May 18, 2022

Ken M

Entertainment, Valiant Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture, Comics

ARMORCLADS #3 (VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT)

May 18, 2022

Ken M

Entertainment, Valiant Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture, Comics

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast. For this edition, we’re continuing to follow the newest hit book coming from Valiant Entertainment. ARMORCLADS by JJ O'CONNOR, BRIAN BUCCELLATO, MANUEL GARCIA, RAÜL FERNÁNDEZ, JORDIE BELLAIRE and DAVE SHARPE has been a smash out of the gate & created a big buzz on this corner of the Valiant Universe. The first two issues sold out on the initial runs and issue 3 is sure to be following in those footsteps. Let’s take a deep dive into the latest chapter and see where we’re at, shall we?

**ARMORCLADS #3 - On sale May 18th | 32 pages, full color | $3.99 US | T+**
**Created by** JJ O'CONNOR
**Written by** JJ O'CONNOR AND BRIAN BUCCELLATO
**Pencils by** MANUEL GARCIA
**Inks by** RAÜL FERNÁNDEZ
**Colors by** JORDIE BELLAIRE
**Letters by** DAVE SHARPE
**Cover A by** BAGUS HUTOMO
**Cover B by** IKHWAN WALLIYUDDIN
**Cover C by** BAGUS HUTOMO
**Pre-order Cover by** JUNGGEUN YOON
Credit: Valiant Entertainment

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Kudos to Valiant for always putting a recap page in before most issues so new readers can always jump in and catch up on a series.

The ironclads have been through a lot during their time on Xeru. From starting out as simple workers looking for the Pure to sustain the Alphan military, their journey has been anything but easy. When one of their own Sam is killed on a mining mission when Sgt. Troy leaves him to die, Peris steps up to lead the revolyt back and ultimately is responsible for Sgt. Troy’s death in retailiation. Once the group returns to their home, they are confronted by the Alphan military. Peris is taken away and the rest are almost certain to fall until some luck falls their way. Suffice to say, this group has become battle tested in a hurry.

This issue jumps in to where Lela has now taken up the leadership role and is planning on a rescue mission for Peris. There’s one problem with this: the Ironclad suits are not meant for that kind of battle but luckily there might be a way to fix that situation. Readers are about to witness the genesis of what these heroes are made of and the fight for freedom.

Meanwhile, readers meet Governor Dohman. He’s got some plans in the works and Peris plays a big part in those. What are the “Lost Suits”? All the while, Lela is bringing the troops to the forefront as they march to battle. The playing field has leveled a bit with these Ironclads making a play to fight the Alphans head on and free Peris. How will this ultimately end? It’s a gutsy call to attack but this group has had nothing to lose from the beginning. What’s one more mission, right?

The story is really starting to its’ stride with this issue. Lela has become the character that fans will be rallying around. There’s also a great moment with Jac that shows how much he’s grown as a character. This group of individuals are finally coming together as a team. Once you see the team ready to go, readers can’t help but be excited about the next phase of this story. The introduction of Governor Dohman and his plans add a nice twist to this saga as well.

Garcia’s art really shines in this issue. Readers get a great team shot as the ironclads level up. They also get some great action panels where we see how this team fares against a real threat. The breakdown of Dohman’s search for the Lost Suits caps off with a last page readers will be locked in with anticipation for the next issue of this story. This venture into another side of the Valiant Universe has been well worth the trip thus far for readers with no signs of slowing down.

Overall, Armorclads #3 continues to build its engaging story with solid storytelling and fantastic art. There’s always something new getting thrown at this group of reluctant, battle forged fighters. The hype is real & the fan reaction isn’t wrong. This side of the Valiant Universe is ever-evolving and it’s a story comic readers don’t want to miss out on. Make sure you have Armorclads in your pull list at the LCS.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you think of Armorclads #3. As always. Thanks for reading.

May 17, 2022

Ken M

Comics, Comixology Originals, Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture

THE ALL-NIGHTER #6 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS)

May 17, 2022

Ken M

Comics, Comixology Originals, Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast. For this edition, a fantastic series on Comixology originals is making its return this week! The All-Nighter #6 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Aditya Bidikar continues the ever-impressing story of a group of individuals who’s super heroics are anything but normal. The first volume is currently out via print on Trade PaperBack from Dark Horse Comics with an Amazon Studios development deal in place as well. Where does the return lead us? Let’s check out the latest issue, shall we?

