Daredevil debuts red costume

Daredevil (1964) #1 cover by Jack Kirby

Blinded by a radioactive isotope, Matt Murdock grew up in a world run by fear. He studied to be a lawyer and trained to be a vigilante to combat the criminals who controlled the streets. He discovered that to defeat his enemies, he would become a man without fear.

The popular red-costumed Marvel Comics hero will hit the small screen tomorrow. Anticipation is huge for this series, the first in a new set of four new programs (60 episodes total) including A.K.A. Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and Iron Fist culminating in a team-up called the Defenders.

This ‘street level Avengers’ series promises to be a new and exciting part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

… And no, it has nothing to do with the Ben Affleck movie.

Today, fans finally got a glimpse of the red costume.

Daredevil as designed by Wally Wood

“Marvel’s Daredevil” is a live action series that follows the journey of attorney Matt Murdock, who in a tragic accident was blinded as a boy but imbued with extraordinary senses. Murdock sets up practice in his old neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen, New York where he now fights against injustice as a respected lawyer by day and masked vigilante at night.
Starring: Charlie Cox, Deborah Ann Woll, Vincent D’Onofrio

Netflix will release Daredevil’s first season for viewing on April 10th.

Here comes Daredevil, the Man Without Fear

The Marvel Universe is about to get even bigger on the small screen with a new line of series exclusively produced for Netflix featuring Jessica Jones, Power Man and Iron Fist, ending with a unified team, the Defenders. Announced earlier this year, we finally got a glimpse of Daredevil at the NYCC along with some excellent concept art by Marvel CCO Joe Quesada.

With DC Entertainment taking the TV screens by storm with Arrow, Gotham, Flash as well as Constantine, there is definitely an audience for comic book-themed programs. Just… please make this better than Agents of SH.I.E.L.D.

Official press release below:

“Marvel’s Daredevil” follows the journey of Matt Murdock, who was blinded as a young boy but imbued with extraordinary senses, now fighting against injustice by day as a lawyer, and by night as the super hero Daredevil in modern day Hell’s Kitchen, New York City.

Marvel’s first original series on Netflix is Executive Produced by series Showrunner Steven S. DeKnight (“Spartacus,” “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Angel”) and Drew Goddard (“Cabin in the Woods,” “Lost,” “Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” in addition to writing the first two episodes of “Marvel’s Daredevil”), along with Marvel TV’s Jeph Loeb (“Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” “Smallville,” “Heroes”).

“Marvel’s Daredevil” is produced by Marvel Television in association with ABC Studios for Netflix

For more information on “Marvel’s Daredevil,” and the other exciting new Marvel Television series coming to Netflix, stay tuned to Marvel.com.

More on Marvel.com: http://marvel.com/news/tv/23447/nycc_2014_marvels_daredevil_comes_to_illustrated_life_in_new_concept_art#ixzz3G2EPYET0

Here’s a brief announcement from Comic Book Cast on the first look at Daredevil in his earliest costume:

Dexter star Michael C. Hall cast as Daredevil for new Defenders Netflix series?

Make no mistake, Daredevil is Marvel’s Batman. He’s slick, he’s cool, tragic and a street-level hero living in a world populated by mutants, gods and weird killer robots from space. In spite of his short-comings (being a pugilist/martial artist rather than a marksman, web slinger or armored avenger), he is still respected by the superhero community and feared by supervillains. His horns are well-earned.

All that being said, you would think that given the popularity of the superhero genre, he would be a major hit of the cinematic universe/ The guardian of Hell’s Kitchen (when he’s not in San Francisco) has of course already been seen on TV (in the Trial of the Incredible Hulk) and on the big screen (in the Daredevil feature film), each with varied results. However, Marvel Entertainment had regained the rights of their red-hued vigilante and rather than make another attempt at a big screen adaptation, they are instead using Daredevil as part of a new TV series set on the streets of New York City.

This summer filming will begin of the new Daredevil… In the mean time, rumors rule the web.

Via WebProNews:

The creators of Netflix’s upcoming Daredevil series have apparently turned their focus on Dexter‘s Michael C. Hall, and want him to play The Man Without Fear. The report comes from The creators of Netflix’s upcoming Daredevil series have apparently turned their focus the Marvel Cinematic Universe, an incredibly popular Facebook fan page devoted to all things Marvel–from small screen to silver screen. They quote a reliable source, but this is obviously just a rumor at this point. “This deal is unparalleled in its scope and size, and reinforces our commitment to deliver Marvel’s brand, content and characters across all platforms of storytelling. Netflix offers an incredible platform for the kind of rich storytelling that is Marvel’s specialty,” said Alan Fine, President of Marvel Entertainment at the time of the announcement. “This serialized epic expands the narrative possibilities of on-demand television and gives fans the flexibility to immerse themselves how and when they want in what’s sure to be a thrilling and engaging adventure.”

Last November, Netflix and Disney announced that they were developing multiple original series centered on Marvel characters. The first one to debut will be the Daredevil series, but there will be a total of at least four different shows and at least one miniseries. Other characters to get their own Netflix original include Jessica Jones, Iron First, and Luke Cage.

 

This has yet to be reported anywhere other than the Facebook page, but… it’s a great notion that would give the project some much-needed clout. Dexter star Michael C. Hall has a strong fan following and is sure to bring some attention to a new Daredevil series, especially anyone still suffering from Affleck-lash (copyright). What Defenders series? Well, apparently there will be four new ongoing 13-part Marvel programs exclusive to Netflix, culminating in a team film The Defenders.

The project will include nearly 60 one-hour episodes focused on the 4 Defenders characters: Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and Iron Fist

Netflix has committed to a minimum of four, thirteen episodes series and a mini-series event in which the Marvel characters from the first four series team up as “The Defenders,” much like “The Avengers.”

More on Marvel.com

Just in time for Daredevil-mania comes news of a ‘first person perspective’  videogame for XBox One and the PS4!

Click for details!

More as it comes…

Marvel develops Hell’s Kitchen film series with Netflix

A unique corner of the Marvel Universe is Hell’s Kitchen, where criminals are under the constant watch of Daredevil, the guardian devil of the streets. Luke Cage and Iron Fist, the Heroes for Hire take on any job for a fee and private detective Jessica Jones investigates the grim mysteries of the area.

While the Avengers are more colorful and deal with mind-blowing threats to the universe, the street-level heroes of Hell’s Kitchen keep the city safe. Finally, that area of the Marvel Universe will be explored in a series of new short films.

Via CBR.com

Marvel and Netflix have announced a deal for five all-new live-action Hell’s Kitchen-based series, beginning with “Daredevil” and culminating with “The Defenders.”

The Walt Disney Co. (NYSE: DIS) and Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) today announced an unprecedented deal for Marvel TV to bring multiple original series of live-action adventures of four of Marvel’s most popular characters exclusively to the world’s leading Internet TV Network beginning in 2015. This pioneering agreement calls for Marvel to develop four serialized programs leading to a mini-series programming event.

Led by a series focused on “Daredevil,” followed by “Jessica Jones,” “Iron Fist” and “Luke Cage,” the epic will unfold over multiple years of original programming, taking Netflix members deep into the gritty world of heroes and villains of Hell’s Kitchen, New York. Netflix has committed to a minimum of four, thirteen episodes series and a culminating Marvel’s “The Defenders” mini-series event that re-imagines a dream team of self-sacrificing, heroic characters.

