October 23rd, 2024
Rob's Picks:
Iron Man #1
Tony Stark takes heavy hits on the battlefield and in the boardroom in this new series from Spencer Ackerman (Waller Vs. Wildstorm) and Hellverine artist Julius Ohta. While Tony was fighting alongside the mutants during the fall of Krakoa, the villain Feilong used his technology to produce a new generation of Sentinels. Stark's plan to demilitarize his company (again) is derailed by an executive board that sees more profit in super-weapons than semiconductors, compounded by an act of sabotage that leaves Iron Man in traction. A slow recovery has Stark feeling his age, but there’s no time to rest as corporate rival Roxxon makes a bid for his business and recruits old enemies. This book doesn’t pull any punches for its protagonist—Ackerman places Iron Man on the back foot, forcing him to adopt a new strategy that ditches his high-profile heroism for an underground war against Roxxon. Ohta’s work shines in the action scenes, especially with an incredible new design for one of Iron Man’s iconic enemies. This series takes a grimmer tone for Stark, a refreshing change for a character often portrayed with a glib edge.
Absolute Wonder Woman #1
Absolute Batman set the bar high for DC’s Absolute initiative, but Wonder Woman not only meets but exceeds expectations. That's no small feat given the bar set by Batman and the incredible work that series writer Kelly Thompson has been doing for Birds of Prey. The Amazons have angered the gods, facing a terrible fate that leaves only Diana, a baby hidden away in Hell itself. Raised by a witch in the underworld, she learns arcane arts while honing her natural combat instincts. Destiny calls her to protect the Earth, and she has a slew of new tricks and tools—from a fiery Pegasus to a massive, magic sword worthy of the pages of Berserk. Thompson gives the issue a truly epic tone, leaning into the mythic origins of the character with a blend of plot structure and prose style. Artist Hayden Sherman complements this perfectly, evoking the aesthetics of ancient Greece while adding plenty of originality to the design of some truly fantastic creatures.
Green Lantern: Dark #1
DC scores big with another dark fantasy hit this week. In a bleak future where evil has nearly triumphed, humanity struggles to survive in a world of shadows. Those who remain cling to the hope that a hero will rise. When an army of zombies—led by Solomon Grundy, DC’s notorious undead menace—attacks, that hero finally appears, shining a light in the darkness. Despite the post-apocalyptic setting, Tate Brombal (House of Slaughter) writes a story with a strong fantasy bent, heavily influenced by horror. Artist Werther Dell’Edera (Something is Killing the Children) is the perfect match, expertly balancing dark and light both visually and narratively. This reimagining of the Green Lantern mythos transforms the character from space cop to Arthurian hero—a Merlin on a divine quest, rather than Hal Jordan patrolling a beat. It’s a unique take that casts the familiar superhero in an unfamiliar but compelling role.
Solomon's Picks:
Absolute Wonder Woman #1
The long-awaited Absolute take on Wonder Woman launched this week, and it was a sensational debut! Written by Kelly Thompson with art by Hayden Sherman and colors by Jordie Bellaire, this new approach to Diana was everything fans hoped for and more. This issue reveals a reimagined origin, as Diana is abandoned by the gods and raised in the depths of Hell, where the word "Amazon" is forbidden. Despite this, she still grows into the fearless warrior princess we know, though with a far darker edge. Her new design is nothing short of badass, featuring a blood-red tribal tattoo, bloodshot glowing eyes, a Final Fantasy-style buster sword, a skeletal flaming Pegasus, and several other upgrades that mark her as a version of Diana you’ve never seen before. This Absolute series dives unapologetically into the mythos, exposing the wickedness of the gods, the cruelty of fate, and more. Like Absolute Batman, the origins are fresh yet somehow still true to the core of the character. It’s a must-read—grab this issue and Absolute Batman if you haven’t already!
Green Lantern: Dark #1
From Tate Brombal, Werther Dell’Edera, and Giovanna Niro comes a chilling new take on Green Lantern, titled “Dark,” just in time for Halloween. What seemed like a simple horror-themed spin actually introduces a new character set in Dan Jurgens' Tangent Universe, or a version of it—a surprising and welcome return. In a world where heroes have fallen, Green Lantern is not only the last hero standing but also the anticipated savior, a whispered legend sparking hope in the few surviving towns. The opening pages build tension before slamming into high gear with the introduction of our new Lantern, Rina Mori. The rough and distorted art style perfectly complements the dark and intense narrative, adding depth to the horror-fantasy vibe. Green Lantern: Dark delivers some of the strongest characterization seen in a debut, turning a typically secondary series into a gripping must-read. This series is a strong recommendation not just for Lantern fans but for anyone seeking a unique, well-crafted story. Don’t miss this issue!
The Moon Is Following Us #2
The Moon Is Following Us returns to shelves, and the second issue doesn’t disappoint! This installment dives into the backstory of Sam and Duncan, revealing their recruitment to the cause and the tragic reason their daughter remains in a never-ending coma. The alternate world they navigate is increasingly influenced by their daughter’s dreams, leading to bizarre changes in landscapes and characters—especially the soldiers we first met. A subtle tension builds between Sam and Duncan, highlighting Duncan’s cowardice in contrast to Sam's fierce determination, hinting that he may hinder the mission in the future. While both parents are committed to saving Penny, Sam’s willingness to embrace the strange new reality contrasts sharply with Duncan’s hesitancy. The dynamic between them is ripe for deeper exploration. The art in this issue is stunning, with a standout page halfway through that’s both creative and visually captivating. This second issue has raised the bar, making it even better than the first. If you haven’t picked this series up, do so and subscribe—it’s shaping up to be something special!