Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 12/13/2023

DC #1

ACTION COMICS #1060

While Phillip Kennedy Johnson's run on Action Comics has, overall, been very good with some truly excellent storytelling, Action Comics #1060 is a little on the weaker side overall. We get the immediate fallout of Otho-Ra being kidnapped by Norah Stone, which includes a nearly frantic Superman reaching out to Constantine for help locating her and Superman seemingly ending up starting out on what feels like a quest but things feel a little off. Constantine has to explain how magic works and, generally, seems to be more of a razzle dazzle sort of cameo than anything of real substance overall meanwhile Norah feels more and more like a cutout of a villain whose actual purpose still hasn't come into focus. On the whole, it's good, but more on the "just okay" side of good. What's really of note in this issue is the backup story, "Squad Dreams," from Nicole Maines, Steve Orlando, and Fico Ossio. It's a continuation of the "Beast World: Metropolis" story and is a setup for the upcoming Suicide Squad miniseries featuring Dreamer – and at times you can very much tell that this is mean to be a set up story. However, other than the obvious table setting of it all, the story does a really good job of further fleshing out Nia Nal on the pages of comics. It's a pretty solid story overall. -- Nicole Drum

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

BATMAN AND ROBIN #4

Several things start to sort of click in Batman and Robin #4 and while there is a significant part of the middle that does still feel a little jumbled in terms of the Bat's attack, the weaving in of who Shush may well be—as well as her history with Damian—is intriguing and makes for an interesting and engaging layer to this story that has, at times, felt a bit superficial. The art in the issue is also really good and very dynamic which makes it visually quite enjoyable and helps do some of the lifting that the story doesn't quite pull off. Batman and Robin #4 is definitely an improvement. -- Nicole Drum

Rating: 3 out of 5

BATMAN: CITY OF MADNESS #2

Batman: City of Madness continues its Lovecraftian take on Batman, with the presence of the Batman from Gotham Below seemingly corrupting several of Batman's villains. As always, the highlight of the comic is Christian Ward's art, who brings a very vibrant take to a horror genre usually defined by grays and greens. I also enjoyed that Ward is using Batman villains outside of Joker or Penguin, tapping into some of the rich characters that you wouldn't think would be involved with a cosmic horror Batman story. -- Christian Hoffer

Rating: 4 out of 5

BATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM #2

Gargoyle of Gotham #2 delves into the conspiracy beneath recent events and exposes connections dating back twenty years to the murder of Bruce Wayne's parents. As Crytoon steps into the background in interrogation sequences, Batman's investigation leads him across Gotham City tracing architecture, Arkham Asylum, protests, and church services. All of this lays out a series of settings that present outstanding gothic aesthetics as Gotham's exterior reflects its mood. The separation between Batman and Bruce Wayne is deepened both in a literal sense as the origins of Batman are re-examined and as Bruce chooses to avoid his public problems. Even as masked men and city leaders suggest a conspiracy older than Batman's roots, Bruce Wayne deepens rifts with Gotham's current residents. Much of Gargoyle of Gotham #2 is dedicated to laying out the tensions and clues of a larger mystery and leaves readers to contemplate many sequences and how they may fit together. It's a tantalizing set of circumstances grounded in Grampá's outstanding action sequences and moody splashes. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

BATMAN/SANTA CLAUS: SILENT KNIGHT #2

DC's holiday crossover continues in a stranger—and honestly, even stronger—fashion. In a short span of time, some major stakes are established in the fight against Krampus, and there are multiple character cameos that are excellently-executed. Jeff Parker's script and Michele Bandini's art know just the right moments to get ridiculous or over-indulgent, while still giving the book an earnest holiday cheer. Don't miss out on this fun, glorious series. Trust me. -- Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

DANGER STREET #12

Danger Street #12 is best characterized as anti-climax, although that's a purposeful approach. Following 11 issues of interwoven story strands, the intersection at the end proves of little consequence as most of the characters involved hardly receive an effective denouement here and the most serious ramifications from the preceding story are quickly undone. There's a single splash depicting Metamorpho's arm (and little else) that imbues the impact of this final issue as it's a lot of space devoted to very little significance. Jorge Fornés is still outstanding and ensures the comedic beats throughout the issue land; he even manages to convey a sense of emotional depth that's not entirely earned in a few final, ambiguous encounters. Yet when setting down Danger Street #12, it's easy to forget the saga behind it because even the ending seems to suggest that there's little sense or purpose to the many stories involved. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

DC #2

DC'S 'TWAS THE MITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS #1

DC's 'Twas the Night Before Christmas anthology alternates between two types of stories: exercises in holiday stock stories (Lex Luthor gets Scrooged, Booster Gold gets Santa Clause_d, Bunker gets an _It's a Wonderful Life style intervention) and very special messages (Batwoman teaches us about the spirit of Hanukkah, Superman spends a holiday talking someone off a ledge, etc.). The chapters that stick DC characters into familiar holiday stories are mildly amusing if ultimately forgettable fare, while the ones that emphasize a message, well-intentioned as they may be, tend to drag a bit as they're unsubtle enough for the point to be apparent from page one. There are a couple of standout artistic showings in the issue: Andrew Drilon feels like he's showing off in "It's a Bunkerful Life" with eye-catching layouts that had me flipping back to past pages for second looks, and Juan Bobillo gets enough expressiveness into the earlier pages of the issue's closing Bat-mite and Robin story for its ending, which is sweet enough to risk feeling saccharine, to instead feel earned. As a package deal, DC's 'Twas the Mite Before Christmas is hardly essential reading but should satisfy anyone with a craving for holiday heroics. -- Jamie Lovett

