's inks agree with him, and his script is surprisingly accessible. Geoff Johns and Jason Pearson introduce a time-travelling hitmen concept that's a lot of fun. It's like Minority Report meets The Professional and The Twilight Zone. Micah Ian Wright provides Stormwatch and Grifter stories to wrap things up. The former is well crafted and spotlightes one of the Team Achilles characters quite well. The gimmick behind the Grifter story is clever, but ultimately, the story is generic and not that engaging. Overall, though, this was a solid anthology and a pleasant surprise. 7/10
OUTSIDERS #2
by Judd Winick, Tom Raney & Scott Hanna
(DC Comics)
 Winick brings Lex Luthor into the opening story arc, but rather than the villainous Lex Luthor we usually see, Winick really explores Lex as president. In other books, Lex is a villain first and politician second, but here, he focuses far more on the commander-in-chief role. It brings credibility to the story... important, given that the action stems from a stampede of mind-controlled, super-intelligent gorillas. The new characters get a welcome moment to shine, and Raney's art captures the larger-than-life action at the heart of the plot. The big reveal on the final splash page didn't quite work for me, though. Perhaps given more context in the next issue, the new villainous element might click OK, but for now, it stretched my suspension of disbelief. 7/10
SCION #38
by Ron Marz, Jim Cheung, Scott Elmer & Jennifer Cross (CG Entertainment)
 Marz turns his attention to the new subplot involving the missing Heron king, and he moves it along at a surprisingly brisk pace. The big revelation here boasts something of a corny soap-opera tone, but the younger characters' reactions pack an emotional punch that makes it a worthwhile development. Marz also touches briefly upon the racism anaolgy that's been a part of the book from the start in a less than subtle but ultimately enjoyable opening scene. The real strength of this issue, not surprisingly, is Cheung's artwork. Despite the employment of two fill-in inkers this month, his crisp artwork still shines. I loved the contrast between the stark barroom scene and the later brightness of the Heron castle. The determination and concern is clear on the Heron children's faces, and the gorilla guerrillas is threatening and emotive, yet energetic and fun, all at once. 7/10
TEEN TITANS #1
by Geoff Johns, Mike McKone & Marlo Alquiza
(DC Comics)
 DC's moved quickly to get a second printing of this hot new series into stores, and if you weren't lucky enough to get a copy before, be sure to grab the reprint. Johns tells a story that's steeped in the classic Marv Wolfman/George Perez run on New Teen Titans in the 1980s, but he maintains a thoroughly accessible tone for new readers. The writer really captures the rift among the former Young Justice characters without requiring the reader to be intimately familiar with the events of Graduation Day. McKone's artwork is stunning. He captures the imagination and energy of the Perez Titans wonderfully, but he doesn't sacrifice his own sleek style. This is an excellent start to a promising new series. 8/10
Note: This comic book was not among this week's new releases.
TROUBLE (SECOND CHANCE VARIANT EDITION) #1
by Mark Millar, Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
(Marvel Comics/Epic imprint)
 I have to admit... though Frank Cho's cover is far more cheesecake than necessary, it suits the book far more than the photo cover of the first printing of this book. The story is Fast Times at Marvel High, and it seems clear from the first names that we're to infer that these characters are Spider-Man's future family. Fortunately, the book doesn't wink at the reader, pointing at little hints of what's to come in their lives. It focuses on them in the moment. Given the slightful sinful focus of this first issue, Terry and Rachel Dodson's provocative and curvaceous artwork seems like the obvious choice to bring it to life. They capture the young May's frisky and energetic nature quite well. 7/10
Email Don MacPherson with your comments about this review.
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