By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 12/2/2015
Regis Loisel is a spectacular artist. If you’ve seen his version of Peter Pan you know this to be true. Titan is releasing a US version of The Quest for the Time Bird, a fantasy written by Serge Le Tendre. It’s out today and it looks gorgeous. THE QUEST FOR THE TIME BIRD WRITER: SERGE LE […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 11/13/2015
Another Marvel ALL NEW ALL DIFFERENT book, another FOC preview. But this time it’s Weirdworld by Mike Del Mundo who has become a stylist and artist to watch. Writer Sam Humphries is no slouch either. Weirdworld is based on a series created by Doug Moench and Mike Ploog, but I guess they didn’t actually have any […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 11/10/2015
Christmas is coming to Riverdale, and Comics Beat has an exclusive preview of what you can expect.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 11/2/2015
Oh and speaking of Annie Wu, she's the artist on issue #4 of the all-nu Archie comics, (Veronica Fish takes over on issues #5-6) and in issue #4 of the Mark Waid reboot we finally learn about #LipstickIncident, the secret that has been haunting the halls of Riverdale High and crimping Archie's dating style.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 11/2/2015
RAWR!
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 10/26/2015
Canada’s Conundrum Press, publisher of such fine graphic novels as Photobooth, the works of Joe Ollman and much more, is rolling out its spring list over on their blog. Since the company will be 20 years old in 2016, they’s announced an anniversary anthology, as well as a book by up and coming CCS grad […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 10/26/2015
The Betty and Veronica Jumbo Comics Digest is nearing the completion of its 28th year. Since the start of its run in 1987, the Archie Comics series has featured stories centered around Riverdale’s eponymous leading ladies. In the latest issue, which comes out this Wednesday, cartoonist Dan Parent brings some holiday cheer to the Archie universe, breaking out […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 10/14/2015
Today, First Second Books releases The Fall of the House of West. The book is the newest installment in the acclaimed series of graphic novels that includes Battling Boy and The Rise of Aurora West. In it, writer Paul Pope, co-author JT Petty, and artist David Rubin return to Aurora’s story in a tour de force that mixes sci-fi, fantasy, manga, […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 9/29/2015
They said it couldn’t last, but The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl made the cut to all new, all different, all post Secret Wars Marvel and here’s a peek at the first issue, which hits in October. Writer Ryan North and artist Erica Henderson have made this a kicky title in the Batgirl/Lumberjanes tradition that has sold […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 8/24/2015
A whole generation, myself included, grew up in an era where Archie Comics were relegated to supermarket newsstands. Recently, however, Archie has found new life in the direct market. From the widespread attention that Death of Archie received, to rousing success of the Dark Circle imprint, and finally to the flagship title relaunch with Saga superstar Fiona Staples on […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 8/7/2015
Continuing our look at this fall’s top graphic novels, Koyama Press is reissuing Julia Wertz’s Drinking at the Movies, originally published by Three RIvers press but here reissued with all new material and an intro by Janeane Garaofolo. Wertz’s comic strips are autobiographical, but fearless in their honesty, and forgiving in bringing a light touch to […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 8/7/2015
MAD Magazine is often overlooked as one of the longest running and most successful properties that DC Entertainment publishes. Of course, the early Harvey Kurtzman edited run, and seminal work by Will Elder, John Severin, Wally Wood, Al Jaffee and Sergio Aragones is justly lauded among comics history buffs, but with issue #535 coming out next week it's also the longest continually running comics periodical in the US. If it was just puttering along with jokes about these kids today and boring TV shows, perhaps it would be allowed to stay in its pasture, but in truth it's still putting out sharp satire with bold visuals and presenting the work of some of today's finest cartoonists—including Al Jaffee and Sergio Aragones.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 8/5/2015
Rolling along with the Fall line-up for comics, here’s another September release, Hang Dai Studios has teamed with Alternative Comics to release their fall schedule, which includes three titles Beef with Tomato by Dean Haspiel, Smoke by Gregory Benton, and Schmuck by Seth Kushner and an all-star line-up of cartoonists. It’s a powerhouse line-up of talent, each book with its […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 8/3/2015
It’s time to get back to what’s best in life: COMICS. The fall publishing season has been announced (and Spring ’16 is coming soon) so here’s some previews of what’s coming starting with Koyama Press . Next month will see the publication of Michael DeForge’s acclaimed series Lose with issues #7, now for the first time […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/27/2015
This Wednesday, July 29th, DC’s Gotham by Midnight Annual #1 will hit store shelves. This title, written by Ray Fawkes with art by Christian Duce Fernandez, promises to take readers on “a tale of love and vengeance in this centuries-old mystery” featuring the Gentleman Ghost. The Comics Beat has an exclusive preview.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 6/3/2015
“James Robinson” himself, being assigned the Airboy comic for a reboot
For starters, this work is not for kids, and there might be a plot spoiler. With that out of the way, let’s review!
Airboy was originally made during the boom of super hero comics in the World War II era, where America dreamed of spandex clad heroes fighting not only super villains, but of the likes of Hitler and the entire Nazi army. One of the things that set him apart was that Airboy flew a plane with wings that flapped much like a bird’s. Even stranger, a Franciscan monk made both the plane and the superhero costume.
Aside from sharing the same name, that’s where the buck stops in this book. What we are instead given is a fast and illicit trip through one’s insecurities, and case of writer’s block.
Through the first few pages, it’s not the WWII flying ace that we see, but rather we are treated to a modern day man sitting on a toilet. Namely, we see writer “James Robinson” himself, being assigned the Airboy comic for a reboot. The story follows him, and later on artist Greg Hinkle, through a night of alcohol and drug fueled mayhem. Amid a wicked hangover, everything crescendos with a very “unlikely” visitor.
I must admit, it was weird seeing things from other end of the drawing board. Within the first couple of panels, confusion set in, and I read on wondering when this “Airboy” was going to make the scene. A number of pages later, all expectations of him and his flapping plane disappeared. I felt like some cardinal rule was getting broken. But as someone said some time long ago, rules are made to be broken.
The visuals reminded me a lot of “The Fifth Beatle” spliced with a Lewis Carroll drug trip. The use of solid colors as opposed to shading makes the art style unique
The story follows him, and later on artist Greg Hinkle, through a night of alcohol and drug fueled mayhemand pleasing to the eye. The drawing style is both clean and whimsical, making this story a fun and easy read.
Disregarding the art and the surprise twist at the end, the writing alone will keep any down to earth reader keep on reading. The frank, clear dialogue helps us relate to the characters it many ways, from their concerns and feelings, to the insane situations they are involved in.
All-in-all, I loved this story so far. It took me a few heartbeats to get passed my great confusion over the story title, but after that it was a good time. The humor and situations are very adult, so don’t be too shocked when you see male genitalia. Yup, you heard me.
This is a must read that should be picked up at your local retailer.