Rating: 3 out of 5

DETECTIVE COMICS #1079

The key to a good heist story is the reveal of how its pulled off. While I've had my issues with some of the pacing and dissonant tone of Detective Comics during its current arc, I admit that this issue's reveal was fantastic. Everything neatly came together with a plan that used the Orghams planning against them. This was a strong finale to the arc and continues to build upon previous B-stories and character focuses from previous issues. A fun end that sets up a promising next arc. -- Christian Hoffer

Rating: 5 out of 5

GREEN LANTERN #6

Hal Jordan and Sinestro finally collide in Green Lantern #6, and the battle is more than worth the wait. Jeremy Adams turns the classic rivalry on its head with a rage powered Sinestro, as a more volatile Sinestro makes for a grander battle compared to the more tactical and focused approach we're used to. The shift in dynamics allows artists Xermanico and Scott Godlewski to swing for the fences in terms of scope, with constructs that loom over the city below and pop off the page courtesy of colorist Romulo Fajardo Jr. The two page spreads in the midst of this chaos are stunning, and the sheer creativity in the constructs and how the fight plays out is one of the series' biggest strong suits. On the other end of the spectrum is the book's ending, which brings the story back to its grounding point and primes things on a more personal level for Hal moving forward, bringing things full circle. Green Lantern continues to capture the heart of what makes this character and this mythology so special, and the ride only looks to get more wild from here. -- Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

OUTSIDERS #2

The narrative alchemy of the Outsiders' new status quo did take a second to find its footing, but this issue proves just how intriguing the end result can be. As our trio crosses paths with a team from the periphery of DC history, they get engaged into a conflict that equally exposes the heart and the primordial horror of the universe. Colin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing's script really excels, especially in the issue's second half, and the aesthetic from Robert Carey lends itself pretty well to the expansiveness of this issue. I am now more than intrigued by whatever Outsiders might have in store for us next. -- Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4 out of 5

SPEED FORCE #2

Yes, some readers' mileage on the Gen-Z humor of Speed Force might vary wildly. But the core of the issue, and the conflict it throws its lesser-known protagonists into, is just too good to pass up. Plot and character are balanced out in an equal, earnest measure in Jarrett Williams' script, with a few sequences involving Mr. Terrific being some particularly-good standouts. The art from Daniele di Nicuolo and Francesco Mortarino seamlessly and expressively weaves the chaos together, adding a liveliness to both a high-octane action scene and a small-scale conversation. -- Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4 out of 5

SUPERMAN: LOST #9

There's an element of returning toys to the chest in Superman: Lost #9 as solutions are produced to avoid change in Superman's slowly resumed status quo. The juxtaposition of Superman's fantasized responses and reality, linked by music, makes for an effective recognition of the emotional turbulence, but it amounts to little across the span of this issue. Events on Earth, specifically the political scandal Lois was tracing in issue #1, have a similarly anti-climactic tone about them. They resemble partial ideas that don't quite connect to the thrust of Lost as it nears its end. However, the miniseries' final cliffhanger is sufficient to leave eyebrows raised and fans curious, so there's sufficient reason to return and discover the last chapter of Superman and Hope's tale. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 3 out of 5

DC #3

TITANS: BEAST WORLD #2

The latest DC-wide crossover continues to follow along on the road set up by the solid premiere issue, and while there are elements that come off a little more humorous than horrifying, it still accomplishes it still hits a high bar. Seeing Batman transformed into a wolf and Black Adam transformed into a lion, running amuck, is a bit jarring but Taylor and Reis are able to breathe life into the concept. Reis especially is doing some of the best work of his career here. While I think that the second issue doesn't quite live up to its predecessor, mostly when it focuses on the animalistic heroes and villains, the second issue only stumbles slightly in its full sprint. -- Evan Valentine

Rating: 4 out of 5

TITANS: BEAST WORLD TOUR – GOTHAM #1

Comic book crossover events often result in a sea of one-shots and tie-ins in ongoing series to help focus on characters that might not get the spotlight in the main series. With the current one-shot focusing on Gotham City, it does a solid enough job of justifying its existence here. There's a lot of fun to be had specifically when it comes to the Red Hood's story, which has some jaw-dropping art and character work, along with chuckles to be had with Killer Croc going on a rampage because the animalistic victims are getting in on his "schtick". While I do wish this did a bit more to get new readers up to speed, this definitely is a fun and light read that works well within the parameters of the hilarious concept of Beast World. -- Evan Valentine

