|
Post by oblique on Apr 13, 2017 20:08:00 GMT -5
Great couple of issues! The Riddler, when done well, is a great villain for Batman--cerebral, insidious, with a real reason to banter with the World's Greatest Detective and not just exchange blows. This plan was particularly engaging (I always enjoy it when the villain REALLY gets away and demonstrates their true threat to the reader). As a musical luddite, I can't say that the Metallica quotes (which I identified as such only upon skimming past letters) worked for ME, but they added a certain roguish charm to the chapters. I enjoyed the organization of the scenes and the epilogues, ironically, I have access to the whole sweep of the site and having read some of these issues "out of order" I had a good time ducking back and seeing such intelligent foreshadowing. Cheers!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Apr 5, 2017 19:44:55 GMT -5
Hello, UDC! I'm a new reader on the site and I've had the pleasure of catching up on a variety of titles. I just finished reading the first four issues of Secret Six. It's a great story so far and I look forward to more. Stories starring villains always have a lot of flexibility that make them a fun read.
I'm particularly enjoying Mist, Cluemaster, and Copperhead. Everyone has a distinct voice, powers, and roles in the squad. I enjoyed your careful set-up and characterization for each member of the squad. The Voice is an intriguing super-villain and I'm excited for the reveal. Personally, I hope it's not too far in the future to resolve this mystery and keep the story going, introduce a new perspective on the initial kidnapping and crime. Who's involved and why...We'll see!
P.S. "Making Friends and Influencing People" is the best title for this arc. Amazing.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Apr 5, 2017 19:24:28 GMT -5
This was a great issue with Scarecrow! I'm enjoying Dick's tenure under the cowl, he's a smart and brutal fighter when he adopts the persona of The Bat. It's an interesting psychological study of how Dick and Bruce react to the role of Batman.
Anyways, I loved the scenes with Gordon and the police. It was a fun battle with Crane; very smart moves on Dick's part. Great issue!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Apr 5, 2017 19:17:18 GMT -5
I think we all knew that Batman would return, but it was a great run with some real emotional heft.
Task Force X is the perfect foil for a hero like Nightwing or Batman--just enough power and ability to be a legitimate threat to someone like Batman without cracking suspension of disbelief, diabolical and cruel like real Gotham Rogues! I'd think a follow-up would be stellar, but it sounds like you've got quite a load on your plate!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Mar 5, 2017 18:33:36 GMT -5
I've never followed Green Lantern in the comics so this was a pretty interesting run for me, reading through the early stories starring the Emerald Gladiator here at DC2. I've always liked Hal as one of the "funny guys" on the Justice League riffing on Superman and Batman, but I've never put much thought into him as a character. These stories have really brought him to life in my mind! I thought this one-shot starring Sinestro (tying up some loose ends and highlighting what a cool character Sinestro can be!) was a good point to stop and drop a letter congratulating Charlie and the other writers and amazing artists--my favorite thus far was Issue 21! Holy crap, what a cover!
Briefly, I loved seeing Hal working with Kyle Raynor, the restoration of the Green Lantern Corps, and exploring his relationship with Chloe and with Carol. I've never quite liked the Star Sapphires, but this is as good an explanation for their schtick as any I've seen thus far. Your version of the destruction of Coast City was dramatic and emotional. Hal's pursuit and capture of the savage villain was fantastic. You've helped me to develop a greater appreciation for Guy Gardner, who is all-too-often portrayed as a thuggish jock...rather than a thuggish jock with layers.
More recently, I loved Clark's confrontation with Hal at the Kent Farm--and Hal's poignant response. Way to tell 'im, Hal! That was great. Honestly, I'm excited to see more of Stewart, Gardner, Hal, Carol, and everyone else. Fantastic work!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Mar 5, 2017 18:20:23 GMT -5
This was a great epilogue to an ambitious arc (the death of Batman!) and an even more satisfying conclusion to Two Face's amazing saga here at DC2. As has been said above, your insights into Gotham and Gordon are superb. Very dark, very clever, and very entertaining.