Airboy by Image Comics is available for sale as of today, June 3rd.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 4/28/2015
With great comics comes great responsibility — that’s something that we believe the Legion of Superheroes’ Arm-Fall-Off-Boy perfectly encapsulates. The character created by Gerard Jones, Ty Templeton, and Curt Swan inspires us to write these great pieces as he forces the staff here at The Beat Manor to keep reading until our arms fall off! How many characters have the ability to use their own limbs as instruments of destruction? Arm-Fall-Off-Boy A.K.A. Floyd Belkin’s visit to the mansion came at an important time in comics history as Marvel is now on the very edge of Secret Wars and DC is in the midst of Convergence. The rejected Legionnaire had some opinions on each that enlightened The Beat staff towards forming some new conceptions about these titles that we will share with the general public below. Our time with Belkin was limited, but he shared all the Superman and Legion anecdotes that we could handle in the span of just one afternoon. Without further ado we would like to present our picks straight from Belkin and The Beat Manor for your reading pleasure!
Alex and Floyd’s picks:
Avengers #44 Writer: Jonathan Hickman Artist: Mike Deodato
New Avengers #33 Writer: Jonathan Hickman Artist: Kev Walker
Belkin advised us that Jonathan Hickman’s Avengers saga was one of the deepest and most bold comics events ever, with over 77 issues devoted to the lead-up into the Secret Wars, he told us that there was much ‘proverbial crap’ to hit the fan. We feel obligated to post anything the esteemed hero mentioned, but these pair of issues surely look interesting. How is Hickman and company going to blow up the Marvel Universe and create Battleworld? Bear in mind that this is comics, so it probably is going to be fun but not make any sense.
The Multiversity #2 Writer: Grant Morrison Artist: Ivan Reis
Floyd expressed some interest in taking a break from the big events and talking up DC’s huge Multiversity event for a short while. This saga is bringing some brand new heroes together for the first direct follow-up to the Multiversity labeled as The Multiversity #2, but how or why would the installment could it be labeled as such with a new selection of characters being introduced? One of the highlights of our afternoon with Belkin was a spirited debate between team Beat on whether Morrison could even follow-up Multiversity! When one Beat staffer mentioned that he or she (I will not disclose their identity) didn’t like Brazilian artist Ivan Reis, they were given a stern talking to — they insulted one of Belko’s favorites!
Kyle’s Pick:
Convergence: Shazam #1
Writer: Jeff Parker, Artist: Doc Shaner, Colors: Jordie Bellaire
Davey’s Pick:
Heidi’s Pick:
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 4/17/2015
It’s almost quitting time here in EDT so let’s leave the week with something FUN for a change.
Why just do a comic book based on a classically of it time TV show when you can reinvent it as an acid trip that bends time and
space? And hooray for licensors who let you get away with it. Miami Vice: Remix by Joe Casey and Jim Mahfood is anything but a dull TV show comic…it’s an audacious tale on tropes and icons, and a gem in the Lion Forge line-up.
Last month, the TV classic Miami Vice came back in a whole new way with the neo-noir, ultraviolet, action-packed Miami Vice: Remix. The first issue left readers cliff-hanging but never fear — the next installment of car chases, palm trees, and mutation-inducing designer drugs is here!
When we last left Crockett and Tubbs (still Miami’s coolest cops) they were in a sticky situation with some South Florida zombies high on Miami Bath Salts. Now they’re in hot pursuit of the dealer of this horrific nose candy, which leads them to punching cracked-out monsters in the face while zooming through Florida Turnpike traffic. Just another day at the office! But while one situation explodes, another simmers; someone who’s got serious beef with our $600-suit-wearing-heroes claims that Crockett’s got a serious debt to pay — and they’re here to collect!
Writer Joe Casey (Godland, Wildcats, Adventures of Superman) and artist Jim Mahfood (Tank Girl, Ultimate Spider-Man, Grrl Scouts) take their off-the-wall trip to South Beach to the next level with another high-energy, neon-soaked installment, in-stores next Wednesday.
Issue #2
Pub Date: April 22, 2015
Item Code: FEB150372
Issue #3
Pub Date: May 13, 2015
Item Code: MAR150456
Issue #4
Pub Date: June 17, 2015
Item Code: APR150489
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 4/17/2015
Dark Horse’s July comics previews are out and here they are with Mignola, Kindt, the return of Barb Wire, The New Deal, a new graphic novel by Jonathan Case, the collected Astro Boy, the final book of Oh My Goddess and MORE. I haven’t really looked at the Dark Horse line in a while, and they are putting out some good stuff.
SISTERS AGAINST THE WORLD!
“Kindt’s work is more complex, ambitious and somber than its subtitle suggests.”— Publishers Weekly
2 Sisters: A Super-Spy Graphic Novel HC
Matt Kindt (W/A/Cover) and Marie Enger (C)
On sale Sept 16
FC, 344 pages
$27.99
HC, 8 1/4″ x 10 1/4″
From the imagination of Matt Kindt, 2 Sisters is at once a fanciful World War II thriller full of codes, gadgets, and cyanide capsules and the heartbreaking story of Elle and Anna, whose shared past and secrets are dredged up when Elle is recruited into His Majesty’s service as a covert agent!
New arc begins here!
Abe Sapien #24
Mike Mignola (W), Scott Allie (W), Sebastián Fiumara (A), Dave Stewart (C), and Max Fiumara (Cover)
On sale July 8
FC, 32 pages
$3.50
Ongoing
Haunted by memories of Hellboy, Abe crosses paths with a horrible monster in a sunken town, which reveals secrets of his own prehuman origins.
Age of Reptiles: Ancient Egyptians #2 (of 4)
Ricardo Delgado (W/A/Cover) and Ryan Hill (C)
On sale July 1
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
Ricardo Delgado delivers a stunning, elaborate prehistoric parable that evokes classic spaghetti westerns and noble samurai tales of yore! Traveling through a dense swamp teeming with primordial danger, a solitary Spinosaurus aegyptiacus is the unpredictable and deadly antihero of Age of Reptiles: Ancient Egyptians.
MIGNOLA! GIBBONS! NOWLAN!
Aliens: Salvation HC
Dave Gibbons (W), Mike Mignola (P/Cover), Kevin Nowlan (I), and Matt Hollingsworth (C)
On sale Sept 2
FC, 56 pages
$10.99
HC, 6 5/8″ x 10 3/16″
One of the most memorable Aliens tales ever told, now available as a premier-edition hardcover! When the most pious crewman aboard the Nova Maru is forced to abandon ship with his mad captain, the two are marooned on an inhospitable and remote world—and they’re not alone . . .
Angel & Faith Season 10 #16
Victor Gischler (W), Cliff Richards (A), Michelle Madsen (C), Scott Fischer (Cover), and Mike Norton (Variant cover)
On sale July 1
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
While Angel is stateside, Faith is suddenly the go-to adviser for London’s Magic Town police detective. She enlists Fred to help scope out a situation, and the girls stumble onto some teenage vampires at Cuthbert Prep. Who better to delve further into the situation—from the inside—than a vampire slayer?
THE GANG FIGHTS BACK!
Archie vs. Predator #4 (of 4)
Alex de Campi (W), Fernando Ruiz (P), Rich Koslowski (I), Jason Millet (C), Andrew Pepoy (Cover), Faith Erin Hicks (Variant cover), and Joe Quinones (Variant cover)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
As casualties continue to mount, it’s up to Betty and Veronica to put aside their differences if the gang hopes to rid Riverdale of the Predator menace—but can the girls keep their claws out of each other long enough to keep the Predator’s claws out of everyone?!
