April 12, 2023

ODPH Podcast

Comics, Horror, Image Comics, NCBD, Supernatural

PHANTOM ROAD #2 (IMAGE COMICS)

April 12, 2023

ODPH Podcast

Comics, Horror, Image Comics, NCBD, Supernatural

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH podcast!

For this entry, we’re continuing to follow the adventures of a truck driver’s unexpected detour into another world in the pages of a brand new series from Image Comics. PHANTOM ROAD #2 by Jeff Lemire, Gabriel H. Walta, Jordie Bellaire and Steve Wands take readers along for the ride as they follow a pair of unexcepted allies trying to find their way home. Let’s take a closer look at how this story is moving forward, shall we?

PHANTOM ROAD #2
Creative: Jeff Lemire, Gabriel H. Walta, Jordie Bellaire and Steve Wands
Credit: Image Comics

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Dom’s life turns upside down on a fateful route one night. Being a truck driver, Dom has seen his fair share of odd things on the highways but nothing could prepare him for what this haul was dealing with. After helping a couple after a fatal car crash, Dom tries helping Beverly aka Birdie with what’s happened. A mysterious object appears to have caused the accident. When Dom approaches it, a green flash ensues and the pair is transported away to a new world. Once they arrive there, faceless beings are coming for the object. Dom and Birdie fight their way out of the situation, protecting the object and trying to piece together what’s happened!

As this issue opens up, Dom and Birdie are traveling down the highway still processing what has happened. The conversation centers around what Birdie and her fiancée were doing on the road and where are they now. As they drive, they see more faceless figures standing around a familiar truck-stop. The pair pulls over and go to investigate. The area is vacant with mindless beings just standing around. As the pair goes inside, they don’t see anything. However, Birdie takes one look out the window and sees a frightening sight: it’s the world they know! As she runs outside, the vacant space returns…..

As they go back inside, Dom and Birdie are not prepared for what they find. There’s an enigmatic individual sitting in a booth. What answers does this person have for the pair? Can he explain where they are? Readers get some insight to what’s going on but as the story progresses, Dom and Birdie find themselves enwrapped into another situation that they can’t explain. The final image of this issue proves without a shadow of a doubt that the story has only just started to hit the gas!

BREAKDOWN: Lemire keeps readers on the edge with what is turning out to be one hell of a story. Lemire takes the two leads into uncharted territory and their banter definitely reflects that. Neither knows what to expect and there is trepidation in their words. Dom is trying to assess everything while Birdie is desperate in finding anything the resembles the way things were. The conversation between the pair and the figure at the diner gives some clarity onto what’s happening but still keeps the aura of wonder very vivid. The pacing moves at a swift rate but the final act throws a great curve into an already puzzling story. The closing moments bring up feeling of “what just happened” and readers won’t be able to help themselves but become further invested in what’s going on here.

Walta crafts a gritty and dark tone throughout this issue. The scenes at the rest stop feel cold and distant. Bellaire on the coloring helps to amplify those scenes. Even when there’s chances of cracking the mystery, the tone never changes. The emotions shown from Dom and Birdie when they meet the stranger come across as one would expect in their situation. Fear, frustration and anxiety fill those panels. The final act sets things up for the shocking twists in the closing moments. It builds up the tension while keeping readers guessing to the surprise at the end. Excellent final parting image to send readers out with.

FINAL POINT: Lemire, Walta, and the team take readers further down the dark highway with an excellent second chapter. The world of Dom and Birdie is filled with shocking turns and a thrilling puzzle that has only begun to show its’ true form. This is a book you don’t want to miss on New Comic Book Day!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Phantom Road #2. Thanks for reading!

April 11, 2023

ODPH Podcast

Comixology Originals, Comics, NCBD

BREAKLANDS #11 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS)

April 11, 2023

ODPH Podcast

Comixology Originals, Comics, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH podcast.

For this entry, we’re checking out the first chapter of the final arc for a fantasy series on the Comixology Originals line that you want to keep your eyes out for. Season 3 of BREAKLANDS by Justin Jordan, Tyasseta, Sarah Stern, and Rachel Deering welcomes readers back to the adventures of Kasa Fain and her brother Adam as they look to be the deciding factors in the fate of the world. Seasons 1 and 2 of BREAKLANDS are available now on Comixology but let’s take a closer look to see how the concluding chapter sets the season up, shall we?

BREAKLANDS #11
Justin Jordan, Tyasseta, Sarah Stern, and Rachel Deering
Credit: Comixology Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

If you’re just checking this series out, the world as you know it has vastly changed. The entire population has powers…EVERYONE! One hundred and fifty years after this has happened and the landscape has changed. Through this new environment, readers have met Kasa Fain, her brother Adam, Gargarin, Toy, who has pyrotechnic powers, and the nearly impenetrable Ruth to name a few. With danger lurking around every turn, can Kasa (even with her evolving powers as a Null) keep the people she cares about safe or will they succumb to the Breaklands they live in?

The season premiere kicks off with Gargarin speeding away with an unconscious Adam, narrating his actions. Feeling that there’s one way to escape this reality of “the Break”, Gargarin talks thorough his actions. As Gargarin takes Adam through the terrain, readers see a huge image that appears to be Shining City. Once they approach, an unseen attack forces them to stop. Chocking to death, Gargarin makes a plea for the voice talking claiming he can find the null. The attack stops and the pair are let into the city. The Magister confronts them and takes Adam into medical treatment. Gargarin claims Rask, who has been the imposing antagonist of this series, was behind this. However, the Magister doesn’t believe him and takes Gargarin as prisoner!

Meanwhile, Toy and Ruth are travelling with an unconscious Kasa in the back seat. During their conversation concerning Rask, Kasa wakes up confused and asking about her brother. Toy updates her about Gargarin’s actions. With Rask and the Kingdom now looking for Kasa, the future looks bleak. Readers get to witness the major players advance towards the endgame. Will Gargarin survive returning to the Shining City? What levels is Rask willing to go to? Can Kasa save her brother? There are many thoughts coming out of this issue with a finale sequence that shows this conclusion has only just begun.

BREAKDOWN: Jordan hits the ground running with the season premiere. New readers might be a bit lost at first with what is unfolding but can pick things up quickly. Gargarin’s story showed how the Magister is seeing Adam as a weapon for what lies ahead. His actions come across cold and vindictive to the plans he has involving Adam. It mirrors what Rask has planned out for Kasa. With having two people as perceived as powerful as they are, Jordan sets them the brother and sister as pawns to be used in a much grander scale later. Pacing gives readers enough time to connect (or reconnect for longtime readers) with the cast that as things move quickly, there still is enough time to become invested in the final play.

Tyasseta brings a very clean and energetic style to the book. The full page visual of Shining City is one that jumps out when reading this issue. It gives readers a full idea into why Gargarin is so desperate to get back inside with the detailed panels. Once Adam has been taken into medical treatment/custody, the switch to the pink coloring when using his powers is a noticeable touch that works. The panels with Rask also are noteworthy. Seeing Rask’s rage boil up to unleashing his power onto his followers makes a statement while giving a dramatic build thrown in. Kasa’s time in the book captures the panic she feels when realizing what Gargarin has done. The emotional outbursts continue with a very direct point once Adam realizes he’s still missing his sister. This all helped illustrate the interest in the siblings. Great final panel to set things in motion heading towards the season/series conclusion.

FINAL POINT: Breaklands season 3 kicks off with all the major players moving closer to what can only be a world-shattering event. Jordan, Tyasseta, and the team deliver on solid writing and energetic art to set the final trek in motion for a pair of super-powered siblings caught in the crossfire of a much larger scale conflict. Keep an eye out for this book on New Comic Book Day on Comixology Originals.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you think of Breaklands #11. Thanks for reading.

March 8, 2023

Ken M

Comics, Image Comics, NCBD

STONEHEART #1 (IMAGE COMICS)

March 8, 2023

Ken M

Comics, Image Comics, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog for the ODPH podcast!

For this entry, we’re checking out a debut fantasy series from Image Comics featuring a writer/artist that has been crushing it on fantastic books like Frank Miller’s Pandora, RADIANT PINK and INKBLOT. Stoneheart #1 by EMMA KUBERT introduces readers to the wildly imaginative world of Shayde Whisper, a character that is sure to have fans talking. The mystery behind Whisper and the land of Athea is about to unfold so let’s not delay any longer and check out what’s happening, shall we?

STONEHEART #1
Creative: Emma Kubert
Credit: IMAGE COMICS

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story opens up with a map of Athea, breaking down the important areas of the land. Excellent way to introduce the new landscape to readers with definitive points of interest to keep eyes on.

From here, The Paladins of the North Estron Kingdom are holding court concerning the fate of a figure who has created a polarizing reaction. The banter is confrontational amongst the council known as the Council Of Might. The reactions are very different in deciding on the young woman’s punishment. Some say help her, some say exile her from the kingdom. This ends with a decision from Chieftain Orphidian, who has heard enough. She summons the accused known as Shayde Whisper to face the council. Whisper is led in via chains to face the group. Readers see there is a voice talking with her and seems to have an influence on what has transpired. In a fit of rage, Whipser (also known as Paladin Stoneheart) breaks free but is subdued quickly. With this latest action, the council makes their decision and exile Stoneheart from the kingdom!