This issue also reflects on the big "death of Batman" stories in the Batbooks; I liked the idea of pitting Batman against Ra's al Ghul in his final battle. That said, I wasn't as sold on his villainous scheme. An armed invasion of a major American city seems more like a setup to fight Batman than a genuine plan on the part of the League of Assassins. It was hard getting over the "revolving door" of villains brought back from the dead for this arc, but I did enjoy the dramatic fight scenes. Joker, on the other hand, seemed more like a distraction, not to mention bizarrely overpowered--it's quite difficult to build and plant a small bomb let along an entire army's worth of munitions! It did draw attention to how Batman made some serious mistakes, and I'm glad that other characters and his own actions draw attention to how badly he messed up.
While this was not my favorite run on the Batbooks thus far, it was a dramatic and poignant end for the Dark Knight and this was an excellent epilogue touching on some of the characters that were affected by his loss. I loved the scene with Selina. I look forward to seeing how the city, and the Batfamily, react to further fallout in the next issues.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Mar 5, 2017 18:02:51 GMT -5
Wow! "Trial by Fire" was an amazing arc and this epilogue was, as has been stated above, perfect. What a great way to introduce Dick to the mantle of The Bat, facing off against Waller's Task Force X. The different ways Grayson defeated his opponents showcased not just his worthiness as a successor but also how he's different from Bruce and what's always so fun about Batman as a character. What a great run! Can't wait to see more of Grayson under the cowl.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Mar 5, 2017 17:53:46 GMT -5
Congratulations on an awesome one-shot. This issue had some hilarious parties, action, and great emotional beats. "Hera, yes," made me laugh out loud on the subway. I love seeing superheroes in slice-of-life situations such as this, and hope to read more in the future. Great work!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Mar 5, 2017 17:52:06 GMT -5
I've been reading the back issues here at DC2 and "Justice League" has more than lived up to its title, bringing together the greatest heroes in the DCU--and some new blood, as well. I loved the "A Game of Escalation" arc with an awesome conclusion to some of the ongoing threads with room for more. Injustice Unlimited is a great concept and a strong adversary for our heroes. It's good to see the League's global reach and responsibilities. Byth was a great villain to knock out at the conclusion of this arc, and I'm interested in a very different version of "the Wonder Twins." I'll be reading more soon!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Feb 25, 2017 11:08:58 GMT -5
Excellent! So glad to hear that the next issue will be out soon! I can't wait to see Steve's amazing art. I'm looking forward to checking out Omega Crisis.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Feb 8, 2017 17:57:32 GMT -5
Thanks for commenting, O. I know I appreciate receiving feedback. I've said it so many times before that I must come across as a broken record, but as much as I love writing these stories, sometimes it feels like I'm just chucking them into a void. Like I'm writing them for the sake of writing them, rather than for an audience. I have to admit, I'm still looking forward to you hitting the ongoing books that are still coming out on the site! I am excited to keep reading through Justice League now that I'm done with this crossover. (I have to say, my interest in writing for the site has shifted my reading somewhat towards the Bat-Books as I try and digest the canon.) Having done some fanfiction of my own in the past, it can definitely feel like yelling into the wind at times...so I do my best to comment and show my appreciation on what I'm reading whenever I have a spare hour or two! Save
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Feb 4, 2017 12:45:26 GMT -5
Brian Burchette, you have almost succeeded in making me like Tim Drake, which is no small accomplishment! Detective Comics #21 to #26 were full of twists and turns that all came together in this issue. You have a great grasp of the characters (particularly Alfred) and it was great to see Gordon and Batman working together. The introduction of Chloe and the DEO really helped tie these events in Gotham into the fabric of the DC2 Universe, and prevented that lingering question I always get when reading comics ("Why doesn't the government step in when these freaks are terrifying the city?")