Nearly 700 pages!
Astro Boy Omnibus Volume 1 TP
Osamu Tezuka (W/A/Cover)
On sale Sept 23
b&w, 688 pages
$19.99
TP, 4 1/2″ x 6 1/2″
Built by a brilliant scientist to replace his lost son, but with powers beyond imagination, Astro Boy fights for the oppressed and helpless—human, alien, or robot. Created by Osamu Tezuka, “Japan’s Walt Disney,” Astro Boy is action-packed, classic fun for all ages, now featured in value-priced omnibus editions!
“Tezuka is widely considered the most important and influential figure in post–World War II Japanese animation.”—New York Times
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
Avatar: The Last Airbender—Smoke and Shadow Part One TP
Gene Luen Yang (W), Michael Dante DiMartino (W), Bryan Konietzko (W), and Gurihiru (A/Cover)
On sale Sept 23
FC, 80 pages
$10.99
TP, 6″ x 9″
The Fire Nation is threatened by a prophecy told by the Kemurikage, mysterious figures thought only to exist in legend: remove Zuko from the throne, or the country will perish!
Avatar Aang and his friends escort Zuko and his family back to the capital, completely unaware of the looming threat growing in the city. Unrest is brewing as the New Ozai Society prepares to make its move against the crown, and children begin to go missing from their homes under mysterious circumstances!
Baltimore: The Cult of the Red King #3 (of 5)
Mike Mignola (W), Christopher Golden (W), Peter Bergting (A), Dave Stewart (C), and Ben Stenbeck (Cover)
On sale July 1
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
Lord Baltimore attacks a coven of witches to free his friend, but the witches will not give him up so willingly. Alone and freezing, Baltimore can now only save himself. Will he survive the wrath of the witches?
Barb Wire #1
Chris Warner (W), Patrick Olliffe (P), Tom Nguyen (I), Gabe Eltaeb (C), and Adam Hughes (Cover/Variant cover)
On sale July 1
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Nail-hard tough and drop-dead gorgeous, Barb Wire is the baddest bounty hunter on the mean streets of Steel Harbor, where gangsters can lift bulldozers and leap rusting factories in a single bound. The hunting is stupid good and the bounties are hella big—if Barb lives long enough to collect!
Black Hammer #2
Jeff Lemire (W/Variant cover), Dean Ormston (A/Cover), and Dave Stewart (C)
On sale July 8
FC, 32 pages
$2.99
Ongoing
The Golden Age heroes of Spiral City have been “erased” from existence! Banished years ago to a timeless farming community, the team are torn between accepting their fate and finding a way home! Chapter 2 focuses on child hero Golden Gail, whose unaging body most deeply feels the tragedy of their new lives.
“A deconstruction and exploration of the modern superhero storytelling technique and superhero comics as a whole.”—Comic Book Resources
B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth #133
Mike Mignola (W), John Arcudi (W), Julián Totino Tedesco (A), Dave Stewart (C), and Laurence Campbell (Cover)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.50
Ongoing
Johann’s fascination with the Sledgehammer armor leads to a strange journey into the past and the origin of Project Epimetheus.
B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth Volume 11: Flesh and Stone TP
Mike Mignola (W), John Arcudi (W), James Harren (A), Dave Stewart (C), and Laurence Campbell (Cover)
On sale Sept 23
FC, 144 pages
$19.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
Things seem to be going well for the BPRD. With their alliance with the military, they now have all the munitions they need and, compared to what they faced in New York, an easy mission to clear a small town. But the town has strange connections to Howards’s past as a prehistoric warrior, and more than its share of monsters. This volume collects B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth #125–#129.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 10 #17
Christos Gage (W), Rebekah Isaacs (A/Variant cover), Dan Jackson (C), and Steve Morris (Cover)
On sale July 22
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Tensions are on the rise as the gang goes in search of an ancient enemy—Archaeus. Split into teams, Angel and Xander are able to connect over themes of betrayal and love lost, while Buffy pushes Spike to keep his insecurities in check. But they quickly discover there are much more dangerous things to battle as they close in on the demon lord.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 10 Volume 3: Love Dares You TP
Christos Gage (W), Nicholas Brendon (W), Rebekah Isaacs (A), Megan Levens (A), Dan Jackson (C), and Steve Morris (Cover)
On sale Sept 9
FC, 136 pages
$18.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
The romantic scene for Buffy and friends amps up in unexpected ways. But personal lives are soon put aside to deal with demons, both real and intangible. Spike struggles with vivid dreams of murder, and Buffy journeys into his mind, discovering the terrifying new face of evil . . . Collects Buffy Season 10 #11–#15.
“The combination of pacing, appropriate dialogue and art, as well as real emotion/acting on the part of the imaginary players (especially poor Giles, who gets a double-dose of bad news this time around) make this feel like a solid hour-long episode in all the right ways.” —Major Spoilers
Danger in the desert!
Conan the Avenger #16
Fred Van Lente (W), Brian Ching (A), Michael Atiyeh (C), and Jason Felix (Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.50
Ongoing
A new arc of Conan the Avenger by Fred Van Lente begins!
A mysterious oasis with a massive inland lighthouse beckons to Conan amidst the scorching sands. Answering a call for help, he offers assistance, only to realize too late all is not what it seems—he’s stumbled into a trap!
“A fun, exciting adventure story starring everyone’s favorite Barbarian . . . Recommended.”—Fandom Post
Conan Volume 18: The Damned Horde HC
Fred Van Lente (W), Brian Ching (A), Michael Atiyeh (C), and Dan Scott (Cover)
On sale Sept 2
FC, 152 pages
$24.99
HC, 7″ x 10″
Conan and his allies are thrown into battle against an army of brigands! Conan enters into an uncertain alliance to steal a legendary treasure that leads him on a perilous journey! Writer Fred Van Lente tackles the world’s most famous barbarian in this collection of issues #7–#12 of Dark Horse Comics’ Conan the Avenger.
“This is classic Conan here, folks, and it’s great fun to read.”—The Fandom Post
The Courageous Princess Volume 3: The Dragon Queen HC
Rod Espinosa (W/A/Cover)
On sale Sept 16
FC, 192 pages
$19.99
HC, 5 13/16″ x 9″
In this conclusion to the Courageous Princess trilogy, Princess Mabelrose must use her generous spirit, as well as her brains, to melt the heart of the Dragon Queen and gain her freedom. But she still has to bring her father and her friends back from the queen’s unreachable Unremembered Lands . . .
“Espinosa’s influences seem to be equal parts Grimm fairy tales, animated Disney films, the Wizard of Oz and Japanese manga, and the work is meticulously rendered in a seductive palette of brights and shadows.”—Publishers Weekly
Creepy Archives Volume 22 HC
Various (W/A)
On sale Sept 9
b&w, 240 pages
$49.99
HC, 8 3/8″ x 10 7/8″
Murderous beasts, ravenous aliens, and other bizarre creatures hunt for careless humans in Creepy Archives Volume 22, collecting issues #104 through #107 of the infamous horror anthology! Featuring timeless tales by Russ Heath, John Severin, Len Wein, Bruce Jones, Larry Hama, Jim Starlin, Terry Austin, Alfredo Alcala, and many others—as well as all original fan pages and letters columns!