A man walks up and appears to mindwipe her thoughts, resulting in her waking up in a carriage heading towards the Lightspring Canyon of Etrana Kingdom in Athea. Whisper appears to be facing the new place with optimism and excitement. It’s a far cry from the dangerous being the Council thought stood before them. Once arriving in town, Whisper hits the ground running establishing a new life and career. However, as the story unfolds, readers see that Whisper’s past might not be done with her.

What new dangers now lurk in her new hometown? How far can she run from her past? Who is behind the influencing voice. The final act grabs readers along for the ride as Whisper’s new stat quo is established with mystery looming in the shadows and an action that will have big ramifications moving forward.

BREAKDOWN: Kubert is writing and drawing this series, presenting fans with a captivating tale with a lead character’s secret as the driving point. For being a debut issue, Kubert take the time to introduce all the major players with caption boxes, noting their ages as well. This plays into the council’s decision to exile Whisper out of the Estron Kingdom. Readers see the differences of the elders versus the younger members factoring in the choice of punishment. Once the story shifts to the LightSpring Canyon, Kubert spends a solid amount of time to forge the beginning friendship between Whisper and the local Blacksmith which makes the events of the final act much more impactful. Pacing works well to move the story forward without tipping off too much. The conclusion ends things with a unique style cliffhanger but one work to add more questions going to the next issue. It’s an excellent way to have readers interest spiking even more from this debut issue.

The art reflects the mystical backdrop to this story. Great use of the black and white coloring for the Estron Kingdom moments while establishing the voices with the turquoise and red color blocks for the voices. Once the story moves locations and goes to full color, Kubert brings to life a vibrant energy reflecting Whisper’s endless positivity. Her reactions to the events happening made a connection with the readers. The new landscape has a certain charm to it with its’ various residents making it noteworthy. Even with all the world building, there are some excellent action scenes which play into a bigger role heading to the final act. Speaking of that act, things move pretty quickly but Kubert never lets the emotions slide as the events unfold. Readers won’t be disappointed with how things conclude as they’re left with much to ponder with anticipation as this fantasy tale is only beginning to start its’ journey.

FINAL POINT: Is optimism enough to survive on when danger and deception constantly looming? That is the question Stoneheart #1 poses. Readers are greeted to the enigmatic Shayde Whisper with a fantastic mix of intriguing storytelling and imaginative art. Emma Kubert sets the stage for a fantasy tale that shows no sign of missing its mark. Don’t miss your chance picking up this engaging comic at the local comic shop this week.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Stoneheart #1. Thanks for reading.

February 28, 2023

Ken M

Comixology Originals, Comics, NCBD

TRICK PONY (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS)

February 28, 2023

Ken M

Comixology Originals, Comics, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog for the ODPH podcast.

For this entry, we’re checking out the latest graphic novel by a writer who is no stranger to them. Greg Lockard, who readers know from his graphic novel Liebestrasse, returns to Comixology Originals with a brand new story. For TRICK PONY, Lockard is joined by Anna David, Lucas Gattoni and Will Dennis for a tale about one man’s journey facing his past to find his future. Let’s take a closer look at what’s unfolding with this story, shall we?

TRICK PONY OGN
Creative: Greg Lockard, Anna David, Lucas Gattoni and Will Dennis
Credit: Comixology Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story begins with a crowd shuffling into a rodeo. The PA announcer is getting them hyped up introducing “The sweetheart of the rodeo….Jimmy Thomas!” The vibe is Jimmy is just pushing thru as his best days are long gone. As he rides his horse into a flaming circle, Jimmy is thrown off the horse upon landing. Waking up to a doctor checking him over, Jimmy is told to stop horse-riding as one more fall could prove deadly. Defiantly, Jimmy ignores the advice. At this moment, Jimmy is told by Gram, the rodeo manager that his mother called with bad news about his father. He’s in the hospital and things do not sound good. Jimmy acts unfazed by this news and is only focused on going to party after the show.

With the drinks flowing, Jimmy brushes off calling his mother back and sets out to party the night away. He’s approached by a reporter in the bar for a cover story. Jimmy escapes the crowd with him and starts a conversation. The topic shifts to Jimmy’s future in the business, which Jimmy evades to only get more tequila. As the night moves forward, so does Jimmy’s partying. From drinking, dancing and making out with a gentleman acquaintance, Jimmy makes the most of the night. This leads to a surprise move a Jimmy finds his horse, Emmylou and ventures to see his parents while figuring out his future.

From the city, Jimmy and Emmylou make their way to Silver Creek. As he makes a stop to splash some water on hi face, Emmylou becomes scared as a walking coyote (with Jimmy’s notable 2 different colored eyes) appears to be stealing his satchel. A chase ensues which leads to Jimmy wrestling the creature down only to have the tides turned. At this moment, Jimmy is taken back to his youth and beginnings in the rodeo. Readers witness as Jimmy does a ride but his fellow rider/boyfriend Zeke doesn’t fare as well. Zeke is injured from the ride and can’t try riding until a few surgeries happen (at best). During this time, their love is challenged by Jimmy’s success and offers to leave for the big show. Zeke ultimately ends things for the two and Jimmy snaps back to “reality” where the creature leads them to shelter for the night. On this journey, the creature shifts into a dog named Casey and they arrive at the doorstep of Casey’s owner, who offers shelter from an upcoming storm. Sparks begin to fly between the owner and Jimmy. Even with the passionate moment, Jimmy is still thinking about the past with Zeke.

At this stage, readers see another figure appear before Jimmy. This encounter leads Jimmy down a more dangerous path as he keeps flashing back to other moments with Zeke. What do these visions mean? How do they try into the present? Will Jimmy get back to his parents or be lost in his own dark journey? Readers will get to ride along with Jimmy as he faces his past legacy as the tale takes quite a few detours before ending up at its’ fulfilling conclusion with Jimmy’s future defined.

Breakdown: Lockard shapes the story of Jimmy Thomas as a defining statement of how love can conquer all. The novel is broken into a few key places backing that statement up. Jimmy’s love of the rodeo is a driving point of his character and one he refuses to walk away from even though it may kill him. Jimmy’s love of family is another point as that becomes his drive to race against time to see his father. That said, those loves fail in comparison to his love of Zeke and the emotional toll it takes on him to escape from its’ demise before wrestling with its closure before moving on. The self exploration Lockard sets Jimmy on to unlock captures readers as they see him battle to find the one love that ultimately wins him. There is no clear-cut path to that answer with many stops along the way in reflecting the past to set forth the future. Mixing in elements such as guides like “coyote” made for unique twists in Jimmy’s path. The ending doesn’t miss the landing as it leaves readers with a definitive answer to where Jimmy’s heart lies now.

David combines fantasy imagery in with the realistic look at Jimmy’s journey into his own vision of love. The transformation of the coyote into the dog was a rime example of this. It also showed how Jimmy was dealing with his memories of his times with Zeke, losing himself in those moments. Another great Segway into his flashbacks involves a near full page panel involving lightning to send him back into his own memories of an argument with Zeke. These are balanced out with vivid scenery as Jimmy treks back to his parents on horseback. Davis makes these panels stand out with brighter colors to set the tone of happiness in contrast to hiding his emotions with his partying lifestyle with blue colors. Excellent final panel to close the novel out with a lasting image for readers.

FINAL POINT: Trick Pony centers around one man’s path into closure for past emotions while discovering what is his true vision of love is. Lockard, David and the team bring this tale to life with poignant writing and vivid art to brings readers along for a defining ride for a hero of the rodeo. Make sure to keep an eye out of this OGN on Comixology for New Comic Book Day.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Trick Pony. Thanks for reading.

February 15, 2023

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Horror, NCBD

GRIM #8 (BOOM! STUDIOS)

February 15, 2023

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Horror, NCBD

Welcome to a brand new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast.

For this entry, we’re returning to the pages of the dead (so to speak) and seeing what kind of trouble comics’ favorite reaper has gotten into now via one of the big breakout hits of 2022! The series has been required reading since its’ debut and shows no signs of falling off. Grim #8 by Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano for Boom! Studios takes readers on a wild ride with our lead character trying to figure out what has caused the latest danger she needs to face. Let’s take a deeper dive on the latest escapade, shall we?

Editor note: Some of the images here might be tough for younger readers so discretion is advised. Still all good? Ok, let’s check this book out!

Grim #8 - On Sale February 15th, 2023
Creative: Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano (Cover: Justine Florentino)
Credit: Boom! Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

After being banished from the afterlife by her aunt Adira, Jessica Harrow’s life as a reaper has become more complicated. From the initial moment where she crossed over into the land of the living chasing a runaway soul to learning her father is the being known as Death, Jessica’s (after)life has become complicated with reveal after reveal. After Death and The End, a being who makes sure life and death are balanced, destroy each other, there’s a big power vacuum in the afterlife.

Now stationed in Las Vegas, Jessica (along with fellow banished reapers/friends Eddie and Marcel), something strange is happening with people having a red marking appear on their foreheads and no one can die now, no matter how badly they are sick or hurt. Outside forces are plotting to make moves but it appears all signs point to Jessica being responsible. Oh yeah, Did we forget Lilah, her human mother in prison now knows?