The All-Nighter #6 - On Sale May 17th Creative: Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Aditya Bidikar Credit: Comixolgy Originals — The All-Nighter #6 - On Sale May 17th
Creative: Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Aditya Bidikar
Credit: Comixolgy Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING FOR SERIES AND ISSUE #6 ***

The story centers around a group of supernatural vampires who have stayed in the shadows of “normalcy” by running a diner. Blending in society undetected has been one of the biggest ways of survival for this “family.” Anything else leads to a whole world of problems that they can’t afford to test. However, when one of the younger members, Alex, breaks away searching for something more. This new epiphany comes via inspirations from superheroes. After stopping a crime, Alex follows into the world of becoming a vigilante. The taste of something new attracts Joy, another younger member of the group, to join the crime-fighting ways. This doesn’t sit well with Ian and Cynthia, the oldest of the group, who know what’s at stake. Even with the do-good intentions, things fall apart in epic fashion to where we are now. The first story arc is must-read with some very epic surprises throughout that you need to read to believe.

As the "family” picks up the pieces from the fallout of their last adventure, the landscape has changed. Ian, the head of the family, has been missing. Readers do catch up on where is at and it’s a lot to process coming off the heels of issue #5. Cynthia has taken over running the diner with Alex and Joy taking a more increased role with covering shifts at the diner. Being vigilantes has to take a back seat to keeping up the illusion that everything is fine not to draw any suspicion. However, this lasts for only so long as the young duo gets some time to investigate a disturbance at the museum. What they discover is a complete surprise that unfolds into another decision for one of the family to make. Factor in that our heroes may not be the only ones fighting crime as readers get a last page that will have them talking until next issue.

Zdarsky brings back everyone’s favorite diner staff in a very solid issue. Coming off the big reveal in issue #5, Ian’s story will be the one to watch with this arc. It’s a perfect way to open the issue up. The new antagonist hits the ground running and wait till you see his first move! The back and forth between Alex and Joy gave some new perspective on their new status quo. Being superheroes is one thing but being vampires also throws a block in finding normalcy and how they perceive a way to achieve it. How these heroes handle what’s coming up next is going to be something special.

Loo brings our heroes back in a fantastic way. Bringing Ian’s story and how it ties into the past was an excellent visual. Also seeing the “villain” of this issue return was a fun twist. The strongest part was the emotional talk between Joy and Alex. Loo’s art really brought out the full emotion of what was happening there. It served as a solid reminder that there are lives behind the mask. Seeing how the world of the supernatural comes to life in these pages is really a fun treat for readers.

Overall, The All-Nighter #6 doesn’t miss a beat on its return. From the opening page, this book doesn’t let you go with excellent storytelling and art. Make sure to get your copy asap on Comixology. You don’t want to miss this book!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of The All-Nighter #6. Thanks for reading.

May 11, 2022

Ken M

Super Heroes, Pop Culture, Entertainment, Boom Studios, Power Rangers

MIGHTY MORPHIN #19 (BOOM STUDIOS)

May 11, 2022

Ken M

Super Heroes, Pop Culture, Entertainment, Boom Studios, Power Rangers

Welcome to an all new edition of the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast: Parlay Points! For this edition, we’re checking on the latest chapter on the “Charge to 100” for the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers comic books for Boom Studios. Mighty Morphin #19 by Mat Groom, Moises Hidalgo, Raul Angulo & Ed Dukeshire continues to gain momentum in its’ first story after “The Eltarian War.” With the Rangers off world on their own adventure, evil forces have moved in on the Earth. What happen next? Let’s check this issue out and see where this story leads us now, shall we?

Mighty Morphin #19 - On Same May 11th
Creative: Mat Groom, Moises Hidalgo, Raul Angulo & Ed Dukeshire (Cover by Inhyuk Lee)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

With the rangers away finding a new command center, Earth has been left open for some visitors to stop by and stake claim. King Aradon and his forces have shown up to Earth with only the Green & Red Rangers to stop them. Zordon is calling the gameplan to hold steady but Matt (Green Ranger) takes the lead to confront the invaders. Rocky (Red Ranger) has his young siblings with him and can’t break away to assist due to protecting his secret identity. How will this fare for our heroes?

Meanwhile, the rest of the team is in on Leonis in search of another command center. Once the “Oceans’s 11” style plan is made, the team makes their move against King Veiron. The reigning King has all the information they need to acquire their new home but securing said info isn’t going to be easy. Can the team pull off the big score here? And what did Alpha do?! Read the issue and find out.