Produced by Marvel Television in association with ABC Television Studios, this groundbreaking deal is Marvel’s most ambitious foray yet into live-action TV storytelling.

“This deal is unparalleled in its scope and size, and reinforces our commitment to deliver Marvel’s brand, content and characters across all platforms of storytelling. Netflix offers an incredible platform for the kind of rich storytelling that is Marvel’s specialty,” said Alan Fine, President of Marvel Entertainment. “This serialized epic expands the narrative possibilities of on-demand television and gives fans the flexibility to immerse themselves how and when they want in what’s sure to be a thrilling and engaging adventure.”

“Marvel’s movies, such as ‘Iron Man’ and ‘Marvel’s The Avengers,’ are huge favorites on our service around the world. Like Disney, Marvel is a known and loved brand that travels,” said Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos. “With ‘House of Cards’ and our other original series, we have pioneered new approaches to storytelling and to global distribution and we’re thrilled to be working with Disney and Marvel to take our brand of television to new levels with a creative project of this magnitude.”

This new original TV deal follows last year’s landmark movie distribution deal through which, beginning with 2016 theatrically released feature films, Netflix will be the exclusive U.S. subscription television service for first-run, live-action and animated movies from the Walt Disney Studios, including titles from Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, Disneynature and Lucasfilm. Netflix members can currently enjoy a wide range of Disney, ABC TV and Disney Channel films and shows across the 41 countries where Netflix operates.

This week at your comic shop – 3/20/13

For the complete list of this week’s comics, click here.

Not sure where your local comic shop is? Try comicshoplocator.com!

(note: all information including ad copy is from the publisher)
If you can’t make it to the shop, just click on any of the images below to be taken to an online retailer. I don’t get any referrals for these sales, I’m just doing my bit to spread the word on some neat products.

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Action Comics #18

Action Comics #18
The lead story, written by Grant Morrison with art by Rags Morales, Brad Walker, Cam Smith and Andrew Hennessy, is destined to be a milestone in The New 52 – and that’s all we can say about it for now!

Plus, in the backup story, written by Sholly Fisch with art by Chris Sprouse and Karl Story, learn how Superman’s battle against the Little Man has some very far-reaching consequences.

The new creative team of writer Andy Diggle and artist Tony S. Daniel now will make its debut in Action Comics #19.
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Doctor Who Ark In Space DVD

Doctor Who Ark In Space DVD
From BBC Video! The fourth Doctor’s first trip in the TARDIS brings him, Sarah Jane, and Harry Sullivan many thousand years into the future to Nerva, a space station in Earth’s orbit. Having evacuated Earth when solar activity threatened all life on the planet, a few hundred survivors have been drifting in suspended animation for thousands of years. Even more perplexing is the discovery that someone has sabotaged Nerva’s vital systems. The Doctor reactivates the systems, and one by one, the human race begins to awake from its enforced deep sleep. The future of humankind appears secure until the Doctor learns that the larvae of the Wirrn, a hostile insect race, are also aboard.
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Son Of Satan Previews Exclusive Blk T-Shirt

Son Of Satan Previews Exclusive Blk T-Shirt
The Son of Satan rides on this black t-shirt that features vintage Marvel Comics artwork!
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All New X-Men #9

All New X-Men #9
By: Brian Michael Bendis, David Marquez, Stuart Immonen
The Original Five X-Men get new costumes!

Series main-artist Stuart Immonen returns!

Mystique makes her big move.
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Saga #11

Saga #11
By: Brian K. Vaughan, Fiona Staples
It’s an intergalactic family reunion, as Hazel’s parents and grandparents join forces to escape a dying world.
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Avengers #8

Avengers #8
By: Jonathan Hickman, Dustin Weaver
‘SYSTEM FAILURE’

The Avengers face off against the World Breaker.

Discover the imminent threat to the Avengers World.

Watch as we get our first hints as the hidden connections between the events of Avengers and New Avengers.
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Doctor Who Prisoners Of Time #3 (of 12)

Doctor Who Prisoners Of Time #3 (of 12)
By: David Tipton, Mike Collins, Francesco Francavilla
Our yearlong celebration of Doctor Who’s 50th anniversary continues! ‘Now listen to me!’ It’s time to fire up Bessie, as the Third Doctor takes the spotlight in this issue of a 12-part epic adventure featuring all 11 incarnations of the Doctor!

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Cable And X-Force #6

Cable And X-Force #6
By: Dennis Hopeless, Salvador Larroca
A new arc begins! Great jumping on point!

Cable’s team loses a member as Colossus goes to jail.
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It Girl & The Atomics #8

It Girl & The Atomics #8
By: Jamie S. Rich, Mike Norton, Laura Allred
‘THE WORLD IS FLAT,’ Conclusion

It Girl is trapped in the alps trying to rescue a kidnapped scientist from a slippery supervillain, a scary gangster lady, and her two giant robot sons. Is the scientist’s coveted device the secret to getting out alive?

It Girl’s just going to have to turn it on and find out!

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Captain America #5

Captain America #5
By: Rick Remender, John Romita, Jr.
Zola’s terrible experiments on the indigenous creatures give birth to a terrible new foe! No flesh escapes The Patchwork!

Captain America vs Jet Black, with the fate of Ian in the balance.

A young Steve Rogers must help his family to survive their worst year of the Great Depression, but how far will he go?
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Elephantmen #47

Elephantmen #47
By: Richard Starkings, Axel Medellin, Camille D’Errico
‘SLEEPING PARTNERS,’ Part Six Sahara must give up her baby, before it is even born.

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Daredevil #24

Daredevil #24
By: Mark Waid, Chris Samnee
Fateful news about someone close to Daredevil!

Will Matt be forced to abandon his Daredevil identity?
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Nightwing #18

Nightwing #18
By: Kyle Higgins, Roger Bonet Martinez, Juan Jose Ryp
Dick Grayson lost so much during ‘DEATH OF THE FAMILY’ that some new events are going to push him right over the edge!

Nightwing has almost no hope left until the chance for vengeance presents itself.

What decisions will he make?
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Indestructible Hulk #5

Indestructible Hulk #5
By: Mark Waid, Leinil Francis Yu
Hulk versus Attuma!

What is the secret of Lost Lemuria?

Attuma’s schemes guarantee death for all air-breathers!
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Legion Of Super Heroes #18

Legion Of Super Heroes #18
By: Paul Levitz, Scott Kolins, Keith Giffen
Separated and in great danger, the Legionnaires must face their greatest foes yet: the new FATAL FIVE!

Can the Legion’s newly appointed leader handle their greatest enemies?
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New Avengers #4

New Avengers #4
By: Jonathan Hickman, Steve Epting, Jock
‘WORLD EATER’

The Illuminati have learned that Earth is the center point for the death of the Universe.

If this is true, doesn’t that mean destroying it might save everything else?

Enter the world eater, Galactus.
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Justice League #18

Justice League #18
By: Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis
Cyborg takes center stage as events fall into place for next month’s massive new story arc: ‘OFF THE GRID’!

Also, Batman continues to be question the Superman/Wonder Woman alliance and Aquaman’s future with the League.