This issue kicks off seeing Jessica’s mother in the middle of a prison riot. The inmates and guards have the mysterious red markings on them, but Lilah is fighting her way thru all while narrating a letter sent from Death before his demise. With a clue pointing to New Mexico, Lilah escapes and leaves a burning jail in her wake. Meanwhile in the afterlife, Adira is trying to calm the masses of reapers who see no dead souls. Adira gives them a name “responsible”: Jessica Harrow!

As for Jessica, she’s been confronted by the sisters of Fate, who explain the situation at hand to her. Jessica is not exactly on board with their information, but it appears there might be one way out of this and it means nothing good! What is the new situation presented to her? Is she willing to accept what has been proposed to her? Does she have a choice? Readers find out quick as the closing panel shows that more parties are interested in Jessica and her friends than they thought!

Phillips is starting to put some of the mystery pieces together while keeping readers guessing at what’s happening here. Taking a small break from the red markings epidemic other than the riot worked well. Seeing how Jessica’ mother is now involved adds a new dynamic to the current story. Phillips instantly makes her debut feel huge with having her fight thru a prison riot unscathed. The cutthroat actions of Adira are always a great counter to Jessica’s character. Seeing how she handles being made Afterlife enemy #1 will be fun to watch. The situation with the sisters of Fate is an intriguing one as it was one readers won’t see coming. Solid final page to close out on. Readers will be curious to see where that leads moving forward.

How cool is Flaviano’s art? Seriously. From the architecture of Adira’s throne room to the astral plane of the Sisters of Fate, Flaviano and Renzi gives this book such a different and energetic feel. There truly isn’t anything like it on the market in my opinion. The panel set up with the “dream” borders was a great touch. The only thing missing was the usual music lyrics factored in by Napolitano, but this issue had much to enjoy regardless of that.

FINAL POINT: Grim #8 delivers a very solid issue to move its’ second arc forward. Phillips, Flaviano and the team bring their winning mash-up of incredible writing and art to give readers an issue they can’t miss this week at the LCS. Make sure you have this in your pull list for NCBD.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Grim #8. Thanks for reading.

January 25, 2023

Ken M

Black Market Narrative, Comics, Image Comics, NCBD, Rogue Sun, Radiant Black, The Dead Lucky, The Massive-Verse

INFERNO GIRL RED: BOOK ONE #1 (IMAGE COMICS)

January 25, 2023

Ken M

Black Market Narrative, Comics, Image Comics, NCBD, Rogue Sun, Radiant Black, The Dead Lucky, The Massive-Verse

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH podcast!

For this entry: One of the most anticipated books of 2023 is finally set to land in the comic shops on January 25th! Ever since making her Image Comics debut in the pages of 2022’s SUPERMASSIVE one-shot event which kicked off the genesis of comics’ most exciting universe: The Massive-Verse (with its’ flagship book RADIANT BLACK), fans have been eagerly waiting for the solo adventures of Cássia Costa to begin. Rogue Sun and The Dead Lucky were the first books following this epic event but one character has been long awaited to follow in those footsteps outside of its’ Kickstarter campaign.

INFERNO GIRL RED: BOOK #1 by MAT GROOM (Power Rangers, Ultraman), ERICA D’URSO (The Mighty Valkyries), IGOR MONTI & BECCA CAREY kicks off the story of Cássia and her emergence as a beacon of hope when her home of Apex City is in its’ darkest hour. If you have heard the reaction from fans who signed up for the Kickstarter, you know the buzz for this book has been tremendous. Fans, get ready for something special with this one! Let us not wait another second and see what the hype is all about, shall we?

INFERNO GIRL RED: BOOK ONE #1 - On sale January 25th, 2023
Creative: MAT GROOM, ERICA D’URSO, IGOR MONTI & BECCA CAREY
Credit: Image Comics

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story kicks off with Cássia Costa heading to the Helix Campus, a prestigious high school in Apex City with her mother. Driving along, Cássia questions her mother’s story about being on a monorail. She mentions how she was there meeting a source for a story about museum artifacts. Suddenly, they were attacked by a frightening creature. Luckily, a figure bursts through the train car for the save. That figure is…. INFERNO GIRL RED! readers get treated to a great action sequence with foreshadowing into a greater threat looming.

During the car ride, Cassia’s mother gets a phone call about a reporting job but is turned down due to her IGR stories being considered untrue. This worries Cassia as she arrives at the campus. her mother reassures her she will be fine and to take full advantage of this opportunity. That said, Cassia make her way into a class, where she meets her future roommate Harriette and Doctor Janine Caro, a famous engineer, physicist and owner of the campus. With a brief class discussion and syllabus of expectations, Cassia settles in to school life with a trip to the library.

Along this trip, an unexpected event happens: Apex City is removed from its’ foundation?! A cloaked figure stands in amusement watching the move unfold as it appears the staff wielded is the catalyst. Cassia watches from inside the library as a red object meteors into her path and attaches an armband to her. From this moment on, her life will never be the same.

What direction does Cassia’s life go now? What is the grave situation unfolding? While catching up with her mother, Cassia knows what she is going to have to do. The question now becomes: Is she ready for her destiny? Readers sit ringside as a new hero rises to the challenge while questioning this new direction with a perfect final panel to close events off with.

Groom plays heavy into the themes of hope versus hopeless with this debut. Cassia comes across as a character still trying to find her way while picking up a responsibility she doesn’t think or want to handle. Yet, readers witness how she rises to the challenge at hand because of the confidence instilled in her by her mother. Their dynamic is the backbone of this series as Cassia tries improving their situation by the opportunity given at the school. Her mother puts her setbacks aside to build Cassia up which instantly connects with readers about how important their bond is. The pacing works well to allow the major players of this story to establish themselves early. Dr. Caro and Harriette provide a solid balance for Cassia from the heroic world she’s about to embark in. The action sequences move fast but don’t overtake Cassia’s trail by fire in her new persona. Seeing the original IGR in action gave readers enough to form an idea of what to expect with the powers that there wasn’t a huge need to have Cassia re-tell it through her eyes. This issue had action, drama and intrigue, a wining formula to hook readers in for the long haul.

D’urso and Monti’s art meshes up perfectly with the writing of the story. The world of Apex City feels vibrant and full of possibilities right from the two page panel when Cassia and her mom are driving into the city. The campus had a distinct vibe going on as well. It never felt like “just another school”. The bonding moments between Cassia and her mom also jump off the panels as seeing how supportive they are of each other is such a driving plot point. With all the world building going on,nothing takes away from the moment readers see Cassia in full IGR costume. There is no way the full page panel isn’t made into a poster as it drops a clear exclamation point that a hero has arrived! The action panels move swiftly and readers can sense the tension unfolding as both IGR’s showcase their powers in various manners. Excellent final image to close this chapter out of, leaving much possibilities for where the story goes from here.

FINAL POINT: The hype is real! The latest edition into the Massive-verse (officially) plants their foundation for a must-have story of hope versus darkness. Groom, D’Urso and the team deliver excellent writing and eye-catching art to solidify the next big hero in comics is ready to light up the local comic shops for NCBD!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Inferno Girl Red: Book One #1.

Thanks for reading!

January 24, 2023

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, Scott Snyder, Sci-Fi, Comixology Originals

DUDLEY DATSON AND THE FOREVER MACHINE #4 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

January 24, 2023

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, Scott Snyder, Sci-Fi, Comixology Originals

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review bog for the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, One of the best books on the Comixology Originals line drops its pen-ultimate issue. All of the Best Jackett Press releases have been hit after hit and this book is no exception! If you haven’t checked out this all-ages epic yet, you’re going to want to asap! Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine #4 by Scott Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano sets up our young inventor protagonist with a dilemma with no end in sight! Let’s take a closer look at this issue and see where the story leads us now, shall we?

Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine #4
Creative: Scott Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano
Credit: Comixology Originals via Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Trying to be a student at the Brooklyn Academy of Engineering is tough enough. Being the inventor of “Duds” an L.C.D. integrated fiber clothing is tougher, but being the only person to stop the Prometheans with only Daedalus, a dog that is the member of the Athenian Family, as your only ally, takes the cake. With the mystery behind the Chymical Society to the mysterious figure Perdix hunting them down, Datson’s life has now spiraled into ways he never could imagine. Last issue, a daring escape was made when the Promethean impersonated his best friend in an attempt to get his powerful watch, which is more than meets the eye. Once activated, the pair is transported away to a landscape that screams danger and wonder all at the same time.

This issue opens with a flashback to 1945 with a narration depicting the testing of the nuclear explosion. The imagery shows the reaction and the repercussions of a creation. The story shifts to where Datson and Daedalus landed after eluding the danger from Perdix and the Prometheans: a maze planet?! The pair comes to terms with how they arrived there but before processing the next move, a minataur figure runs by them into a wall, saying how it can’t stop running. A statement is left behind: “Hope is lost.” This shakes Daedalus to the core. The maze was his vision but what it is now is a corrupted thought that serves a much larger purpose in the wrong hands. Daedalus gives a narration before it’s interrupted by some protectors of the maze!