I did choke a little bit when Tim Drake went looking for his dad (those meddling kids...) and the consequent murder, shooting, and deathbed confession were a bit on the nose. But the mending and epilogues fit the melodramatic issue well. Somehow, I'm interesting in seeing more of "Young Master Drake," and that's a compliment.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Feb 4, 2017 12:33:09 GMT -5
As a new reader on this site I've had the opportunity to pour over collected "back issues" and read whole stories in one go - and "Detective Comics" might just take top billing as one of the best ongoing series. Reading from Detective Comics Annual #1 to Issue #18 has been a tortured tale of hope and despair, murder and madness. The ending was tragic and yet satisfying, as a reader. Two faces and two lives lost. This seemed like a good point to drop a letter and congratulate Brian Burchette on his amazing run with Harvey Dent. Cheers!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Feb 4, 2017 12:25:26 GMT -5
Wow! Two years! Congratulations, almost ten years later, to all of the writers on this site for creating another massive crossover. I'm not sure if this writing these letters is entirely pointless after so much time, but as an aspiring writer myself, I think anyone would appreciate a new fan picking up their work no matter how many years have pasted. At least I think this can't hurt. Like a new reader flipping through a decade of back issues after discovering a new character I've had a great time reading tons of different characters by different writers on this site. Obviously I came to a point where, with great fanfare, multiple titles announced they were colliding in a second epic anniversary event - so here I am! (This letter covers all of the event series.)
I've always enjoyed stories that pit our mighty heroes against shadowy conspiracies and corrupt government officials, so the beginning of this story worked out well in that respect. This format allowed the writers to dig into the politics and motivations for different characters. I particularly enjoyed President Lord and his hapless Vice-President, thrust into the driver's seat! Their response to the League seemed plausible (no matter how frustrated) as did the League's protectiveness. I loved the different battles among the heroes (both verbal and physical) over what to do--who to believe--who to trust. The Justice League Vs. Suicide Squad and the Teen Titans went down just like it should, and the fights were a lot of fun.
Of course, I was glad when Starro (or "The Star Conqueror) turned out to be manipulated countless hapless pawns from behind the scene. I have to mention that Luthor's big move was unexpected. As trite as this might sound, it felt like the second half of this event was trying to do too much. I enjoyed the tighter focus on the League in the first half. I also loved Lois Lane's role as an intrepid journalist, Chloe Sullivan, and Barbara Gordon's ethical dilemma in particular.
There were a lot of balls in the air in the second part and not every scene received enough attention, in my humble opinion. The reappearance of the Justice Society to save the day would not have been my preferred solution--it felt like the Justice League was getting short thrift in their own title (and event). Superman in particular felt like he disappeared for a few issues, even as an obstacle to other heroes. Batman received due attention in a great scene in the Hall of Justice and, don't get me wrong, there were lots of great moments, battles, and an epic sacrifice to save the day. It was a big finish for a big event with great characters, and I look forward to seeing more of the League in the future.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 28, 2016 14:22:59 GMT -5
Your very welcome, Charlie! I do like my contribution, and thanks for the praise. I'm glad it was included. Your own interconnected stories have definitely hastened my reading of older material--I'm now in "Justice League vs. America." I'll drop a letter when I'm done! Not quite garbage. Practice makes perfect, and I think you've definitely improved with time, but I think your earlier works still reveal a passion for the characters, the world you were building, and the craft. I didn't mean to throw down the gauntlet, ha! I think it worked out marvelously, but I ended up converting the "first person" segments of my idea into (dense) dialogue that served the same purpose, telling a story rather than developing a sappy flashback. Alas, a third pass would have helped me clean up the dialogue! After I finish "Justice League Vs America" and "Superwoman" I might skip forward to some later arcs, as this special stoked my interest. Looking forward to it! (You know, I still haven't figured out how you quote people in a conversation and add the author, date, and time.)
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 26, 2016 10:31:29 GMT -5
First, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone. Second, thank you Charlie for your overwhelming praise! I'm glad I could contribute in some small fashion and I think it turned out relatively well, if not quite perfect--looking at it formatted on the site reminded me that some of the dialogue was overly dense! I hope it was still enjoyable for everyone else.