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

WALLER VS. WILDSTORM #4

There's plenty to be admired in the final installment of Waller vs. Wildstorm as it takes both itself and the world it intends to reflect seriously. Following the climactic events of issue #3, this installment is entirely focused on the fallout as it covers a series of high-level meetings adjudicating where credit and blame lie. Readers familiar with the U.S. intelligence state will recognize the ambitions, perspectives, and carnage bound up in these fictional nations and powers as reflecting reality. Yet beyond that verisimilitude in which the most effective amoral actors rise to implement more cruelty, there's not much in the way of effective comic book production present. Across 32 pages there's hardly a single page not focused on talking heads; even when characters are literally lifted into space, the emphasis is placed on discussing shifting power dynamics. It's a concept well suited to the prose provided by Lois Lane's report, but resulting in a comic book that's often dull and lacking any visual invention to display these ideas. Understanding and ideas about the geopolitical perspective contained in Waller vs. Wildstorm fail to reflect a similar appreciation for the medium it utilizes and causes this ambitious miniseries to ultimately come up short. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 3 out of 5

WESLEY DODDS: THE SANDMAN #3

Riley Rossmo has long been an artist whose work I seek out. And yet, I don't know that his fluid, dreamy style has ever been as well-suited to a book (okay, maybe Martian Manhunter) as it is to Wesley Dodds: The Sandman, a series about a character who stands on the precipice of dreams. As writer Robert Venditti makes clear in this issue, Dodds views dreams as a suitable alternative to death, and that's why he developed his pacifying sleep gas to disable enemies rather than kill them. However, Venditti draws a straight line between the Sandman's gas gun and the chemical warfare that becomes a bloody stain on 20th-century history, turning Dodd's dreams into nightmares as he realizes his stolen prototype gas formulas may be a prelude to future horrors. It's fitting that the Sandman's new nemesis should take on the moniker "the Fog" as a potential allusion to "the fog of war," but given a more literal realization. It's reminiscent of the famous "Amor Wars" storyline that ran in Iron Man in the late 1980s but with arguably more depth because of how deeply Dodd's pacifism is embedded in his mental image of the Sandman as a hero. Wesley Dodds: The Sandman continues to be one of the best-looking comic books published today, full of well-realized characters and compelling mysteries with meaningful moral weight. -- Jamie Lovett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

WORLD'S FINEST: TEEN TITANS #6

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

As the title of this review states, World's Finest lives up to its name when it comes to DC's superhero roster. Truth be told, I didn't realize World's Finest: Teen Titans was a mini-series to start, leaving me heavy-hearted that this issue was its last. However, that's a great feeling to have when it comes to the impact that a comic book series can have on its readers. Mark Waid truly has created something special with the "World's Finest" line and I hope that the excellent ending of Teen Titans, and the issues proceeding it, will open the floor to more modern takes on DC's Silver Age. -- Evan Valentine

Rating: 5 out of 5

Marvel #1

BLADE #6

Blade studies under his archenemy turned strained ally Dracula for training in Blade #6. It's a familiar scenario played in a familiar fashion. There are master and pupil dynamics in which Dracula uses obtuse lessons and metaphor to reveal new abilities and perspectives to Blade; there are dark mirror dynamics in which Dracula slyly suggest the two have more in common than Blade allows. Both of these elements are as trope-laden as one might fear and the revelations about Blade's abilities to tap into an ill-defined evil aren't terribly impressive on the page as using his arms instead of swords to split people in two isn't a dramatic visual change. Blade #6 is certainly competent in its telling and suggests a dynamic between Marvel's most famous vampire and vampire hunter that could be worth exploring, but it's largely dull terrain in this telling. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

CAPTAIN AMERICA #4

Steve's character is about the only thing this book as going for it, and for someone whose alter ego is the series title he isn't given nearly enough to save the story from itself. Sure, the intentions might be in the right place, but good intentions don't automatically make something interesting. And, unfortunately, the character designs don't do the book many favors. Sharon Carter appears in just a couple of pages and she gets at least three different faces in that span. -- Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 1 out of 5

DAREDEVIL: GANG WAR #1

What's most deflating in Daredevil: Gang War #1 is that its protagonist could be replaced by seemingly any superhero and their dialogue, actions, and perspective would be almost entirely unchanged. Elektra Natchios is a distinctive character in the Marvel pantheon and placing this hyper-competent assassin in the role of nonlethal guardian creates an interesting dynamic that is present nowhere in these pages. Daredevil is easily foiled by villains who hardly register in an action sequence seemingly driven by plot as she responds to events like she's reading a guide to superhero tropes. It makes Elektra seem foolish or naive and wastes entire pages showing her creep about warehouses with few opportunities to display the sorts of fast-paced and violent action sequences that makes here such a stellar anti-hero in comics. With artwork and story that seem to color by numbers, the only compliment that can be afforded to Daredevil: Gang War #1 can be shared with many merchandising promotions featuring Marvel characters: it is competently displayed. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 1.5 out of 5

DARK X-MEN #5

In its final issue, Dark X-Men focuses on Madelyne Pryor, who has always been what the story is really about. That shouldn't be shocking as she is, after all, both the ringleader of this oddball team of X-Men and the villain of the story. It does result in the other characters in the book feeling like they're given distractions to keep them busy rather than a meaningful conclusion on their own. Some live, some die, some abandon the group midbattle, and the issue tries to use these outcomes as a spectrum of redemptive, or non-redemptive, character growth. Some monsters can't be tamed, and some can be better, but by saying so much the issue winds up feeling like it is saying very little, putting a footnote that says, "yeah, but maybe not" at the end of Maddy's decision to remain on the side of the angels. The artwork remains as appropriately dark as it has been, setting a grim mood, but much of the action feels uninspired, perhaps because the real conflict is in the staredown between the Goblin Queens while other threats previously built up as formidable fall fairly quickly. Still, there are enough surprising moments in the issue, the kind you're a little surprised they got away with, to keep the issue from being boring, despite is unwieldiness. -- Jamie Lovett