How does the pair deal with the maze planet? Can they escape? Readers find out what Datson is truly made of as he’s pushed harder and further than he’s ever been tasked before. That said, is it enough for what unfolds in the final moments here? Readers will have much to break down as the nightmare is unveiled an a final image will haunt readers heading into the finale!

The question posed from this issue is: Was the dream worth it when it becomes a nightmare? Snyder presents this problem to readers seeing it thru Daedulas' eyes. The origin of the maze was meant with good intentions but how it becomes corrupted proved for a very strong moment. Daedulas has been one character who seemed a step ahead. Seeing him now on the defense makes for a great challenge heading into the finale. Datson's emergence of confidence will be the moment that stands out to readers. It literally is the turning point of this chapter. Snyder sets this growth up perfectly. The scenes give the shift of momentum needed for what the pair walks into the final act. The final moment of the book is a true surprise and one that fans will not be ready for heading to next issue.

Igle keeps the fantasy intrigue up for the origin of the maze. The imagery represents hope and possibility. This connects with readers due to the work of Castro and Sotomayor, who added the vibrant feel with each panel. In contrast, the panels post corruption are dark and gloomy, reflecting the loss of hope. It plays off Snyder’s writing flawlessly. There’s also a small panel sequence where readers see Datson show some anger with a side-by-side shot of the Prometheans bracing for the fallou of his actions. Time and time again, Datson has been thrown into danger but seeing him stand up and run towards his strengths was excellent storytelling. Readers will also have a final page reveal that is sure to blow them away as the road to the final issue begins.

FINAL POINT: The saga of Dudley Datson continues its’ fantastic journey into the unknown with an issue that is a must read! Snyder, Igle and the team deliver on incredible writing and artwork in challenging the unlikely pairing of Daedulas and Datson at their very cores. With a strong final visual, you simply cannot miss what is unfolding in this series. Make sure you have this book in your collection asap!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Dudley Datson and The Forever Machine #4.

Thanks for reading!

January 11, 2023

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Horror, NCBD

GRIM #7 (BOOM! STUDIOS)

January 11, 2023

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Horror, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH podcast!

For this entry, things are picking up steam for the second arc of one of the hottest series of 2022! Last issue took everyone’s favorite reaper into her new status quo with a fantastic “welcome back” issue. Grim #7 by Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano for Boom! Studios continues to take readers along on one hell of a wild adventure. Let’s not wait any longer and jump into where the multi CHEERSIES award winning series goes next, shall we?

Grim #7 - On Sale January 11th, 2023
Creative: Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano (Cover: Dan Panosian)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

In case you’re just checking in, Jessica Harrow is no ordinary reaper. Her aunt Adira has banished her (along with her friends Eddie and Marcel) to the land of the living after a routine assignment goes awry and the domino effect it causes. Factor in who her father is and Jessica’s life as she knew it becomes forever changed. Now in Las Vegas, Jessica and her friends try enjoying a music festival until a girl approaches Jessica with a weird marking on her forehead. Tha girl tries throwing herself into a fire….but somehow survives. Suddenly, more people at the festival start appearing with the mark. What happens now no one can have expected.

This issue opens up with a priest administering Last Rites to a dying patient. The patient has the red marking on his forehead like those at the concert. After he passes away, the patient somehow comes back to life! From this moment, more and more people dying in the ICU suddenly cannot die! Readers bare witness to a horrible wounded patient begging for death but the priest cannot explain what is going on. More patients become unraveled in madness and the priest escapes into the hospital chapel. Once inside there, he comes across a familiar face to readers: Jessica Harrow!

Jessica and the priest start a conversation about what is happening. Jessica feels she is somehow responsible for what’s happening. The priest is puzzled as to why but before the conversation becomes deeper in discussion of faith and believing, Eddie and Marcel show up with a terrifying update. How can things have gone from bad to worse now? Is Jessica really responsible for all of this? Readers will have much to process as Jessica’s story only becomes more tangle up from here.

The mystery behind the markings continues to be one to watch. Phillips shows how terrifying the situation is becoming thru the priest’s eyes. Seeing his faith being contested, the priest never wavers from still believing and throws an interesting question about faith back at Jessica. It’s a moving conversation while all the chaos is closing in on them. The closing act continues a great point that readers have seen throughout this series: the use of music lyrics. When placed in the story, it adds a bigger feel to the event connected to it. The final portion of Jessica’s story adds a nice cliffhanger for next issue with an epilogue that presents even more possibilities of what’s next.

How wild was the hospital scenes by Flaviano?! The patient with the intestines dangling out was a very in-your-face image to exhibit how the “red plague” was taking over. The priest’s struggle comprehending these events was impactful for where they were exhibited. The emotion poured out when he was talking with Jessica really will hit readers hard. Seeing the frantic scene after Eddie and Marcel arrive only added more backing to how crazy things have now become. The final act mixed with the music lyrics tied up the loose ends of the issue with a solid final panel to close this portion of the story out on.

FINAL POINT: Grim #7 dips more into the horror aspect of the series with an issue that builds off some terrifying imagery to elevate the incredible story being told. Phillips, Flaviano and the team press on with a book that deserves all the hype and praise it gets. You will most definitely want to check this book out on New Comic Book Day!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Grim #7. Thanks for reading!

January 4, 2023

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, Pop Culture, Sci-Fi

MOSELY #1 (BOOM! STUDIOS)

January 4, 2023

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, Pop Culture, Sci-Fi

Welcome to the first entry of 2023 for the ODPH podcast’s comic book review blog: Parlay Points!

For this edition, we’re checking out a brand new series rolling out of BOOM! STUDIOS that sets the tone for a big year ahead. MOSELY #1 by Rob Guillory (Chew), Sam Lotfi (Harley Quinn), Jean-Francois Beaulieu and Andrew Thomas kicks off a brand new mini-series with a first issue fans will be talking about. Considering the creative team involved, there’s no doubt about the buzz surrounding this comic. Let’s take a closer look at this series and see what’s the hype is all about, shall we?

MOSELY #1 - On sale January 4th, 2022
Creative: Rob Guillory, Sam Lotfi, Jean-Francois Beaulieu and Andrew Thomas
Credit: Boom! Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story begins with a man by the name of Marvin Mosely saying goodbye to his family. The reason being a secret “teaching” job that will last a year. Mosely’s motivations are good as his work will help lead to a better tomorrow. As he says goodbye to his wife and daughter, readers get a small glimpse of his mission at hand. Mosely is led to a controlled habitat residential setting. As he walks into his residence, he now meets his “pupil” an android named Six. They start a conversation based off Mosely’s experiences and how Six is processing this information to lead to a better humanity. Mosely makes himself and open book until so much is revealed, he struggles to recognize what has transpired from his assignment.

Readers are sped into the future where technology has evolved to a dominant point in human society. Mosely is now working as a school janitor. Mosely has become worn down by the futuristic times now in place. After working on cleaning a mess up, Mosely meets up with a familiar character, who’s life has taken a very different direction as well. What transpires sets the tone for the reminder of chapter one. How does Mosely react after this encounter? What did Mosely’s actions years ago lead to in this current time? Readers won’t wait long as there are some reveals as well as the closing moments will bring a sense of purpose for the next phase of Mosely’s life.

Guillory presents a great question about how much technology can impact human life with this series. Mosely went from buying into to the optimism promised from working with his pupil Six to being very jaded and bitter about the current world he lives in. Readers witness his anger over how things are now and see how that will push him moving forward. The conversations he has between human and machine throughout this book are poignant for the times they usher in. How did someone who cared so much for a “better tomorrow” become so angered by a complacent today? Filling in the gap from how things arrived at this point will make for a great story.

Lotfi welcomes readers into Mosely’s world with some very impressive visuals. There are some great two page spreads that will stand out. The one is with Mosely leaving the school with the futuristic skyline in the backdrop. It’s simple in set-up but once readers see the next two-page visual directly after, it shows how far the world has advanced with people in that skyline and how Mosely doesn’t appear to want to have anything to do with it. The final moments throw an interesting change in the status quo. It’s an unforseen move but one that closes things out with much mystery heading into next issue.

FINAL POINT: Guillory, Lotfi and the creative team introduce readers to the world of Marvin Mosely with a fascinating theme driving the narrative. Mosely #1 raises the promises and fears of technology through the eyes of an man who’s chosen path sets up for a can’t miss series. Don’t miss checking this book out on New Comic Book Day!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Mosely #1. Thanks for reading.

December 14, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, Pop Culture, Sci-Fi

A VICIOUS CIRCLE #1 (BOOM STUDIOS)

December 14, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, Pop Culture, Sci-Fi

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog for the ODPH podcast. For this entry, we're checking out a brand new series hitting comic book stores courtesy of Boom Studios. The company has been producing must-read new series all thru 2002 and look to close the year out strong with its’ newest book. A VICIOUS CIRCLE #1 by Mattson Tomlin, Lee Bermejo, Becca Carey, Michelle Ankley, Marie Krupina and Sierra Hahn has been creating quite a buzz on social media before its’ release. Boom has done a great job on their social media promoting this book. Are you #YOUSTOLEMYFUTURE or #WERETHEONLYCURE? Let’s take a closer look at this innovative tale and see what the hype is all about, shall we?

