JLA CLASSIFIED SERIES 2 ACTION FIGURES AVAILABLE THIS WEEK! BASED ON ED MCGUINNESS'S ART!
These look great! Great, old-style DCU characters rendered in the style of ED MCGUINNESS'S artwork! We'll have all four available this Wednesday here at Third Eye!
PLANET HULK DVD AVAILABLE THIS TUESDAY 2/2 AT THIRD EYE!
I'm a huge fan of the storyline that this is being based off of, so I'm stoked to check this one out. We'll have plenty of the DVD available Tuesday 2/2 here at Third Eye!
Third Eye is Fueled This Week By:
Sounds: CBGB Radio - Just discovered this... great playlists.. bounces around from Bad Brains to the Talking Heads to Public Enemy, and everything in between. Really digging it!
Sights: CAPCOM vs. Tatsunoko Ultimate All-Stars - Giant Robots rule!
Tastes: Too much coffee, man
Sounds: CBGB Radio - Just discovered this... great playlists.. bounces around from Bad Brains to the Talking Heads to Public Enemy, and everything in between. Really digging it!
Sights: CAPCOM vs. Tatsunoko Ultimate All-Stars - Giant Robots rule!
Tastes: Too much coffee, man
SIEGE #2 - The second follow-up issue to Marvel's biggest event in nearly a decade! And, yes, this issue is HUGE, your jaws will drop!
Marvel has really kicked off things strong so far with SIEGE. Serving as the end point for nearly a decade's worth of Marvel storytelling, SIEGE has delivered a quality first month with both a killer (albeit quickly-paced) first issue, as well as a handful of excellent tie-in issues (hey, it got me excited about a character like Daken, and that's tough to do!). Each spin-off issue has felt very organic, and actually relevant to the overall story going on, and that's a good thing.
Of course, the big deal this week is the arrival of SIEGE #2, which after having read an advance of, I can say is going to completely drop many of your jaws. I don't want to say anything to spoil it, but trusts me.. it's a good issue. You can be sure to see some definite lines crossed, and some big changes in the dynamic of how many characters in the Marvel Universe have been operating. Bendis, and Coipel deliver big-time, and each page feels exactly like what it is: an epic battle in the sky. You can almost hear the thunder, gunfire, and clash of Asgardian metal against high-tech military grade hardware. AWESOME.
What is SIEGE? At the beginning of the early 2000s, Marvel made a big shift in the overall direction of their core universe, which began with AVENGERS DISASSEMBLED, reached it's high point in CIVIL WAR, and resulted in storylines like SECRET INVASION (available at Third Eye in softcover) andDARK AVENGERS. Basically, the Marvel Universe evolved into a very dark place, where it's iconic heroes were split into different factions, and it's most vile villains were being portrayed as heroes to the eyes of the public. Of course, along with this shift, we also saw the real highlight of modern 21st century storytelling in the Marvel Universe. Writers like Brian Michael Bendis, Ed Brubaker, and Mark Millar took the trail that individuals like Warren Ellis, and Grant Morrison were creating in the late '90s, and turned it into a superhighway. So, the question is... "Steve, what does all this nonsense have to do with SIEGE?" Well, SIEGE is the endpoint of all of these things, as well as the beginning of a new era of storytelling for the Marvel Universe.
SIEGE is the downfall of Norman Osborn, at it's core. It's a story about a man with too much power being manipulated by the Trickster, Loki, into invading the realm of Asgard. As such, we're going to be seeing a lot of plot-threads Marvel's laid out over the last few years coming together. Steve Rogers who just recently returned in Captain America Reborn (read Cap Reborn #6 from this week, it was AWESOME!), Thor, and Iron Man, it looks like they'll be reuniting as the Big 3 of the Marvel Universe again, after nearly a decade apart. And, this is what ushers us into Marvel's self-proclaimed HEROIC AGE.
In an interview with USA TODAY, Joe Quesada (Marvel EIC) talks about how the direction of many Marvel books will be returning to a more swashbuckling, larger than life feel, but still maintaining the edginess, and 21st Century style comic book storytelling that has made many of Marvel's titles hits. What we personally take from this here at Third Eye, is we're going to see titles that take a direction more similar to the approach of books like Matt Fraction's incredible run on INVINCIBLE IRON MAN, the current run of THOR, and of course, the overall vibe that surrounds SIEGE. And, honestly, this couldn't be better news. I think we're all a little bit burnt out on the DARK REIGN concept, so it's nice to see it reaching a logical endpoint, and setting up a brand new direction for the company.
Why are we stoked on SIEGE? Well, simply put, this is a BIG deal. It's literally the end of an era, and the beginning of a new era. But, there's also the fact that SIEGE is literally something that's able to provide the goods for both new readers, and longtime fans. So, whether you've been following the events of Marvel, and looking for the grand finale of what's been going on since the days of CIVIL WAR, or if you're either brand new to the Marvel Universe, or an old fan getting back into things, and looking for a good starting point to jump on board, SIEGE provides both.
Also, it's the friggin' Marvel Universe vs. Asgard, pretty much. How cool is that? Well, not the whole Marvel Universe, but pretty much anyone who's worked for Osborn, or has ties with him, is going head to head with the immortals of Asgard. This means we're going to be seeing some over-the-top superhero fights where the characters don't have to hold back. I mean, just from what I've read so far, personally, I've been surprised by both SIEGE AND it's tie-ins.
And, that's another thing, SIEGE is answering questions so far. A lot of characters, and ideas that've become fixtures in the Marvel Universe in the last 8-10 years, are not just being answered, but being made to feel like they are finally a substantial part of Marvel continuity. For example, I have always HATED the Sentry. I always thought he was just a plain bland character, and there was never anything about him that really grabbed me. But, after having read the DARK AVENGERS #13 from a couple of weeks ago, I'm completely sold on him. He could be one of the best bad guys in the Marvel Universe, after seeing his real origin and place in the Marvel universe revealed. Another example is my opinion on Daken, Dark Wolverine. Just never really clicked with the character, but those last two pages of DARK WOLVERINE #82.. again, I'm sold on the character. Just plain awesome.
Anyways, if you're looking to get into SIEGE, we currently have all of the books in stock. You don't NEED the tie-ins to enjoy the main story, but what we do suggest picking up is:
SIEGE: THE CABAL one-shot *SIEGE PROLOGUE*
SIEGE #1
As far, as what's been really good so far:
DARK AVENGERS #13 *SIEGE*
AVENGERS INITIATIVE #32 *SIEGE*
DARK WOLVERINE #82 *SIEGE*
NEW AVENGERS #61 *SIEGE*
All four of these have been rock solid reads, and are highly recommended if you need more of a SIEGE fix than just the core series.
Click here for the SIEGE checklist
Click here for a preview of SIEGE #2
SIEGE: THE EMBEDDED #2 - BEHIND THE FRONT LINES OF THE WAR IN THE SKY!
Marvel has really kicked off things strong so far with SIEGE. Serving as the end point for nearly a decade's worth of Marvel storytelling, SIEGE has delivered a quality first month with both a killer (albeit quickly-paced) first issue, as well as a handful of excellent tie-in issues (hey, it got me excited about a character like Daken, and that's tough to do!). Each spin-off issue has felt very organic, and actually relevant to the overall story going on, and that's a good thing.
Of course, the big deal this week is the arrival of SIEGE #2, which after having read an advance of, I can say is going to completely drop many of your jaws. I don't want to say anything to spoil it, but trusts me.. it's a good issue. You can be sure to see some definite lines crossed, and some big changes in the dynamic of how many characters in the Marvel Universe have been operating. Bendis, and Coipel deliver big-time, and each page feels exactly like what it is: an epic battle in the sky. You can almost hear the thunder, gunfire, and clash of Asgardian metal against high-tech military grade hardware. AWESOME.
What is SIEGE? At the beginning of the early 2000s, Marvel made a big shift in the overall direction of their core universe, which began with AVENGERS DISASSEMBLED, reached it's high point in CIVIL WAR, and resulted in storylines like SECRET INVASION (available at Third Eye in softcover) andDARK AVENGERS. Basically, the Marvel Universe evolved into a very dark place, where it's iconic heroes were split into different factions, and it's most vile villains were being portrayed as heroes to the eyes of the public. Of course, along with this shift, we also saw the real highlight of modern 21st century storytelling in the Marvel Universe. Writers like Brian Michael Bendis, Ed Brubaker, and Mark Millar took the trail that individuals like Warren Ellis, and Grant Morrison were creating in the late '90s, and turned it into a superhighway. So, the question is... "Steve, what does all this nonsense have to do with SIEGE?" Well, SIEGE is the endpoint of all of these things, as well as the beginning of a new era of storytelling for the Marvel Universe.