Rating: 3 out of 5

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #9

Guardians of the Galaxy delivers another truly stunning issue, combining a stand-alone premise with some fascinating implications for the team going forward. To say any more would spoil (and do a disservice to) the delightful and cathartic story that unfolds, with Colin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing continuing to have a distinct grasp on each Guardian's characterization. Kev Walker's art is particularly great in this installment, with some inventive fight scenes (and a few cameos) that are worth lingering on. Overall, this issue further cements why this current run of Guardians is working so well. -- Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

THE IMMORTAL THOR #5

Immortal Thor's first arc ends as brilliantly as it began. Al Ewing redefines what it means to be Thor. No longer is Thor's strength in the ability to wield the storm, but the fact that he is worthy of doing so, his virtue becoming not a test to pass or a price to pay for power, but an asset. Along with the conclusion of the Utgard-Thor's showdown with the new Thor Corps, Immortal Thor #5 gives us the origin of the Utgard gods, those first elder gods who preceded mortals. Martin Coccolo once again gives us opening a page that could stand alone as an iconic bit of imagery, linking Toranos' wheel to the world, and his framing of the Utgard-Thor as barely fitting within each panel, sometimes even spilling over, never lets the reader forget his immensity even in comparison to the gods to towers over. The concluding revelations promise plenty of mystery to unpack in future issues and tease Thor's next opponent in a contest ripe with potential for meta-commentary. With its first arc in the books, Immortal Thor is absolute must-read material. -- Jamie Lovett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Marvel #2

LUKE CAGE: GANG WAR #2

Luke Cage: Gang War #2 proves the first issue wasn't a fluke, this miniseries is the most egregiously banal repetition of superhero cliches bundled in a meaningless tie-in imaginable; it exceeds satire. If one were to take a drink every time Luke Cage spouts reheated dialogue without a spark of voice, they would most likely be hospitalized. Banter between the supporting cast is every bit as egregious if not worse with punchlines landing on long-dead horses. The underlying premise remains nonsensical as Cage's barely-there mask suddenly convinces police officers not to arrest him for vigilantism and comes off for no reason at all while he stands in the middle of the street. Action sequences place the most dully costumed collection of New York's superheroes against a wall of gray, generic goons in panels that convey no change and simply project the aesthetic of action. There are an abundance of panels that will make even the most ardent fans of Cage regret this endeavor, but to provide readers one last warning: When Danny Rand enters a room with the issue's villain, that villain graciously introduces him as "formerly Iron Fist, but still C.E.O. of the Rand Corporation" to no one but the reader. Leave it. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 1 out of 5

MARVEL ZOMBIES: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD #3

Three issues in, Marvel Zombie: Black, White & Blood still hasn't proven the need for more Marvel Zombies content. But once again it still manages to knock the reader off their feet with at least one excellent zombified short story. This time around it's a Black Widow tale, diving into just how efficient she'd be in an apocalyptic setting given her decades as a spy and her willingness to fight even when it looks as though she has nothing left. It's sandwiched between a visually interesting Demon Days story and a Disco Era Luke Cage story that starts off promising but loses its focus too quickly. If you pick it up go ahead and jump to the middle chapter. -- Connor Casey

Rating: 3 out of 5

MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN #13

What a great debut issue for Miles Morales' entry into the Gang War crossover event. The art by Federico Vicentini, Bryan Valenza, and Cory Petit has never looked better, and there's enough space given to catch reader's up on Miles' latest escapades before the action kicks into high gear. I love that instead of Miles relying on Peter Parker, Misty Knight and Colleen Wing get to guest star and help out. Plus, it wouldn't be a street-level gang war without Miles' Uncle Aaron getting involved. -- Tim Adams

Rating: 5 out of 5

MOON KNIGHT #30

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

"The Final Moments of Moon Knight" has officially arrived, and yet in many ways, Moon Knight #30 reads like a hopeful beginning as much as it does a heartwrenching conclusion. Jed MacKay, Alessandro Cappuccio, Rachelle Rosenberg, and Cory Petit craft a thrilling, heartfelt, and ultimately satisfying ending for Marc Spector's story that also sets up an exciting new era for the Moon Knight legacy. Moon Knight #30 also showcases how strong Marc Spector's supporting cast has become over the course of the series, so while many will find it difficult to say goodbye to their favorite hero (for now), the future of this unpredictable Moon Knight family remains incredibly exciting. -- Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 5 out of 5

PUNISHER #2

The second issue of Punisher continues the trend started by the first, a good Punisher story that still doesn't quite give its new character any reason to really be here. Series writer David Pepose does prove that he has tricks up his sleeve with a major narrative surprise, but the fact remains nothing happening with this Punisher couldn't have happened with the last Punisher. Artist Dave Wachter does a great job with the action beats in the follow-up issue, showcasing movement and spacial awareness in one particularly gruesome stairwell fight that should have Punisher fans excited for the future. Like with Punisher #1, the series is good but still hasn't quite found its own voice to make it different. -- Spencer Perry

