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Quick Critiques for 10/19/2005
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.
JUSTICE #2
by Alex Ross, Jim Krueger & Doug Braithwaite
(DC Comics)
 Ross and Krueger are clearly embracing a retro, traditional feel for the various heroes who populate this story, but what's interesting is that they're taking the opposite tack for the villains. The villains are darker, and they're far more intimdating and, well, cool, than we've seen before. The Riddler looks amazing throughout this issue; in fact, he looks sharper than the Batman himself. The campy mad-scientist look for the villain who turns up at the end of this issue is a thoroughly chilling one that boasts an odd charm, given the B-movie inspiration that's clearly gone into Ross's re-imaginging of the character. Obviously, this book is about the visuals first and foremost, but the plot is certainly intriguing. It's fun watching the bad guys try to save the world while maintaining their corrupt methods, just as it's entertaining to see the heroes in the dark. While this series may be titled Justice, it's really about the villains, and that helps it stand apart. 7/10
MARVEL KNIGHTS SPIDER-MAN #20
by Peter David, Pat Lee & Dream Engine
(Marvel Comics/Marvel Knights)
 "The Other - Evolve or Die" continues here, but the relationship this second chapter has to the first is elusive. As I read this comic book, I thought for a moment that maybe I'd missed a chapter or hadn't finished reading Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man #1. But no, I'd read all there was so far of "The Other," but the story doesn't flow smoothly at all. Pat Lee's elongated figures and manga-inspired style isn't to my taste either, though I must admit this is the tightest and most coherent work he's done for Marvel thus far. His work here actually reminded me of the style of Whilce (StormWatch: Team Achilles) Portacio, but then, I don't much care for his art either. I will give David credit for some strong characterization when it comes to Mary Jane and her relationship with Peter. There's some real human drama to be found when the two speak about Peter's superhuman activities. It's just a shame it's caught up in a crossover story that's already lost my interest. 4/10
SHE-HULK 2 #1
by Dan Slott, Juan Bobillo & Marcelo Sosa
(Marvel Comics)
 I was a big fan of this series when Dan Slott and Juan Bobillo turned their attention to the green-skinned amazon of the Marvel Universe the first time around, so I anxiously awaited this relaunch. To my surprise, Slott plays things straight for the most part in this debut issue, allowing darker plot elements to shunt comedy to the side. Slott also spends a fair bit of time here recapping the previous series, and it's a wise move so as to include new readers. It's not all that engaging for those of us who were already up to speed. I'm delighted to see Bobillo return to the character; his style is so unique, his interpretations of familiar characters so different that he's a breath of fresh air in the super-hero genre. Slott also explores some entertaining legal spins on sci-fi concepts. While this didn't tickle me as I'd expected and hoped, it's a solid issue that succeeds in getting me to come back for more. 7/10
X-MEN AND POWER PACK #1
by Marc Sumerak & GuirHiru (Marvel Comics)
 Though the plot is far too transparent, Sumerak has once again developed a strong comic book for younger readers that will no doubt spark an interest in Marvel's vast stable of characters. The X-Men get top billing here, but this is still first and foremost a Power Pack series. The book is clearly set outside of continuity, as it should be so the younger audience can relate to the younger protagonists. The story is playful and simple, but it boasts some strong personality from the Power Pack kids. The art may amped up the Cute-O-Meter when it comes to the Power kids, but there's a great deal of energy in the action and in the depiction of the Power Pack's powers. I'd like to see Sumerak try to bring a continuing subplot or two into the series, but it's clear the emphasis is on accessibility and a simpler tone. If you liked the previous Power Pack limited series (or digest collection), you'll like this one too. 7/10
Email Don MacPherson with your comments about this review.
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