However, Charlie's own contributions were incredible. I've been reading early stories on the site and it's clear that your voice,and I mean this as the highest compliment, has matured and deepened over the years. "Last December" was a clever and intriguing anchor for an anthology such as this. While I can't say I know who Traci Thirteen is from the comics, in a few brief paragraphs I felt as if I had always known her and her relationship with Supergirl. The setting was superb (one of my favorite imaginary places is the "wizard's tower" with mysterious and charming portals, objects, and decorations).
"Status Change" and "Three and the Justice Society's Christmas Party" didn't speak to me in the same way as some of the other tales, referencing characters I'm not as familiar with, but they were well-written and interconnected in a way that emphasized the living world they came from, the world that you've maintained here on the site. "Christmas Eve and Hospital Food" was similar, in one sense, but your affection for the character was on full display. His life is even more tragic than Captain America (pardon my blasphemy, but he was my frame of reference for this scene!) In "Memory Jogging" I can only assume the story references events I've yet to encounter on the site, or the current television show. "Drifting Through Sector 2814" made me want to read the "Green Lanterns" ongoing! Sinestro's gone good? Superpowered rings? Missing lanterns!? Count me in.
I really enjoyed "Together For Christmas" starring Angie Spica and the Teen Titans. You have a wonderful grasp of the Titans with amusing 'asides' taking advantage of the first person format to deliver commentary on their appearance, past, or relationships. Spica had a fun and entertaining internal voice. The fascinating insights into her anxiety, depression, and fear was a tough and emotional ending--one that was hard to follow!
Mark, "Arthur's Christmas" was witty and heartwarming. While I've never thought of 'Christmas under the sea' now I will never not imagine what Arthur and Mera are doing for the holidays. You combined clever versions of traditional festive decorations suited for their new underwater habitat with a touching tale of loyalty and love.
Susan, "A Season For Family" was an adorable introduction to Jonah Hex. This is a character I've never followed in the comics but you, as far as I can tell, present a compelling and dynamic version of the bounty hunter. (Unlike many authors, myself included, you've given your main character an 'accent' that is unique but still legible!) The western setting was well-realized and full of interesting secondary characters. Like Charlie said, Hex was still gritty and tough as an old boot but his flawed heart shone through the cracked leather, just in time for the season.
"Two Winters" finished the tale and brought us back to the beginning. Your story was suffused with a quiet beauty that transitioned smoothly into an amusing tale of Clark's early adventures in Metropolis. You took my simple idea and polished it into something much better, bringing in action, family, and humor. Bringing us back to the present in truth, Merry Christmas once again! I look forward to the new year. I'm off for a walk in the silent woods draped in melting snow.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 15, 2016 18:33:50 GMT -5
I loved the chapter! The continuity and "lived-in" feeling are handled well, I don't think this chapter lacked anything. In terms of continuity. I liked Kru's role in particular and Eiling's role in theory.
This sounds amazing, and there were definite hints of his sinister role in the scene as written. I feel as if the larger scene, when it was cut down, ended up a bit choppy. I do that all the time when I'm writing, chopping out bits until what I thought made sense was a little more jumbled. Then again it could just be me! Overall, the relevant message was still delivered.
The later battles captured this, from Lena's point of view, quite well. Frankly I quite enjoyed "Man of Steel" and "Batman V Superman," and in the latter film they showed the same battle but from Bruce's point of view on the ground in Metropolis. It complemented the first movie well and, while a touch dramatic, it was seriously chilling in theatres as he drove into this disaster zone...
You should be! Kara's response was human, and made perfect sense, but was still tragic. This was a great chapter. I look forward to more.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 11, 2016 14:48:05 GMT -5
This was a big issue that covered several plots and delivered some tough emotional moments, from moments with Jimmy at the Daily Planet to heartrending goodbyes on New Krypton. It was also nice to read you letter to this issue, Charlie; it filled in a few gaps for me.