Rating: 4 out of 5

SILVER SURFER REBIRTH: LEGACY #4

Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy returns with another clunky issue this week. Though the plot does move forward, the issue's obtuse turns are hardly anything to dwell upon. A meaty cliffhanger will have fans curious about the next issue, but overall, Silver Surfer's sheen is dulled here. -- Megan Peters

Rating: 2 out of 5

Marvel #3

SPIDER-GWEN: SMASH #1

Spider-Gwen: Smash has a unique hook for a new story about the fan-favorite character, but one whose focus doesn't entirely rely on her. Writer Melissa Flores has crafted a fun plot wherein Gwen is facing battles on all sides of her life, personally, professionally, and as a superhero, which would make for a fun read if the visuals could handle it. Though penciler Enid Balám does good work with some of the action set pieces, there are quieter moments that are near disastrous as singular panels and which totally distract from everything else that works. -- Spencer Perry

Rating: 2 out of 5

STAR WARS: BOUNTY HUNTERS #41

With a Valance who's infected by the ancient Scourge, his recent allies take drastic measures in hopes of reviving any glimmer of the human he used to be. Serving as the final entry in the Star Wars: Bounty Hunters crossover with the Dark Droids event, the book largely wraps up all the necessary plot points to be able to move forward and put the entire experience in the rearview, while also managing to be relatively entertaining. Bounty Hunters and its Dark Droids-centric stories have been rough spots of the Star Wars slate of comics, so by merely being somewhat engaging and not completely abysmal is something that can't always be said of the series and we're happy to take any slight win we can get. The next issue is set to be the end of the series as a whole, so this chapter manages to effectively wipe the slate clean so that we might get one final issue that can offer something more fulfilling than the last few dozen issues, and with a tease about the book's connection to an iconic corner of Star Wars lore, we'll hold out hope that it will be a connection worth establishing. -- Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 3 out of 5

STAR WARS: THE HIGH REPUBLIC – SHADOWS OF STARLIGHT #3

Bell and Burryaga are a surprisingly fascinating pair to follow in a story like this, and the compliment one another perfectly. Their differences make for an excellent gateway into a deeper study under the surface of how the Jedi as an organization are constantly playing moral tug-of-war with their own decision making. -- Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

WHITE WIDOW #2

This is such an excellent exploration of Yelena Belova, especially when kept separate from the grander Black Widow lore and history. Her inner narrative and experimentation with what she might like and dislike plays so well as part of the overall story. It's equal parts breezy character study and conspiracy thriller, complete with an intriguing supporting cast. Yelena has deserved this book for a long time. -- Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 4 out of 5

X-MEN: RED #18

The final issue of X-Men: Red hews closely to the series' ambitious spirit and grand scale, a concept that maintained its quality amidst too many crossovers and tie-ins to ever solidify its own concept as a series. In the final chapter of the war for Arrako, it presents the inevitable showdown between Storm and Genesis with the same clever and character-centered twists that defined so many great battles. There's an exceedingly engaging visual presentation at its climax that plays off of one of the greatest action beats in Preacher in brilliant fashion. Many members of Arrako's diverse ruling class receive epitaphs with ironic twists and small action beats providing fans of the new mutants with some sense of closure. While the denouement of the issue—presenting a vision of the future for Arrako—may appear rushed, it offers this highlight of the X-Men line across the past two years the sort of ending it earned. Wherever Marvel takes its mutants next, Arrako is bound to be fondly remembered by readers in no small part because of X-Men: Red's outstanding definition of the planet. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Other Publishers #1

THE ALTERNATES #4

The Alternates' culmination is as inventive and moving as its previous issues, delivering a wallop of a superhero ending. Tim Seeley, Patton Oswalt, and Jordan Blum's script delivers a satisfying story, without buckling under plot twists and surprises that could easily overwhelm a lesser series. The art from Christopher Mitten and Tess Fowler is nothing short of gorgeous, adding a scrappiness that's essential as the story grows bigger and bigger. This issue easily cements "Minor Threats" as one of the most intriguing new superhero universes out there. -- Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

THE ASSASSIN'S APPRENTICE II #1

Assassin's Apprentice II continues Dark Horse's adaptation of the first installment in Robin Hobb's Farseer trilogy. To say the comic is dense is putting it mildly, though if you're neither a fan of the original books or didn't pick up the adaptation when you first started you're already behind the eight ball. This opening issue is also rather wordy, though the artwork does a good job to make this fantastical kingdom fell lived-in and real. You should only pick this up if you're ready for the long haul. -- Connor Casey

Rating: 3 out of 5

BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES #2

After the idyllic introduction to Woodbrook in issue #1, the mood in town quickly changes following the murder of one resident. A review of attitudes and responses provides readers with new characters to consider, as well as new potential clues and considerations. Whether it's the thorough investigation of a sheriff on the scent or a turtle too frightened to poke his head out of his shell, the combination of human attitudes and animal attributes combine splendidly in Patrick Horvath's artwork. Sam's narration provides a chilling effect as it juxtaposes mundane and often warm actions with a frightful perspective. The inclusion of one new victim in this issue makes it clear to Sam and readers alike that this particular problem will only escalate until it's resolved. From cover to cliffhanger, it makes for a suspenseful journey with an excellent payoff. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