Creepy Comics Volume 4 TP
Fred Van Lente (W), Corinna Bechko (W), Ray Fawkes (W), Matthew Southworth (W/A), Peter Bagge (W/A), Dan Braun (W), Doug Moench (W), Alex de Campi (W), Ted Naifeh (W/A), Rachel Deering (W), Paul Tobin (W), J. Torres (W), Richard P. Clark (W/A), Ivan Cohen (W/A), Attilla Futaki (W/A), Tomm Coker (A), Alison Sampson (A), Simone Delladio (A), Drew Moss (A), Mike Norton (A), Dave Stokes (A), Henrik Jonsson (A), Vanesa R. Del Rey (A), Juan Ferreyra (A), Ron Salas (A), and Dustin Nguyen (Cover)
On sale Sept 16
b&w, 176 pages
$19.99
TP, 7” x 10”
Creepy Comics enters its second half century of horrifying readers! This villainous volume contains some of the spookiest stories yet, including Uncle Creepy’s Fifteith anniversary spectacular! Don’t miss malicious missives from Fred Van Lente, Ray Fawkes, Alex de Campi, Richard P. Clark, Matthew Southworth, Tomm Coker, Ted Naifeh, and many more! It’s a heap of creep! Collects issues #14–#19 of Dark Horse’s revived Creepy Comics!
“Creepy has been a horror institution for 50 years. Then, as now, Creepy sets and meets an almost impossibly high standard for horror writing and artwork.“
—ComicWow!
Eisner, Harvey, and Stumptown award winner!
Dark Horse Presents #12
Michael May (W), Fabian Rangel Jr. (W), Rich Woodall (W), Dennis Calero (W/A), Ken Pisani (W), Anthony Zicari (W), Jason Copland (A/Cover), Pablo Clark (A), Craig Rousseau (A), Dennis Calero (A), Arturo Lauria (A), and Oscar Capristo (A)
On sale July 15
FC, 48 pages
$4.99
Ongoing
It’s giant monsters versus giant robots in Michael May and Jason Copland’s Kill All Monsters, a tie-in to the Kill All Monsters hardcover, on sale now! Anthony Zicari and Oscar Capristo deliver an action-packed take on old fairy tales with Grimm Arcane!
Plus, new chapters of Fabian Rangel Jr. and Pablo Clark’s Black Past, Rich Woodall and Craig Rousseau’s Kyrra: Alien Jungle Girl, Ken Pisani’s Colonus, and Dennis Calero’s The Suit!
“How often does it have to be said, that Dark Horse Presents is the best value for money available monthly at your local comic store?” —Infinite Comix
Who is the Plague Doctor? What does he want? And how will the family survive?
Death Head #1 (of 6)
Zack Keller (W), Nick Keller (W), Joanna Estep (A), Kelly Fitzpatrick (C), and E. M. Gist (Cover)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
Zack Keller (cocreator of Dick Figures, the Streamy, IAWTV, an Annie Award–nominated web series with 650 million+ YouTube views) and Nick Keller (Turner of the Century) deliver a supernatural-horror thriller about family and creeping, terrifying murder!
When Niles and Justine Burton go camping to get a break from their stressful lives, they expect to find peace . . . not an abandoned village hiding an ancient evil. In a turn of events ripped straight from a horror movie, a brutal killer wearing a plague doctor’s mask begins hunting Niles, Justine, and their two kids.
THE EC ARCHIVES ARE AT DARK HORSE!
The EC Archives: Two-Fisted Tales Volume 1 HC
Harvey Kurtzman (W/A/Cover), Al Feldstein (W/A), Wally Wood (W/A), John Severin (W/A), Johnny Craig (W/A), Jerry De Fuccio (W), Jack Davis (W/A), and Alex Toth (A)
On sale Sept 9
FC, 216 pages
$49.99
HC, 8″ x 11″
Writer/artist/editor Harvey Kurtzman teamed with legendary artists Wally Wood, Johnny Craig, Jack Davis, Al Feldstein, John Severin, and others to create these powerful stories of struggle and humanity that are considered to be among the best war stories ever told. Now, Dark Horse Books is proud to present this first incredible volume, collecting Two-Fisted Tales #18–#23.
Eerie Comics #7
On sale July8
b&w, 36 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Cousin Eerie is plumbing the depths of disgustingness while voyaging through the spooky stratosphere! Join J. Torres, Larry Hama, Alexander Perkins, and others, as they seek out loathsome life and sickening civilizations, boldly going where no horror comic has gone before!
“A lesson in how to do a good old fashioned horror short properly. It has everything you need.” —Geeked Out Nation
ElfQuest: The Final Quest #10
Wendy Pini (W/A/Cover), Richard Pini (W), and Sonny Strait (C)
On sale July 22
FC, 32 pages
$3.50
Ongoing
Ten years have passed. The Palace of the High Ones returns as the centerpiece of a grand celebration in Cutter’s holt. In the midst of it all, every relationship fans have cherished or wished for will be tested. New faces appear; joinings and partings abound—but whose, when, why, and at what price?
Chuck Palahniuk writes the sequel to Fight Club!
Fight Club 2 #3
Chuck Palahniuk (W), Cameron Stewart (A/Variant cover), Dave Stewart (C), and David Mack (Cover)
On sale July 22
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Tyler’s been around a lot longer than anyone realized . . . To gain admittance to the current generation of Project Mayhem, Marla is more than happy to provide Sebastian with plenty of bruises, and thus, the search for their son begins . . .
“Ever wanted to know what happened to the anonymous narrator—and his constant companion, Tyler Durden—of Fight Club? Thanks to writer Chuck Palahniuk, artist Cameron Stewart and Dark Horse Comics, you’ll get the answer in Fight Club 2.”—Playboy
Frankenstein Underground #5 (of 5)
Mike Mignola (W/Cover), Ben Stenbeck (A), and Dave Stewart (C)
On sale July 22
FC, 32 pages
$3.50
Miniseries
Frankenstein’s monster confronts the danger lurking within the underground city. Can he save the spirit of the city or will he meet his end?
“Reveals a huge key to the mystery leading to the Hellboy endgame.”—MTV
AN UNSEEN WORK FROM A MODERN MASTER!
Frank Frazetta’s The Adventures of the Snow Man HC
Frank Frazetta (W/A/Cover)
On sale Sept 30
FC, 104 pages
$14.99
HC, 9″ x 6 3/8″
Although informed by World War II propaganda, Frank Frazetta’s earliest work is nevertheless as artistically nuanced and socially complex as it is innocent. Now, for the first time ever, witness the first complete story from a modern master with Frank Frazetta’s The Adventures of the Snow Man!
Game of Thrones Jorah Mormont Figure
On sale Sept 16
7 7/8” tall
$24.99
Jorah, a former agent of spymaster Varys, assigned to secretly report on Daenerys, switches sides and becomes one of her closest allies. An exiled northern lord, he has forsaken his heritage to help Daenerys on her road to destiny.