It was good to see the fallout from the previous issue, covering Karen Starr and Lena Luthor. Unfortunately, Lena’s scene with William Eiling felt a little clunky to me. Perhaps it was the way her mind was working—leaping from politics to personal and back. I appreciated the parallel between her and Eiling, but it felt like it mashed together two different scenes. However, I should add that she is still my favorite supporting character in this story. I love her "hipster scientist" attitude and dedication to do good in the world.
This chapter also covered Kru-El/Jon Kent and touched on his relationship with Kara. While I can't say that I know the character as well as you, I think this issue lays enough of the groundwork for any new reader. I love the idea of rehabilitating him and anyone else that had been brainwashed by Zod, it was a good way to show how New Krypton has changed from the old. When he stole the serum from Lena I thought that his brainwashing might have been kicking in; I have to admit that I’m not sure why he stole it, rather than waiting to receive it on New Krypton, but it fit the needs of the plot. Also interesting to me was how Kru-El was paralleled with Hydrogen Skull—two men who were transformed into monsters.
The main plot continued on New Krypton (spoilers to follow) and we see Faora launch a devastating surprise attack. Faora, Nadira, and Az-El were vicious and frightening. Lena’s vulnerability was pitch-perfect—and terrifying. Kara’s counterattack was amazing. Building on her effort on Earth at the beginning of the chapter, her compassion, strategy, strength, and determination were on full display. She truly deserves her cousin’s parting words.
I also have to say that the ending was tough, even devastating! While I sympathize with Kara’s position, and she suffered a tremendous loss, what she did to Lena was cruel. It was the right choice to reprogram the bomb and it was Kru’s choice to save Kara. Kara will have to learn to forgive herself, rather than Lena, in my humble opinion. Of course, the way you are telling this story (moving back over ten years) gives us tragic sentences like “they didn’t speak for years.” I look forward to the next issue and seeing where these characters are taken next. Congratulations on a worthy epic for Superwoman.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 7, 2016 18:23:45 GMT -5
A solid follow-up to "A League of His Own," "A Mystery in Space" takes the Justice League right to the edge--and into the abyss! Despero allowed the author to deliver some sinister and even frightening moments in these issues; I had forgotten that the villainous alien was such a skilled telepath! This was, in my opinion, an excellent use of action and vivid description without toeing too far over the line. The League's clever defeat of their foe was inspired. If I understand some of the previous letters to the writer correctly, this story combined ideas for "Hawkman" with the "Justice League." While I can't say those elements worked as well for me as they might for other readers (I would have prefered a more direct confrontation with Despero, perhaps showcasing Martian Manhunter rather than Katar Hol) the writing and plotting were solid and entertaining. Nonetheless, the new backstory for the Thanagarians (or, at least, new to me) was interesting and left several tantalizing hints for future stories. I look forward to seeing Hawkman's adventures on Earth.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 7, 2016 18:15:51 GMT -5
"A League of his Own" was a great pair of issues to launch the "Justice League" in the DC2 Universe. A relative newcomer to this site, I was looking forward to the "Justice League" in particular as I read the initial issues leading up to "The Apokolips Imperative." Seeing the Big Seven come together for such an epic battle was incredible, but I was waiting to see them interact in a manner similar to this--while they might not be "super friends" quite yet, they are now colleagues. Mr. Charlton has an impressive grasp of their different personalities and the dialogue is witty and refreshing. The action was impressive without dominating the issues.
Amazo was an excellent villain for this initial run; amusingly, I consider that the title refers to him as well as the indomitable Dark Knight, who demonstrated his resolve and cunning. I enjoyed the fact that his fellow Leaguers never lost faith that a mere mortal could rescue them, while Dr. Ivo foolishly underestimated the Bat! However, you did not over-exaggerate Batman's abilities or preparedness; Dr. Palmer's timely intervention was necessary to save the day.
While I had hoped for a slightly longer period in which the founding members could operate on their own and expand on their relationships, this was still an excellent set of issues that lays the groundwork for more great stories in the future.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 7, 2016 18:04:10 GMT -5
That was a great issue (following on "Adventure Comics Annual #1"). David Charlton spun a complex yet engaging plot. His description of Lois and Clark were insightful and charming. The scene at the Daily Planet put a smile on my face. There are quite a few balls in the air in this issue and, while I am curious as to how the Evil Factory will play into the return of Zod hinted at in the previous issue, they were all juggled with finesse.