Groom continues his run on Mighty Morphin with a very solid read. With the two stories happening here, things can easily get lost in the shuffle but at no point did I feel that happened here. Matt & Rocky’s story being Earth’s last line of defense really picked up steam with some excellent action sequences & seeing Zordon make a change in a long time Ranger rule gave it a nice spin. As for the other half, I’m really enjoying the “heist” story (even though it’s against “The Lion King” and for good reason). There’s some fun moments that readers will enjoy with that heading to next issue.

Hidalgo lets loose with the action for this issue with a great sequence involving the Green Ranger making his play against the invaders. Readers will most definitely enjoy those panels. Another standout moment was Vieron’s gala where the rangers make their move. Very cool visuals here and Alpha stole the show! Excellent final page to close the book out on.

Overall, Mighty Morphin #19 continues its’ new direction with a great issue. Excellent storytelling and art will have you invested in the next phase adventures for this team. Make sure to grab your copy at the local Comic Shops this week. You won’t be disappointed!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Mighty Morphin #19. Thanks for reading!

May 4, 2022

Ken M

Valiant Entertainment, Keanu Reeves, Comics, Pop Culture, Entertainment, Super Heroes

ARCHER AND ARMSTRONG FOREVER #1 (VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT)

May 4, 2022

Ken M

Valiant Entertainment, Keanu Reeves, Comics, Pop Culture, Entertainment, Super Heroes

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this edition, it's the return of Valiant Entertainment most legendary besties! Archer and Armstrong Forever #1 by Steve Foxe, Marcio Fiorito, Alex Guimareas and Hassan Otsmane-Elhauo brings back the pair in an all new adventure. It wouldn't be the Year if Valiant without them! Let's check out what the first issue is bringing, shall we?

ARCHER & ARMSTRONG FOREVER #1 - On sale MAY 4th | 32 pages, full color | $3.99 US | T+
Written by STEVE FOXE
**Art by** MARCIO FIORITO
**Colors by** ALEX GUIMARAES
**Letters by** HASSAN OTSMANE-ELHAOU
**Cover A by** BERNARD CHANG (featured here)
**Cover B by** DAVID TALASKI
**Cover C by** DAN HIPP
**Pre-order Cover by** RO STEIN/TED BRANDT
Credit: Valiant Entertainment

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

In case you’re reading Archer & Armstrong for the first time, they have been around the Valiant Universe since it’s inception in 1992. There are some classic stories in that initial run to their reboot in 2012 that are worth checking out from your LCS. Valiant also has a recap 101 page explaining the current basics to new readers in this issue as well.

Archer is a highly skilled martial artist & marksman who’s sole purpose in life was to kill “The Devil” aka Armstrong, an immortal with a knack for drinking and adventures. Once that situation was cleared up when Archer finds out the truth behind the people who raised him, these two became best friends and thus their escapades become the word of legend in Valiant lore.

For this story, Archer has to bail out Armstrong of another situation where SHOCKER Armstrong is dealing with an altercation with people “with some rakes and hoes” who steal his magical satchel while having a few beverages. During this incident, Armstrong’s ear is cut off.

Normally this would be bad, but Armstrong is immortal so it will grow back, right? Apparently not so much. With Armstrong’s immortality in question, the ever noble Archer sets out to find the truth behind this problem. Thus the adventure begins……

ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS ISSUE! Now keep in mind, I’’m an old school Valiant reader & the best friends was one of my favorite books. Seeing how Foxe has brought them back, this issue couldn’t be any more perfect. It has great usage of word bubbles to explain both main characters (see panels below) so throughout the issue, when they’re doing anything noteworthy, there is an explanation or clarification for. The story gives a new twist to “Can an immortal die?” There are some exciting twists to this tale that readers can look forward to with this series.

Fiorito does an excellent job on art duties for this issue. Readers see first hand what Archer is capable of when you mess with his bestie. The description of each fighting move is a nice touch. Seeing the banter between our heroes was another great point of this issue. From Archer’s frustration to Armstrong’s devil may care reactions, this issue had stand-out visuals that really made this a truly fun read.

