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Quick Critiques for 8/13
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.
EMMA FROST #2
by Karl Bollers, Randy Green & Rick Ketcham
(Marvel Comics)
 Bollers's exploration of teen angst continues, and his second script is even stronger than his first. He wisely doesn't focus exclusively on the title character's emerging powers; the real conflict is here is how just about everyone in her life is exerting unhealthy pressure on her. Emma feels lost, and it's something to which any reader can relate. Green tells the story clearly, but I'm disappointed that he opts to portray the protagonist in a sexual light repeatedly throughout the issue. The notion that someone would dress her in a hospital gown after what seems to be a simple fainting spell is ludicrous enough, but that they'd choose one so baggy that it would conveniently slink off of her shoulder is too much. Green follows up with a bathroom scene that shows Emma (a) naked, and (b) in a clingy T-shirt and panties makes it clear that he's trying to sex up this coming-of-age story. Of course, one could argue that he's taking his cues from the cover, which has nothing to do with the story and character inside. 6/10
FANTASTIC FOUR #502
by Mark Waid & Casey Jones (Marvel Comics)
 The resolutions for the emotional conflicts established in the previous issue are a bit more "after-school special" for my tastes, but they work well within the context of the First Family of the Marvel Universe. One of the more interesting dynamics at play here is Ben and Johnny stepping into the guiding roles, and I enjoyed the unusual pairings for the two plotlines. Jones's artwork suits the lighter tone of the characters and the story, though I have to confess that I wish his vision of an infernal landscape was a bit more horrific. It would have really brought home the intense nature of Franklin's emotional trauma. Waid offers up a couple of solid gags here, the best of which was the Thing's impression of the Hulk. 8/10
GOTHAM CENTRAL #10
by Greg Rucka & Michael Lark (DC Comics)
 The police-drama appeal of this series is set aside for a bit to allow for a story that focuses more on a colorful criminal from the world of the Dark Knight. The plot behind Renee Montoya's troubles may be on the unrealistic side, but it makes sense in this context. What makes this issue stand out, though, is the quietly sad scene that brings the story arc to a close. In that scene, Rucka delivers moments that dwell on the secret Montoya's been hiding, and how her life must change as a result. Lark's art is gritty and grounded, and Lee Loughridge's dark colors add tension to this urban drama. 8/10
JSA #51
by David Goyer, Geoff Johns, Leonard Kirk & Keith Champagne (DC Comics)
 Goyer and Johns wrap up the "Princes of Darkness" storyline, and as did the chapters that came before, their story celebrates the vastness of DC continuity and the rich array of characters that have arisen over the course of six decades. Mordru's final battle is rather predictable, and in a story arc full of climactic moments, this climax just doesn't stand out that much. What is interesting, though, is the epilogue, in which a JSA splinter group emerges, one that's bound to find itself at cross-purposes with former allies. Kirk's artwork captures the wonder of the large cast of characters quite well, and John Kalisz's colors reinforce those efforts splendidly. 6/10
PARADISE X: A #1
by Jim Krueger, Alex Ross, Dougie Braithwaite & Bill Reinhold (Marvel Comics)
 Don't let the cover -- or the title of the book -- fool you: this issue isn't about Captain America. One scene focuses on the now-angelic sentinel of liberty, but overall, this seems to be more about Mar-Vell's cosmic breakdown. The book is cursed with the usual Paradise X affliction, an accessibility barrier, but it's not overwhelming. The plotting is intricate and intriguing, but the real strength here is Braithwaite's artwork. He captures the same mature and detailed atmosphere readers have come to expect from Alex Ross, but he does so with his more conventional linework. The mix of classic characters and updated new looks for old favorites never fails to entertain. 6/10
ULTIMATE X-MEN #36
by Brian Michael Bendis, David Finch & Art Thibert (Marvel Comics)
 Bendis presents a super-hero story so replete with action that it reminds me of a Michael Bay movie. He also makes it clear with this issue that this is not an Ultimate Spider-Man story dressed up to look as though it belongs in Ultimate X-Men. It's not exactly an X-Men story either, though. An X-Man, Wolverine, is the catalyst, but the point seems to be to explore Marvel's Ultimate universe. It works well on that level. The plot is intense, and the dialogue is sharp and witty. This story arc may represent the best work I've ever seen from David Finch. His gritty and detailed style -- reminiscent of Joe Quesada's style while still showing his Tow Cow leanings -- captures the action wonderfully, as well as the grim intensity of two of the heroes. 8/10
Email Don MacPherson with your comments about this review.
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