SIEGE is the downfall of Norman Osborn, at it's core. It's a story about a man with too much power being manipulated by the Trickster, Loki, into invading the realm of Asgard. As such, we're going to be seeing a lot of plot-threads Marvel's laid out over the last few years coming together. Steve Rogers who just recently returned in Captain America Reborn (read Cap Reborn #6 from this week, it was AWESOME!), Thor, and Iron Man, it looks like they'll be reuniting as the Big 3 of the Marvel Universe again, after nearly a decade apart. And, this is what ushers us into Marvel's self-proclaimed HEROIC AGE.
In an interview with USA TODAY, Joe Quesada (Marvel EIC) talks about how the direction of many Marvel books will be returning to a more swashbuckling, larger than life feel, but still maintaining the edginess, and 21st Century style comic book storytelling that has made many of Marvel's titles hits. What we personally take from this here at Third Eye, is we're going to see titles that take a direction more similar to the approach of books like Matt Fraction's incredible run on INVINCIBLE IRON MAN, the current run of THOR, and of course, the overall vibe that surrounds SIEGE. And, honestly, this couldn't be better news. I think we're all a little bit burnt out on the DARK REIGN concept, so it's nice to see it reaching a logical endpoint, and setting up a brand new direction for the company.
Why are we stoked on SIEGE? Well, simply put, this is a BIG deal. It's literally the end of an era, and the beginning of a new era. But, there's also the fact that SIEGE is literally something that's able to provide the goods for both new readers, and longtime fans. So, whether you've been following the events of Marvel, and looking for the grand finale of what's been going on since the days of CIVIL WAR, or if you're either brand new to the Marvel Universe, or an old fan getting back into things, and looking for a good starting point to jump on board, SIEGE provides both.
Also, it's the friggin' Marvel Universe vs. Asgard, pretty much. How cool is that? Well, not the whole Marvel Universe, but pretty much anyone who's worked for Osborn, or has ties with him, is going head to head with the immortals of Asgard. This means we're going to be seeing some over-the-top superhero fights where the characters don't have to hold back. I mean, just from what I've read so far, personally, I've been surprised by both SIEGE AND it's tie-ins.
And, that's another thing, SIEGE is answering questions so far. A lot of characters, and ideas that've become fixtures in the Marvel Universe in the last 8-10 years, are not just being answered, but being made to feel like they are finally a substantial part of Marvel continuity. For example, I have always HATED the Sentry. I always thought he was just a plain bland character, and there was never anything about him that really grabbed me. But, after having read the DARK AVENGERS #13 from a couple of weeks ago, I'm completely sold on him. He could be one of the best bad guys in the Marvel Universe, after seeing his real origin and place in the Marvel universe revealed. Another example is my opinion on Daken, Dark Wolverine. Just never really clicked with the character, but those last two pages of DARK WOLVERINE #82.. again, I'm sold on the character. Just plain awesome.
Anyways, if you're looking to get into SIEGE, we currently have all of the books in stock. You don't NEED the tie-ins to enjoy the main story, but what we do suggest picking up is:
SIEGE: THE CABAL one-shot *SIEGE PROLOGUE*
SIEGE #1
As far, as what's been really good so far:
DARK AVENGERS #13 *SIEGE*
AVENGERS INITIATIVE #32 *SIEGE*
DARK WOLVERINE #82 *SIEGE*
NEW AVENGERS #61 *SIEGE*
All four of these have been rock solid reads, and are highly recommended if you need more of a SIEGE fix than just the core series.
Click here for the SIEGE checklist
Click here for a preview of SIEGE #2
SIEGE: THE EMBEDDED #2 - BEHIND THE FRONT LINES OF THE WAR IN THE SKY!
I really enjoyed the first issue of the SIEGE: EMBEDDED. Whenever Marvel does a big event, they usually run one of their Frontline books, and Embedded serves that purpose for SIEGE.
Embedded serves as that same kind of street-level, average guy view of these events going down between characters that are bigger than life. It's actually pretty cool, because it gives the reader a genuine sense of what it'd be like to be stuck in the midst of all this craziness. The first issue of this series begins with a blowhard T.V pundit by the name of Todd Keller, and his pro-Osborn propoganda.
We see Ben Urich on his way to ground zero in an effort to get the real story on what happened, and he lucks out: he runs into Volstagg, now on his way back to Asgard to stand trial for his crimes. Volstagg agrees to bring Urich, and his camera-man buddy along with him, and from there we get to see them chronicling these events from the Asgardian perspective.
Why it's cool? The Frontline books are always a neat little look at what it'd be like to really be stuck in the middle of the superhero event craziness, while also acting as a nice in-between issues book for fleshing out what's going on in the event. However, the FRONTLINE concept hasn't shined this well since CIVIL WAR, because the fact that we're seeing this through a normal guy's eyes as he stands amidst the Gods of Asgard, makes things seem even bigger than life.
We still have issue #1 in stock, if you wanna check out SIEGE THE EMBEDDED. We're really looking forward to seeing where things go this week in issue #2, as a certain missing God of Asgard shows his face in regards to Osborn's SIEGE.
Clickherefor a preview of SIEGE: THE EMBEDDED #2
Staff Picks
Steve - GREEN LANTERN #50 - This should've been called BLACKEST NIGHT 6.5. This issue picks up DIRECTLY after the events of BLACKEST NIGHT #6, and we get to see that oh-so-cool corps of unlikely Lanterns kicking butt. And, the cover's no joke... it's telling of what to expect.
Torma - CAPTAIN AMERICA REBORN #6 - Great, great conclusion. Over-the-top action, a must for any Marvel fan. I mean, heck you even get a giant Red Skull at the end. TOTAL MAYHEM!
Trish - KICK-ASS #8 - There's definitely room for a sequel! This is a great ending, and was def. worth the wait
Embedded serves as that same kind of street-level, average guy view of these events going down between characters that are bigger than life. It's actually pretty cool, because it gives the reader a genuine sense of what it'd be like to be stuck in the midst of all this craziness. The first issue of this series begins with a blowhard T.V pundit by the name of Todd Keller, and his pro-Osborn propoganda.
We see Ben Urich on his way to ground zero in an effort to get the real story on what happened, and he lucks out: he runs into Volstagg, now on his way back to Asgard to stand trial for his crimes. Volstagg agrees to bring Urich, and his camera-man buddy along with him, and from there we get to see them chronicling these events from the Asgardian perspective.
Why it's cool? The Frontline books are always a neat little look at what it'd be like to really be stuck in the middle of the superhero event craziness, while also acting as a nice in-between issues book for fleshing out what's going on in the event. However, the FRONTLINE concept hasn't shined this well since CIVIL WAR, because the fact that we're seeing this through a normal guy's eyes as he stands amidst the Gods of Asgard, makes things seem even bigger than life.
We still have issue #1 in stock, if you wanna check out SIEGE THE EMBEDDED. We're really looking forward to seeing where things go this week in issue #2, as a certain missing God of Asgard shows his face in regards to Osborn's SIEGE.
Clickherefor a preview of SIEGE: THE EMBEDDED #2
BRIAN WOOD'S (writer of DMZ, NORTHLANDERS) DEMO RETURNS THIS WEEK, WITH DEMO #1 "THE WAKING LIFE OF ANGELS"! GREAT JUMPING ON POINT FOR NEW READERS! FIND OUT WHY THIS IS A BOOK YOU GOTTA CHECK OUT!! THINK: A GROWN-UP VERSION OF BRIAN K. VAUGHN'S RUNAWAYS!
DEMO VOLUME 1 TPB - 15% OFF COVER PRICE THIS WEEK!
In 2003, Brian Wood dished out one of the best series of the year alongside Becky Cloonan, with DEMO. Before I start talking about how great the new DEMO is going to be, and why you gotta read it, let me talk about the original incarnation of DEMO, and why it ruled. That'll probably help explain why we're so stoked on this new rendition.
DEMO was a 12-issue limited series, where each issue was a stand-alone, one-shot story, but all of which carried a theme focusing on the lives of young people, with supernatural powers. In the beginning, it was strictly about focusing on average teenagers, and twenty-somethings who develop extra-ordinary abilities, but as the series progressed, the focus shifted more onto the relationships developed between people, the whirlwind of emotions when you're coming of age, and of course, the alienation of growing up in a rapidly-changing world. The focus on supernatural powers often took a backseat to character development, which made them very believable. The entire series of DEMO one-shots has a very punk rock kind of energy to it, and one of the things that made the series so great was how each individual issue could stand on it's own. Other personal touches that made it cool, were things like Brian Wood and Becky Cloonan providing Demo tape playlists for each issue. The overall feel of DEMO would definitely appeal to those of you who really dig BRIAN K VAUGHN'S RUNAWAYS series, as it has a little bit of that feel, but with a more adult edge.
For those of you who may have missed it in it's original incarnation, we highly recommend picking up the trade paperback of DEMO, available here at Third Eye. We're also offering the first DEMO trade paperback this week at 15% off cover price, as an added incentive to check it out.