Game of Thrones Sansa Stark Figure
On sale Sept 16
7 3/4” tall
$24.99
Sansa is the daughter of Lord Eddard Stark of Winterfell and sister of Robb, Arya, Bran, and Rickon Stark, and half sister of Jon Snow. She moves to King’s Landing when her father is appointed Hand of the King and is betrothed to heir apparent Joffrey, who abuses and ultimately abandons her.
Grindhouse: Drive In, Bleed Out #7
Alex de Campi (W), John Lucas (A), Ryan Hill (C), and Francesco Francavilla (Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Grindhouse’s final arc is guaranteed to get your green blood running hot! Plucked from the tentacles of doom by angels, Veronica and Britt find a new home on a spaceship that runs on a very special, very hot and sweaty energy. “Nebulina” is ready to launch, and we’ve got three words for you: Sex! In! Space!
Groo: Friends and Foes #7
Mark Evanier (W), Sergio Aragonés (A/Cover), Tom Luth (C), and Stan Sakai (L)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
For the swordswoman Chakaal there are only two rules for survival: first, be more able with your sword, and second, avoid Groo! From the award-winning team of Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier.
“A beautifully-cartooned, smartly-written, lighthearted and enjoyable adventure book that also happens to be very, very hilarious.”—Rhymes with Geek
Groo: Friends and Foes Volume 1 TP
Mark Evanier (W), Sergio Aragonés (A/Cover), Tom Luth (C), and Stan Sakai (L)
On sale Sept 2
FC, 112 pages
$14.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
The bird-brained wanderer Groo and his mutt Rufferto crisscross the countryside, encountering acquaintances from years past: Captain Ahax, the witches Arba and Dakarba, Arcadio the Hero, and Groo’s own Granny Groo! These chance meetings can only end in chaos! Collects issues #1–#4 of the series from Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier.
“When a trifle feels like a masterpiece, that’s where you’ll find Sergio Aragonés. Here’s a three-word review: buy this book.”—Doom Rocket
KISS KISS. BANG BANG.
Gun Theory HC
Daniel Way (W) and Jon Proctor (A/Cover)
On sale Sept 30
FC, 160 pages
$24.99
HC, 6″ x 9″
Everyone who’s laid eyes on Harvey is dead. That’s because Harvey is a hired killer whose victims never see him until it’s too late. Through years of practice, Harvey’s appearance and demeanor have become so devoid of humanity that he has become invisible. Unknowable. Untouchable. Until Harvey meets a woman who, strangely, can see him.
Halo: Escalation #20
Duffy Boudreau (W), Ian Richardson (P), Denis Freitas (I), Michael Atiyeh (C), and Isaac Hannaford (Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
“The Absolute Record” part 2—Operation: ATHENA is underway and there is no turning back. Will Commander Palmer’s team survive the treacherous journey into an ancient vault of Forerunner secrets? The thrilling sequel to Halo® 4’s Spartan Ops continues from Duffy Boudreau (BlackAcre) and Ian Richardson (Noble Causes).
Halo: Escalation Volume 3 TP
Duffy Boudreau (W), Sergio Ariño (P), Douglas Franchin (P), Juan Castro (I), Denis Freitas (I), Rob Lean (I), Michael Atiyeh (C), and Daniel Chavez (Cover)
On sale Sept 9
FC, 144 pages
$19.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
Halo 4’s Spartan Ops continues here as the UNSC Infinity battles the Covenant for control of the all-powerful Forerunner Janus Key. Plus, Spartan Tanaka’s thrilling origin story revealed—all in this volume collecting Halo: Escalation issues #13–#18 by Duffy Boudreau (BlackAcre), Sergio Ariño (Ms. Marvel), and Douglas Franchin (Person of Interest).
“The art is really great. It feels emotional and really adds to the writing. The colors are vivid from panel to panel. I really like it. Halo: Escalation is a fantastic series.”—Unleash the Fanboy
“Disturbing and genuinely brilliant at its core.”—Jeff Lemire
“Deftly written, beautifully drawn, thoughtfully imagined—Harrow County already feels like a classic.”—Michael Chabon
Harrow County #3
Cullen Bunn (W) and Tyler Crook (A/Cover)
On sale July 8
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Terrified by what she’s learned of witches and monsters, Emmy takes shelter in an ancient graveyard, as she’s hunted down by her own family!
The only way to avoid heartbreak is to be heartless . . .
Heart in a Box TP
Kelly Thompson (W) and Meredith McClaren (A/Cover)
On sale Sept 16
FC, 144 pages
$14.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
In a moment of post-heartbreak weakness, Emma wishes her heart away and a mysterious stranger obliges. But emptiness is even worse than grief, and Emma sets out to collect the seven pieces of her heart, in a journey that forces her to face her own history and the cost of recapturing it!
From creators Victor Gischler (Angel & Faith) and Riccardo Burchielli (DMZ)
Hellbound HC
Victor Gischler (W), Davide Dileo (W), Riccardo Burchielli (A), Luca Saponti (C), and Lee Bermejo (Cover)
On sale Sept 23
FC, 144 pages
$17.99
HC, 7″ x 10″
When two disgraced FBI agents are sent to investigate gruesome murders along Route 5, they discover there’s a lot more going on than a simple string of bodies left by some garden-variety serial killer. Horrific nightmares are tormenting the small towns along the highway, and only one man in junkyard armor keeps them at bay.
The Hellboy 100 Project HC & TP
Various (A)
On sale Sept 23
FC, 120 pages
$24.99
HC, 7” x 10”
On sale Sept 23
FC, 120 pages
$12.99
TP, 7” x 10”
In the now-grand tradition of Hero Initiative’s previous and wildly successful 100 Project books, Mike Mignola’s signature creation comes to the fore! ALL of Hero’s original covers to Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: 1952 #1 are on display in this great book, with art by John Cassaday, Francis Manapul, Todd Nauck, Whilce Portacio, Eric Powell, Paolo Rivera, Bill Sienkiewicz, and of course, Mike Mignola!
Lady Killer TP
Joëlle Jones (W/A/Cover), Jamie S. Rich (W), and Laura Allred (Cover)
On sale Sept 2
FC, 136 pages
$17.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
Josie Schuller is a picture-perfect homemaker, wife, and mother—but she’s also a ruthless, efficient killer! She’s balanced cheerful domestic bliss with coldly performed assassinations, but when Josie finds herself in the crosshairs, her American Dream life is in danger! Collects issues #1–#5.
“A level of violence that can only be described as Mad Men’s Betty Draper meets Dexter.”—Comic Book Resources
“Lady Killer somehow manages to perfectly incorporate the quaint concept of the 1950s TV housewife with blood-fueled antics of vicious killer for hire.”—IGN
Go behind the scenes!
The Legend of Korra: The Art of the Animated Series—Book Four: Balance HC
Michael Dante DiMartino (W), Bryan Konietzko (W), and Joaquim Dos Santos (W)
On sale Sept 2
FC, 120 pages
$34.99
HC, 9″ x 12″
Go behind the scenes and uncover the phenomenal never-before-seen artwork that went into creating this beloved series’ final season! Captions from series creators Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko will give you an exclusive look at every aspect of the show; it’s like having your own backstage pass to The Legend of Korra Book Four: Balance!
“Strong characters, compelling storylines, heartfelt humor, gorgeous animation—this show had it all.”—IGN
Santa held hostage!
