Thanksgiving #1

There were very few Thanksgiving themed comics on the market this year. Who am I kidding? I think there was only 2. 3, tops! But I really looked forward to this one. And look forward to it I did; because it took forever for my favorite comic shop to precure a copy. I had almost given up hope, figuring I would have to wait until Thanksgiving, 2026. But at the last minute- holiday miracle!

Thanksgiving is set in a snowy small town on Thanksgiving night. The burg is living in fear as a Turkey Day serial killer has struck again and the police are stymied. For the Grandt family, this Thanksgiving is a chance to rekindle relationships, enjoy some delicious grub and share family secrets. 

Mark Russell penned a thrilling Thanksgiving murder mystery. I'm almost sorry that it was a one-shot. But with it's twist ending that borderlines on the surreal, the ending was warranted. Though with all great horror mysteries, there's always room for a sequel or mo
st definitely in this case, a prequel!

I figured out the killer pretty quick. But the motive was a surprise. So was the revelation of several mysteries; especially the one surrounding the narrator's mother. Besides, it doesn't upset me if I solve the mystery. It makes me feel smart. But it's all a shocking good story that fans of serial killer horror, true crime and holiday comics that are more than just cheery and bright will enjoy!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

Scooby Apocalypse and Hanna-Barbera Preview Edition #1

From 2016, this preview book gives glimpses into 4 of DC's Hanna-Barbera reboot titles. Readers get a look at the Mystery Inc. gang taking on the hordes of zombie undeed in Scooby Apocalypse. Mark Russell's modern retelling of the greatest stone age family of them all, The Flintstones, are examined as is a Mad Max take on Wacky Races in Wacky Raceland. Finally, the epic team-up of nearly a dozen of Hanna-Barbera's more dramatic properties in the Jeff Parker/Evan 'Doc' Shaner venture Future Quest.

I had already read the entire run of the rebooted Flintstones run that took an innocent family from the time of dinosaurs and gave them 21st century problems such as PTSD and gender equality. It wasn't a bad read. But it lacked the humor and heart of the original 1960s series. 

I don't think I like my Scooby-Doo to be so gosh darn violent. If you took the original gang with their yuks and silly montages of being chased through a haunted house and placed it all in the middle of The Walking Dead, I would be okay with it. But again, this book is missing the retro humor which makes reading Scooby-Doo comics a guilty pleasure for me.

Wacky Raceland looks fun. Maybe it's because I don't have cemented fond memories of that series like I do with the Flintstones and Scooby-Doo. Or maybe it's a cartoon show that was destined for a gritty reboot that seems to have no rules. Regardless, I really want to read it. 

Future Quest is a series I've been collecting. Yet I've not been able to find those missing issues for the right price. But I am always on the eye for those holdouts every time I make a run at the bargain bins. Plus Shaner and Parker were so nice and inviting when I met them at a panel a few years back. I've got a loyalty towards approachable folks such as they!

I enjoyed this glimpse of titles. But I think my days of owning preview books are over. When  I first started out with my second collection of books, freebies such as these were a great way to boost my long boxes while giving me affordable looks at potential series I would want to use my hard earned cash for. Now that I have over 11,000 comics, storage room is at a premium and I think newer, younger readers would benefit more from titles such as this one.

Worth Consuming! 

Rating: 7 out of 10 stars.

Not All Robots #1

With 10 days until Thanksgiving, last night began my countdown to the holiday with a decent size stack of comics devoted to Turkey Day! 

When it comes to Christmas comic books, if a book has a holiday looking cover but there's nothing Christmasy inside, I call it a Scrooge! So what do I need to call a book that I thought was set during the fourth Thursday of November but probably was really set during the month of July? I want to call it a Turducken. That sounds really funny. But that's probably more of a comic book without a Thanksgiving cover but has a food feast inside! So I guess I am calling this book a 'Tofurky'!