Fear not though, if you'd rather not start out reading the earlier stuff, and begin fresh, you can hop aboard with the first issue of the new six-issue run of DEMO this Wednesday. That's one of the beautiful things about the DEMO concept is that each issue serves as a done-in-one, one-shot story. So, this means you can hop on with any issue, or drop off with any issue, because of how each story is it's own stand-alone thing. It's just the theme that is the same.
The first issue of DEMO that arrives this week, from what we've heard from Brian Wood, and seen in previews, is about a woman haunted by a recurring premonition of a person falling from a great height. The more this premonition happens, the more she slowly loses her mind, until she's so sleep-deprived, and disjointed, that she takes off travelling around the world in hopes of finding this person before their accident occurs.
Folks, if you're a fan of Vertigo stuff, or just plain ol' good comics, then please give this one a shot. I loved the first round of DEMO one-shots, and I am so excited to see the series return. Brian Wood, and Becky Cloonan provide a perfect fusion of a creative team, and deliver some extremely high quality work. I can't sing the praises of Brian Wood enough. His work on books like DMZ, Local, and of course, DEMO, has really made me a big fan, and you can definitely tell that DEMO is one of his true labors of love.
Click here for a preview of DEMO v.2 #1
BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN CONCLUDES WITH BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN #3, AND VIC SAGE, THE ORIGINAL QUESTION RETURNS FROM THE DEAD, IN THE QUESTION #37!
Blackest Night continues to deliver the goods week after week, and I'm still enjoying nearly everything that's been carrying the Blackest Night banner. Maybe it's because this is Geoff Johns's baby, and he's keeping editorial from screwing things up too bad, or milking things too bad, but man, everything has been very much on point.
And, this is why I'm so excited this week about the Question #37 "Back from the Dead" one-shot. First off, I, like a lot of you, am a huge fan of Vic Sage, the Question. And, Denny O'Neil's classic run on the character made me a fan, and hell, those stories still stand up today. If you've never familiarized yourself with the old QUESTION stuff, hustle on down here to Third Eye, and snag some of the classic trade paperbacks, like The Question: Zen and Violence, and find out why it's so good. Anyhow, I digress, this one's being written by GREG RUCKA, the man who's been making DETECTIVE COMICS a must-read month after month, and has the original QUESTION art team of Denys Cowan and Bill Sienkiewicz, handling the art chores. And, in this final issue, which is also the final in the DC "Back from the Dead" one-shots that ran through January for Blackest Night, we see the Black Lantern Vic Sage targeting his former protege, and current Question, Renee Montoya. And, somehow, someway, Lady Shiva's gonna get involved too. This one, the Starman, and the Atom and Hawkman special from last week are probably going to end up being my favorites out of the whole "Back from the Dead" thing.
Click here to read more about QUESTION #37
BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN #3
Okay, so DC is being extremely guarded on releasing early shots of the covers for a handful of key Blackest Night issues shipping in February. And, basically, this means that unfortunately, all I got to show tonight is this little TOP SECRET image cover. Now, while it sucks to not know what's going on, I have to admit.. in this day and age of information hitting the net right away, it's kind of nice to be kept in the dark, and anticipate the surprise. And, trust me, folks, from what I'm guessing, and where the story has been going in regards to Wonder Woman during BLACKEST NIGHT, I think we're going to be seeing some big surprises.
So far, in issues #1, and #2, Greg Rucka has proved that he's one of the better guys to handle the writing chores on Wonder Woman. The first issue had an incredible moment, with her coming down with a battle-axe, and lopping off Black Lantern Maxwell Lord's head. How cool is that? And after the events of BLACKEST NIGHT #6, where we saw Wonder Woman as a Star Sapphire, and then the events of Blackest Night Wonder Woman #2, where we saw HOW she turned into a Star Sapphire... well, we're stoked to see what's next. It was actually kind of cool the hook they used when making her transition into Star Sapphire, lets just say it involves Batman.
If you guys have been skipping the Wonder Woman mini, you're missing out. This is actually one of the best of the 3-issue minis for Blackest Night, just judging from the first two issues. Great writing, great storyline progression, and the artwork is actually really top notch. We currently have both issues #1, and issue #2 in stock, so definitely give 'em a look next time you're in.
For those of you who've been reading Blackest Night WW already, then you know what I'm talking about, and you're probably just as stoked about issue #2 as I am.
Click here to read more about BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN #3
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #23 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 4* CONTINUES THE BEST STORY ARC IN MATT FRACTION AND SALVADOR LAROCCA'S INCREDIBLE IRON MAN RUN YET!
I've said it many times, and I'll say it again: Invincible Iron Man by Matt Fraction and Salvador Larocca has been one of the best ongoing Marvel series for nearly two years now, since issue #1. In fact, we did a feature on how much we've enjoyed the entire run, and you can click here to read our spotlight on Fraction's INVINCIBLE IRON MAN.
It's the current story arc, STARK DISASSEMBLED, that has really been the high point so far though. While the entire run has been incredible, you really feel that everything Fraction's laid out has built to this, and everything is coming together. The sense of excitement around each issue of STARK DISASSEMBLED thus far grows for me, and I cannot wait to read this week's newest issue. If you haven't yet hopped aboard, INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #20 provides a perfect jumping on point, and that is chapter 1 of STARK DISASSEMBLED. We currently have issues #20, #21, and #22 all well-stocked here at Third Eye, so definitely check out this great arc, if you haven't yet. In addition to the fact that it's just been a plain great read so far, it also runs paralell to a lot of what's going on with SIEGE, and the eventual reuniting of IRON MAN, CAPTAIN AMERICA, and THOR as Marvel's big 3.
What is STARK DISASSEMBLED? Beginning in INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #20, Stark Disassembled, we see Tony Stark a vegetable now, after he's literally lobotomized himself so Norman Osborn could not pry information from his brain. Pepper Potts, who's been spotting the Iron Woman armor for a while now, displays a holographic message from Stark that was pre-recorded before all of this, where he explains HOW to bring him back... but then asks the question, after all we've been through with CIVIL WAR, and the registration act... Do You Want To Bring Me Back? He pretty much comes out and says he's been a bit of an ass for the last few years, and really wishes things hadn't gotten to where they are. He then goes on about how Osborn will eventually lose his cool, and explains how if they bring him back, it's going to take Thor, Iron Man, and more to help solve this problem. There's a really touching moment where Stark goes onto talk about how he's never believed in a higher power before, but if he did, the closest thing to it would be Cap, and Thor. Meanwhile, we see Stark, trapped in his subconcious, digging through his memories, and constantly being reset as machines attack to prevent him from doing so. Thor's hammer is tried as a method to reboot Stark's brain, but when that fails, Dr. Strange gets called in.
Basically, this is the rebirth of Tony Stark. He's been redeeming himself for the last couple of years now since CIVIL WAR, and while he's become a much better character, under Fraction's writing, this is the arc where we see Stark truly shine as the hero he really is again.
The entire run of Iron Man has had a very distinct, very cool futurist approach to the story, the character, and the technology, while at the same time not getting too bogged down explaining how the technology works. What makes Fraction's run so good is that it focuses on the MAN in IRON MAN, and doesn't lose itself over-explaining the technology.The fact that he's reintroduced old classic villains, like Madame Masque, MODOK, and more, has also made the run really great. Couple that with Larocca's incredible pencils, which get better issue after issue, and you've got yourself a great book.
Want to catch up on STARK DISASSEMBLED? We've currently got all the chapters in stock now here at Third Eye, so you'd need:
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #20 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 1*
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #21 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 2*
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #22 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 3*
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #23 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 4*
Click here to read a preview of INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #23 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 4*
ALADDIN: LEGACY OF THE LOST #1 FROM RADICAL COMICS (publishers of FVZA, City of Dust, and Last Days of American Crime) DELIVERS A DARK TWIST, AND LARGER-THAN-LIFE APPROACH TO THE CLASSIC STORY! THIRD EYE CERTIFIED COOL!
Radical Comics has really made a name for itself around Third Eye over the course of the last couple of years. They started out, quietly coming onto the scene, with some overlooked, but excellent series like CALIBER, and their take on HERCULES. It wasn't until Steve Nile's KILLER City of Dust miniseries that they really broke out big here, and I think you guys were just as excited as us to see a new publisher, offering fresh, new ideas with high quality production values. This year, they've wowed us with FVZA and LAST DAYS OF AMERICAN CRIME.
And, this week, they've got not just one but two brand new series coming out that we're extremely excited about. The first one we're going to be talking about is ALADDIN: THE LEGACY OF THE LOST, which from how Radical's described (and how the preview pages have read) seems like a dark, mature twist on the classic story of Aladdin, and the Genie. Kind of like a Pirates of the Carribean meets Aladdin feel, but you know.. with a darker edge to it.