Lobster Johnson: A Chain Forged in Life One-Shot
Mike Mignola (W), John Arcudi (W), Troy Nixey (A), Kevin Nowlan (A/C), Dave Stewart (C), and Tonci Zonjic (Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.50
One-shot
Santa is in trouble!
Santa was taken hostage after witnessing a hostile robbery and a man’s death. Hidden away in a mountain cabin, will the Lobster be able to find Santa and save Christmas?
Midnight Society: The Black Lake #2 (of 4)
Drew Edward Johnson (W/A/Cover) and Lizzy John (C)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
Drew Edward Johnson’s genre-breaking creator-owned series continues!
The search for a missing research team leads Secret Agent Matilda Finn underneath Loch Ness with submarine driver Billy Wetherell. Things are not as they seem under the black lake, as Billy soon loses contact with the rest of the search-and-rescue crew and finds himself trapped with a horrifying creature!
ALL YOUR MIND ARE BELONG TO US!
MIND MGMT #35
Matt Kindt (W/A/Cover)
On sale July 22
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Meru and the small resistance she has assembled are too late. Mind Management is operational, with orders to remake the world. In a last-ditch effort, Meru fights her way through a reality shaped by the Eraser, in the oversized conclusion to “The Immortals”!
“This is the final arc and everything is coming together fabulously.”—Multiversity Comics
Mulan: Revelations #2 (of 4)
Marc Andreyko (W) and Micah Kaneshiro (A/Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
With her ancient ancestral power awakened, Mulan now enters a fierce struggle against the dark forces that wish to oppress her country’s people! But in order to preserve a delicate cosmic balance, the omnipotent immortals may be forced to intercede!
One man’s suicide note leads to his suicide mission!
Negative Space #1 (of 4)
Ryan K Lindsay (W) and Owen Gieni (A/Cover)
On sale July 8
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
When one man’s writer’s block gets in the way of his suicide note, he goes for a walk to clear his head and soon uncovers a century-old conspiracy dedicated to creating and mining the worst lows of human desperation.
“Ryan K Lindsay is an established authority in the comics world. He writes about comics, scripts them, and does prose too.”—Bloody Disgusting
Neverboy #5 (of 6)
Shaun Simon (W), Tyler Jenkins (A), Kelly Fitzpatrick (C), and Conor Nolan (Cover)
On sale July 1
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
Julian Drag’s addiction to fame is destroying the world of imagination. The only one who can stop him is Neverboy, but he must first accept his place in reality and do the hardest thing he’s ever done: say goodbye.
“Strong themes, frenetic artwork, and exceptional color work.”—Comics Bulletin
CLAWS OF THE CUB!
New Lone Wolf and Cub Volume 6 TP
Kazuo Koike (W) and Hideki Mori (A/Cover)
On sale Sept 2
b&w, 264 pages
$13.99
TP, 5 1/8″ x 7 1/4″
Fighting for survival, Tōgō Shigekata is unaware that a warship sails north to ensure he will never reach Edo Castle. But Tōgō’s charge, young Daigoro, has been trained by the sword master and will for the first time demonstrate his skills in combat . . . and draw his first blood!
“Case is a master at human expression.”—Newsarama
The New Deal HC
Jonathan Case (W/A/Cover)
On sale Sept 23
FC, 96 pages
$16.99
HC, 7″ x 10″
The Waldorf Astoria is the classiest hotel along the Manhattan skyline in 1930s New York City. When a charming woman checks in with a high-society entourage, a bellhop and a maid get caught up in a series of mysterious thefts. The stakes quickly grow perilous, and the pair must rely on each other to discover the truth while navigating delicate class politics.
“One part comedy, one part mystery and one part historical exploration, The New Deal hopes to explore social and political themes of the era in a way that the original films never did.”—Comic Book Resources
THE FINAL VOLUME!
Oh My Goddess! Volume 48 TP
Kosuke Fujishima (W/A/Cover)
On sale Sept 30
b&w, 160 pages
$12.99
TP, 5 1/8″ x 7 1/4″
After twenty-one years, the final volume of North America’s longest-running manga series is here! They’ve won every test and tribulation that both Heaven and Hell could throw at them; only one challenge now remains for Keiichi and Belldandy—to get back to Earth for their wedding! Even with the help of their friends and family, can they cross the dimensions in time? Spoiler alert: it’s a happy ending!
PAST AWAY DOWN!
Past Aways #5
Matt Kindt (W), Scott Kolins (A/Cover), and Bill Crabtree (C)
On sale July 22
FC, 40 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Phil and his new student experiment with a novel form of time travel, Art begins a dangerous relationship with a 2015 native, and the impossible occurs when one of the immortal Past Aways passes away!
“History comes alive in an unexpected manner in Past Aways.”—The Hollywood Reporter
Pixu: The Mark of Evil TP
Gabriel Bá (W/A), Fábio Moon (W/A), Becky Cloonan (W/A), and Vasilis Lolos (W/A)
On sale Sept 9
b&w, 128 pages
$14.99
TP, 6” x 9”
This gripping tale of urban horror follows the lives of five lonely tenants—strangers—whose lives become intertwined when they discover a dark mark scrawled on the walls of their building. The horror sprouts quite innocently from a small seed and finds life as something otherworldly. As the walls come alive, everyone is defenseless against a brewing evil.
“The story telling here is beautiful, creating a real sense of dread and supernatural menace. Smart, subtle and genuinely disturbing.”—Mike Mignola
Based on the hit video game franchise!
Plants vs. Zombies: Bully for You #2 (of 3)
Paul Tobin (W), Ron Chan (A/Cover), Dustin Nguyen (A), Jennifer L. Meyer (A), and Matthew J. Rainwater (C)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$2.99
Miniseries
Dr. Zomboss’s college-era crimes catch up with him—and karma comes in the form of the strange Anti-Bully Squad! Nate, Patrice, Crazy Dave, and a batch of overwhelmed plants are caught in between two zombie hordes! Featuring two bonus stories illustrated by guest artist Jennifer L. Meyer (Jim Henson’s The Storyteller, Star Wars Adventures)!
Rebels #4
Brian Wood (W), Andrea Mutti (A), Jordie Bellaire (C), and Tula Lotay (Cover)
On sale July 8
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
With Mercy pushed to the back of his mind, Seth is free to commit one hundred percent to the war for independence and to the special assignment General George Washington has in mind for him.
“Wood’s series explores the lives of soldiers, ordinary colonists, and the extraordinary men and women that lived and died during the Revolutionary War era.”—Nerdist
“Rebels is a great & beautiful book! Read issue 1 & can’t wait for the next one!” —Matt Kindt, MIND MGMT
Resident Alien: The Sam Hain Mystery #3 (of 3)
Peter Hogan (W) and Steve Parkhouse (A/Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
Seeking the truth behind a decades-old murder in the seemingly sleepy town of Patience, Washington, the stranded alien known as Dr. Harry Vanderspeigel learns a few lessons in human nature and forgiveness. A unique science-fiction/murder-mystery mash-up by creators Peter Hogan (Tom Strong) and Steve Parkhouse (Milkman Murders)!