A VICIOUS CIRCLE #1 - On Sale December 14th
Creative: Mattson Tomlin, Lee Bermejo, Becca Carey, Michelle Ankley, Marie Krupina and Sierra Hahn
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This issue starts off in New Orleans in the 1950’s with a man waking up from a dream. His name is Shawn Thacker. He wakes up to what appears to be a normal life: wife, son and getting ready go to wok. His son Tommy wants to spend some quality time with Dad and go fishing. Thacker says yes, but the mood shifts when Tommy mentions going to the basement for their fishing poles. Thacker sternly tells his son to stay out of the basement, cause “that’s where the monster is”. Readers get a front row seat as Thacker goes down the stairs and see the “monster” up close and personal. A masked man named Ferris is ties up in the basement! The conversation is cold and tense as Thacker is being provoked by his prisoner. After getting his fishing poles, he leaves his prisoner and heads into town,.

From there, Shawn Thacker drives into a bigoted crown protesting (reflecting the disgusting hateful climate of that era) on the way to work. After a brief detour into a bar, Thacker returns home to find his wife and son severely wounded for the man in the basement….who has escaped! At the hospital, Thacker has a talk with his wife with dire news involving their son coming to the forefront. Thacker tells his wife that their son is not going to make it through his wounds from the attack. The couple says their final goodbyes and Shawn Thacker is suddenly thrusted into the future out of nowhere. At this stage, Readers start getting more clues onto what Thacker’s mission has been and why he is on a mission to save the world or let it be ended?

What is the mystery about to unfold here? How is Thacker attached to his prisoner? What is the connection with the prisoner’s actions? Are the time travelling days over? Where does the story go now? Readers will have much to digest with reading the incredible story unfolding here.

Tomlin sets forth an intense read that will keep readers guessing from start to finish. The character of Shawn Thacker is a complex one to say the least. After his time in New Orleans, the future sequence sheds some insight on what is going on here. It poses the question to the readers of who’s really telling the truth. Tomlin writes Ferris a line in the future timeframe that actually questions if Thacker is the hero here. Seeing their connection “work” is going to make for an explosive dynamic the more this story plays out.

How else can you describe Bermejo’s art in this book other than masterpiece. Bermejo switches styles pending on what timeline he’s illustrating. From the photographic 1950’s to the more vibrant future along with the various timelines shown, the book will captive readers with how much it jumps off the page from the opening cover. The interactions between Thacker and Ferris showcases how much they’re both committed to their causes and what lengths they’re willing to go to each succeed.

FINAL POINT: A Vicious Circle #1 crafts a sensational story with excellent writing and one of the most incredible art performances in recent memory. Tomlin, Bermejo and the creative team lets readers in to a battle that will stand the test of time until one somehow falls and starts everything over again. Highly recommended for new comic book day. Don’t miss it!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of A Vicious Circle #1. Thanks for reading.

November 23, 2022

ODPH Podcast

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Mystery, NCBD, Pop Culture

ONCE UPON A TIME AT THE END OF THE WORLD #1 (BOOM STUDIOS)

November 23, 2022

ODPH Podcast

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Mystery, NCBD, Pop Culture

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, we’re checking out a debut from Boom Studios that is guaranteed to generate some headlines on New Comic Book Day. Once Upon A Time At the End Of The World #1 by Jason Aaron, Alexandre Tefenkgi, Lee Loughridge, Nick Dragotta, Rico Renzi and AndWorld Design brings forth a tale for the ages. The concept is very unique as there are a plethora of themes all unfolding with this book….and we’re only one issue in. With so much to break down with this issue, let’s not wait anymore and dive right in, shall we?

Once Upon A Time At the End Of The World #1 - On Sale November 23rd, 2022
Creative: Jason Aaron, Alexandre Tefenkgi, Lee Loughridge, Nick Dragotta, Rico Renzi and AndWorld Design (Cover: Mike Del Mundo)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This issue opens up with a young girl named Mezzy paddling her way thru an apocalyptic wasteland. The scene is dark and depressing. The water is overrun with wreckage and metal. How can one survive in this world? Mezzy appears to have run out of food and is barely hanging on with the rough environment she’s trying to survive in. After sailing thru the flooded streets, Mezzy’s boat springs a leak and starts to sink, forcing an abrupt run into a bulding. However, Mezzy will find out very soon that the building is not abandoned as she thought.

An alarm is triggered and it awakens Maceo, a young boy whos watching Mezzy, which Maceo refers to as a “Acid Swamper.” fight a sea creature. This doesn’t appear to be the first time Mezzy has encountered such a being but handles the situation as best she can. Mezzy fights it off but not without Maceo shooting at the creature with a makeshift “boom” weapon of bowling balls. From here, the pair finally meet with Maceo and his homemade “armor” which Mezzy quickly dismembers. Mezzy starts shaking down Maceo for information. Readers witness that Maceo has been alone but is thriving on his own in the abysmal landscape. It’s almost a perfect utopia to what’s has happened to the world. However, when something seems too good to be true, it most likely is in a catastrophic world.

What is the truth behind Maceo’s situation? How will Mezzy move forward from this encounter? Readers get these answers plus more questions raised with a final sequence of events that will have fans clamoring for the next chapter asap!

Phenomenal first issue. Aaron introduces readers to a whole new world with two very different leads as their guides. Mezzy’s story comes from a view point of someone who simply survives no matter what. The world she lives in has made her cold and ultimately brash to anyone she encounters. On the flip side, Maceo carries true optimism of meeting someone new and being ready to move on from his ordeal. Aaron slides in a great twist on Maceo’s story once the layers are peeled back with will surprise. The pair are complete opposites in every way but their pairing creates a fascinating dynamic. It balances off the world they live in. The scenes that will most surprise are the final moments of the book. Seeing how the story progresses there will be a fun journey to follow along.

Tefenkgi shows off a very disturbing world plagued from something that devastated it. The imagery is very bleak and brings the struggle to make it day to day to the forefront. Mezzy’s encounter with the sea creature demonstrates how unraveled this world is. Seeing how standoff-ish Mezzy is to Maceo from their initial encounter reflects the world they live in. The biggest variable to this world is how Maceo comes across on panel. He appears to be kept away from the worst of this world while being home in the tower. This idea gets taken down a few notches when a reveal happens later in the issue that shows how he had been coping with the environment. Once readers hit the final pages of this chapter, they will be locked in on the adventure that lies ahead.

Final Point: Aaron, Tefenkgi, and the creative team usher in a story that takes readers on a trip ranging from hopelessness to blind optimism while two people try finding a way to prosper in an unforgiving place. Maceo and Mezzy are a reluctant pairing but one of huge potential to carry this incredible story. OUATATEOFW is one book to keep an eye out for when you hit the local comic shops this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of ONCE UPON A TIME AT THE END OF THE WORLD #1. Thanks for reading!

October 26, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Horror, Magic, NCBD

DAMN THEM ALL #1 (BOOM STUDIOS)

October 26, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Horror, Magic, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this entry, We’re checking out a brand new series by Boom Studios that has a great deal of hype behind it! DAMN THEM ALL #1 by Simon Spurrier, Charlie Adlard, Sofie Dodgson, Shayne Hannah Cui, and Jim Campbell welcomes comic readers to the world of Ellie "Bloody El" Hawthorne. What is all the hype about this issue you ask? Considering Adlard was the longtime artist on a book you might have heard of called “The Walking Dead”, that’s gonna make some noise. Factor in the rest of the creative team & there’s something big happening here. Let’s take a deeper dive into the debut and see, shall we?

DAMN THEM ALL #1 - On Sale October 26th
Creative: Simon Spurrier, Charlie Adlard, Sofie Dodgson, Shayne Hannah Cui, and Jim Campbell
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The book opens up with a moment between Ellie and her uncle Alfie. The scenes (from Ellie’s point of view) shows how she is being taught magic. Obviously, this never comes easy and readers see how her early supernatural struggles play out. It closes on a fun scene as something is conjured up. However, that’s when the good times appear to end.

After a stop in the book, readers are taken into present day as they are now witnessing Alfie’s Funeral. An eclectic group of characters show up to pay their respects. It’s not exactly who you would think would attend but it gives the readers some insight into how respected and powerful Alfie really was. There is an exchange between a mobster (“Frankie Wax”) and a mysterious female during the ceremony. This transfers over to the post gathering. The female in question shifts from Frankie to look for Ellie. When they finally meet, their time is interrupted by thugs looking for Frankie.

At this stage, the situation goes completely off the rails. Readers won’t expect what comes next. The events take Ellie on a crazy path where she will have to fill in for her Uncle and become a problem solver. Can she step up to the task? What was unleashed in the results of her uncle’s passing? There’s a lot happening within these pages and is capped off by a solid final parting shot to raise more questions.