What You Need To Know: First off, this isn't just a simple re-telling of the classic Aladdin storyline. Writer, Ian Edgington (currently handling the killer sleeper hit Victorian Undead for Wildstorm), says that he's taken the core story from original Middle-Eastern folklore, and then expanded from there. So, you see the story of Aladdin, the magic lamp, the evil sorcerer, all that get covered in the first couple of issues. From there, it takes off into a whole world of high adventure, and new concepts. He actually calls the approach he's taking to writing it a cross between dark fantasy, and pulp fiction. He plays up the fact that while Aladdin can be a good man, he's still a rogue, and a cheat, a cynical con-man, and a master manipulator. His life on the streets has been no picnic, and he's grown up learning to do whatever it takes to survive. He considers himself to be just as much of a predator as any of the other con-men and thieves working in the streets, but he soon finds out that he's nowhere near the master rogue he thought he was.
What To Expect: Gorgeous artwork, slick production values, and a killer story that takes classic myths we do know, and ones we don't, and weaves them into a pulpy, dark fantasy adventure that is sure to rock.
Click here to read some preview pages of ALADDIN: LEGACY OF THE LOST #1
ULTIMATE COMICS X #1 DEBUTS FROM JEPH LOEB AND ART ADAMS! THIRD EYE APPROVED AWESOMENESS! GORGEOUS ART, AND AN INTERESTING NEW TAKE ON THE ULTIMATE UNIVERSE! IN THE AFTERMATH OF LAST YEAR'S ULTIMATUM, COMES A BOLD NEW GENERATION OF ULTIMATES!
Okay, I'm usually kind of hit or miss on stuff that Jeph Loeb writes. Sometimes, he's incredible, and has done some of the biggest modern classics, and other times, he's not. I guess that's any writer though. I will say this though, we read an advance copy of Ultimate X #1 last week, and it does indeed rock. The story, and the art fuse together to make an exciting new venture into the Ultimate Universe, and I gotta say.. I'm hooked. I'm waiting for the next issue. It was really cool.
First off, the artwork is incredible. Art Adams rarely does interior art anymore. He's one of those powerhouse artists who's graduated to just you know, doing really sick covers. Seeing him doing the interiors of a book is a rare thing, and he's definitely stepped up his game a lot since the last time we saw him. This guy is one of my personal favorite artists, so that plays a huge part into why I'm stoked about the series. Heck, don't believe me? Just look at the preview pages of his art. It's gorgeous.
Secondly, the story is actually surprisingly solid. I don't want to drop any spoilers, because half of the fun of this new book is the mystery surrounding the line-up that's been pictured in a lot of Marvel's promotional materials for the series. I will say this, the reveal on who's who, and what the deal is... is pretty damn cool. It does spin out of the events of Ultimatum, and pick up from some of the plot threads developed there. One thing that's pretty cool about it is how Marvel is sticking to their guns with the impact of the events of Ultimatum. You'll know what I mean when you read this one.
The surprises, and the hooks on this one are good, real good, so there's really not a lot I can say about what actually happens in the first issue, other than that I really enjoyed it. I can say that the Ultimate X title does show that this could very well be the new X-Men in the Ultimate U.. but, not in the way that you would think. There's also some stuff touching on the Weapon X program as well.
How accessible is it? Well, this is a fresh start, with a brand new team, and most of these characters are seeing their first introduction. I feel that this is a solid jumping on point, and heck, if you end up liking it enough, then maybe go back and read the Ultimatum series from last year (still available in single issues here at Third Eye, and also available in trade paperback).
If you're a fan of the Ultimate Universe, or heck, even the X-Men, I'd recommend giving this one a shot. Great art, and some really great storytelling, definitely a good read, and a good start.
Click here for a preview of ULTIMATE X #1
FABLES VOLUME 13: THE GREAT FABLES CROSSOVER TRADE PAPERBACK ARRIVES THIS WEDNESDAY! YAY! A NEW FABLES TRADE!
It's always a great time to take notice when a brand new FABLES trade hits, and this Wednesday, for many of you who've been hooked on following this incredible Vertigo series in trade, the 13th trade paperback will be arriving. This one collects last summer's "Great Fables Crossover", which spanned FABLES 83-85, JACK OF FABLES 33-35, and THE LITERALS 1-3, all collected in the proper reading order, so nothing is out of whack. So, not only is it like getting new FABLES tpb, but also a new JACK of FABLES tpb!
If you're already reading FABLES, then there's not much else that need be said about how great the series is, or what's in store with this next volume. In fact, part of the fun of FABLES is the ride, and the surprises, so I'll refrain from spoiling anything for you. This one comes right after the events of FABLES v.12, and shows Jack learning of the existence of the Literals, and their leader. Since I have zero patience, I follow Fables and it's companion titles in single issues, but I do re-read each arc when it hits trade. I can say that the whole Great Fables Crossover storyline was a definitely a high point for me, and I really dig The Literals. I think all of you will enjoy this one a lot.
Click here to read more about FABLES v.13: THE GREAT FABLES CROSSOVER
Now, for those of you who aren't yet reading FABLES, let me give you a brief rundown on why this is one Vertigo series you should most definitely be reading.
What is FABLES? Fables is an ongoing VERTIGO series where all the fairy-tale and folklore characters you know, and love (and some that you're not going to have any clue about, I know I've been puzzled about the origins of a few) are portrayed in realistic ways. They've been driven out of their homelands, by a force of evil known as the Adversary (who, when revealed, is one of the best surprises in comics, I think). They exist in a clandestine community in New York City known as Fabletown, and blend in with every day society. The Fables who are unable to blend in with society (monsters, animals, ect, ones who can't pass as normal humans), live at "the Farm" in Upstate New York. The series is a saga about the Fables, their lives, and their ongoing war with the Adversary and his forces.
What makes FABLES so damn cool? Well, the writing is always top notch, as Willingham has built an entire world for us readers, where the character development hooks you in, and keeps you interested. One of the things that really makes the series so enjoyable is how Willingham reinterprets many of the characters, and expands on their past, "real" fairy-tale histories. The divorce between Princ Charming and Snow White due to his infidelity. The portrayal of the Big Bad Wolf, aka Bigby, as a reformed villain, who serves as Fabletown's "sherrif." Bigby can shapeshift at will from human to wolf, but his characterization is of a chain-smoking, tough around the edges kind of guy with good intentions. Of course, all of his past histories with characters like Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf, and more are all expanded upon in the series. Snow White serves as the deputy Mayor. Beauty and the Beast, when they have domestic disputes, Beast begins to turn back into a monster because his human appearance is dependant upon Beauty's love for him. And of course, there's Jack, who we find has lived many adventures, from his time as Jack Frost to the Giant-Killer.
The fact that each arc has a different "genre" feel to it, sometimes a mystery, sometimes a conspiracy thriller, and sometimes a heist story, also serves to keep things interesting. It's the overall story though of the Fables vs. the Adversary that really keeps me hooked, and coming back for more though.
Overall, I cannot recommend FABLES enough, and encourage anyone who enjoys just plain good comics to check it out.
We currently have plenty of FABLES v.1 in stock, and it's only $9.99 for the first issue, so definitely check it out.
You can click here to read more about FABLES: LEGENDS IN EXILE, and there's even a link there to read a sample of the first issue.
CRIMINAL: THE SINNERS #4 - THE BLEAK, SAGA OF TRACY LAWLESS CONTINUES IN THE BEST CRIME COMIC BEING PUBLISHED!
This series is one of my personal TOP 5s. I've been hooked on this series since the very first issue, heck, I was even hooked before Brubaker and Phillips did CRIMINAL, and started with SLEEPER. This is the comic book that ED BRUBAKER was born to write. It's pulpy, it's hardboiled, and it's so well-written that it really grabs a hold of you and pulls you in. Criminal's the kind of book where everything just comes together perfectly. The artwork, the storytelling, the colors. And, it's also one of the few books that I strongly suggest picking up in the single issues, because they pack extra content into the back of each issue, where you see famous crime novelist, and other figures (like comedian Patton Oswalt), talk about their favorite crime films, books, and more. It's just a great overall package. Ontop of all that, you get a full comic, no ads, extra content, for only $3.50. What's not to love?
The world of CRIMINAL is told in story arcs, and they can be read in any order, to be honest. The characters and settings do link up as you read, but you could jump on in the middle of any storyline, and not be lost. Some stories are set in the present, and some are set in the past. What's really cool is that bartender you never noticed, or the comic strip that so subtly exists as what might appear to be nothing meaningful, all of these characters get their stories told in Criminal. Heck, it makes you want to pay attention to every supporting character that appears, because you never know when they'll have their story told.
This current run, THE SINNERS, is focusing on TRACY LAWLESS, who originally appeared in CRIMINAL v.2: LAWLESS (now available in trade paperback here at Third Eye). Lawless, is now working for the mobster he's despised, after the events of the Lawless story arc. And, many of the city's untouchable big shot crooks are getting killed in grisly ways, and it's not happening from a competing criminal, but someone unknown to the underworld. Lawless is tasked with finding out who it is, because they can't exactly go to the cops on this one, you know? And, from there, you're taken on a very cool journey into the depths of the underworld, and all the different corners of it.