THE BLOODY DOZEN: A TALE OF THE SHROUDED COLLEGE #1

The latest story in Charles Soule's "Shrouded College" series has arrived and even though it doesn't require knowledge of the previous title it's still not entirely welcoming. In fact, though the narrative has a clear throughline from beginning to end it's really not until it's final page that it's even all that interesting to read. Alberto Jiménez Alburquerque provides pencils for the series and brings a unique style that harnesses both the magical aspect while leaning into a cheekier, cartoon-like tone; however, when the book calls for more gratuitous artwork he can make that work too. The Bloody Dozen is a decent read but which sadly doesn't really pique interest until the final moment, perhaps it can build on it for a strong story the rest of the way though. -- Spencer Perry

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

CAPTAIN GINGER: THE LAST FEEDER #2

Captain Ginger: The Last Feeder is a fever trip of a space opera. As our feline friends search for an escape, their trip is hindered as the shelter comes under attack. Things only escalate with a group of long-extinct feeders are found, and our cats must decide the future of the human race. -- Megan Peters

Rating: 4 out of 5

DAMN THEM ALL #11

We get a trip down memory lane with Ellie and Cillian, and all the messed up drama and trauma they've experienced together. Cillian meets a grisly fate, all thanks to Ellie, but as her flashback demonstrates, Cillian had it coming. If you're into the occult and dark arts, you'll find much to enjoy here. -- Tim Adams

Rating: 3 out of 5

DARK SPACES: DUNGEON #2

Dark Spaces: Dungeon continues to impress with its second issue. While the titular trap isn't the focus this time around, Scott Snyder manages to make every setting—a hotel room, a hallway, an elevator, a private plane 50,000 feet up—feel like a suffocating enclosed space that puts everyone within reach of the killer. This is making a late push for one of the best horror comics of the year. -- Connor Casey

Rating: 4 out of 5

EARTHDIVERS #13

More time travel shenanigans are afoot, as the stopping of the Declaration of Independence signing is still taking place. We have characters hopping back and forth through time, popping up dead at one moment in time and appearing back alive at another point. It's a lot to wrap your head around, but I'm mostly focused on the events taking place in the past. -- Tim Adams

Rating: 2 out of 5

Other Publishers #2

THE ENFIELD GANG MASSACRE #5

As The Enfield Gang Massacre gets ready to yee its last haw, it's setting itself to go out with thunderous applause. Draped against the backdrop of any ol' Western, Condon has managed to write a story that has flavors of Sherlock and Benoit Blanc, juggling the difference in genres and tone with ease. Combined with the particularly brutal work of Phillips this issue, The Enfield Gang Massacre is nothing short of a rootin' good time. -- Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

FACELESS AND THE FAMILY #2

There's a lot going on In Faceless and the Family, and it's easy to get lost in a story and world constructed like this. Luckily for comic readers, Lesniewski makes it a blast to follow along with his topsy-turvy layouts and intricately woven paneling. A colorless comic can only work under the exactly right instance, and Lesniewski continues to nail it. -- Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4 out of 5

A HAUNTED GIRL #3

A Haunted Girl #3 gets right back on track pulling together elements from the first and second issues to finally get things moving as Cleo accepts that she's part of something big, apocalyptic, and real and begins to push past her own challenges and darkness to do something about it. Unfortunately for Cleo—but fortunately for readers—there's a big twist in who she is trusting. It's expertly paced in terms of getting things moving and setting the story up for a bigger conflict. The only real "problem" here is that we're so close to the end of this miniseries that one cant help but wonder if things are going to be rushed now that we've gotten things rolling. Given how much A Haunted Girl #3 covers, it's a valid concern. -- Nicole Drum

Rating: 3 out of 5

HOUSE OF SLAUGHTER #20

Alabaster rolls into its final chapter with big momentum, but unfortunately the conclusion is buried by its shift to other characters and extensive dialogue. To this point the story has primarily focused on Bait and his struggles to do his job while forming personal relationships within the house, and the conclusion of issue #19 had him on the edge of death with the tension turned up to 11. That's why it's disappointing to see Bait not even involved with the battle, and Bait ends up as a side character in his own story. The attention moves to everyone but him, and when he is the focus, it's often because someone else is causing him harm directly or by killing someone he cares for. By the time we get to the next part of his journey, there's just more trauma being inflicted, and even if that wasn't the case, the amount of dialogue taking place throughout is extensive, to the point that it starts to run together and lose its punch. The very end does tease something intriguing, but it's not enough to overcome what's already transpired, leading to a finale that unfortunately doesn't stick the landing. -- Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 2 out of 5

INVASIVE #1

Invasive is horrifying in all the right ways as its first issue has gone live. The series begins with a grim look at surgical greed, and things progress when a detective an doctor meet. From there, a bloody cliffhanger introduces the story's big villains, and they are something right out of a horror novel. -- Megan Peters

Rating: 4 out of 5

JUNIOR BAKER THE RIGHTEOUS FAKER #4

I'd have a much better time with Junior Baker if I flipped through just the art and tried to determine what story was being told without any dialogue directing me. Like I've said before in reviews of previous issues, a story trying so hard to do so many heady things at once will appeal to some, but not very many. -- Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