I can only assume this title is on hiatus, and the author should feel no particular urgency to return to this project if they have more pressing concerns. I still thought I would leave this review to let Mr. Charlton and all involved know a new reader has found this site and appreciates all of the hard work and passion found within.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 6, 2016 20:45:52 GMT -5
Of course! I might not have the time to review every back issue, but I'm always interested in discussing a story like this with the author! As for crossovers, it does depend on the story. I've read some that rose above the rest (I like the idea of universe-destroying villains, as they sidestep the issue of characters meeting and/or displacing each other.) Your use of Power Girl is working for this story, and I look forward to the next issue.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Dec 1, 2016 20:25:01 GMT -5
"And there came a day, unlike any other..." Wow! This was an impressive saga. It began with drama and suspense and ended with a bang. I wish I had reviewed each issue in turn, but, unfortunately, I was not there to cheer on this band of stalwart writers when they were actually publishing this amazing story. To whomsoever is still following their works on this site, congratulations.
While, like all event series, it was occasionally difficult to jump from book to book, you created a fantastic crossover. I've never enjoyed crossover events in comics--they always seem stretched to fit all of the material into a few short issues, with every character getting short thrift--but you utilized the strength of the written medium to great effect. The scale and scope of the story was magnificent--from the troops on the ground to the depths of space.
The editors and writers crafted a terrifying version of Apokolips in great detail (including elements that always seemed missing from the comics: officers, battleships, weapons, planning) and revealed the "ground war" in a way that wouldn't necessarily have been possible given the space limitations in a comic. Each writer got to reveal a piece of the picture while focusing on one of the many heroes battling the forces of darkness. I particularly enjoyed Batman's role in the story--playing to his strengths as a fighter and a character. Batman's battles with Devilance and Knato were fascinating and clever. I was not as enamored with the Outsiders--it was an interesting idea, putting them on Apokolips, but the level of graphic violence was off-putting and, in some cases, gratuitous; I hope that the following run reflects on the massive trauma they would have suffered as a result. To each their own, however! It was neither poorly plotted nor poorly written. Later in the saga, I was very interested in how this site's version of Captain Marvel and his relationship with Superman added a new layer to Superman's origin story. The final battles with Darkseid made me feel his inhuman strength and invulnerability. Wonder Woman led the charge and, as always, David Charlton's characterization was perfect. Her brief struggle with Batman, Superman, et al. was superb. I enjoyed this use of the Lasso, and it was one of the more clever and believable excuses for a brief battle between heroes. However, they turned their efforts on Darkseid in the final issue. The league's solution to their opponent's invulnerability was inspired (or, rather, the writer's solution.)
"The Apokolips Imperative" is an impressive accomplishment. Congratulations to all involved, and I look forward to reading more issues in the future.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 26, 2016 16:14:50 GMT -5
Something about Cat Grant's speech in the pilot of Supergirl didn't sit right with me. That it was okay to be a girl and that Cat Grant was a girl, etc. It seemed really forced? There is nothing wrong with being a girl. There's nothing wrong with being young. But there's also nothing wrong with growing up, maturing, becoming a woman and putting whatever weight on that label that you want as a girl / woman. I agree; I love "Supergirl" but it definitely tried too hard to justify her naming convention and her age on the show! Absolutely. I love this quote, it's very true! As for what "offends my sensibilities," despite their historical and common usage I am not a fan of stories that cross universe/dimensions/timelines. Having a multiverse makes sense from a storytelling perspective with legacy characters and, especially in comic books, the freedom to sidestep or alter continuity. But it's the stories that turn two different versions of a character into two universes that meet - usually through technobabble - that rubs me the wrong way. I prefer it when it's external to the characters/universe, and not an internal "in-story" multiverse. To me, versions of the same character meeting is trite, often tired or overblown, and the value some creators draw from the concept does not justify the irritating dilution of each character's unique status in their world. Personally (however silly this might be) it's one the things that fights most with my suspension of disbelief! But that's just a personal preference, not the be-all-end-all, and some creator's can still produce good stories using this trope! Save
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 13, 2016 19:56:50 GMT -5
Wow! What an amazing issue, this is a fantastic concept and a well-executed story. Out of the mouths of babes, a young girl renames Kara “Superwoman," and a new legend is born. Supergirl is one of my favorite characters and this story has done her more than justice, it serves as one of the best versions of the character I've ever read.