Plus: The Shazam backup story reveals the origin of Black Adam-and what it means for Billy Batson’s survival!
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Doctor Who Destiny Of The Daleks Audio CD Set

Doctor Who Destiny Of The Daleks Audio CD Set
Tom Baker stars as the Doctor in this four-part TV serial from 1979, in which the Daleks return to their home planet of Skaro, in search of their entombed creator Davros. The Doctor and Romana soon find themselves caught in the middle of a war between two different races. This full-cast drama includes special linking narration by a member of the original TV cast.
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Steed And Mrs Peel Ongoing #6

Steed And Mrs Peel Ongoing #6
By: Caleb Monroe, Lorena Carvalho
Adding a touch of class to outer spaceÖ The conclusion of our super-spies’ foray into space!

John Steed and Emma Peel have gotten entangled with an eccentric figure that is determined to see Britain lead in space, no matter the cost.

Rising star Caleb Monroe brings us a story of defending Queen & Country in Zero-G!
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Nova #2

Nova #2
By: Jeph Loeb, Ed McGuinness
A boy, a helmet, and an intergalactic legacy!

Sam Alexander isn’t just any 15-year old, he’s just been recruited to the Nova Corps: the Universe’s police force.

What do you get when you pair a raccoon, a green alien lady and a scared teenager? An amazingly awesome origin tale!
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Batwoman #18

Batwoman #18
By: J. H. Williams, Trevor McCarthy
A new story arc begins here as Batwoman adjusts to her new partner and her new role in the war on crime.

Guest-starring Batman!
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Savage Wolverine #3

Savage Wolverine #3
By: Frank Cho
Shanna and Wolverine are separated, and Shanna teams up with. . . Amadeus Cho?

Secrets about the island are revealed, but only bring up more questions.

And, in this issue, a hero will fall!
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All Crime #1

All Crime #1
By: Erik Warfield, Edward Laroche, Bruce Timm
A look into the lives of two men drawn into a friendship through a life of crime, and driven to murder over the love of a woman. Thirty-six full-color pages of crime, cars, and killings. With a cover by Bruce Timm!

“Art of Fiction are combining all of my favorite elements into one: crime, noir, pulp, and gorgeous artwork. How can you go wrong? Check out All Crime–you won’t regret it!”
-Steve Niles (30 Days of Night)

“A fantastic addition to any crime comics shelf, and I can’t wait to read the next issue!”
-Ed Brubaker (Criminal, Fatale)
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Outer Limits Creature Collection Alien Thetan Pvc Figure

Outer Limits Creature Collection Alien Thetan Pvc Figure
Imported from Japan! There is nothing wrong with your PREVIEWS. It’s The Outer Limits Creature Collection Series! A true masterpiece of American science-fiction television drama, The Outer Limites began broadcasting in September, 1963, and each episode featured marvelous creatures and aliens that would challenge the mind! The Outer Limits Creature Collection accurately reproduces the creatures and aiens as a 1/8 scale collectible figure. You are about to experience the awe and mystery which reaches from the inner mind to the Outer Limits, and it starts with the Alien Thetan! Window box packaging.
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X-termination #1

X-termination #1
By: David Lapham, David Lopez, Ed McGuinness
THE X-TERMINATION EVENT STARTS HERE!

Joining together the teams from ASTONISHING X-MEN, AGE OF APOCALYPSE and X-TREME X-MEN, and spinning out of the pages of UNCANNY X-FORCE.

AOA Nightcrawler just wants to get home and he doesn’t care if he takes out our world to get there.

Wolverine versus Nightcrawler!
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Doctor Who Aztecs DVD

Doctor Who Aztecs DVD
From BBC Video! The TARDIS arrives in 15th-century Mexico inside the tomb of one-time Aztec High Priest Yetaxa. The travellers become cut off from the ship when they explore the temple outside and the tomb door closes behind them. Barbara is proclaimed by the High Priest of Knowledge, Autloc, as Yetaxa’s divine reincarnation. However, she incurs the enmity of the High Priest of Sacrifice, Tlotoxl, when – against the Doctor’s advice – she attempts to use her new-found authority to put an end to the Aztec practice of human sacrifice.

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Doctor Doom Bust Bank

Doctor Doom Bust Bank
A genius inventor and a sorcerer, Doctor Doom combined technology and sorcery together to fight against the Fantastic Four. Ranked as the #3 top villain in IGN’s Top 100 Villains, Doctor Doom has been well-regarded in the Marvel Comics fan community. This highly-detailed sculpt of Otto Octavius features an impeccable attention to detail and is made of roto plastic. It can be used either as a bank or a display piece.
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Doctor Who Reign Of Terror DVD

Doctor Who Reign Of Terror DVD
From BBC Video! The TARDIS materializes not far from Paris in 1794. The travelers become involved with an escape chain rescuing prisoners from the guillotine and get caught up in the machinations of an English undercover spy, James Stirling – alias Lemaitre, governor of the Conciergerie Prison. The Doctor, posing as a Regional Officer of the Provinces, is twice brought before the great tyrant, Robespierre himself, and has to talk himself out of trouble. Ian and Barbara, meanwhile, have a close encounter with a future ruler of France, Napoleon Bonaparte.
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Marvel to 20th Century FOX ‘I’ll give you one Daredevil for all of the Fantastic Four’

No matter how much you may want it to be false, the 2005 Daredevil movie was a huge hit for 20th Century Fox (I kinda regard it as a guilty pleasure, but i have problems). The only major stumbling block in proceeding into a sequel was that Ben Affleck was not interested in donning the red leather duds again. 20th Century Fox has been working on revamping the character for the hot comic book movie market, but the movie has been in something of a development hell for ages. But the clock is ticking on the film rights and if the movie is not in the can soon, they will revert back to Marvel.

In a bizarre twist of fate, Marvel is reportedly offering Fox more time to make the DD flick in exchange for the Fantastic Four universe, including the Silver Surfer and Galactus. Could this be the beginning stages of a Fantastic Four reboot?

Or is horn-head on his way back to the House of Ideas (along with the recently re-acquired Punisher)?

All day similar outlets such as this one have been citing a Variety article that states with time running out for 20th Century Fox to retain the film rights for Dardevil, they literally have to start shooting the movie by 10/10/12 before the rights go back to Disney/Marvel Studios. However, their sources are saying that a deal may be struck between Fox chairman Tom Rothman and Marvel to extendDaredevil’s time at Fox beyond the cutoff date. Marvel is offering to give Fox an extension to get its Daredevil reboot in production in exchange for the rights to use characters from the Fantastic Four , including Galactus and the Silver Surfer, who would no doubt be included in future Marvel “Phase Two” movies. The article goes on to report, Fox is in discussions with Joe Carnahan to direct what’s been described as a “Frank Miller-esque, hardcore 70s thriller” take on blind Hell’s Kitchen superhero Matt Murdock — a vision that would deviate from Disney/Marvel’s family-friendly tone. Carnahan has yet to receive an official offer, though multiple sources tell Variety that he’s the choice.

While the exchange doesn’t seem like that far-fetched of an idea, consider this article from Deadline, it seems that Fox may just let Daredevil go back to Marvel:

Reports that Fox and Marvel Studios are going to do some horse-trading with its Fantastic Four franchise to keep Daredevil in the fold were being strenuously denied by studio insiders.