Very good first issue.In case anyone isn’t familiar with Spurrier’s work, he’s done Hellblazer in the past. That is a big plus when you have to write involving the supernatural. Ellie Hawthorne hits the ground running being an interesting character to watch. Spurrier writes her as someone finding the way out of her uncle’s shadow and into her own path. There’s many new characters that just scratched the surface of this story. That said, it will take another issue or two to see who plays a serious role in this tale. Nothing bad with that as this issue primarily focused on Ellie, Frankie Wax and a mysterious officer from New Orleans. Pacing was fine and the story covered a lot of ground. Cliffhanger ending will keep many readers engaged for next issue

Adlard brings a unique style to this book. Balancing the supernatural to the normal life can be difficult but with these pages, it works well. There’s no bigger moment of this than the Wake after the burial of Alfie. The events mesh well. The actions scenes jump out and the effects of the “supernatural party crashers” stand out with the difference in coloring (credit to Dodgson and Cui). Even with the book grounded in normacy, Adlard and company present Hawthorne’s daily life with a symmetry all its own.

Final Point: Damn Them All #1 welcomes readers into the crossroads of the supernatural and routine life. Ellie Hawthrone brings readers along for her entry into the family business as Spurrier, Adlard and the team set her up for quite the journey moving forward. Don’t miss this book when it drops at the local comic shop this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Damn Them All #1. Thanks for reading.

October 18, 2022

Ken M

Comics, Comixology Originals, Entertainment, NCBD, Pop Culture

NIGHT AT THE BELFRY (ComiXology Originals)

October 18, 2022

Ken M

Comics, Comixology Originals, Entertainment, NCBD, Pop Culture

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this entry, we're checking out an original graphic novel out on the ComiXology Originals line. If you're new to this blog, it is screamed from the rooftops to sign up for the ComiXology Unlimited deal to see books like this. Night At The Belfry by Xavier Saxon (with Allison O'Toole and Cindy Leong) is a very engaging story that covers many themes along the journey of a man trying to decipher what lies ahead.

Let’s not waste any more time and take a closer look at the latest addition to the Comixology Originals line, Shall we?

NIGHT AT THE BELFRY
Creative: Xavier Saxon, Allison O'Toole and Cindy Leong
Credit: Comixology Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story opens up with Jim Ransom, a 73 yr old man riding on public transit. A young kid sits next to him on a completely empty ride, demanding his wallet. With a knife drawn on him, Jim punches the robber in the face. It seems like a scene out of a Hollywood movie, & unfortunately, it is. That whole opening was all a dream as Jim wakes back up and hands over the wallet.

It’s a far cry from his past as a boxer from his younger years. Haunted by the attack, Jim verbally lashes out at his daughter Emily, who is taking care of him. However, Jim’s refusal to let go of the incident might have led him back to his attacker. Jim approaches the kid while on his morning run and attacks him. This prompts the young boy to punch out Jim and leave him laying in the street. This becomes the kickoff to the tale at hand.

From the events of this latest attack, Jim retreats into his memories. Thinking back to his “Glory days” boxing, Jim begins to hatch a scheme to give himself some meaning after feeling lost all this time. Re-connections are made from the past while Jim battles his own haunting mortality. He is not the same man that he was all those years ago. How is he handling growing old & the world around him changing? Is this scheme the right answer to Jim’s problems? And if so, at what cost? Readers will be taken on an emotional trip thru Jim’s eyes as he prepares himself for”one more round” battling whatever Father Time throws at him.

Saxon comes out the gate swinging with this story. Jim Ransom is a a fascinating character who appears to have lived many lives. Boxer. Mailman. Father. Lost. All are various ways to describe the lead in this story. Saxon presents Jim’s story with gruff compassion and humbling realism as readers can feel the struggles with growing old. Mortality is always a tricky theme to hit when it’s told in comic form. Saxon doesn’t shy away from this being an overall driver to the story. Once it hits what Jim’s master plan is, the story plays out as one would hope after being invested in this comic. Seeing the range of Jim’s emotions helped connect this tale to readers without any miscues.

Saxon is also on Art duties hear and I really enjoyed how he worked in certain panel sequences to push the story along. This form of storytelling jumps out with his use of 9 & 12 panel pages. It’s a very subtle way to give extra attention to the events unfolding. The dynamic between Jim and Emily is another strong piece to this story. Without giving too much away, the final moments from this book give readers a lasting impression to take away from reading Jim’s escapades. The book has its own uniqueness & carries many “reality-based” themes from the opening page. At it’s core, the comic strikes a cord with the audience with very relatable topics. This point shines within this graphic novel.

Overall, Night At The Belfry is a grounded tale of one’s battle with growing old. Saxon pens and presents the life of Jim Ransom in a way to connect with readers, no matter what their age. Finding direction and holding on to the past pushes this tale into many places. Credit Saxon and his team on showcasing a well-planted story in a real world setting that simply can’t be missed. Make sure to have an eye out for this book when it drops on Comixology.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Night at The Belfry. Thanks for reading.

October 5, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Horror, NCBD, NYCC, New York Comic Con, Pop Culture

BASILISK #12 (BOOM STUDIOS)

October 5, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Horror, NCBD, NYCC, New York Comic Con, Pop Culture

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, we are at the end of the line for one of Boom Studios’s most intense reads and no one is ready for what is about to unfold. Basilisk #12 by Cullen Bunn, Jonas Scharf, Alex Guimaraes & Ed Dukeshire has been a brutal, unapologetic tale of the Chimera’s violent trail with one person hellbent on revenge to stop them once and for all. The story has built up to a fever pitch so let’s not delay one more moment and see how this story concludes, shall we?

Basilisk #12 - On Sale October 5th
Creative: Cullen Bunn, Jonas Scharf, Alex Guimaraes & Ed Dukeshire
Credit Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The saga of the Chimera has been quite the horrifying tale. Five individuals with powers based off the five senses road free leaving death and destruction in their wake. In one certain case, Hannah is left behind after the Chimera kills her family on one of their ventures. Fueled by revenge, she embarks on a crash course to stop them by any means, if if she dies in the process. Thru the course of this story Hannah has held her own and been assisted by Regan, one of the Chimera who defects from the group to help Hannah in a form of forgiveness for her actions. With the endgame forming, Vanessa emerges as the lone member left of the Chimera waiting in the wings. Lurking around these characters is Barret and the Faithful, the worshipers of the Chimera who are playing their own game along the way.

Last issue was the calm before the storm. Hannah has now made a deal with Barret to get to Vanessa. Regan has been cut off from Hannah and sits back watching the final stand unfold. Barret leads Hannah to the campsite of the faithful where Vanessa is waiting. After decimating the faithful, Vanessa is primed and ready to go. The battle is everything you would expect it to be, with Regan and Barret watching in the wings waiting for the winner. Readers will get their money’s worth with this fight. All is answered with a conclusion fitting for where this story has gone.

Bunn finishes this tale with a resounding knockout punch. The pacing of this series has been one of its strong features. With last issue being focused on the build, the finale wastes no time ramping up the tension with the opening battle. Vanessa is back to her most ruthless while Hannah emerges as the vengeful protagonist leaving it all on the field of battle. The other side story carrys weight but feels as a complement to the overall main event. The issue closes with an ending that felt organic and fits into the mold of this series. Nothing came across as over-the-top. It’s an emotional close but one that will leave readers very pleased.

Scharf holds nothing back form the violence the series has been known for. Hannah versus Vanessa IS the fight fans have waited for. Scharf creates a legendary face-off that keeps readers locked and loaded on the story. Even the side tale going on has a “big fight feel” to it. The drama pours off the panels inserted in this comic. There isn’t just “Violence for shock value.” The tough moments mesh with Bunn’s set-up right to the letter. The action will leave fans with huge moments but the final image makes complete sense to how this story should be concluded on. Strong work by all.

Overall, Bunn, Scharf and the team end the world of the Chimera with an unforgettable issue. The story has been an intense read and the finale lives up to the preceding issue’s bar. The action is blunt and in your face. The story showcases a reluctant lead with nothing else to lose verse an unstoppable foe. Basilisk #12 concludes this tale with a can’t miss issue at the LCS this week. Don’t miss it!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Basilisk #12. Thanks for reading!

September 28, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, NYCC, Pop Culture, Power Rangers

MIGHTY MORPHIN' POWER RANGERS #100 (BOOM STUDIOS)

September 28, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, NCBD, NYCC, Pop Culture, Power Rangers

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry….the time has finally come. In the pages of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Universe books by BOOM STUDIOS, fans have been on the “Charge To 100” under the writing helm of Ryan Parrott for the past six years. Parrott’s work has delivered some of the biggest moments in the MMPR fandom. If for some reason you haven’t checked out his runs on “Mighty Morphin” & “Power Rangers”. do yourself a favor and give those issues a read. “The Eltarian War” might be my current favorite story in all of MMPR history. This will be Parrott’s last issue with the series. For anyone worried about the series future, it’s in very good hands with Melissa Flores (The Dead Lucky) and Simona Di Gianfelice on art duties coming on board with issue #101. That said, Parrott’s run might be concluding but he’s not leaving without a well-deserved star-studded send-off!

Parott is joined by Moises Hidalgo, Marco Renna, Raul Angulo, Walter Baiamonte, Sara Antonellini, Ed Dukeshire, Dan Mora, Daniele Di Nicuolo, Miguel Mercado, Eleonora Carlini, Hendry Prasetya and Francesco Mortarino for the legacy numbering, series merging MIGHY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS #100! Let us not waste another second and break this special event down, shall we?