First, you've catprued the combination (to me) of strength, determination, kindness, and intelligence tempered by tragedy and vulnerability that make Kara such a compelling character. You're opening chapter was beautiful (followed by a fantastic cover) and I really liked the "slow" (relatively speaking) introduction of different story elements, different segments of her superheroic life. Her fight with Amazo demonstrated her innate empathy and intelligence (and a nifty new power), while I love seeing Kara with different characters from the Justice League and Superman cast, especially Martha. "You don’t owe the world a thing” reminds me of “Man of Steel," and the definition of a hero, someone who does the right thing because they want to, not because they have to. I loved this whole scene, reminding us that Kara and Kal are family in two ways, both Kryptonian and Terran.
As for Power Girl, if there has to be two of them, then this was probably the best use of the character--she did provide excellent advice--it's just hard for me to appreciate the multiverse/duplication issues that offends my sensibilities.
However, Lena Luthor is vivid, witty, fun "I’m going to love disappointing you/too" were fantastic lines that provided a quick and insightful look into her head. Your Lex Luthor was monstrous, egotistical, derisive--perfect. He sounds like he'll be a good villain in the future.
If there's one complaint, it's that this issue did so much! On the one hand, it was packed with amazing action, on the other hand I felt as if the final fight with Brainiac could have used a little more build-up. Putting aside the action, the emotional drama anchored this story, seeing Kara mourn, learn, and grow with new friends and allies. The hook at the end was unexpected, and I look forward to the next issue.
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 13, 2016 17:05:43 GMT -5
This was a very compelling and well-written issue! First, I enjoyed the writing, dialogue, and characterization. Diana is calm but passionate, handling each situation in an intelligent and wise manner. I liked the lead-in with a prologue and brief action, interspersed with references to establish the new setting. The scene in Congress was brutally accurate! Wonder Woman can be a hard character to write -- given how many interpretations of her there have been -- but I enjoyed this version immensely. (The cover was simply spectacular.)
Second, I'm a newcomer to the DC2 Universe and I'm reading the original material and "Ten Years Later," so I came from the first run on "Wonder Woman" to this -- and what a ride! This issue really takes advantage of the concept behind "Ten Years Later," as I understand it. Taking us forward into the future, where Wonder Woman has a family and an (additional) role at a global foundation, elevates the threat -- to her daughter and her life's work.
The "cosmic" struggle feels more personal, and deadly. I've never been the biggest fan of the Judeo-Christian elements in comics, but you make it work in this story arc, integrating the Olympians, Asmodel, Neron, Etrigan, and Destiny. The threat feels big, as big as it can be, and Wonder Woman is the only character who could fit this story. I look forward to the next issue!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 1, 2016 19:16:27 GMT -5
Hi Steve, I'm Oblique. New member and a new reader who's also interested in writing for the site in the future. I'm enjoying reading many back issues from Earth-1 I also read some of the material on Earth-A and enjoyed the modernized and streamlined take on some of the characters. However, it seemed to have been put on hold--understandably, life has a tendency to get in the way. However, I'd be very interested in reading new material for any of the characters that had been set up on Earth-A. If this is a "reboot"of Earth-A I'd also be interested in pitching new ideas.
I mentioned to Charlie that, unfortunately, I don't think I can commit any significant amount of time to a new project until Fall 2017. However! I'm always willing to discuss ideas, and there seems to be a fantastic synergy on this site that might accelerate my plans!