Those insiders said that with Josh Trank aboard to direct, Fantastic Four is a big priority and the studio would be crazy to give away a cornerstone villain. Especially when the studio is very lukewarm about rebooting Daredevil, which focuses on blind lawyer Matt Murdock and his emergence as a crime fighter powered by heightened sensory perception. While Joe Carnahan has come to the studio with a take, it sounds like Fox is ready to let it revert to Disney-owned Marvel, unless Disney is interested in co-financing. That is what the current talks are really about, insiders said.

I believe the latter article is a little more plausible.

–via comics-x-aminer

This week at your comic shop – 1/25/2012

For the complete list of this week’s comics, click here.

Not sure where your local comic shop is? Try comicshoplocator.com!

(note: all information including ad copy is from the publisher)

If you can’t make it to the shop, just click on any of the images below to be taken to an online retailer. I don’t get any referrals for these sales, I’m just doing my bit to spread the word on some neat products.

Secret Avengers #21.1

Secret Avengers #21.1
By: Rick Remender, Patrick Zircher
CAPTAIN AMERICA AND HAWKEYE UNDERTAKE A MISSION TO THE RED LIGHT NATION, A COUNTRY RUN BY CRIMINALS FOR CRIMINALS!RICK REMENDER TAKES OVER AS THE NEW REGULAR SERIES WRITER WITH THIS INTRODUCTORY POINT ONE ISSUE.
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Dark Shadows #3

Dark Shadows #3
By: Stuart Manning, Francesco Francavill, Aaron Campbell
There’s trouble ahead for vampire Barnabas Collins as the vengeful spirit of his eternal nemesis Angelique continues to make her presence felt. What links the mysterious statue in the woods to the Collins family, and who among them can Barnabas trust?

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Doctor Who Patrick Troughton Statue

Doctor Who Patrick Troughton Statue
Imported from the UK!

Patrick Troughton’s defining portrayal of the second Doctor is at last captured in a statue of exacting detail! This is the first in a series of collector statues from Underground Toys that will bring you beautiful detailing and incredibly accurate likenesses of characters from Doctor Who, the most successful science fiction series ever.

The Doctor’s costume is from ‘The Tenth Planet,’ first broadcast on October 29, 1966. While Doctor Who was broadcast in black and white at the time, the colors used on the statue are authenticated by the many behind-the-scene shots. This piece itself is made from polystone and once set on its base, stands 9″ tall.

It is presented in a high-quality, fully illustrated closed gift box. Masterfully painted and beautifully crafted, the Second Doctor is packaged with an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

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Infestation 2 #1 (of 2)

Infestation 2 #1 (of 2)
Duane Swierczynski o David Messina (a) o Alex Garner, Livio Ramondelli (c) Last year’s groundbreaking Infestation series, IDW’s first-ever event, saw many teams from multiple universes fight off a zombie invasion. Now, an even bigger threat has risen to threaten the growing IDW multiverse: Lovecraftian demons threaten to reach across time and space and destroy everyone everywhere and everywhen! Also featuring Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this framing issue presents a threat that perhaps not even TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOEs, Danger Girl, and others can surmount!

Infestation HC

Infestation HC
By: Dan Abnett, David Messin, Ashley Wood
IDW’s first-ever mega event is collected in this hard cover collection as something goes horribly awry in the IDW universe: a dimensions-spanning zombie outbreak of epic proportions, which threatens to tear many of IDW’s biggest realities asunder!The infestation spreads through the TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, STAR TREK, and GHOSTBUSTERS universes. Zombie apocalypse looms and the remaining members of CVO are running out of options…
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Warren Ellis Atmospherics Color Ed GN

Warren Ellis Atmospherics Color Ed GN
Cover: Ken Meyer Writer: Warren Ellis Art: Ken Meyer Warren Ellis and painter Ken Meyer unleash a totally re-mastered and fully-painted color version of this terrifying alien tale! She’s in a hospital. Except it may be a police station. She’s been traumatized. Or she’s been arrested. She’s the only living witness of a cattle-mutilation style attack on humans. Or she’s a multiple killer who has a psychotic reaction to heroin use. Who may not survive discovering who she really is? This graphic novel also features a gallery of stunning paintings Ken Meyer produced for the series, a special section focusing on how Ken creates his work, and an introduction by Warren Ellis!

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B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: Russia #5

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: Russia #5
By: Mike Mignola, John Arcudi, Tyler Crook, Dave Stewart, Dave Johnson
After a brutal assault from proletariat zombies, the B.P.R.D. and the Russian bureau must form an alliance in order to rescue Johann from a deadly mine!

* From the pages of Hellboy.

* Showdown with the Russian bureau!

“Is there a more talented supernatural comics storyteller than Mike Mignola?”-Wired.com

“This is among the best in modern serialized comics.”-iFanboy

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Strikeforce Morituri TPB Vol. 01

Strikeforce Morituri TPB Vol. 01
By: Peter B. Gillis, Brent Anderson
A savage alien race called The Horde has invaded Earth, enslaving its people and plundering its resources. Scientists have devised a method of fighting back – the Morituri process, which grants enhanced abilities to a select few compatible humans – but the transformation is fatal within a year.

Now, a handful of brave volunteers make up Strikeforce: Morituri – an elite, experimental and highly effective fighting force against the depredations of the horde. But the heat of every battle, the celebration of every victory and every quiet moment alone is tainted by the inescapable knowledge that – win or lose – their fate is sealed.

This title collects
Strikeforce: Morituri #1-13

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Red Skull Incarnate TPB

Red Skull Incarnate TPB
By: Greg Pak, Mirko Colak, David Aja
Witness the chilling creation of Marvel’s greatest monster and liberty’s greatest enemy. As berlin descends into chaos and ruin, sinister forces are on the rise – and the men who will form the Nazi party ascend to power.

Against this tragic backdrop of history, a boy comes of age: Johann Schmidt. Orphan, thug, urchin – Johann has nothing. And how far he goes to gain power will change the world. Greg Pak, the writer of Magneto: Testament and breakout artist Mirko Colak (Secret Warriors) bring to life the twisted birth of the Red Skull.

This title collects
Red Skull #1-5

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King Conan: The Phoenix on the Sword #1

King Conan: The Phoenix on the Sword #1
By: Tim Truman, Tomas Giorello, Jose Villarrubia, Andrew Robinson
First hailing Conan as a liberator after he annihilated Aquilonia’s foes on the battlefield, common folk and politicians alike now rally to unseat the Cimmerian from his stolen throne. Conspirators plot to kill King Conan and take the crown for themselves, but their schemes pale in comparison to a terror waiting quietly in the wings–Thoth-Amon, an enemy who has haunted Conan his whole adult life and whose wicked aspirations dwarf those of maneuvering politicians!

* Conan’s greatest foe returns!

* Based on Robert E. Howard’s first Conan story.

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ADD HC

ADD HC
By: Douglas Rushkoff, Goran Sudzuka
The Adolescent Demo Division are the world’s luckiest teen gamers. Raised from birth to test media, appear on reality TV and enjoy the fruits of corporate culture, the squad develop special abilities that make them the envy of the world – and a grave concern to their keepers.