MIGHY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS #100 - ON SALE SEPTEMBER 28TH
Creavite: Ryan Parrott, Moises Hidalgo, Marco Renna, Raul Angulo, Walter Baiamonte, Sara Antonellini, Ed Dukeshire, Dan Mora, Daniele Di Nicuolo, Miguel Mercado, Eleonora Carlini, Hendry Prasetya and Francesco Mortarino (Cover: Dan Mora)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

From the events of the “Power Rangers” series, The inhabitants of Planet KO-35 have been getting brought back to life by the Death Ranger, who used Andros , a lone survivor looking for revenge, to accomplish this feat. Originally possessing the vessel of Andros’s friend Zhane, The Death Ranger has now taken control of the Omega Rangers (Jason, Yale, Zach and Trini) by tapping into the Morphin Grid! With an army of the undead forming, our heroes look to be in very dire times.

All the while in the pages of “Mighy Morphin” (written by Mat Groom), the earth-stationed team (Aisha - Yellow Ranger, Adam - Black Ranger, Rocky - Red Ranger, Billy - Blue Ranger, Kimberly - Pink Ranger, Matt - Green Ranger and Tommy - White Ranger) lost their command center during the Eltarian War and have been pulling an “Oceans’ 11” -esque heist to acquire a new home. During this mix, some of the team have been doing some self reflections on their futures and supporting Jason, who has been grieving the sudden loss of his mother. With no time to take a breath, Andros, along with Xi, Journey and Keron Vrin appear in the new command center to seek help against this threat.

The team comes up with a plan to stop the Death Ranger, but some are weary to trust Andros. Readers can’t blame some for acting this way. It is his actions that led to the Omega Rangers to be taken under the Death Ranger’s influence). Andros gives them a strong reassurance that he is committed to helping them, even if it means sacrificing himself to do it. Once the team fully buys in, IT’S MORPHIN TIME!!!!

The team teleports to the planet of KO-35 and know that there’s immanent danger ahead. It doesn’t take long before they are greeted by the Death Ranger’s forces. Once all the major players arrive, the battle kicks off with a fantastic one-page panel to kick things off! Rangers vs. Possessed Rangers and the undead…get your popcorn ready! There are a lot of great match-ups that will have readers on the edge of their seats reading. Don’t doubt that there is some big-time Zord action thrown in as well.

However, the main event will be the one fans will be most impacted by. Without going into heavy spoiler territory, One ranger’s journey is changed dramatically in an attempt to stop the Death Ranger once and for all. It’s a play that was needed to be made to try stopping the threat at hand and showcases what makes this hero one of the most noteworthy in all of MMPR lore. Get ready for that conclusion’s scene! Is that enough to stop the Death Ranger though? Read and find out!

The conclusion of this comic will be one to pull at the emotions of readers who have been with this franchises since day 1 or just jumping on board at the recent arcs. Some stories close for good, some stop for now, but the one thing that will always remain true is there will always be Power Rangers stepping up to fight the good fight. Very strong final image to close out on.

Give the man his flowers asap! Parrott leaves the world of MMPR (for now) with an incredible ending for all fans. This issue has many moving parts going on but Parrott balances out all the actions with some strong emotional work. At no point did anything feel rushed or forced due to the large cast of characters involved. The battle sequences flowed with great backstories behind them. Possessed Trini squaring off with “adopted” alien daughter Journey and Possessed Jason vs. Tommy are the two battles that hit all their points. However it’s when Andros gets involved with the fight versus Jason that this book picks things up tenfold. Parrott built everything to a fever pitch that when the resolution moment hits, readers will have a resounding “YES!” reaction. That said, it’s the closing act of this book that shows why Parrott’s run has all the well-deserved praise behind it. The narrator’s words hit very hard with how the MMPR world is now changed. Readers will go thru a wide range of emotions during this chapter but that’s why Parrott has earned the notoriety of being such a strong storyteller. Amazing Job!

As for the art, there are many people involved with this issue, but the majority of page time (and rightfully so) went to series regulars Moises Hidalgo (“Mighty Morphin”) and Marco Renna (“Power Rangers”). The art delivered on making this an event. From the initial one-page kickoff battle panel thru the fight scenes, Hidalgo set an early pace for the book that never fell off. The action felt big. This was crucial to establish how significant this battle was. Handing off the battle scenes to Renna never took anything away frm the overall story. Action was moving fast but always stayed on track. Even when the zords came into play, both artists had great moments to work with. The guest artists listed played an important role in dealing with that one Ranger’s final battle and resolution. It gave that moment a unique feel to illustrated what was happening. Renna’s work closing out a character’s story he’s worked with was fitting and added another level of gravity to the scene’s impact. The art teams really outdid themselves on this issue to close his chapter over MMPR on a definitive high note.

Overall, the Ryan Parrott era of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers ends with everything you would expect from someone who’s taken the Rangers to new heights and legacy adventures. Parrott and the all-star art teams gift fans with an issue they won’t be able to put down or stop talking about. As for the future of Parrott and the Rangers, it won’t be long before we see them together again as he will be teaming with Dan Mora on a new MMPR/TMNT crossover book coming in December 2022! Until then, Ryan - thanks for the memories and the incredible books along the way! Don’t miss this issue at the LCS this week!

There will be a special ODPHpod episode dropping Thursday night EST where Tom Craven from Off The Cuff Gmes and That Hashtag Show stops by to talk about this book! Don’t miss it.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of MMPR #100. Thanks for reading!

September 13, 2022

ODPH Podcast

Comixology Originals, Comics, Entertainment, Horror, NCBD

CENSUS #1 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS)

September 13, 2022

ODPH Podcast

Comixology Originals, Comics, Entertainment, Horror, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this entry, we’re checking out a new series on the great Comixology Originals line by way of Marc Bernardin. Readers might know Marc Bernardin’s name from the Eisner award nominee “Adora and The Distance” along with his work in podcasting (Fatman Beyond w/ Kevin Smith) and TV (Star Trek: Picard). Census #1 by Bernardin, Adam Freeman, Sebastián Piriz, Bernardo Brice and Sarah Litt welcomes readers into the life of Liam Malone and his first day on the job, which is anything but normal. Let’s not waste any more time and jump into this first issue, shall we?

Census #1 - On Sale September 14th
Creative: Marc Bernardin, Adam Freeman, Sebastián Piriz, Bernardo Brice and Sarah Litt
credit: Comixology Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This issue kicks off with with one of the best “You’re probably wondering how I got here” pages in recent memory. Liam is tied up with only his underwear on while 3 demons are standing over him. From here, readers are taken back to the day prior as Liam is going for a job interview. This scenario seems very normal as Liam is talking to a possible employer with a simple job posting: “ Good Pay, Flexible Hours, No Experience Needed”. It sounds too god to be true, especially for someone looking for a win. Liam gets the job with the Census Bureau, which sounds like it will be a simple job. At this stage in life , Liam should know that anything that sounds this perfect is more than likely flawed.

With a tablet in hand, Liam sets out to count the residents of his first assigned address. With should be a routine count in a Brooklyn apartment spins wildly out of control. What starts as a friendly conversation quickly speeds into another moment that our protagonist was not expecting when he signed up for this job. Readers will see how Liam got into the mess in page 1 and if he can find his way out of that crazy scene. The conclusion of this issue will leave readers with a clear sense of where the book is heading and that they need to jump on board now.

Very solid debut issue. Bernardin, (along with Adam Freeman) create a fun beginning on Liam’s journey. The story is great balance with horror and supernatural elements along with well placed shots of comedy mixed in. Those themes rise up more to the reader when referencing the initial first case. Liam’s means to escape is quite the creative one that does cause a laugh out loud moment. No spoilers here, but it’s presented in a way that readers can only see Liam pulling off. The storytelling plays into his awkwardness in dealing with others as a strength. At no point did I feel that the story feel too cliche and it made for an enjoyable welcome into the life and times of Liam Malone.

Piriz’s art brings this story to life with capturing Liam’s ineptness into the new job field he’s entered. The facial expressions being showcased tell much of Liam’s character. Seeing his interactions with one of the residents of his first assignment to his new boss and what’s revealed at the end, Piriz crafts Liam’s conversations with a feel of uncertainty and reluctance. Readers will be able to pick up on this part of his character rather quickly but it’s never something that takes them out of the story. In fact, it’s something that as this series goes forward will become a stronger focus for readers to get behind and root for Liam to win.

Overall, Census #1 provides readers with a great story of self-discovery and unexpected travels through the backdrop of New York City. Bernardin, Freeman, Piriz and the rest of the creative team present readers with the saga of Liam Malone. Where it goes from here is anyone’s guess, but that’s why I feel it will be one that you simply can’t miss reading each month. Make sure to check it out on Comixology this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Census #1. Thanks for reading.