“A refreshingly original take on the classic whodunit murder mystery formula, and feels a bit like a fun mash-up between Diagnosis Murder and The X-Files.”—Newsarama
Resurrectionists: Near-Death Experienced TP
Fred Van Lente (W), Maurizio Rosenzweig (P), Moreno Dinisio (I/C), and Juan Doe (Cover)
On sale Aug 19
FC, 160 pages
$19.99
TP, 7” x 10”
Resurrectionists are a select group of people who cannot only remember their past lives, but also become them. Framed architect-turned-thief Jericho Way and his crew of modern-day tomb robbers aren’t born knowing they’ve been trying to pull off the same heist for three millennia. First, they have to wake up. But with enlightenment comes grave danger—the eternally antagonistic Sojourn Corporation is now hot on their heels! Collects Resurrectionists #1–#6.
“Resurrectionists [is] great! Action, intrigue, and mystery aplenty!”—Jim Zub (Conan Red Sonja)
Shaper #5 (of 5)
Eric Heisserer (W), Ace Continuado (P), Adelso Corona (I), Wes Dzioba (C), and Felipe Massafera (Cover)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
As Cal Victus unleashes destruction on the Shaper home planet, the team rallies for one last chance at taking down an empire and saving the shape-shifting species! Spry has played many games of Heroes of the Caliphate, but this is no game, and all cards are on the table!
Read the comic! Watch the series! [Use FX logo]®
The Strain: The Night Eternal #11
David Lapham (W), Mike Huddleston (A), Dan Jackson (C), and E. M. Gist (Cover)
On sale July 15
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
Having discovered the Master’s origin site, Dr. Ephraim Goodweather and his meager band of rebels have a slim chance of defeating their all-seeing, all-knowing vampiric nemesis. The Master is right on their tail with his legions in tow!
“10 out of 10! Written incredibly well and the dialogue is real and natural. Huddleston’s art gets even better.”—Comic Vine
“From both a writing and artistic standpoint, the creative team deliver with aplomb.”—Big Comic Page
Tomb Raider #18
Rhianna Pratchett (W), Derlis Santacruz (P), Andy Owens (I), Michael Atiyeh (C), and Brian Horton (Cover)
On sale July 29
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
After the events in the Mexican jungle, Lara finds herself back in London. However, the downtime doesn’t sit well with Lara and it’s even worse for Sam—much worse! Will they be able to overcome what haunts them?
“There are no fancy tricks: Tomb Raider is just one woman taking on the world, which really is as good as it gets.”—Broken Frontier
Who owns your future?
The Tomorrows #1 (of 6)
Curt Pires (W), Jason Copland (A/Cover), Pete Toms (C), and Dylan Todd (Cover)
On sale July 8
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
They told you the counterculture was dead. They were wrong. Welcome to the new reality.
A bold new speculative-fiction comic from the mind of writer Curt Pires, with each issue illustrated by a different brilliant artist!
The future: Art is illegal. Everything everyone ever posted online has been weaponized against them. The reign of the Corporation is quickly becoming as absolute as it is brutal—unless the Tomorrows can stop it.
“A critical dissection of the bloated culture machine that holds power through sedation, and is as structurally fragile as it is monolithic. This is everything you signed up for when you pick up a book from Curt Pires, and more.”—Bloody Disgusting
Usagi Yojimbo #147
Stan Sakai (W/A/Cover)
On sale July 15
$3.50
b&w, 24 pages
Ongoing
The shadow lord Hikiji’s latest conspiracy pits the rabbit ronin’s friends against one another, as “The Thief and the Kunoichi” concludes! One of them may die tonight, unless Usagi, Chizu, and Kitsune can stop a secret treaty!
“Even if you’re not a fan of the Witcher media already, I think there’s a lot in this book to enjoy, but if you are, this is a must-buy.”—Comic Vine
The Witcher: Fox Children #4 (of 5)
Paul Tobin (W), Joe Querio (A/Cover), and Carlos Badilla (C)
On sale July 1
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries
The crew of the Prophet begin to turn on each other as the Fox Mother’s mystical illusions lead them to their fate. Now even Geralt is forced to question what is reality and what is just the fantastic projection of the scorned she-beast!
THEIR FIGHT. HIS CITY.
X Volume 6: Marked for Death—Enter the Mark TP
Duane Swierczynski (W), Eric Nguyen (A), Michelle Madsen (C), and Jason Felix (Cover)
On sale Sept 16
FC, 104 pages
$14.99
TP, 7″ x 10″
Can X halt a superpowered grudge match and rescue his city from the scars it leaves?
Collects issues #21–#24.
“[Duane Swierczynski] is a master of dialogue; his characters’ words flow with the natural rhythm.”—ComicWow!
“We’ve moved beyond just simply fighting street gangs, robbers, skin traders, mobsters, drug dealers, and arm dealers. The conclusion takes things to a whole new level.”—Geeked Out Nation
PS: if you actually got down here, I put up solicitations when I have time but it is a little time consuming. Should I continue to do it? Let me know in the comments.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 2/13/2015
The Multiversity has easily been among the best of DC Comics’ output since it debuted last August, and with each succeeding issue, it keeps getting better and better. Embracing everything that is weird and wonderful about the DC Universe has made it an utterly unique experience, with its most recent Guidebook issue even being hailed by Robot 6 as the “most DC Comic ever”.
Despite lots of critical acclaim that has it standing shoulder to shoulder with other great superhero comics like Ms. Marvel, the one thing that Morrison’s opus hasn’t quite done is rack up massive sales. They’ve been moderately successful, but slowly diminishing to where Thunderworld sold just under 48,000 copies (and the Guidebook selling under 39,000 per Comichron)
But if there’s one creator that can spike sales with some level of frequency, it’s Jim Lee. He’ll teaming up with Morrison for next week’s Mastermen, which focuses on the Nazi Justice League ruled Earth 10 and the Freedom Fighters.
Via Buzzfeed, here’s a preview of the upcoming issue:
THE MULTIVERSITY: MASTERMEN #1
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art and cover by JIM LEE and SCOTT WILLIAMS
1:10 B&W Variant cover by JIM LEE
1:25 Variant cover by AARON KUDER
1:50 Variant cover by YANICK PAQUETTE
1:100 Variant cover by GRANT MORRISON
On sale FEBRUARY 18 • 48 pg, FC, $4.99 US • RATED T
Superstar writer Grant Morrison joins legendary artist Jim Lee on Earth-10 for one of the most dynamic, action-packed issues of this entire world-shattering series – THE MULTIVERSITY: MASTERMEN!
Imagine a world where the Nazis not only won World War II but went on to direct world culture for the next 60 years with the help of an orphaned, alien super-weapon known as Overman! But hope is not lost! Rising from the ashes of oppression are a diverse band of heroes raging against the fascist regime – a band of heroes known as THE FREEDOM FIGHTERS!
What nightmarish parallel worlds haunt the dreams of Overman? Who is the mysterious figure called Uncle Sam? And when the dust settles, will the actions of Phantom Lady, Black Condor, Human Bomb, Doll Man and The Ray be enough to stop Leatherwing, Blitzen and the other “heroes” of Earth-X?