KILL MORE #3

Kill More has a, pardon the pun, killer concept that is able to be nasty when it wants to be, but can sometimes miss the forest for the trees. With so many serial killers being put on the board by the creative team here, you can often get lost in the shuffle. As a series, Kill More has been exceptionally dialogue heavy which has its strengths and weaknesses. Some of the exposition by characters can sometimes soften the blow of some of the harsher, more surprising moments that Scott Bryan Wilson nd Max Alan Fuchs are looking to hammer home. I think Kill More remains fine enough, but it needs a spark to really get the engine running with its unique premise that feels like its stalking the reader around each corner, but doesn't deliver the killing blow. -- Evan Valentine

Rating: 3 out of 5

MASTERPIECE #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

I'm ready to see how Emma takes on the name Masterpiece, what type of heist she cooks up, and who rounds out her crew. Since she's a teenager, one can only imagine who she turns to and what their specific set of skills are. Also, you know her parents will make a grand entrance at some point down the line, so we have that to look forward to as well. Masterpiece may look like a slow burn on the surface, but it should be more than worth the wait. -- Tim Adams

Rating: 5 out of 5

Other Publishers #3

OPERATION SUNSHINE #3

Operation Sunshine #3 is, in many ways, very much like the previous issue in that Zebrowski and Parks throw a lot of things at the reader in a very complex story, but keep missing bits that would make the journey easier to follow and understand – it's the comic book equivalent of taking the stairs two at a time and every so often missing one and stumbling. The issue very quickly attempts to make clear a couple of fuzzy bits form issue #2 but then sends Hex and Steve off on a side quest of sorts that itself introduces more complications before kicking things back to Anwar for a confrontation that not only doesn't seem to make a ton of sense, but also relies on some visual jokes (and rather lowbrow ones at that). It's an interesting read—Hex's history at this point is proving to be more compelling than the actual plot of the book—but the issue just serves to illustrate that this is less a vampire epic and more of a jumbled and tangled mess of things that isn't bad, but needs a lot more direction and a lot less jokes to work. -- Nicole Drum

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

PHANTOM ROAD #7

Phantom Road seems to zig-zag more than any other Lemire-ian tale, with this issue possibly being the most solid evidence of that. Throughout the two covers of Phantom Road #7, our protagonists take just a few steps as the script injects more mysticism than ever before, almost to the point of incoherency. There's a whole lot happening here and seven issues in, much of still doesn't really make any bit of sense. -- Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 3 out of 5

QUICK STOPS II #1

Tracing the origins of Mooby back to a bullied kindergartener is a wonderful idea, but the execution doesn't stand up to the concept itself. Kevin Smith has evolved as a writer since his early days as a filmmaker, but this Quick Stops series feels like he brought back some of the worst attributes of his past self. There's a way to have characters talk about sex that feels natural and adds to the story, this just isn't it at all. -- Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 2 out of 5

RADIANT BLACK #27

The second trial has begun in the great Catalyst War, and Marshall is the first one up to bat. Radiant Black #27 is actually part one of a two issue story released in the same week, and while both issues have the same central starting point, the characters that lead them shake things up considerably. Marshall leads the charge in issue #27, and as a result leans more into the action thrill ride aspect of the series. Writers Kyle Higgins and Joe Clark continuously keep Marshall on his heels throughout the issue, leading to high octane battles and brutal twists that artist Eduardo Frigate and colorist Raul Angulo bring to marvelous life. Granted, there's nothing we didn't necessarily know revealed about Marshall throughout, and when compared to issue #27.5 there are some elements that I preferred, but overall this is still a strong issue that is setting the stage for bigger things to come. -- Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 3 out of 5

RADIANT BLACK #27.5

Radiant Black #27 puts Marshall in the spotlight as the second trial beings, but that is flipped on its head for Radiant Black #27.5, which puts Nathan in the driver's seat. While the main beats of the story is the same as #27, #27.5 feels far different thanks to the approach and demeanor of its lead. Writers Kyle Higgins and Joe Clark take advantage of Nathan's more nuanced and less aggressive approach, and that allows the interactions throughout the issue to yield more fruit. Speaking of interactions, Nathan and Satomi play off each other immensely well, and bringing Satomi in delivers the punch (no pun intended) the book needs to balance out Nathan's more thoughtful approach. Artist Thobias Daneluz and colorist Rod Fernandes knock her sequences out of the park, though they don't disappoint with Nathan either when he finally gets to cut loose. All of the various elements came together quite well in Radiant Black #27.5, and of the two, this is the issue that left me wanting more. -- Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 4 out of 5

ROGUE SUN #17

The world-building that once made Rogue Sun such a fun comic is beginning to smother the story. Now nearly two years into its run, the title wants to be something much larger than it is, taking the focus nearly entirely off the eponymous vigilante and placing it on an ensemble of heroes and villains that haven't earned a second of the spotlight. Rogue Sun #17 is hectic and jarring because it has so much to balance, and it's too big for its own good. At the very least, some of the action set pieces work incredibly well and spice up a rather lackluster outing. -- Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 3 out of 5