One by one, they ‘graduate’ to new levels that are not what they seem. But their heightened abilities can only take them so far as the ultimate search for their birth families leads to an inconceivably harrowing discovery.

Written by Douglas Rushkoff, world-renowned media theorist, Frontline TV correspondent and author (Ecstasy Club, Media Virus and Program or Be Programmed, TESTAMENT), with full color art by Goran Sudzuka and Jose Marzan Jr. (Y: THE LAST MAN).

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Absolute Kingdom Come Edition HC New Printing

Absolute Kingdom Come Edition HC New Printing
Now back in print! The unforgettable, best-selling miniseries by acclaimed writer Mark Waid and superstar painter Alex Ross returns, with a sketchbook section, annotations on the series, rare art and more!

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Mighty Thor #10

Mighty Thor #10
By: Matt Fraction, Pasqual Ferry
TANARUS VS. HEIMDALL!
THOR STRUGGLES TO FREE HIMSELF BEFORE THE DEMOGORGE CONSUMES HIM AND A STARSHIP FULL OF OTHER FALLEN GODS!
WHAT DID LOKI AND THE SURFER FIND IN THE DESERT AND HOW CAN IT HELP A GOD NO ONE CAN REMEMBER?

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All Star Western #5

All Star Western #5
By: Justin Gray, Moritat, Ladronn
Slippery sewer pipes make a brutal place for a fight – but that won’t stop Jonah Hex and Amadeus Arkham from facing off against a gang of kidnappers beneath Gotham City. And when the thugs get the best of them, Hex and Arkham find themselves swept away to a pitch-black cave with seemingly no way out – and lots of bats! Will they find a way to escape Gotham City’s dark underbelly before Hex’s matches are all burned out? Also: For the Barbary Ghost, death is only the beginning of her plan for revenge!

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FF Prem HC Vol. 02

FF Prem HC Vol. 02
By: Jonathan Hickman, Greg Tocchini, Daniel Acuna
The war of four cities escalates as Black Bolt returns, determined to reclaim his throne. And as the war expands to encompass the entire Marvel universe, the Future Foundation is caught in the middle! What does it all mean for Marvel’s first family?

This title collects
FF #6-11
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Aquaman #5

Aquaman #5
By: Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis, Joe Prado
Aquaman has been left for dead in the middle of the desert! But how did the King of Atlantis find himself marooned in such a hellish environment? As Aquaman struggles to survive impossible odds, what extreme measures will he resort to in order to stay alive?

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Fantastic Four #602

Fantastic Four #602
By: Jonathan Hickman, Steve Epting, Mike Choi
FOREVER PART 3
THE KREE EMPIRE VS. THE ANNIHILATION WAVE… WITH EARTH’S HEROES IN THE MIDDLE!
GALACTUS RETURNS TO JUDGE THE WORLD!
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Batman And Robin White Knight Dark Knight HC

Batman And Robin White Knight Dark Knight HC
By: Paul Cornell, Peter J. Tomasi, Judd Winick, Scott Mcdaniel, Patrick Gleason, Guillem March, Greg Tocchini
The Dark Knight and the Boy Wonder face foes new and old, including the mysterious White Knight, the villainous Absence and the renegade Robin of the past, Jason Todd.

This title collects
Batman and Robin #17-25
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Daredevil Prem HC Vol. 01

Daredevil Prem HC Vol. 01
By: Mark Waid, Paolo Rivera

The devil is reborn. Renewed. Resurrected. With new enemies, new friends and that same old ‘grinnin’ in the face of hell’ attitude, the man without fear is back in action and leading with his face! Mark Waid (Amazing Spider-Man, Irredeemable, Ruse) joins neo-legendary artists Paolo Rivera and Marcos Martin for a new spin on Daredevil that will leave you gasping for air.

Having turned his world upside during the past several years, Matt Murdock realizes justice may not be blind to his past and villains may not be the only ones looking for answers. Bring it on! If Matt Murdock could see what he was doing, he’d be terrified.

This title collects
Daredevil (2011) #1-6
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Batman Beyond Industrial Revolution TPB

Batman Beyond Industrial Revolution TPB
By: Adam Beechen, Dustin Nguyen, Ryan Benjamin
In these new stories, a super-powered criminal has gotten in way over his head – and the whole Justice League has come to Neo-Gotham to hunt him down!

This title collects
Batman Beyond #1-8

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Daredevil By Brubaker And Lark Ult Coll TPB Book 01

Daredevil By Brubaker And Lark Ult Coll TPB Book 01
By: Ed Brubaker, Michael Lark, Tommy Lee Edwards
This title collects
Daredevil (1998) #82-93
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Batman The Dark Knight #5

Batman The Dark Knight #5
By: Paul Jenkins, David Finch
When a madman attacks Batman with a new and powerful fear toxin, The Dark Knight visits the coldest and most distant part of his soul. And as his deepest fears resurface, he must rely on old friends to help quell the terrible effects, and to remind him of his true mission as a hero. But what Batman discovers hidden in a moment of courage may change his life forever… for a dark figure from his past has returned – the one adversary The Dark Knight truly fears.
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Blackhawks #5

Blackhawks #5
By: Mike Costa, Graham Nolan, Ken Lashley
Three of the Blackhawks are incapacitated with injuries, and two more are stranded in outer space! The team has suffered a serious beating, but they still have one more crazy, hail Mary stunt up their sleeve as our first story is brought to its explosive conclusion by Mike Costa and new fan-favorite artist CAFU!

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Captain America And Bucky #626

Captain America And Bucky #626
By: Ed Brubaker, Francesco Francavilla
CAPTAIN AMERICA BATTLES BUCKY BARNES!
WHO IS THIS UNCANNY TWIN TO CAP’S FIRST SIDEKICK, AND WHERE DID HE COME FROM?

THE DEADLY LEGACY OF THE ORIGINAL HUMAN TORCH AND THE MAD ANDROID ADAM II REVEALED!

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Flash #5

Flash #5
By: Francis Manapul
Central City in chaos! Iris West captive in Iron Heights prison! And as Flash tries to deal with all of it, he must also try to save the life of his old friend Manuel Lago from Mob Rule, DC Comics’ hottest new Super Villain!

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Alpha Flight #8

Alpha Flight #8
By: Greg Pak, Dale Eaglesham, Carlo Pagulayan
THE FINAL ISSUE!
THE BIG SHOWDOWN BETWEEN ALPHA FLIGHT AND THE MASTER OF THE WORLD!
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Green Lantern New Guardians #5

Green Lantern New Guardians #5
By: Antony Bedard, Tyler Kirkham, Robert Kirkman
A spacecraft the size of a solar system is on a collision course with Oa, home of the Guardians! As the AWOL Green Lantern Kyle Rayner and members of each of the different Corps make their way to the alien vessel, deep within the ship – within the very sun that serves as the craft’s fuel source – the creature known as Seraphon stirs. A major new threat to the DC Universe debuts here!

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Sam & Twitch Complete Collection HC Vol. 02

Sam & Twitch Complete Collection HC Vol. 02
By: Brian Michael Bendis, Ashley Wood
The Spawn Universe’s favorite detectives come at you full-force in their own ground breaking series. Featuring an all-star cast of creators, the bar was set high for gritty crime fiction when Sam and Twitch first came on the scene.