Overall, Valiant’s most legendary duo returns to the LCS with a can’t miss issue that will become your favorite book on your pull list. The creative team knocks it out of the park with this issue. For older readers, it captures everything you love about A&A. If you’re new to these characters, it gives you a fun and exciting adventure to jump on board with. DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS BOOK!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Archer & Armstrong Forever #1. As always, Thanks for reading Parlay Points!

April 27, 2022

Ken M

Blog, Comics, Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture, Podcast

POWER RANGERS UNIVERSE #5 (BOOM STUDIOS)

April 27, 2022

Ken M

Blog, Comics, Entertainment, Super Heroes, Pop Culture, Podcast

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this edition, we’re taking a look at the latest chapter into the history of one of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers noteworthy characters. Power Rangers Universe #5 by Nicole Andelfinger, Simone Ragazzoni, Mattia Iacono, & Ed Dukeshire from Boom Studios has been a very fun read into the story behind the Phantom Ranger. With only two issues left, how does this story shape up now? Let’s jump into this issue and find out, shall we?

Power Rangers Universe #5 - on sale April 27th
Creative: Nicole Andelfinger, Simone Ragazzoni, Mattia Iacono, & Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Dan Mora)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This issue picks up where the Spectrum Rangers bet on themselves and appear to have won. They found a way to sustain morphing without killing themselves in the process. Now powered up, they’re ready to take the fight to the Dark Spector’s forces. Readers will enjoy all the action going down in this issue. As for the Morphanaut, his battle with the general becomes more than anyone expected with revelations exposed.

This moment becomes especially emotional & ultimately becomes the reason behind a desperate but noble action he takes later in this issue. The fallout with this battle carries thru the rest of the story as our heroes think they have the momentum on their side, until a final play is made where all bets are off heading into the final issue.

Andelfinger does a nice job with the build-up for the “big” reveal in this issue. It’s another element that is connecting the Morphanaut to the readers. This entire series, they have seen him go thru so many battling emotions that once we are at this point in the story, the moment becomes greater than expected. It also adds more weight to the final page of the book knowing what was done. The rest of the issue was solid action with a good dramatic fallout bit that works. Excellent job.

Ragazzoni & Iacono really made those action scenes pop off the pages here. They were great showcases on how upgraded their power set was. The “revelation” during the fight between the General and Morphanaut was very well done. There are some great panel shots of the emotional toll in this issue to put an exclamation point on that. Fantastic final page heading into the finale.

Overall, the saga of the Phantom Ranger heads into its’ final issue on a very strong note. Solid storytelling with emotional payoffs mixed with stellar artwork makes this a can’t miss issue at the LCS this week. Get caught up now beofre next month’s finale.

Let me know on Twitter what you thought of Power Rangers Universe #5. As always, thanks for reading.

April 27, 2022

Ken M

Keanu Reeves, Pop Culture, Comics, Blog, Super Heroes, Entertainment, Boom Studios

BRZRKR #8 (BOOM STUDIOS)

April 27, 2022

Ken M

Keanu Reeves, Pop Culture, Comics, Blog, Super Heroes, Entertainment, Boom Studios

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast. For this edition, we’re checking out the latest installment of one of the most unique series at the shops.

BRZRKR #8 by Keanu Reeves, Matt Kindt, Ron Garney, Bill Crabtree, and Clem Robins for Boom Studios has been a wild story of B, an immortal half man and half god who doesn’t want to exist anymore. As this series hits the final stretch, where do readers find our lead character now? Let’s check this issue out and see, shall we?

BRZRKR #8 - On Sale April 27th
Creative: Keanu Reeves, Matt Kindt, Ron Garney, Bill Crabtree, and Clem Robins (Cover: Lee Garbett)
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

As B has been working for the government in exchange for finding a way to end his existence. The relationship has become very strained due to the actions of Dr. Caudwell, who has ulterior motives for working with B.

As this issue kicks off, there is an explosion of energy where B had been stationed underground. The blast kills some soldiers working the assignment and the energy taps into Diana, B’s only real “friend” in this arrangement and knocks her out. B is also missing from his chamber. Where this should be considered an absolute disaster is spun as a win by Caudwell. B’s saga during this issue is one readers need to check out for themselves cause… wow, it goes places!

Reeves and Kindt continue to take this story in some interesting directions. Caudwell finally unveiling his master plan was a cool twist to the story. It’s one that wasn’t unexpected but it also hits some strong notes on what levels this character will go to achieve his plan. B’s story is also very well set up here. There are many layers to this final arc that will have readers hooked till the end.