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH HOLIDAY SPECIAL #1

Archie steps forward this week with Sabrina the Teenage Witch: Holiday Special, and it is everything you'll want from a winter special. Filled with solstice scares and magical trees, this anthology is perfect for anyone wanting a light read this holiday season. -- Megan Peters

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #4

SCRAPPER #6

Scrapper concludes with issue #6 and the conclusion is pretty much what you'd expect it to be. There are a couple of surprises, but overall it is a fairly predictable issue when it comes to Scrapper and his friends' fight against SMITE. That's not a bad thing at all and it's actually really enjoyable to see a story that is at times incredibly bleak land in a good place. But the issue does feel a little rushed in the sense that things tidy up very quickly and there are a few things that happen in the wrap up that happy so cleanly that it almost feels like you're missing something. The ending does leave for the option of additional stories to be told for Scrapper and his friends, which is nice. Overall, it's an enjoyable read, I just wish it could have gone a little deeper and been a little tighter in its execution. -- Nicole Drum

Rating: 3 out of 5

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: WINTER JAM #1

Winter Jam pulls some fan-favorite Sonic characters into an absurd holiday-themed reality show hosted by Cubot and Orbot; it's goofy, colorful, and every bit as much fun as that concept suggests. A quick set up and series of challenges ensures there's never a moment of boredom as Sonic and his allies are put through their paces. There's also a reliable series of visual concepts to keep each new sequence engaging, whether it's an outstanding composition for the crew's capture or minor gags during "interview scenes." It's a romp that offers plenty of laughs and fun in a package perfectly sized for a brief holiday treat -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

STAR TREK: PICARD'S ACADEMY #3

After readers had to put up with a miserable version of Jean-Luc Picard for two issues, Picard's Academy finally reveals the reasons why the Starfleet student has been acting the way he has. This third issue is a sizable gut punch on many fronts, and it's surprisingly adult for a title geared towards younger audiences. This story might be about exploring the furthest reaches of space and even then, Picard's Academy #3 is strikingly human. -- Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

STAR WARS: HYPERSPACE STORIES #12

A Rebel engineer's quick thinking allows him to help rescue a young survivor who is put in danger, but at the cost of the young ally leaving behind their stuffed Wookiee. Keeping the toy as a good luck charm, we see how it was this engineer's resourcefulness that helped the Rebels take on the Death Star II and result in unexpected discoveries about what the seemingly innocuous toy contained. This title might typically skew towards younger readers, but this installment of the series manages to authentically channel the spirit of the saga without ever sacrificing maturity. The book largely feels like a spiritual successor to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, as it focuses on the heroes in the Rebellion that don't have a built-in claim to fame, and depicts how bravery and courage comes in various shapes and sizes. Additionally, the journey of the young toy takes on new significance in the book's final pages, while also coming into close contact with famous figures from the franchise, resulting in an altogether inspiring and compelling journey that unfolded in the outskirts of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi that amplifies the effectiveness of that adventure without ever contradicting it. -- Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 4 out of 5

UNDERHEIST #1

David and Maria Lapham have crafted a devilishly enticing new crime tale in the pages of Underheist #1 that's bound to leave readers tensely perched on the edge of their seats between issues. Those familiar with Lapham's prior work on Stray Bullets will already know how well the cartoonist presents a thriller in tightly constructed single issues. An 8-panel grid is used to outstanding effect in ratcheting up tension and juxtaposing flashbacks with the present. It efficiently immerses readers in the life of David, a construction worker owing debts he can't pay, as he conceives and executes a heist in the tunnels of New York City. There's a well-defined cast of characters surrounding David and hints about his own dark history (including supernatural elements) by the issue's stunning cliffhanger as things, inevitably, fall apart. Both the claustrophobic depiction of Manhattan's tunnel system and rare glimpses of its skyline contrast the minutiae of daily life with the grandiose possibilities imagined by its residents. And when the violence unfurls, it's presented with the chaos and cruelty embodied by the very best installments of the crime genre. Underheist #1 delivers readers an undeniably enticing introduction to the newest hit from the Laphams. Don't miss it. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

THE WITCHER: WILD ANIMALS #3

The framing of animal liberation within The Witcher's medieval setting has proven to be a fascinating journey as two conflicting moral perspectives leave Geralt in the midst of an island community's conflict. Much of Wild Animals #3 is focused on presenting the arguments and Geralt's hesitation in placing judgment is apparent throughout, especially when he witnesses opportunities for violence to be avoided. However, violence proves to be inevitable, not only because this is a dark fantasy story but due to human nature itself. Detailed linework emphasizes the bags beneath Geralt's eyes and reveals the tired weight pressing on all of those surrounding him; it elevates the dirty action sequences and provides a constant reminder of the humanity present in even the dullest characters. And after so much argument and consideration, the cliffhanger in Wild Animals #3 sets the stage for a finale that's impossible to predict next month. -- Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

ZAWA + THE BELLY OF THE BEAST #2

Zawa + The Belly of the Beast #2 is a little more focused than the first issue, with Bandit and Thatcher quickly figuring out exactly what Zawa is and learning about her love of organic (or genuine?) food. While some of the worldbuilding remains disjointed, we do get a little more explanation of what's going on. I'll also note that Michael Dialynas's coloring and lettering are delights – makes this comic a fun read. -- Christian Hoffer

Rating: 4 out of 5