Follow the exploits of NYPD’s two most dedicated public servants as they try to uncover the secrets behind the ‘Bounty Hunter Wars’. Also includes the never before reprinted ‘John Doe Affair’ story arc by TODD MCFARLANE (story), with ALEX MALEEV (art) and PAUL LEE (art).

Collected in an all-new size and format, SAM AND TWITCH: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, VOL. 2 brings you the art and stories that made this series a classic. Extra features include an ASHLEY WOOD cover gallery and behind-the-scenes art.

This title collects
Sam and Twitch #14-26
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Elephantmen #37

Elephantmen #37
By: Richard Starkings, Axel Medllin, Boo Cook
‘THE KILLING SEASON,’ Part Two RAZORBACK! Old friend or new foe..?
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Hawkman By Geoff Johns Omnibus HC Vol. 01

Hawkman By Geoff Johns Omnibus HC Vol. 01
By: Geoff Johns, James Robinson, Patrick Gleason, Rags Morales, Scot Eaton, Don Kramer, Ethan Van Sciver, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, Andrew Robinson
Geoff Johns’s complete, acclaimed run on HAWKMAN are collected in hardcover for the first time! These stories, also featuring the talents of James Robinson, Rags Morales, Patrick Gleason and many others, reintroduced Hawkman into the DCU as he tries to reunite with Hawkgirl.

But with no memory of their past lives together, Kendra wants nothing to do with Hawkman – that is, until she learns that the deaths of her parents years ago were actually murders, and she is forced to enlist Hawkman’s help in unlocking the mystery and finding their killer!

This title collects
Hawkman #1-25, JSA #56-58, Hawkman Secret Files

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Godzilla Kingdom Of Monsters #11

Godzilla Kingdom Of Monsters #11
Jason Ciaramella o Victor Santos (a) o David Messina (c)
The twins are back, and they are after the King of Monsters himself! Riding into America on the backs of Battra and Rodan, the evil twins head toward Godzilla in an attempt to enslave the gargantuan to their will. But they may be underestimating the true power of Godzilla… get ready for a battle of titans in Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters #11!

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Kirby Genesis #5

Kirby Genesis #5
Covers: Alex Ross (main), Ryan Sook (1-in-10) Writer: Kurt Busiek Artist and Painter: Jack Herbert, Alex Ross Colorist: Vinicius Andrade The stakes are already high in a battle royale pitting Silver Star, Captain Victory and the Glory Knights versus Darius Drumm, the Lightning Lady and Roag over the Proto-Seed — and when Sigurd Dragonsbane and the Mythics join in, the results will shake he heavens themselves. Meanwhile, Kirby’s only hope for survival on the Phantom Continent lies in the Primals, whose secrets are rooted deep in the history of mankind itself.

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Justice League #5

Justice League #5
By: Geoff Johns, Jim Lee
Now, with the teenaged powerhouse Cyborg at their side, this group of individual heroes must somehow put their differences aside to face the terror of Darkseid!
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I Vampire #5

I Vampire #5
By: Joshua Hale Fialkov, Andrea Sorrentino, Jenny Frison
The war of the vampires comes to Batman’s doorstep! The Queen of Blood has deadly plans for the citizens of Gotham City, but before Andrew can stop her, he must face The Dark Knight!

Captain America and Hawkeye fight dinosaurs, Spidey, DD and Punisher explore the Omega Effect

Marvel’s ‘next big thing’ conference has revealed some interesting developments. Captain America gets a monthly team-up book, starting with the new glory boy of the Avengers, that purple-clad bowman Hawkeye. Over on the street-level books, the events in Mark Waid’s Daredevil book (you ARE reading, right?) explode across the pages of Punisher and Spider-Man in The Omega Effect.

Details below…

Today continued the trend of Marvel’s Next Big Thing series of press conference calls with yet another big announcement from the House of Ideas: the conversion of “Captain America & Bucky” to “Captain America & Hawkeye.” Moderator Junior Sales Administrator James Viscardi was joined by series writer Cullen Bunn, who shed some light on the upcoming series.

The book will be written by Bunn with art by Alessandro Vitti continuing the numbering of “Captain America & Bucky.” “The ‘Cap and Bucky’ series was going to go through this change in stories that didn’t focus on Cap and Bucky in the past and shake things up a bit,” said Bunn. “They contacted me to see if I’d be interested in writing this series. Hawkeye was one of the characters that I love the most, so I jumped all over that. The interesting thing about the series is that it is going to be Captain America and Hawkeye, but it is going to be a rotating cast.” After four issues the cast will change to Captain America and somebody else. There will be both arcs and one-shots featuring Cap and other characters.

“The short and simple of it is Captain America and Hawkeye go out and fight a bunch of dinosaurs,” said Bunn of the first arc. “That’s pretty much how I pitched my initial story. I wanted to get into the dynamic of these two characters who have been Avengers for so long.” The writer also said he wanted to play off their previous relationship and explore how they see each other in terms of how they handle different situations.

———————

In terms of the tone of “Captain America & Hawkeye,” Bunn said the book would be a different type of story than “Cap & Bucky.” “It’s more of a high-octane action story, a little more light-hearted,” he said. “I really want these stories to be a lot of fun. I’ve written the first arc and I’m really going for something fun and entertaining with a lot of action. A real superhero story.”

“Captain America touches on all these corners of the Marvel Universe. There are limitless possibilities, really,” said Bunn. “I know a couple of characters that will be joining the roster initially. I can’t name all of them because I haven’t gotten approval … but there is going to be a ‘Captain America & Iron Man’ and a ‘Captain America & Black Widow.’ There are going to be other characters and definitely some non-Avengers.”

Bunn said he wanted to try to play a little bit in continuity and out by keeping things grounded in the Marvel Universe, but also accessible for new readers. “I want the book to have relevance and be important and reference things in the Marvel Universe,” he said, “but I also want it to be strong enough for people to just read those stories and enjoy those things for what they are.”

When Bunn started making his little list of every character he wanted to have Cap team up with, Captain America and Hawkeye came pretty close to the top of the list, but there are definitely more that he’s hoping to push for. “Captain America and Union Jack is one I’d like to push for,” he said. “I think Union Jack’s a great character, but I love the idea of those two working together. There are a lot of obscure characters I’d like Cap to team up with. … If I could get Captain America and the Enigma Force team up, my dreams will be fulfilled.”

-Via ComicBookResources

Marvel’s week of “Next Big Thing” conference calls with the comic book press continues on Thursday at 3 p.m. eastern, and per usual, we don’t have concrete details on what will be discussed or who will be on the line, but based on the art we’ve received, we’ve got a pretty strong indication.

The first promo image — with the Punisher skull, Daredevil mask and spider web — had a filename of “TheOmegaEffect,” and the subsequent covers sent to the press were of upcoming Avenging Spider-Man, Daredevil and Punisher issues (click through the “related images” gallery on the right to peruse said covers). So it doesn’t take an expert prognosticator to assume that a crossover between those three books, titled “The Omega Effect,” might be coming in April.
—————–
Update: “The Omega Effect” is a three-part crossover between the April issues of Avenging Spider-Man, Daredevil and Punisher, Marvel revealed Thursday afternoon at their latest “Next Big Thing” press conference call.