Set in a dystopian future of 2056, lucky citizens occupy city domes while millions struggle to survive the outdoors in a toxic wasteland. In the domes, humans live a life of luxury, while their family robot works and brings home the bacon. With a slew of murders and assaults being made by malfunctioning machines, the population of the Atlanta dome in particular is beginning to worry of a robot uprising. 

In the Atlanta dome, the Walters family is getting a tad suspicious of their automaton. As soon as Razorball returns home from his factory job, he slinks off into the garage and does God knows what. The Walters thinks Razorball is designing something to kill them with. And when a malfunction eliminates the entire population of the Orlando dome, the Walters' fears and that of humans everywhere might have come true! 

Has the revolution begun?

Even though there wasn't anything Thanksgiving about this comic, except for a 21st century twist on that iconic Norman Rockwell painting of a family serving a roast turkey, I was digging this first issue. That was until I read writer and series creator Mark Russell's soapbox article at the end of this issue. 

Instead of citing inspiration on how humans are becoming too reliant technology or how automation could literally destroy our economy or cause millions to lose their jobs, their livelihoods, The Prez reboot writer cites toxic masculinity as the root of all evil in this book. Primarily, WHITE masculinity. I'm not normally one to question a writer's motivations or creative license. But I rolled my eyes that of all the things Russell could blame for an ill wind between humans and robots, blaming white men for the problem would have been 50th on my list.

And then I realized who the editor for AWA (Artists, Writers & Artisans) was- Axel Alonso. During Alonso's time at Marvel as the EIC, he nearly brought the House of Ideas to its knees. Alonso alienated fans and retailers, telling everyone that he was in charge and didn't care about the feelings of those who had disposable income. There's nothing wrong with wanting to promote diversity in the storylines and voices of their creative team. But to blame a lack of sales on comics on white fragility is a complete cop out. Plain and simple, the stuff Alonso promoted just wasn't on par with the quality stories overseen by Stan Lee, Jim Shooter or even Joe Quesada. 

So I carry a bit of a grudge against Axel Alonso. And knowing that he's got a hand in this recipe has put a bad taste in my mouth. I really want to read this rest of the story. I'm just not willing to spend my hand earned money on something produced by somebody who claims that they can live without it. So if I find this book at my local library or maybe for trade credit at a used book store, I'll find out how it all ends. But until then, I can blissfully wait and use my money to buy something from someone who appreciates my voting dollars.

Maybe tonight's read will be more about the holidays...

Rating: 6 out of 10 stars.

Footnote- I teach high school culinary. So it is my job to educate the next generation of chefs and cooks. Unfortunately, I see how my industry is in danger of losing the human element with strides in robotics and automation. As food workers request higher pay, owners and operators are looking to save money by replacing employees with robots. Such an issue troubles me to no end and for Mark Russell to completely gloss over this controversial and industry threatening issue for an axe to grind with Trump supporters and the like was just irksome to me. My apologies for allowing politics to seep deeply into my review.

 

Lex Luthor/Porky Pig Special #1

Wave 2 of the DC/Looney Tunes crossovers launched this week. My most recent Geek Pick was the Lex Luthor/Porky Pig Special. There was just something about this issue that screamed it was going to be as good as last year’s amazing Batman/Elmer Fudd team-up and it did not disappoint!

Written by: Mark Russell, Jim Fanning Art by: Brad Walker, John LoterPublished by: DC Comics

When a down on his luck Porky Pig runs into Metropolis’ most powerful man, the stuttering swine is given a second chance to conquer the business world. Luthor puts Porky in charge of Lexcorp’s new social media division Lexema. While it may look innocent enough, the new website is actually a front for Superman’s arch-enemy to steal the passwords and secrets of its users.

You would think Porky Pig would be on top of this. But he’s too busy finding out just who is stealing the sandwiches from the employee break room. Sadly, this distraction will pave the way for Lex Luthor to find his latest scapegoat, um -pig for his impending round of Senate hearings on Capitol Hill.

This odd pairing of Lex Luthor and Porky Pig actually worked. Porky is normally the sidekick of the conniving Daffy Duck. Daffy tends to be aloof and reckless. Here, Luthor is quite dangerous, but he’s no dummy. Lex plays the part of the fool so well in order to gain Porky’s undying trust. However, there’s evil intent underneath all that foolishness.