If you haven't tried CRIMINAL, pick up issue #1 of CRIMINAL: SINNERS, and give it a shot. I really think you'll enjoy it. It's one of the highest quality books on the stands, and it'll grab you by your collar, and plunge you headfirst into a booze-drenched, cigarette smoke halo of the grittiest crime fiction you'll ever read.
For those of you who'd like to start at the very beginning of the series, check out CRIMINAL v.1: COWARD trade paperback, which we have available here at Third Eye. Trust us, you'll dig it.
Click here to read a preview of CRIMINAL: THE SINNERS #1 for a taste of what CRIMINAL is all about.
LEGENDS ENCHANTED #0 *THIRD EYE MUST BUY* DEBUTS THIS WEEK FROM RADICAL AT ONLY $1.00 - A STEAMPUNK FAIRYTALE!
This one's a sleeper that I feel is going to turn into one of the biggest books of 2010. All the nice things I said about RADICAL up above? Great quality books, fresh ideas, good production values... all of these things are demonstrated big time in LEGENDS: ENCHANTED. This #0 is just a prelude for what's to come this year.
What's the scoop on this one? Well, in a nutshell, Legends is a steampunk, gothic fairy tale casting a dark shadow on all the characters of folklore, and fiction that you know and love. While the idea, and comparisons to FABLES could be drawn, Legends is a completely different beast. This is a straight-forward, dark fantasy with a steampunk element. The characters are much more scary than traditional fairy tales, and have many layers to them. I love FABLES, so it's good to see that Legends is taking a different path, because nothing sucks more than one someone tries to rip off one of your favorite books.
The artwork in this looks INCREDIBLE, and that is definitely a big selling point. The writing, from what we've seen is sharp, and clever, and hits a very strong point for good characterization. Just a taste of what comes in the #0 issue is Jack the Giant-Killer, Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, and a murdered Pinocchio (a construct of wood, and bionic parts).
The Enchanted are the fairy-tale characters in question, and are feared and loathed by many. They spend most of their existence as outlaws, vigilantes, and bounty hunters. They're very hard to kill, which is due in part to their charm of being "The Enchanted." The book has a tough-as-nails, urban sci-fi/fantasy feel to it, and is fresh. While we've seen these concepts tackled before, no one has ever mixed in the sci-fi element, and I think that's what really makes the story sing. Imagine Humpty Dumpty as a crimelord, Hansel and Gretel as paranormal exterminators, Jack rides around on a motorcycle fueled by giant's blood, and Red Hood, the monster hunter. All of these characters exist in a world of turmoil, and corruption, and an underlying storyline involving a beastly creature named the Hag is at it's root.
Doesn't this sound awesome?! I'm so stoked to see the book in person this Wednesday. Best of all, this first one's only $1.00
Click here to check out a wordless preview of LEGENDS: ENCHANTED #0!
DEADPOOL TEAM-UP #896 - DEADPOOL TEAMS UP WITH MARVEL'S TRUCK-DRIVING SUPERHERO.. U.S ACE (formerly known as US-1). NO, WE'RE NOT MAKING THIS UP. HE'S A TRUCKER, WITH A METAL PLATE IN HIS HEAD, AND USES IT TO MENTALLY CONTROL HIS TRUCK.
You know, I think I'm starting to get this whole DEADPOOL Team-Up thing. Yes, it's an excuse to give everyone more DEADPOOL, which is always a good thing, because there's no such thing as too much DEADPOOL. But, it's also serving as a place to put the most absurd, most obscure, and most ridiculous Marvel characters of the last thirty to forty years back into play. And, I like that, because c'mon, U.S Ace? The guy was Marvel's answer to the truck-driving craze of the '70s. He had a metal plate in his head that gave him mental control over his big rig. I mean, how ridiculously awesome is that?
And, to top it all off... they're fighting killer, uzi-wielding raccoons. This is truly some of the most fun you can have with a Deadpool book. Weird, quirky one-shots pairing Deadpool up with some of the most ridiculous characters in the Marvel Universe.
Click here for a preview of DEADPOOL TEAM-UP #896!
MASS EFFECT REDEMPTION #2 - THE KILLER DARK HORSE LIMITED SERIES BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN MASS EFFECT AND MASS EFFECT 2 VIDEO GAMES!
So, now MASS EFFECT 2 is out, and I'm sure many of you are hooked into the pure video game awesomeness that is Mass Effect 2. Trust me, I'd be right there with you, but I know the power of Mass Effect, and I can't commit to it yet. But, I will, oh you can bet on that. Anyways, Dark Horse, who is known for taking some really stellar licensed properties and turning them into killer comics, has done something very cool by taking the Mass Effect Redemption limited series and using it to bridge the gap between the stories of Mass Effect, and Mass Effect 2.
In other words, if you're a fan of the Mass Effect video games, and you're stoked on the release of Mass Effect 2, then you should really give this limited series a read, as it just adds a lot to the already compelling Mass Effect story.
If you missed MASS EFFECT REDEMPTION #1, don't worry, we've still got plenty in stock for you to hop aboard with.
Click here to check out a preview of MASS EFFECT REDEMPTION #2
BRAD MELTZER (IDENTITY CRISIS) & JOSS WHEDON WRITE BUFFY, WITH BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #32 - AND THERE'S A HUGE SURPRISE FOR LONGTIME FANS AWAITING!
Now, you know, it's funny. I never really watched Buffy when it was airing. In fact, I'd never watched it at all until Joss Whedon launched Season 8 a few years back as a comic book. There was such a huge fuss around the book, that I decided to read it, to try it. And, you know, I was already a Whedon fan from Astonishing X-Men, and Firefly.. so, you know, why not? And, that was that, I was hooked.
Now, the series has off and on kept my interest, but for the most part, the world Whedon's laid out lends itself to comics very well, and the story is actually pretty compelling. His characterization is sharp, and this book is just as good as many other titles out there now. It's just that it has it's slow points at times, like any series.
Now, for those of you longtime Buffy fans who have either fallen off of the series, or never tried it out.. you're gonna want to check out the first issue of the new story arc beginning in this week's BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #32. While I don't want to drop the spoiler on the big reveal, lets just say that the identity of Buffy's big nemesis... is a huge deal. HUGE DEAL. A character you're going to know right away, but that we haven't seen appear yet.
And, with Brad Meltzer coming on to handle the writing chores alongside Whedon, you can be sure that this one is going to be a heck of a story. Meltzer is the man responsible for quite possibly one of the best DC stories of the 2000s, with IDENTITY CRISIS.
Click here to read more about BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #32
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #10... ARE YOU READING THE BEST WOLVERINE BOOK ON THE RACKS? TRY THIS WEEK'S #10, THE PERFECT JUMPING ON POINT FOR JASON AARON'S (writer of SCALPED) KILLER WOLVERINE ONGOING!
I've sung the praises of this run before, but seriously, folks, Weapon X is probably the best damn Wolverine book on the racks, and has been for 10 solid issues. Jason Aaron, the man behind SCALPED and PUNISHERMAX, delivers a solid, well-written, self-contained, and most importantly, violent Wolvie book that gives you everything you could want out of your favorite claw-slashing mutant. Seriously, just give this one a shot, and you'll be sold. Aaron manages to conjure up the feelings you'd get reading the old school Claremont/Miller Wolvie stuff, but also incorporates a modern twist to it.
This week's issue #10 serves as a perfect jumping on point, as a new story arc begins, and we see ol' Logan, who's never had the best luck with women, having a new one come walking into his life. Plus, we get a brand new artist with C.P Smith, who's art is STELLAR, and has to be seen.
Want just a good, solid Wolvie title that doesn't cross into a thousand different books? Want to see the best characterization of the character in a long time (excluding OLD MAN LOGAN, which ruled)? Want to see classic Wolvie supporting cast and villains? Then definitely check out Wolverine: Weapon X.
Click here for a preview of WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #10
DEMO VOLUME 1 TPB - 15% OFF COVER PRICE THIS WEEK!
In 2003, Brian Wood dished out one of the best series of the year alongside Becky Cloonan, with DEMO. Before I start talking about how great the new DEMO is going to be, and why you gotta read it, let me talk about the original incarnation of DEMO, and why it ruled. That'll probably help explain why we're so stoked on this new rendition.
DEMO was a 12-issue limited series, where each issue was a stand-alone, one-shot story, but all of which carried a theme focusing on the lives of young people, with supernatural powers. In the beginning, it was strictly about focusing on average teenagers, and twenty-somethings who develop extra-ordinary abilities, but as the series progressed, the focus shifted more onto the relationships developed between people, the whirlwind of emotions when you're coming of age, and of course, the alienation of growing up in a rapidly-changing world. The focus on supernatural powers often took a backseat to character development, which made them very believable. The entire series of DEMO one-shots has a very punk rock kind of energy to it, and one of the things that made the series so great was how each individual issue could stand on it's own. Other personal touches that made it cool, were things like Brian Wood and Becky Cloonan providing Demo tape playlists for each issue. The overall feel of DEMO would definitely appeal to those of you who really dig BRIAN K VAUGHN'S RUNAWAYS series, as it has a little bit of that feel, but with a more adult edge.