All three issues will be written by Greg Rucka and Mark Waid, with the two co-writing Avenging Spider-Man #7, then the two writers stay on their usual books; Waid on Daredevil #11 and Rucka on Punisher #10. Each issue will be illustrated by Marco Checchetto.

The story centers on the Omega Drive currently in Daredevil’s possession, which contains critical information on five of the top crime organizations in the Marvel Universe.

“He’s basically trying to beat the clock, trying to find the best application for this thing, and that’s when Frank Castle knocks on the door,” Waid said.

“These five organizations don’t want anybody else to have it,” Rucka added. “Frank’s feeling is, ‘I can keep it safe, and I can use it properly,’ and Matt hears that, as ‘I can keep it safe, and I can use it to kill a lot of people.'”

Via Newsarama

Quick review: Aquaman, Daredevil, The Flash

Aquaman #4

By Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis
The latest Aquaman revival is at its fourth issue, the conclusion to the opening storyline: The Trench. The man who relit the Green Lantern, gave Hawkman his wings back and brought the Flash up to speed, Geoff Johns, has finally taken a hand at the King of the Seven Seas and… I’m still not sure what to make of it.

Aquaman is a solid book that features astounding artwork from Ivan Reis (whom I have enjoyed on his various DCU projects over the years), but the script still feels like it is lacking something and that may be depth (if you’ll pardon the pun). The tricky thing with Aquaman is that there really is not much to the core character. He swims, he talks to fish and that’s about it. Subsequent attempts to add some edge to the character by pairing him with a mermaid-ish wife from another dimension, giving him a son then killing him, taking his hand, bringing back his hand in numerous forms, growing his hair/cutting his hair… have really made it plain that DC Editorial has no clue what to do with this character which is bizarre since he is so embedded in the public consciousness and recognized even by people unfamiliar with comic books.

When I heard of the New 52 project and that Aquaman was going to fall under Johns’ watch I was gearing myself up for a revamp or retooling a la the Rebirth comics he had written for both Green Lantern and the Flash. However, in this case, we are seeing a different, more subtle approach that has the character define himself by his actions through an adventure story rather than the story wrap itself around his origin. It’s an inspired decision but leaves me wondering if this is really the best idea as Aquaman is in such dire need of a revival.

The first storyline is a quirky one that involves Aquaman and his wife Mera attempting to live a ‘normal life’ away from Atlantis among humans. Aquaman had only just recently returned from the dead in the amazing maxi-series Brightest Day and deserves some time to find himself, especially given his track record with his underwater kingdom (at one point they chained him to a rock in the sun and left him to die). Through the reactions of the locals, we see that Aquaman is not regarded as a ‘heavy hitter’ by any stretch of the imagination and he handles the lack of respect with a stiff upper lip without looking brooding or intense.

The seaside town comes under attack from an ancient race of carnivorous beasts and only Aquaman and Mera stand a chance of stopping them. They discover a vast civilization under the waves that has become awakened (much like Godzilla) from a long hibernation and are seeking food for their queen. The ‘food’ in this case, consists of people preserved in gelatinous sacks on the cave walls. Unfortunately, the queen’s brood are mainly stillborn and the cave is littered with dead infants (pleasant, huh?) that are in turn eaten by the adults (thank you, DC Comics).

Understandably disturbed, Aquaman nevertheless feels compassion for the creatures and wants to aid them but in the end cannot help but damn them to a death under the sea, trapping them within an underwater volcanic eruption. Once more on the surface, Aquaman is accepted into the town as he and Mera take up residence in Aquaman’s father’s lighthouse. The closing scene where they are united with the stray dog was touching and showed simply that this is the beginning of a new life for the sea-faring superhero.

It’s not quite up to the quality of his previous work and the cannibalistic monster things were incredibly horrific (why do most DC Comics feature these nightmarish visuals???), but it’s a good start and I hope that the creative team stick to it as the series gains more momentum.

Daredevil #7

By Mark Waid, Paolo and Joe Rivera
Across the street, Mark Waid is showing how to reboot a hero without killing him or starting him over from the beginning in Daredevil. Sure, the previous series saw DD transform into a massive demonic creature that led an army of ninjas… but Waid was not faced with a solid reboot when he arrived to bring the magic back to the Man Without Fear.

Stripping away the grim drama and intensity from Daredevil may strike most readers are an impossible task that would remove the title’s core qualities but it has resulted in one of the most acclaimed superhero books on the stands and for good reason. Back to practicing law, Matt Murdock and Foggy Nelson attempt to shake the curse of Daredevil and rather than enter the courts and be mocked instead advise their clients to represent themselves. Openly denying that he is the man without fear, Murdock lives a somewhat normal life with the occasional supervillain battle. A writer without parallel, Waid’s work on Daredevil has shown that if the stories are solid and the art good, the book will make it. In the case of DD, the art has been nothing short of jaw-dropping, joining the ranks of series like Batwoman and the Flash as breath-takingly gorgeous.

The latest issue feels very much like a television program and operates as a stand-alone story. Murdock is leading a class of blind ‘trouble’ students from a private school on a trip to the Catskills. On the busride back, they encounter a snowstorm and the bus turns over, stranding the kids and Murdock in the wild all alone. Even with his radar gift, Murdock is almost as blind as the children due to the heavy snow blocking his second sight but he is determined to save and protect the children. Pulling them along with his billy-club’s extended cord, he leads them through the hip-deep snow drifts to safety… and then things get worse.

DD #7 is a fantastic issue that serves as a guide for anyone interested in telling a compelling story in the comic book medium. The characters are solid, the action well told and the drama strong. Not a single punch is thrown, there’s no sign of a super villain and no one dies only to return an issue later. It’s just a great comic.

The Flash #4

By Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato
I have a lot of respect for Francis Manapul. His work on the Flash with Geoff Johns was very good and reminded me of the secret formula that makes the Flash such a great read; an inventive story and spell-binding artwork. Previous artists such as Scot Kolins, Howard Porter and Alfredo Dos have taken the baton left by Carmine Infantino and run with it, filling the pages with that weird rippling line and lightning bolt combo that is the character’s trademark.

The modern revised Flash is a new character in many ways, while he retains the qualities of Barry Allen; a clumsy bachelor with an inventive mind and a heart of gold. The new series sees Allen in the early days of his speedster career, still finding new ways to tap into that mysterious ‘speed force.’ The issues to date have seen him vibrate an airliner through a bridge and out-think his enemies.

Despite my praise, this opening storyline ‘Mob Rule’ feels like it is dragging on for far too long. There have been some very clever ideas, but much of the plot involves a new character who requires so much development that this issue is almost entirely about him!

While Barry Allen lies dead (apparently) from a point blank gunshot wound, we are finally told the origin of Mob Rule and his relationship to Barry Allen. It’s a good story and well told… I just have a hard time ignoring the fact that the star of the book was only in the last few pages!

Honestly, Manapul kind of wrote himself into a corner here as so much of the story was unclear that an entire issue needed to be set aside for exposition. However, he’s a very talented artist and his layouts and design make the experience a stunning one. Images drip and branch from panel to panel, sometimes with characters literally leaping from the confines of one moment to the next.