Learn all this and more in this exciting issue that acts as chapter seven of the critically acclaimed MULTIVERSITY storyline
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 2/11/2015
Leave it to Joe Casey. He’s a Pied Piper of the unusual, writing superheroes everywhere and dragging fresh art styles along with him (Sex at Image, Catalyst Comics at Dark Horse). This time it’s Dynamite’s Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers #5 which features art by Nathan Fox and Connor Willumsen. Fox is of course a terrific illustrator, cartoonist and teacher. Willumsen is a wandering ronin of comics who every once in a while pops up with a mind boggling experimental comic.
And Joe Casey is just one of a kind. And what better crew to take on Jack Kirby’s twilight weirdness, Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers?
On sale today!
Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers #5
Joe Casey (w)
Nathan Fox, Connor Willumsen (a)
Nathan Fox (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99 • Teen+
FANS, ASK YOUR RETAILER FOR THE:
Nathan Fox “Virgin Art” retailer incentive cover
The crew of the Dreadnaught Tiger is within reach of their goal! But can they get to Captain Victory — either one of them — before they’re destroyed by the hostile environments they’re stuck in? Cosmic Armageddon is right around the corner!
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 2/9/2015
Rell is your typical space mercenary except for the fact she has a halo. The halo is part of a 3D hologram she projects as her appearance—and it’s a technology a lot of people would like to get their hands on. Meanwhile, Rell would just like to get rid of her halo so people don’t project their angel fantasies on her—and her new job searching space for the huge floating body of the dead god Det’houna isn’t helping.
That’s the set up for Halogen #1 by Josh Tierney, Afu Chan and Giannis Milonogiannis, a lively SF tale set on a space station with two levels—¨p top for the good guys, and down below for the space mercenaries who hang out in bars. There’s a lot of back story and set-up crammed into the first issue but it’s all executed by Chan with the great character designs that are his signature. All sorts of aliens, robots and floating dead space gods jump out at the pages—comics world building reporting for duty.
Halogen #1 is the first issue of a four part series from Archaia, the first issue goes on sale March 4, and the FOC is today so do your thing.
HaloGen #1 (of 4)
Publisher: Archaia, an imprint of BOOM! Studios
Author: Josh Tierney
Artist: Afu Chan
Cover Artists:
Main: Afu Chan
10 Years Incentive Cover: Ramón K. Pérez
Incentive Cover: Giannis Milonogiannis
Format: 32 pages, full color
Price: $3.99
Synopsis:
WHY WE LOVE IT: We’ve published four books thus far in Josh Tierney’s Spera series because we simply love his characters and storytelling. Now, he teams up with fellow webcomic creators Afu Chan (Spera) and Giannis Milonogiannis (Old City Blues, Prophet) for a new creator-owned, sci-fi adventure.WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Having first collaborated on the Eisner Award-nominated Spera series, the creative team behind HaloGen is no stranger to kick-butt ladies, epic world-building, and sweeping adventures. This time they’re strapping on their sci-fi boots for a series perfect for fans of Prophet, Rocket Girl, and The Fifth Element.
WHAT IT’S ABOUT: There’s a rumor on Cityship Q that the gigantic body of a dead god was found floating in space. Rell, an agent woking for the HaloGen organization, is tasked with finding the location of the god and retrieving it by any means necessary. Using her ability to form hyper-realistic holograms, Rell is about to take on the first mission she might not be able to finish.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 1/29/2015
With Squirrel Girl, Marvel is proving just how strong the Marvel brand is—so strong that it can do a 180 and it’s still part of the fun. Written by Ryan North (Adventure Time, Dinosaur Comics) and drawn by Erica Henderson (Atomic Robo, Marceline and the Scream Queens) this book is as “indie” and charming as comics can get. It even has lovely flat colors by Rico Renzi. Squirrel Girl is Doreen Green a typical college student except that she also has the proportionate speed and strength of a squirrel….and a big bushy squirrel tail, which she stuffs into her pants to keep her secret identity secret. Squirrel Girl was created in 1992 by writer Will Murray and Steve Ditko (!) and the gimmick is that even with powers that sound less than a-list, she can defeat anyone —and so far she’s defeated Doctor Doom, MODOK, Terrax, and Thanos, all with the help of her squirrel sidekick Tippy-Toe.
In the first issue of her book she (spoiler) defeated Kraven the Hunter while negotiating coed life and singing a theme song that sounded a lot like maybe it was like the Spider-Man theme song…like Kamala Khan, Doreen Green takes the classic Marvel “young adult with a problem” formula and updates it for a world that’s not grim and gritty, but chipper and hopeful.
Perhaps anxious to make sure that Squirrel Girl gets her licks in before Secret Wars, the second issue goes all the way to the top and features none other than Galactus. Here’s a preview of the issue, which takes place at…a comics convention. The main cover is by Henderson and the variant by Joe Quinones.
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #2 goes on sale next week, February 4th.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 1/29/2015
With Squirrel Girl, Marvel is proving just how strong the Marvel brand is—so strong that it can do a 180 and it’s still part of the fun. Written by Ryan North (Adventure Time, Dinosaur Comics) and drawn by Erica Henderson (Atomic Robo, Marceline and the Scream Queens) this book is as “indie” and charming as comics can get. It even has lovely flat colors by Rico Renzi. Squirrel Girl is Doreen Green a typical college student except that she also has the proportionate speed and strength of a squirrel….and a big bushy squirrel tail, which she stuffs into her pants to keep her secret identity secret. Squirrel Girl was created in 1992 by writer Will Murray and Steve Ditko (!) and the gimmick is that even with powers that sound less than a-list, she can defeat anyone —and so far she’s defeated Doctor Doom, MODOK, Terrax, and Thanos, all with the help of her squirrel sidekick Tippy-Toe.
In the first issue of her book she (spoiler) defeated Kraven the Hunter while negotiating coed life and singing a theme song that sounded a lot like maybe it was like the Spider-Man theme song…like Kamala Khan, Doreen Green takes the classic Marvel “young adult with a problem” formula and updates it for a world that’s not grim and gritty, but chipper and hopeful.
Perhaps anxious to make sure that Squirrel Girl gets her licks in before Secret Wars, the second issue goes all the way to the top and features none other than Galactus. Here’s a preview of the issue, which takes place at…a comics convention. The main cover is by Henderson and the variant by Joe Quinones.
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #2 goes on sale next week, February 4th.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 1/28/2015
Warren Ellis is having a crack at reimagining the Project Superpowers universe, and Blackcross #1 hits in March. We’ve had an advance peek and it’s not what might be expected, with a strong horror bent. Here’s some brand new pages of Colton Worley’s art to give you a taste, as well as variant covers by Jae Lee, Gabriel Hardman, Declan Shalvey and Tula Lotay.
All small towns have secrets. All small towns have ghosts. Blackcross, in the Pacific North West of America, has more secrets than most. And it is being haunted by something impossible. BLACKCROSS, a supernatural extension of the PROJECT SUPERPOWERS mythos, is a ghost story about something reaching out from the other side of the night, through the forest and mist of this remote town, to grasp at the hearts of a handful of people who may not find out that they’re the targets of a strange killer until it’s much, much too late.
That’s a classic french comic (and one that I think has been published in the US before). Highly recommended!