For those of you who may have missed it in it's original incarnation, we highly recommend picking up the trade paperback of DEMO, available here at Third Eye. We're also offering the first DEMO trade paperback this week at 15% off cover price, as an added incentive to check it out.
Fear not though, if you'd rather not start out reading the earlier stuff, and begin fresh, you can hop aboard with the first issue of the new six-issue run of DEMO this Wednesday. That's one of the beautiful things about the DEMO concept is that each issue serves as a done-in-one, one-shot story. So, this means you can hop on with any issue, or drop off with any issue, because of how each story is it's own stand-alone thing. It's just the theme that is the same.
The first issue of DEMO that arrives this week, from what we've heard from Brian Wood, and seen in previews, is about a woman haunted by a recurring premonition of a person falling from a great height. The more this premonition happens, the more she slowly loses her mind, until she's so sleep-deprived, and disjointed, that she takes off travelling around the world in hopes of finding this person before their accident occurs.
Folks, if you're a fan of Vertigo stuff, or just plain ol' good comics, then please give this one a shot. I loved the first round of DEMO one-shots, and I am so excited to see the series return. Brian Wood, and Becky Cloonan provide a perfect fusion of a creative team, and deliver some extremely high quality work. I can't sing the praises of Brian Wood enough. His work on books like DMZ, Local, and of course, DEMO, has really made me a big fan, and you can definitely tell that DEMO is one of his true labors of love.
Click here for a preview of DEMO v.2 #1
BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN CONCLUDES WITH BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN #3, AND VIC SAGE, THE ORIGINAL QUESTION RETURNS FROM THE DEAD, IN THE QUESTION #37!
Blackest Night continues to deliver the goods week after week, and I'm still enjoying nearly everything that's been carrying the Blackest Night banner. Maybe it's because this is Geoff Johns's baby, and he's keeping editorial from screwing things up too bad, or milking things too bad, but man, everything has been very much on point.
And, this is why I'm so excited this week about the Question #37 "Back from the Dead" one-shot. First off, I, like a lot of you, am a huge fan of Vic Sage, the Question. And, Denny O'Neil's classic run on the character made me a fan, and hell, those stories still stand up today. If you've never familiarized yourself with the old QUESTION stuff, hustle on down here to Third Eye, and snag some of the classic trade paperbacks, like The Question: Zen and Violence, and find out why it's so good. Anyhow, I digress, this one's being written by GREG RUCKA, the man who's been making DETECTIVE COMICS a must-read month after month, and has the original QUESTION art team of Denys Cowan and Bill Sienkiewicz, handling the art chores. And, in this final issue, which is also the final in the DC "Back from the Dead" one-shots that ran through January for Blackest Night, we see the Black Lantern Vic Sage targeting his former protege, and current Question, Renee Montoya. And, somehow, someway, Lady Shiva's gonna get involved too. This one, the Starman, and the Atom and Hawkman special from last week are probably going to end up being my favorites out of the whole "Back from the Dead" thing.
Click here to read more about QUESTION #37
BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN #3
Okay, so DC is being extremely guarded on releasing early shots of the covers for a handful of key Blackest Night issues shipping in February. And, basically, this means that unfortunately, all I got to show tonight is this little TOP SECRET image cover. Now, while it sucks to not know what's going on, I have to admit.. in this day and age of information hitting the net right away, it's kind of nice to be kept in the dark, and anticipate the surprise. And, trust me, folks, from what I'm guessing, and where the story has been going in regards to Wonder Woman during BLACKEST NIGHT, I think we're going to be seeing some big surprises.
So far, in issues #1, and #2, Greg Rucka has proved that he's one of the better guys to handle the writing chores on Wonder Woman. The first issue had an incredible moment, with her coming down with a battle-axe, and lopping off Black Lantern Maxwell Lord's head. How cool is that? And after the events of BLACKEST NIGHT #6, where we saw Wonder Woman as a Star Sapphire, and then the events of Blackest Night Wonder Woman #2, where we saw HOW she turned into a Star Sapphire... well, we're stoked to see what's next. It was actually kind of cool the hook they used when making her transition into Star Sapphire, lets just say it involves Batman.
If you guys have been skipping the Wonder Woman mini, you're missing out. This is actually one of the best of the 3-issue minis for Blackest Night, just judging from the first two issues. Great writing, great storyline progression, and the artwork is actually really top notch. We currently have both issues #1, and issue #2 in stock, so definitely give 'em a look next time you're in.
For those of you who've been reading Blackest Night WW already, then you know what I'm talking about, and you're probably just as stoked about issue #2 as I am.
Click here to read more about BLACKEST NIGHT WONDER WOMAN #3
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #23 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 4* CONTINUES THE BEST STORY ARC IN MATT FRACTION AND SALVADOR LAROCCA'S INCREDIBLE IRON MAN RUN YET!
I've said it many times, and I'll say it again: Invincible Iron Man by Matt Fraction and Salvador Larocca has been one of the best ongoing Marvel series for nearly two years now, since issue #1. In fact, we did a feature on how much we've enjoyed the entire run, and you can click here to read our spotlight on Fraction's INVINCIBLE IRON MAN.
It's the current story arc, STARK DISASSEMBLED, that has really been the high point so far though. While the entire run has been incredible, you really feel that everything Fraction's laid out has built to this, and everything is coming together. The sense of excitement around each issue of STARK DISASSEMBLED thus far grows for me, and I cannot wait to read this week's newest issue. If you haven't yet hopped aboard, INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #20 provides a perfect jumping on point, and that is chapter 1 of STARK DISASSEMBLED. We currently have issues #20, #21, and #22 all well-stocked here at Third Eye, so definitely check out this great arc, if you haven't yet. In addition to the fact that it's just been a plain great read so far, it also runs paralell to a lot of what's going on with SIEGE, and the eventual reuniting of IRON MAN, CAPTAIN AMERICA, and THOR as Marvel's big 3.
What is STARK DISASSEMBLED? Beginning in INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #20, Stark Disassembled, we see Tony Stark a vegetable now, after he's literally lobotomized himself so Norman Osborn could not pry information from his brain. Pepper Potts, who's been spotting the Iron Woman armor for a while now, displays a holographic message from Stark that was pre-recorded before all of this, where he explains HOW to bring him back... but then asks the question, after all we've been through with CIVIL WAR, and the registration act... Do You Want To Bring Me Back? He pretty much comes out and says he's been a bit of an ass for the last few years, and really wishes things hadn't gotten to where they are. He then goes on about how Osborn will eventually lose his cool, and explains how if they bring him back, it's going to take Thor, Iron Man, and more to help solve this problem. There's a really touching moment where Stark goes onto talk about how he's never believed in a higher power before, but if he did, the closest thing to it would be Cap, and Thor. Meanwhile, we see Stark, trapped in his subconcious, digging through his memories, and constantly being reset as machines attack to prevent him from doing so. Thor's hammer is tried as a method to reboot Stark's brain, but when that fails, Dr. Strange gets called in.
Basically, this is the rebirth of Tony Stark. He's been redeeming himself for the last couple of years now since CIVIL WAR, and while he's become a much better character, under Fraction's writing, this is the arc where we see Stark truly shine as the hero he really is again.
The entire run of Iron Man has had a very distinct, very cool futurist approach to the story, the character, and the technology, while at the same time not getting too bogged down explaining how the technology works. What makes Fraction's run so good is that it focuses on the MAN in IRON MAN, and doesn't lose itself over-explaining the technology.The fact that he's reintroduced old classic villains, like Madame Masque, MODOK, and more, has also made the run really great. Couple that with Larocca's incredible pencils, which get better issue after issue, and you've got yourself a great book.
Want to catch up on STARK DISASSEMBLED? We've currently got all the chapters in stock now here at Third Eye, so you'd need:
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #20 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 1*
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #21 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 2*
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #22 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 3*
INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #23 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 4*
Click here to read a preview of INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #23 *STARK DISASSEMBLED PT 4*
ALADDIN: LEGACY OF THE LOST #1 FROM RADICAL COMICS (publishers of FVZA, City of Dust, and Last Days of American Crime) DELIVERS A DARK TWIST, AND LARGER-THAN-LIFE APPROACH TO THE CLASSIC STORY! THIRD EYE CERTIFIED COOL!
Radical Comics has really made a name for itself around Third Eye over the course of the last couple of years. They started out, quietly coming onto the scene, with some overlooked, but excellent series like CALIBER, and their take on HERCULES. It wasn't until Steve Nile's KILLER City of Dust miniseries that they really broke out big here, and I think you guys were just as excited as us to see a new publisher, offering fresh, new ideas with high quality production values. This year, they've wowed us with FVZA and LAST DAYS OF AMERICAN CRIME.