When it comes time for best series to come along or best break-out talent, Francis Manapul deserves some consideration. He has made the Flash comic into a must read series by pouring all of his talent into every issue.

Quick reviews: Daredevil, Flash, Captain America and Bucky, All-Star Western and Hawkman

Daredevil #6

By Mark Waid and Marcos Martin
When most people think of Daredevil, they think of Frank Miller’s noirish take on the character. Full of angst and longing, Matt Murdock’s crest-fallen face donned the pages of the series for almost every issue after Miller made his mark on the book. Mark Waid, however, remembers a different, simpler time from Daredevil’s past when he was a swash-buckling hero full of charm and wit.

The new Daredevil series has been catching the attention of fans and critics alike since its debut. The characters move through the panels so fluidly that it feels like an entirely new style of art, though it owes a lot to classic Italian and French sequential artists. It’s a beautiful, fun comic with lots of action and plenty of tension-filled moments as Daredevil faces death with a winsome grin and a billy club, blind to the danger.

The latest story line involves DD facing off against an intricate criminal plot involving AIM, Hydra, The Secret Society and more. When one man overhears a key detail, he is marked for death. A translator for a large corporation, Austin Cao was fired by his employer after he overheard something he shouldn’t have. Fortunately he turns to Matt Murdock for legal advice and falls under the protection of the man without fear. Knowing that Daredevil is involved, the hitman Bruiser is hired to eliminate him once and for all.

Bruiser is a career villain, working his way up through the ranks of costumed crime fighters to make a name for himself. Adorned with brands from the largest evil empires on the planet, he is a force to be reckoned with. Daredevil cannot use Jiu-Jitsu against Bruiser, nor can he attack him directly. And the longer the two men battle, the more battered Murdock becomes.

I love comics where the hero is up against impossible odds and this book has that quality in truck loads. One of the finest superhero comics on the stands, you need to be reading this.

___________________________

The Flash #3

By Francios Manipul and Brian Buccellato
The Flash has been having a hard time getting back on his feet, shall we say. His Rebirth mini-series was an awkward start to a come-back and the ongoing series became too closely entwined with Brightest Day to make sense to a casual reader. For a guy whose chief quality is running fast, he was overly complicated with a vast arsenal of back-stories and co-Flashes.

Of all the DC 52 reboots, the Flash makes the most sense in the end. It’s still unclear exactly where on his career this series takes place, but Barry Allen is a Central City Police Scientist and a bachelor. Without the previous Flash Jay Garrick, his protege Wally West or the kid from the future to bog him down, he can once again be unique (though I have no idea who Kid Flash in Teen Titans is meant to be). The new Flash series is very friendly to new readers, full of dynamic artwork and eye-catching layout. The plot is a bit muddy, but the ideas are wild.

Most recently, Flash discovered a way to tap into the Speed Force to think faster as well as move faster than a regular human being. The idea in itself is interesting but the visual representation of the events around him popped out into individual panels is amazing. That is the true strength of this series, the artwork and layout design. This issue, for instance, opens with the Flash vibrating a passenger plane through a bridge as it falls from the sky.

One of the more interesting and exciting of DC’s books, it’s also pretty harmless in the violence department with no sign of a serial killer ripping off faces (so far).

___________________________

Captain America and Bucky# 624

By: Ed Brubaker & Marc Andreyko and Chris Samnee
I had my doubts when Captain America split into two ongoing books, one following Steve Rogers while the other chronicled past adventures of Bucky Barnes, but this book has really grown on me. The writing team of Brubaker and Andreyko is firing on all cylinders with rich characterization, all out action and suspense along with that most important element, continuity.

The Captain America & Bucky series has been filling in some blanks in the career of the two war-time heroes, but the latest is like a full circle closing the tale of the Winter Soldier into a complete package. I had written yesterday about how the ‘death’ of Bucky in the 1960’s could be the first act of retro-active continuity. It was a key element in Brubaker’s plan to bring Bucky back in the first place. When Captain America remembered an adventure in which he and Bucky fought Baron Zemo and Bucky was killed along with the drone plane, it was new information and a big source of confusion for anyone who had been reading the adventures of Cap and Bucky in the 1950’s.

When Rogers got his hands on the Cosmic Cube, he altered history so that Bucky was not killed in the blast and had in fact survived, albeit as a physically scarred and mentally unbalanced soldier. Discovered by the Soviets, Bucky was transformed into a super assassin, the Winter Soldier. Training alongside Natasha Romanov (alias the Black Widow), Barnes started to rebel against his superiors and was put on ice. Revived only when needed, his life-span was extended while his mental state became more unbalanced.

This issue is key for anyone wanting a quick run down on just what I am talking about and it’s also superbly drawn by Chris Samnee.

___________________________

All-Star Western #3

By Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti with Moritat and Jordi Bernet
I have already crowed about the greatness of this series and it just continues to impress. One of the few DC monthly books over the $3 line, All-Star Western is well worth the extra dough. Gray and Palmiotti had developed a strong following with their previous Hex work but this really is a whole new beast.

Working with Amadeus Arkham (yes, of Arkham Asylum), Jonah has been working a murder case that is unsolvable. Working with Arkham, Hex has uncovered a conspiracy of the Religion of Crime that reaches the highest ranks of society in Gotham. Pitting themselves against almost all of Gotham City, the previous issue ended with the pair understandably out-gunned. This issue more or less wraps up the case in quick order. As far as substance, there’s not much to the third issue which is a big let-down.

The resolution was a bit too quick for my liking, but given that this issue also seems to have ended the sub-plot of Hex’s bounty in Gotham, perhaps next month will mark a clean slate. The writing and art are still slick, but I can’t shake the feeling that this issue lays hints that maybe the book should have continued using its tried and true anthology style after all.

___________________________

The Savage Hawkman #3

By Tony S. Daniel and Philip Tan
I’m a big fan of Hawkman’s and I’m not afraid to admit it. A somewhat obscure character dating back to the Golden Age of comics back in the late 1930’s, the winged avenger has gone through some changes over the years, most notably when he became a star-faring space-cop. A soul trapped in an eternal struggle of death and re-birth, the last time he was seen in comics, he was trying to kill his deadliest foe once and for all and ended up losing his mate, Shiera. Disgruntled and frustrated, he attempted to destroy his Nth metal wing harness only to become engulfed in the ensuing inferno. The Nth metal is now part of him and he has become a slave to its curse has once more.

The new Hawkman series is a real headscratcher. With no bearing whatsoever on the previous version of the character, the plot nonetheless demands that you have read Brightest Day to understand why he would be viewing the Nth metal as a curse in the first place. The character is almost entirely different, a frustrated expert in arcane knowledge working on an archaeological find that is actually an alien artifact.

Using weaponry ‘grown’ out of his body made of Nth metal, Hawkman has been battling the 90’s throw-back villain Morphicius for three months now and I am still none the wiser. The artwork by Philip Tan is very pretty and the action is good, but the plot feels like a murky mess of ideas that never really brewed properly. That in itself is a surprise as Tony S. Daniel has written some magnificent material for Batman in the past and present.

I may be a big Hawkman fan, but I’m not sure how long I can hang on waiting for this series to feel like a Hawkman book or make a lick of sense.