Garney delivers on some fantastic art in this issue. The big 2 page explosion scene really jumps off the pages. The panel set-up for B’s story this issue was very creative as well. Using a blank page to build up a moment works well for this issue. Great cliffhanger ending page to cap this issue of as well.

Overall, BRZRKR #8 answers some outstanding questions while raising more in the process. The saga of B takes some unique paths this issue but readers are guided with ease by the creative team. The book has been a fascinating read while building towards a memorable conclusion. Make sure to pick this book up at your LCS this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of BRZRKR #8. As always, thanks for reading.

April 27, 2022

Ken M

Blog, Comics, Entertainment, Pop Culture, Super Heroes, Valiant Entertainment

THE HARBINGER #7 (VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT)

April 27, 2022

Ken M

Blog, Comics, Entertainment, Pop Culture, Super Heroes, Valiant Entertainment

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this edition, we’re taking a look at the penultimate (SAY IT AIN’T SO!) chapter in the latest adventure of Peter Stanchek. The Harbinger #7 by COLLIN KELLY, JACKSON LANZING, ROBBI RODRIGUEZ, RICO RENZI
& HASSAN OTSMANE-ELHAOU by Valiant Entertainment has been on point since it’s debut. Where we last saw our lead character, it was definitely a mic drop cliffhanger moment, so let’s now waste any more time and jump into breaking this issue down, shall we?

THE HARBINGER #7 - On sale ARPIL 27th | 32 pages, full color | $3.99 US | T+
Written by COLLIN KELLY, JACKSON LANZING
**Art by** ROBBI RODRIGUEZ
**Colors by** RICO RENZI
**Letters by** HASSAN OTSMANE-ELHAOU
**Cover A by** ROBBI RODRIGUEZ
**Cover B by** JONATHAN MARKS BERRAVECHHIA
**Pre-order Cover by** CULLY HAMNER
Credit: Valiant Entertainment

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Since his return appearance, Stanchek has been drawing attention from many people of the Valiant Universe. Obviously being one of the most powerful people on the planet will do that. Having his track record of actions will cause that as well. As this series has progressed, readers have found out that Stanchek has rewired his brain (literally) and become dedicated to be a beacon of hope for the people of Psiot City. This doesn’t go as easy as planned because he has one force standing right in his way: himself. The “evil” version of Stanchek is known as the Renegade who is trying to unleash chaos on the city.

From the fallout of their initial encounter, the Renegade has been working to build up an army of Psiots to assist in his plans. Harbinger’s mission is clear to stop “himself” at all costs. Luckily, he has some help in an old friend Faith aka Zephyr along with Cici and Young Ago. While en route flying to find the Renegade, Harbinger is SHOT IN THE HEAD by the assassin Blam!

This issue picks up literally as our hero is bleeding his mind out! With Cici and Ago trying to save Harbinger, Faith goes right after Blam. All the while, the Renegade has started the initial shot on his attack on Chicago with his army ready to go. Readers get a small glimpse of what’s to come if our heroes fail. Can our hero come back from Death’s door? Readers have seen Stanchek pull off some miracle moves before. Does he have one more left in his sleeve? And if so, is he ready for the battle ahead?

Kelly & Lanzing out do themselves on story ideas with this one! Their take on Harbinger and what Stanchek is capable with his powers is such a cool take. If anyone had questions of how powerful of a character he is had them answered with this issue. When they dive into moments like his “repair work”, it turns into the strongest part of the story. With all his powers, Stanchek is as fragile as ever finding his way to “Be Better”. The rest of the characters had solid moments as well with a final shot worthy of heading into a final battle.

Rodriguez crushes another issue! Holy Smokes! The imagery of Stanchek putting his mind back together was incredible! Rodirguez’s style is such a complement to the story. The full panel pages were excellent as well as the Renegade unleashing his first attacked (last picture in this blog) There’s no book out that captures such a unique trippy feel like Harbinger. It’s one of the best books out right now with a creative team that is leaving a tough act to follow. There’s much to enjoy with this issue.

Overall, The Harbinger #7 sets the pace for an epic finale to the current chapter of Peter Stanchek. Incredible storytellig with pushing the limits of psionic powers along with fantastic art makes this a must-have at your local comic shops this week! Also, get the first volume TPB if you haven’t already!

Hot me up on Twotter and let me know what you thought of The Harbinger #7. Thanks for reading.