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 1, 2016 18:53:18 GMT -5
I was doing some research this weekend and an article I found discussed how DC have never been able to get Stormwatch right, and the struggles of The Authority also play into that. Only Ellis was really able to get them both right, but you can't just go back to that watering hole every time. The Authority as a team are the biggest badasses, but their mission statement would put them in diametric opposition against the Justice League. Exactly! They even hinted at that outcome in the Nu52 "Justice League" when they hinted at why Martian Manhunter had been kicked off the team during some sort of epic battle...presumably with Stormwatch, or a struggle over their principles. For some reason, they never showed that. Looking back on it, so many threads in the Nu52 were dropped--presumably as they tried to calibrate their new universe to the criticisms of longstanding fans. At first, it definitely felt like they were building towards some cool stuff--especially in the main titles like "Justice League," but their big "Darkseid War" got its legs kicked out from under it by "Rebirth." Save
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 1, 2016 18:49:14 GMT -5
I really wish that they hadn't just switched Nu52 Superman with the "vintage model." On the one hand, Superdad has been a surprisingly good run - but they could have just had the Superman I've grown to enjoy reading mature and change. It devalued Nu52 Superman and Nu52 Supergirl, who has been conspicuously absent from the "Action Comics," despite the presence of the Nu52 Justice League and Lex Luthor. It's still early to tell, but I had faint hopes that they would give Kara the spotlight like she deserved - and like you've done in 10YL. I look forward to reading you arc immensely. I shouldn't complain too much - comics being comics, this will all change in a few years. I'm enjoying many of the new comics immensely. After thinking longer on it, I really don't understand why they killed of Nu52 Superman and replaced him with Pre-Flashpoint Superman. The narrative hoops are ridiculous to jump through, and if anything it's made continuity even messier. I thought it was pretty straight forward to fix-- ten years have been stolen from the universe, right? That's why everything's a bit off. Nu52 Superman finds this out and endeavours to be the better man he know he can be. I love that my version of Superman is back, but it's like... this makes me want my version of the DC universe to be back as well. Other titles are getting closer to that vibe-- Batman and Detective Comics, the Green Lantern line never really strayed away, but this tease of nostalgia is wonky as all hell. They're getting back on track-- and the sales look like they agree-- but creatively, I'm just not into it as much anymore. The only DC titles I pick up look to be Wonder Woman (though I think I might have dropped it in last week's pull list cull), Midnighter and Apollo and the Young Animal titles. The Wildstorm is on my radar and I am freaking ecstatic about that, but Marvel doesn't do much better for me either. I think I might only be picking up The Ultimates? Who can even keep up... The continuity is definitely even messier! Honestly, I'm not sure why anyone thought they should have two Clark Kents and two Lois Lanes as the ideal solution to the "problem" with Nu52 Superman. I would have really enjoyed if they did a "Rebirth" of the character--showing him growing and grappling with these 'missing years' and coming to terms with "Truth"--similar to Green Arrow and others, without killing him off or replacing him with another character. I felt as if he was finally getting his feet under him, so to speak. Despite that, however, I'm still pulling "Action Comics," "Superman," and "Supergirl" to see how this all plays out. (As well as "Wonder Woman," "Justice League," "Gotham Academy," and "Trinity." Yep. Too many comics.) "WW" has been fantastic, I would still recommend it. Scott is doing an amazing job of "Year One" you could even just collect that every two issues! Speaking of 'Elseworlds,' "Trinity" almost feels like it's in another universe, but that might just be Manapul's extraordinary artwork. Truly beautiful, worth it just for his splash pages. Save
|
|
|
Post by oblique on Nov 1, 2016 18:43:39 GMT -5
If you think you have something to contribute and aren't sure where it should feature, you should contact Admin via PM. He can gauge if it deserves it's own "Earth" or if it's best suited to an Elseworlds! Right now, this is all hypothetical. I'd love to contribute but nothing would get off the ground until Fall 2017--just too much going on for more than some pleasant doodles and very small projects. I will keep this in mind, however. Save
|
|