Mark Russell provides some very funny moments in the opening tale. He also manages to pen a story that reflects many of the controversies of the day (social media privacy, big pharmacy, corporate greed) without being preachy or offensive. I usually get tired of Lex Luthor being used ad nauseam in all of the Superman titles. But he’s quite refreshing here as this is a story with zero influence of the Man of Steel.

The back-up feature by Jim Fanning and John Loter was also great. It was done in the style of a Looney Tunes cartoon. Here, Porky is an office supply salesman given the chance to make a pitch directly to Lex. Things seem to be going smoothly until Luthor gets distracted in yet another attempt to rid the earth of a certain Kryptonian. It’s a great comedy of errors done in that classic Merrie Melodies style.

Wave 2 of crossovers between Looney Tunes and superheroes offered lots of unique pairings: Catwoman Vs. Tweety Bird, The Joker pals with Daffy Duck, and Harley Quinn meets Gossamer. But this story of Pig and Mogul was the one that captured my interest most. Other than Brad Walker’s kinda creepy way of drawing Porky Pig and other Looney Tunes characters in the DC fashion, I didn’t have any issues with this special. It was darn near flawless and a must read for any fan of weird team-ups such as myself!

The Lex Luthor/Porky Pig Special #1 debuted in stores on August 29, 2018.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

Superman Special #1

There's just two more weeks until Bendis officially takes over as the writer of the Superman Family. But before that happens, a trio of current writers of the Man of Steel have been allowed to tie up some loose ends.

In For Those Who Serve, Peter J Tomasi has Superman and Son returning to 1940s Dinosaur Island to save the last surviving member of the Losers.

Mark Russell's Strays and Strangers sees the Man of Tomorrow reflecting on the life lessons the Kent's taught him when he was growing up.

Then in Ian Flynn's Split Decision, the Atomic Skull is on the road to redemption as a member of Maggie Sawyer's Metropolis Special Crimes Unit. But when his next mission pairs him with Superman against the Skull’s old partner Shockwave, conflicts arise. Which side will the reformed criminal ultimately stake his claim to?

With all of the Superman Family titles getting cancelled to make way for Bendis, I understand DC's need to publish this one-shot. But while this was an enjoyable special, the level of importance to each story seemed anything but. For one thing, I was expecting another teaser into the Bendis Man of Steel miniseries, like in DC Nation #0. The only real mention of the Superman event of the decade was a two page ad listing information that isn't new if you already follow social media groups devoted to the DCU.

The cover price of $4.99 also seemed steep for the level of action and adventure in these stories. The Superman Special was bigger than a standard Superman Rebirth issue. But still, without a real draw, like a never before published Otto Binder Superman adventure, this issue shouldn't have been priced higher than $3.99.

One saving grace for the book is the artwork. I loved Kaare Andrews TAS stylization of Superman and the Atomic Skull. Plus Bryan Hitch’s 1980s throwback artwork was perfect for the story of Clark's childhood. But I was mixed on Scott Godlewski’s art. His dinosaurs and representation of Superboy Jon Kent were exceptional. But there was just something off about Godlewski's take on the Man of Steel.

Overall, this book is a good Superman title, but unlike it's name, there just isn't anything special about this Special.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 7 out of 10 stars.

The Superman Special #1 debuted in stores and digital platforms on Wednesday, May 16th, 2018.

The Flintstones, Volume 2: Bedrock Bedlam

The rebooted adventures of everyone's favorite stone family concludes in this volume. Mark Russell's (PREZ) take continues to be both edgy and classic at the same time. I actually hated to see this series go. It was refreshing to have a socially conscious comic book to read without every punchline ending with the words 'Donald Trump.' This series actually proves that in the modern world you can skewer all sides of the same coin without getting old and predictable.