And, this week, they've got not just one but two brand new series coming out that we're extremely excited about. The first one we're going to be talking about is ALADDIN: THE LEGACY OF THE LOST, which from how Radical's described (and how the preview pages have read) seems like a dark, mature twist on the classic story of Aladdin, and the Genie. Kind of like a Pirates of the Carribean meets Aladdin feel, but you know.. with a darker edge to it.
What You Need To Know: First off, this isn't just a simple re-telling of the classic Aladdin storyline. Writer, Ian Edgington (currently handling the killer sleeper hit Victorian Undead for Wildstorm), says that he's taken the core story from original Middle-Eastern folklore, and then expanded from there. So, you see the story of Aladdin, the magic lamp, the evil sorcerer, all that get covered in the first couple of issues. From there, it takes off into a whole world of high adventure, and new concepts. He actually calls the approach he's taking to writing it a cross between dark fantasy, and pulp fiction. He plays up the fact that while Aladdin can be a good man, he's still a rogue, and a cheat, a cynical con-man, and a master manipulator. His life on the streets has been no picnic, and he's grown up learning to do whatever it takes to survive. He considers himself to be just as much of a predator as any of the other con-men and thieves working in the streets, but he soon finds out that he's nowhere near the master rogue he thought he was.
What To Expect: Gorgeous artwork, slick production values, and a killer story that takes classic myths we do know, and ones we don't, and weaves them into a pulpy, dark fantasy adventure that is sure to rock.
Click here to read some preview pages of ALADDIN: LEGACY OF THE LOST #1
ULTIMATE COMICS X #1 DEBUTS FROM JEPH LOEB AND ART ADAMS! THIRD EYE APPROVED AWESOMENESS! GORGEOUS ART, AND AN INTERESTING NEW TAKE ON THE ULTIMATE UNIVERSE! IN THE AFTERMATH OF LAST YEAR'S ULTIMATUM, COMES A BOLD NEW GENERATION OF ULTIMATES!
Okay, I'm usually kind of hit or miss on stuff that Jeph Loeb writes. Sometimes, he's incredible, and has done some of the biggest modern classics, and other times, he's not. I guess that's any writer though. I will say this though, we read an advance copy of Ultimate X #1 last week, and it does indeed rock. The story, and the art fuse together to make an exciting new venture into the Ultimate Universe, and I gotta say.. I'm hooked. I'm waiting for the next issue. It was really cool.
First off, the artwork is incredible. Art Adams rarely does interior art anymore. He's one of those powerhouse artists who's graduated to just you know, doing really sick covers. Seeing him doing the interiors of a book is a rare thing, and he's definitely stepped up his game a lot since the last time we saw him. This guy is one of my personal favorite artists, so that plays a huge part into why I'm stoked about the series. Heck, don't believe me? Just look at the preview pages of his art. It's gorgeous.
Secondly, the story is actually surprisingly solid. I don't want to drop any spoilers, because half of the fun of this new book is the mystery surrounding the line-up that's been pictured in a lot of Marvel's promotional materials for the series. I will say this, the reveal on who's who, and what the deal is... is pretty damn cool. It does spin out of the events of Ultimatum, and pick up from some of the plot threads developed there. One thing that's pretty cool about it is how Marvel is sticking to their guns with the impact of the events of Ultimatum. You'll know what I mean when you read this one.
The surprises, and the hooks on this one are good, real good, so there's really not a lot I can say about what actually happens in the first issue, other than that I really enjoyed it. I can say that the Ultimate X title does show that this could very well be the new X-Men in the Ultimate U.. but, not in the way that you would think. There's also some stuff touching on the Weapon X program as well.
How accessible is it? Well, this is a fresh start, with a brand new team, and most of these characters are seeing their first introduction. I feel that this is a solid jumping on point, and heck, if you end up liking it enough, then maybe go back and read the Ultimatum series from last year (still available in single issues here at Third Eye, and also available in trade paperback).
If you're a fan of the Ultimate Universe, or heck, even the X-Men, I'd recommend giving this one a shot. Great art, and some really great storytelling, definitely a good read, and a good start.
Click here for a preview of ULTIMATE X #1
FABLES VOLUME 13: THE GREAT FABLES CROSSOVER TRADE PAPERBACK ARRIVES THIS WEDNESDAY! YAY! A NEW FABLES TRADE!
It's always a great time to take notice when a brand new FABLES trade hits, and this Wednesday, for many of you who've been hooked on following this incredible Vertigo series in trade, the 13th trade paperback will be arriving. This one collects last summer's "Great Fables Crossover", which spanned FABLES 83-85, JACK OF FABLES 33-35, and THE LITERALS 1-3, all collected in the proper reading order, so nothing is out of whack. So, not only is it like getting new FABLES tpb, but also a new JACK of FABLES tpb!
If you're already reading FABLES, then there's not much else that need be said about how great the series is, or what's in store with this next volume. In fact, part of the fun of FABLES is the ride, and the surprises, so I'll refrain from spoiling anything for you. This one comes right after the events of FABLES v.12, and shows Jack learning of the existence of the Literals, and their leader. Since I have zero patience, I follow Fables and it's companion titles in single issues, but I do re-read each arc when it hits trade. I can say that the whole Great Fables Crossover storyline was a definitely a high point for me, and I really dig The Literals. I think all of you will enjoy this one a lot.
Click here to read more about FABLES v.13: THE GREAT FABLES CROSSOVER
Now, for those of you who aren't yet reading FABLES, let me give you a brief rundown on why this is one Vertigo series you should most definitely be reading.
What is FABLES? Fables is an ongoing VERTIGO series where all the fairy-tale and folklore characters you know, and love (and some that you're not going to have any clue about, I know I've been puzzled about the origins of a few) are portrayed in realistic ways. They've been driven out of their homelands, by a force of evil known as the Adversary (who, when revealed, is one of the best surprises in comics, I think). They exist in a clandestine community in New York City known as Fabletown, and blend in with every day society. The Fables who are unable to blend in with society (monsters, animals, ect, ones who can't pass as normal humans), live at "the Farm" in Upstate New York. The series is a saga about the Fables, their lives, and their ongoing war with the Adversary and his forces.
What makes FABLES so damn cool? Well, the writing is always top notch, as Willingham has built an entire world for us readers, where the character development hooks you in, and keeps you interested. One of the things that really makes the series so enjoyable is how Willingham reinterprets many of the characters, and expands on their past, "real" fairy-tale histories. The divorce between Princ Charming and Snow White due to his infidelity. The portrayal of the Big Bad Wolf, aka Bigby, as a reformed villain, who serves as Fabletown's "sherrif." Bigby can shapeshift at will from human to wolf, but his characterization is of a chain-smoking, tough around the edges kind of guy with good intentions. Of course, all of his past histories with characters like Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf, and more are all expanded upon in the series. Snow White serves as the deputy Mayor. Beauty and the Beast, when they have domestic disputes, Beast begins to turn back into a monster because his human appearance is dependant upon Beauty's love for him. And of course, there's Jack, who we find has lived many adventures, from his time as Jack Frost to the Giant-Killer.
The fact that each arc has a different "genre" feel to it, sometimes a mystery, sometimes a conspiracy thriller, and sometimes a heist story, also serves to keep things interesting. It's the overall story though of the Fables vs. the Adversary that really keeps me hooked, and coming back for more though.
Overall, I cannot recommend FABLES enough, and encourage anyone who enjoys just plain good comics to check it out.
We currently have plenty of FABLES v.1 in stock, and it's only $9.99 for the first issue, so definitely check it out.
You can click here to read more about FABLES: LEGENDS IN EXILE, and there's even a link there to read a sample of the first issue.
CRIMINAL: THE SINNERS #4 - THE BLEAK, SAGA OF TRACY LAWLESS CONTINUES IN THE BEST CRIME COMIC BEING PUBLISHED!
This series is one of my personal TOP 5s. I've been hooked on this series since the very first issue, heck, I was even hooked before Brubaker and Phillips did CRIMINAL, and started with SLEEPER. This is the comic book that ED BRUBAKER was born to write. It's pulpy, it's hardboiled, and it's so well-written that it really grabs a hold of you and pulls you in. Criminal's the kind of book where everything just comes together perfectly. The artwork, the storytelling, the colors. And, it's also one of the few books that I strongly suggest picking up in the single issues, because they pack extra content into the back of each issue, where you see famous crime novelist, and other figures (like comedian Patton Oswalt), talk about their favorite crime films, books, and more. It's just a great overall package. Ontop of all that, you get a full comic, no ads, extra content, for only $3.50. What's not to love?
The world of CRIMINAL is told in story arcs, and they can be read in any order, to be honest. The characters and settings do link up as you read, but you could jump on in the middle of any storyline, and not be lost. Some stories are set in the present, and some are set in the past. What's really cool is that bartender you never noticed, or the comic strip that so subtly exists as what might appear to be nothing meaningful, all of these characters get their stories told in Criminal. Heck, it makes you want to pay attention to every supporting character that appears, because you never know when they'll have their story told.