August 24, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Horror, NCBD, Pop Culture

GRIM #4 (BOOM STUDIOS)

August 24, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Horror, NCBD, Pop Culture

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! One of the best new series of 2022 continues its epic debut story arc with another must-read issue! Grim #4 by Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano for Boom Studios has been an absolute smash since it debuted in the local comic shops. Last issue left readers with a final page that raised many questions. How does this latest issue fare? Let’s take a deeper dive and see, shall we?

Grim #4- On Sale August 24th
Creative: Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The saga of Jessica Harrow continues to take some very exciting turns. After a routine job of guiding a dead soul into the afterlife as a reaper goes sideways, her (after)life has been turned upside down. After somehow crossing over into the land of the living, Jessica starts searching for answers. None of which her boss Adira is happy with. With Adira trying to stop her search for the truth, Jessica and her friends make an escape from The End, who is trying to silence this situation once and for all.

This issue jumps in (literally) with Jessica’s team making a leap from a tower to escape The End. During their free fall, The Scythe she wields opens up a portal. Where that portal leads: Las Vegas! Meanwhile, Adira assesses the situation and determines Jessica has Death’s Scythe! She sends The End to find her in Vegas. While in Vegas, Jessica somehow saves a drunken party-goer from being killed. However, that interaction turns out to be more than it seems. What happens that changes the course for Jessica? It’s a surprise that will have fans talking along with a final chapter of the issue that sets events in motion.

The story of Jessica Harrow keeps taking such great twists, all thanks to the incredible writing of Phillips. Jessica’s world is one that never feels predictable and always keeps things exciting. The mystery of who she is has been great to follow. This issue shines when she makes the save on the party-goer. Jessica shows why there’s something more to her with her heroic actions. This issue focused more on the journey’s of both Jessica and Adira, which is no a bad thing. It gave Jessica moments to dive into her own mystery. On the flip-side, Adira, while not featured heavily, made the most of the time on page. The pace kept things moving and will invest readers from the opening page to close. Excellent job.

This book has such a unique feel to it, all thanks to Flaviano & the rest of the art team. It always has panels that pop right off the page. None bigger this issue then when Jessica makes the save. This vision of Las Vegas also sands out thanks to the coloring work of Renzi. When there, it stands out with its use of pink/purple as a backdrop to the strip. Readers can’t help but be locked into its surroundings. As someone who’s visited Vegas many times, this felt like the energy you see when you’re in Sin City. The final panels put a solid exclamation point on this issue!

Overall, Grim #4 proves why this book is an absolute can’t miss. Phillips, Flaviano and company continue to make one of the coolest books on the market with the work being put in here. The story of Jessica Harrow keeps getting better and better so make sure you stop down to your LCS this week and get this book!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Grim #4. Thanks for reading!

August 24, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Magic, Magic: The Gathering, NCBD

MAGIC: AJANI GOLDMANE #1 (BOOM STUDIOS)

August 24, 2022

Ken M

Boom Studios, Comics, Entertainment, Magic, Magic: The Gathering, NCBD

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the complementary comic book blog for the ODPH podcast! For this entry , we’re checking out a new book from the Magic: the Gathering franchise published by Boom Studios. MAGIC: Ajani Goldmane #1 by Seanan McGuire, Nori Retherford, Jaques Salomon, Giuseppe Cafaro, Lea Caballero, Michael Shelfer and Ed Dukeshire is a one shot story that is perfect for new readers to check out. Let’s see how this issue presents one of the more popular characters in the MTG landscape, shall we?

MAGIC: Ajani Goldmane #1 - On Sale August 24th
Creative: Seanan McGuire, Nori Retherford, Jaques Salomon, Giuseppe Cafaro, Lea Caballero, Michael Shelfer and Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Ariel Olivetti)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Now MTG is not one of my stronger fandoms of knowledge so I made a call to Rich from the 3FNpodcast, who is very well versed in the MTG lore. Rich said “Ajani is one of the most beloved Planeswalkers in all of magic. Magic players who wield white mana decks or Orhov decks will always make room for a good Ajani.”

This issue starts off with Ajani looking over Naya, his territory, when he is suddenly attacked by Jazal. However this turns out to be an illusion of sorts as the story shifts to the Naya Shard of Alara. Ajani finds out that some of his nieces and nephews are playing a game based off of a story of lore. Once aware of the story, Ajani decides to clear up some confusion and tell the children a story: What it really means to be a Planeswalker.

Readers are taken on a fun story with “The Tale Of The Endless Hunger” as Ajani and his friend Tamiyo help the people of Eldraine survive a threat. The story isn’t enough for the children so Ajani tells another tale called “The Story Of Shadows upon Stone.” With the children being still restless for more excitement, Ajani finally tells his story of Jazal in “The Tale Of The Lucky Hunt.” Readers will have much to enjoy with this issue and get treated to a solid epilogue to close.

MAGIC: Ajani Goldmane - On Sale August 24th
Creative: Seanan McGuire, Nori Retherford, Jaques Salomon, Giuseppe Cafaro, Lea Caballero, Michael Shelfer and Ed Dukeshire
Credit: Boom Studios

As previously mentioned, I’m not the biggest Magic: The Gathering expert, but I really thought this was a cool read. McGuire does an excellent job introducing Ajani to readers of the various levels of fandom. Breaking the stories of Ajani into three small stories was a nice touch and showcased why this character is so beloved. Each story felt different but carried an overall theme. Pacing was never lost and seeing how Ajani interacted in telling his stories made for an enjoyable read.

The art teams did a stellar performance throughout this issue. Having various artists on the 3 small stories made each one feel unique. “The Tale Of The Lucky Hunt” really jumped out with the action sequences, even with how brief they were. The artists kept things moving along with nothing feeling too rushed. There was a lot of ground to cover and the creative team as a whole delivered on a read that will be very pleasing to Magic: The Gathering Fans.

Overall, MAGIC: Ajani Goldmane #1 is a great introduction to a fabled character in the MTG universe. New readers will enjoy the heroic moments that connect on the first read thanks to the exceptional work from the creative teams. More seasoned fans will be happy with how this character came across when they pick this issue up at the LCS this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of MAGIC: Ajani Goldmane #1. Thanks for reading.

August 24, 2022

Ken M

Valiant Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture, NYCC, NCBD, Horror

BOOK OF SHADOWS #2 (VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT)

August 24, 2022

Ken M

Valiant Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture, NYCC, NCBD, Horror

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast. For this entry, we’re checking out the next chapter in one of the most anticipated books coming out from Valiant Entertainment. Obviously, there has been a lot of speculation of what Valiant’s future holds after reports of rumored trouble and uncertainty emerged. Valiant has issued a public statement which gives an idea of what to expect over the next few months.

That said, Book Of Shadows #2 by CULLEN BUNN, VICENTE CIFUENTES, NICK FILARDI, and DAVE SHARPE is slated to hit the local comic shops this week before returning in January. Let’s waste no more time and see where things are heading in this latest installment, shall we?

**BOOK OF SHADOWS #2**
creative: CULLEN BUNN, VICENTE CIFUENTES, NICK FILARDI, and DAVE SHARPE
(**Cover A by** RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE)
Credit: Valiant Entertainment

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Shadowman, Persephone, Dr. Mirage, PUNK MAMBO, and the Eternal Warrior have been brought together to try stopping Exarch Fane on his deadly and destructive attack on Earth, dubbed “The Dark Feast”. Fane is carrying the Book Of Shadows, a dark and mysterious weapon, with him and our team is finally ready to make a play to stop him once and for all.

The team opens up with an all out attack on Fane. Much to their disappointment, Fane is taking their best shots and brushing them off. His big equalizer is the Book Of Shadows itself. From the powerful item, Fane summons an army of creatures to defend him. Left with no other choice, the team of heroes makes a hasty retreat, leaving Fane to attack others.

During their retreat, The Eternal Warrior divulges more into the history of Exarch Fane. What secrets are revealed here? What is a big reveal surrounding he Book? The team makes a call with all the information that sends them into a few directions with no easy roads to victory. Even with the long wait, the final panel will leave readers something to remember until we revisit this story in 2023 (hopefully sooner).

Bunn delivers on a very action packed issue while slowly revealing why Exarch Fane might be the impossible foe to stop. It’s a great balance of storytelling. The dynamic between the “team” is what jumps out most from this issue. The personalities involved here are not ones built for teamwork. From his run on Shadowman, Bunn established Jack Boniface struggles with working with others. With the stakes even higher, this point is brought to the forefront. Punk Mambo steals some panels with great one-liners. Once the team “decides” on a plan, it sets up for what should be a very enjoyable third issue.

Cifuentes continues ti impress with this series. The action sequences pop off the pages with a great attention to detail. This is something I look for when dealing with team books. There is also a great 2 page spread explaining Exarch Fane’s history with the Eternal Warrior. How the pages are made up gave it a very unique look to separate form the actual story. Even with the more quieter explanation moments with the characters, the art generates the severity of Fane’s action during this points in the story. There’s much to enjoy with this issue.

Overall, Book of Shadows #2 continues to make some noise with the story being told within these pages. Bunn and Cifuentes are presenting Valiant’s most reluctant team with solid storytelling and fantastic art. If this is truly the end till 2023, the book heads into hiatus on a high note. Make sure to check this out at the LCS this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Book Of Shadows #2. Thanks for reading.