I didn't have a perfect experience with this book. Sadly, one of my favorite characters got killed off and it actually left me a little heartbroken. Thankfully, there's a happy ending of sorts to that tragedy. But GEEZ- what did XXXXXXXXX have to die?

An enjoyable read with art by Scott Hanna, Rick Leonardi and Steve Pugh. Plus, don't skip over the gallery section as there's a slew of really great variant covers and sketch pages.

I can't believe I am gonna say this but hopefully, this isn't the end of the new Flintstones!

I want a return trip to Bedrock!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars!

Booster Gold/The Flintstones Special #1

Dating in the 25th century is hard enough without having prehistoric aliens invading. In order to investigate their misjudgment of the time stream, Booster Gold and his alien sidekick Skeetz must travel millions of years into the past. Booster arrives in the prehistoric past where he must seek the help of Fred and Barney. 
   
Mark Russell continues his exciting run with the modern stone age family. While the story was quite entertaining it wasn't the best of this book.

 In the second feature was a modern look at the Jetsons. While I absolutely hated their sleek look, the story was fantastic. In it, George's mother is dying of some dread disease and with daughter Judy's help, Mother Jetson has her consciousness transferred into a robot. Oh, and Grandma's name? Would you believe, Rosie???

Yes- I gave away a big spoiler but if you've been keeping up with the forthcoming releases on social media, you'll know that this giant plot point has long been revealed. 

I've gotten really behind on my reviews. This book dropped in March and I probably read it within a week of it's release. But when I read the Jetsons story I just knew that this was setting up a new offering in DC's Hanna-Barbera Universe line of reboots. I for one will be first in line for it when it arrives in stores this November.

A good first act. An amazing second feature. 

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

The Flintstones Volume 1

You know the story. Fred Flintstone, caveman every man who struggles to provide for his wife Wilma and child People's. His best friend Barney and wife Betty live next door with their super-strong son, Bam-Bam. Together, their town of Bedrock is bustling to become the place for a modern Stone Age family.

As part of DC'S modernization of the Hanna-Barbera universe I wasn't thrilled with the changes but I was willing to give it a try. That is until I started reading the reviews. But no, I wasn't dissuaded because of poor opinions of the book.

If anything the reviews were exceptionally positive. What kept me away were reviewers saying that if you had a problem with the changes to the Flintstones you were racist, bigoted, or homophobic. I'm not sure if this was the marketing campaign DC hoped for. But those extremist threats kept my money in my pocket for something else.

Thanks to my local library, I got to check out this new take on the Flintstones for free. I must say that while I am not a fan of the reviewers spiteful opinions of those who would rather remember the Flintstones of their childhood; I must say that I really enjoyed the new take on Fred and company.

Mark Russell’s take on the Flintstones was very nostalgic. What the PREZ reboot’s writer does differently is introduce new elements of social commentary that was considered taboo when the cartoon originally aired in the 60s. For example, the fraternal order of the Buffalo that was Fred and Barney's lodge is now a support group for the soldiers with PTSD who fought in an epic battle with nearby tree people. Building on established archetypes that modernizes but doesn't replace the rich history of the Flintstones is something I can get behind.

Plus with Pebbles and Bam-Bam being teenagers, DC doesn't wipe out the established history of the Flintstones in these new adventures. Though the origins of some characters are tweaked slightly such as how Gazoo the Great came to reside in Bedrock.

Another thing that for most is a no-go zone was the art. As you can tell from the cover image above, the characters look more like the live-action film from the 90s than the iconic animated style created over 50-years ago. The man behind the updated designs is Steve Pugh (Animal Man.) While he crafts a version of the Flintstones that isn't cartoony, Pugh does delve into the show's original style. All of the photos in the Flintstones and Rubbles households look just like the characters did back in 1960s. Those subtle tributes to the past once again have won me over to this revitalization.

Volume Two is on the horizon. I'm looking forward to reading more entertaining stories about the residents of Bedrock. If you're still on the fence about trying this series, hopefully my opinions will encourage you to give it a try. Don't worry, if you don't like these Flintstones, I won't judge.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.