This current run, THE SINNERS, is focusing on TRACY LAWLESS, who originally appeared in CRIMINAL v.2: LAWLESS (now available in trade paperback here at Third Eye). Lawless, is now working for the mobster he's despised, after the events of the Lawless story arc. And, many of the city's untouchable big shot crooks are getting killed in grisly ways, and it's not happening from a competing criminal, but someone unknown to the underworld. Lawless is tasked with finding out who it is, because they can't exactly go to the cops on this one, you know? And, from there, you're taken on a very cool journey into the depths of the underworld, and all the different corners of it.
If you haven't tried CRIMINAL, pick up issue #1 of CRIMINAL: SINNERS, and give it a shot. I really think you'll enjoy it. It's one of the highest quality books on the stands, and it'll grab you by your collar, and plunge you headfirst into a booze-drenched, cigarette smoke halo of the grittiest crime fiction you'll ever read.
For those of you who'd like to start at the very beginning of the series, check out CRIMINAL v.1: COWARD trade paperback, which we have available here at Third Eye. Trust us, you'll dig it.
Click here to read a preview of CRIMINAL: THE SINNERS #1 for a taste of what CRIMINAL is all about.
LEGENDS ENCHANTED #0 *THIRD EYE MUST BUY* DEBUTS THIS WEEK FROM RADICAL AT ONLY $1.00 - A STEAMPUNK FAIRYTALE!
This one's a sleeper that I feel is going to turn into one of the biggest books of 2010. All the nice things I said about RADICAL up above? Great quality books, fresh ideas, good production values... all of these things are demonstrated big time in LEGENDS: ENCHANTED. This #0 is just a prelude for what's to come this year.
What's the scoop on this one? Well, in a nutshell, Legends is a steampunk, gothic fairy tale casting a dark shadow on all the characters of folklore, and fiction that you know and love. While the idea, and comparisons to FABLES could be drawn, Legends is a completely different beast. This is a straight-forward, dark fantasy with a steampunk element. The characters are much more scary than traditional fairy tales, and have many layers to them. I love FABLES, so it's good to see that Legends is taking a different path, because nothing sucks more than one someone tries to rip off one of your favorite books.
The artwork in this looks INCREDIBLE, and that is definitely a big selling point. The writing, from what we've seen is sharp, and clever, and hits a very strong point for good characterization. Just a taste of what comes in the #0 issue is Jack the Giant-Killer, Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, and a murdered Pinocchio (a construct of wood, and bionic parts).
The Enchanted are the fairy-tale characters in question, and are feared and loathed by many. They spend most of their existence as outlaws, vigilantes, and bounty hunters. They're very hard to kill, which is due in part to their charm of being "The Enchanted." The book has a tough-as-nails, urban sci-fi/fantasy feel to it, and is fresh. While we've seen these concepts tackled before, no one has ever mixed in the sci-fi element, and I think that's what really makes the story sing. Imagine Humpty Dumpty as a crimelord, Hansel and Gretel as paranormal exterminators, Jack rides around on a motorcycle fueled by giant's blood, and Red Hood, the monster hunter. All of these characters exist in a world of turmoil, and corruption, and an underlying storyline involving a beastly creature named the Hag is at it's root.
Doesn't this sound awesome?! I'm so stoked to see the book in person this Wednesday. Best of all, this first one's only $1.00
Click here to check out a wordless preview of LEGENDS: ENCHANTED #0!
DEADPOOL TEAM-UP #896 - DEADPOOL TEAMS UP WITH MARVEL'S TRUCK-DRIVING SUPERHERO.. U.S ACE (formerly known as US-1). NO, WE'RE NOT MAKING THIS UP. HE'S A TRUCKER, WITH A METAL PLATE IN HIS HEAD, AND USES IT TO MENTALLY CONTROL HIS TRUCK.
You know, I think I'm starting to get this whole DEADPOOL Team-Up thing. Yes, it's an excuse to give everyone more DEADPOOL, which is always a good thing, because there's no such thing as too much DEADPOOL. But, it's also serving as a place to put the most absurd, most obscure, and most ridiculous Marvel characters of the last thirty to forty years back into play. And, I like that, because c'mon, U.S Ace? The guy was Marvel's answer to the truck-driving craze of the '70s. He had a metal plate in his head that gave him mental control over his big rig. I mean, how ridiculously awesome is that?
And, to top it all off... they're fighting killer, uzi-wielding raccoons. This is truly some of the most fun you can have with a Deadpool book. Weird, quirky one-shots pairing Deadpool up with some of the most ridiculous characters in the Marvel Universe.
Click here for a preview of DEADPOOL TEAM-UP #896!
MASS EFFECT REDEMPTION #2 - THE KILLER DARK HORSE LIMITED SERIES BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN MASS EFFECT AND MASS EFFECT 2 VIDEO GAMES!
So, now MASS EFFECT 2 is out, and I'm sure many of you are hooked into the pure video game awesomeness that is Mass Effect 2. Trust me, I'd be right there with you, but I know the power of Mass Effect, and I can't commit to it yet. But, I will, oh you can bet on that. Anyways, Dark Horse, who is known for taking some really stellar licensed properties and turning them into killer comics, has done something very cool by taking the Mass Effect Redemption limited series and using it to bridge the gap between the stories of Mass Effect, and Mass Effect 2.
In other words, if you're a fan of the Mass Effect video games, and you're stoked on the release of Mass Effect 2, then you should really give this limited series a read, as it just adds a lot to the already compelling Mass Effect story.
If you missed MASS EFFECT REDEMPTION #1, don't worry, we've still got plenty in stock for you to hop aboard with.
Click here to check out a preview of MASS EFFECT REDEMPTION #2
BRAD MELTZER (IDENTITY CRISIS) & JOSS WHEDON WRITE BUFFY, WITH BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #32 - AND THERE'S A HUGE SURPRISE FOR LONGTIME FANS AWAITING!
Now, you know, it's funny. I never really watched Buffy when it was airing. In fact, I'd never watched it at all until Joss Whedon launched Season 8 a few years back as a comic book. There was such a huge fuss around the book, that I decided to read it, to try it. And, you know, I was already a Whedon fan from Astonishing X-Men, and Firefly.. so, you know, why not? And, that was that, I was hooked.
Now, the series has off and on kept my interest, but for the most part, the world Whedon's laid out lends itself to comics very well, and the story is actually pretty compelling. His characterization is sharp, and this book is just as good as many other titles out there now. It's just that it has it's slow points at times, like any series.
Now, for those of you longtime Buffy fans who have either fallen off of the series, or never tried it out.. you're gonna want to check out the first issue of the new story arc beginning in this week's BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #32. While I don't want to drop the spoiler on the big reveal, lets just say that the identity of Buffy's big nemesis... is a huge deal. HUGE DEAL. A character you're going to know right away, but that we haven't seen appear yet.
And, with Brad Meltzer coming on to handle the writing chores alongside Whedon, you can be sure that this one is going to be a heck of a story. Meltzer is the man responsible for quite possibly one of the best DC stories of the 2000s, with IDENTITY CRISIS.
Click here to read more about BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #32
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #10... ARE YOU READING THE BEST WOLVERINE BOOK ON THE RACKS? TRY THIS WEEK'S #10, THE PERFECT JUMPING ON POINT FOR JASON AARON'S (writer of SCALPED) KILLER WOLVERINE ONGOING!
I've sung the praises of this run before, but seriously, folks, Weapon X is probably the best damn Wolverine book on the racks, and has been for 10 solid issues. Jason Aaron, the man behind SCALPED and PUNISHERMAX, delivers a solid, well-written, self-contained, and most importantly, violent Wolvie book that gives you everything you could want out of your favorite claw-slashing mutant. Seriously, just give this one a shot, and you'll be sold. Aaron manages to conjure up the feelings you'd get reading the old school Claremont/Miller Wolvie stuff, but also incorporates a modern twist to it.
This week's issue #10 serves as a perfect jumping on point, as a new story arc begins, and we see ol' Logan, who's never had the best luck with women, having a new one come walking into his life. Plus, we get a brand new artist with C.P Smith, who's art is STELLAR, and has to be seen.
Want just a good, solid Wolvie title that doesn't cross into a thousand different books? Want to see the best characterization of the character in a long time (excluding OLD MAN LOGAN, which ruled)? Want to see classic Wolvie supporting cast and villains? Then definitely check out Wolverine: Weapon X.
Click here for a preview of WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #10
Staff Picks
Steve - GREEN LANTERN #50 - This should've been called BLACKEST NIGHT 6.5. This issue picks up DIRECTLY after the events of BLACKEST NIGHT #6, and we get to see that oh-so-cool corps of unlikely Lanterns kicking butt. And, the cover's no joke... it's telling of what to expect.
Torma - CAPTAIN AMERICA REBORN #6 - Great, great conclusion. Over-the-top action, a must for any Marvel fan. I mean, heck you even get a giant Red Skull at the end. TOTAL MAYHEM!
Trish - KICK-ASS #8 - There's definitely room for a sequel! This is a great ending, and was def. worth the wait
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