Welcome to Paperweight Entertainment’sHall of Armor! New armors, new multiversal Tony Starks, same great content! We’re still digging into Iron Man’s bag of tricks, each week you’re going to get to take a look at a new armor or version of Iron Man from across comics, film, and TV!
This week we head back to the ’90’s with my personal favorite Iron Man armor, The Modular Armor! This suit was heavily featured throughout it’s run in the comics in other media. The Modular Armor was seen in Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Iron Man the Animated Series and the other Marvel animated shows on the air at the time. The Modular Armor was introduced in Iron Man #300, written by Len Kaminski with art by Kevin Hopgood, Tom Morgan, Steve Mitchell, and Ariane Lenshoek. Let’s take a look at why I love this armor so much!
It’s New Comic Book day here at the Nerd Initiative Bullpen and at top of my pull list is the latest from a brand new series from one of my favorite comic publishers!
Issue 2 of Sirens of the City #2 published by Boom Studios continues right where we left Laya in issue 1, trusting in a strange new friend named Davi who appears to be playing the protector for some unknown reason. Her Baby daddy Rome, still appears to have the best intentions but will that change as both main characters learn more?
The writing and flow by Joanne Starer is paced well by not giving the reader too much info too quickly and allowing for personal theories to develop. We are just starting to understand the stakes of this series, but there is still very much to learn especially with an unknown character that continues to sporadically show up!
Sirens of the City #2 – Art by Khary Randolph, Letters by AndWorld Design Credit: BOOM! Studios
I have really enjoyed the art by Khary Randolph in this series which has a very detailed ash can/black and white style with strategically placed pops of color.
This approach helps convey the overall tone of the series. It’s in this issue that we truly understand the reason behind the pops of color. This enhances the reader’s ability to better understand the different characters and power sets. The colors also flow into the lettering, which makes the issue very reader friendly.
The variant covers for this issue are incredible and should appeal to collectors of all types with big names like Cliff Chiang (Paper Girls), Toni Infante (We Only Find Them When They’re Dead), David Mack (Daredevil), and Dan Mora (Once & Future).
Sirens of the City #2 – Art by Khary Randolph, Letters by AndWorld Design Credit: BOOM! Studios
Overall, this issue does a great job building to what feels like an exciting climax of this 6 issue mini run!
Will Laya keep the baby? Does Rome really have the best intentions when it comes to his relationship and so-called love for Laya? And who is this mysterious character that continues to have a vested interest in all of these events? I can’t wait to find out how all of this plays out!
8.5 out of 10
Thanks for checking out my review for the NI Comics Bullpen. Let me know what comics you’re reading and hit me up on Twitter. Till next time…
Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we’re diving back into the Energon Universe within the pages of Image Comics and Skybound Entertainment’s latest hit! Ever since it’s debut, VOID RIVALSby Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Matheus Lopes and Rus Wooton has many fans watching its every move in anticipation for the new Transformers and G.I.Joe related properties coming. Few books in recent memory have generated such an immediate impact than what has been happening here.
With two strong issues setting the pace and dropping surprise after surprise, Issue #3 is set to hit local comic shops. Let’s take a closer look at where the latest chapter takes readers now, shall we?
VOID RIVALS #3by Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Matheus Lopes and Rus Wooton (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment – Cover: James Harren)
Darak (an Agorrian) and Solila (A Zertinian) have crossed each other’s path on an unknown planet. Their alien races have been bitter enemies for years. Survival has forced them to become uneasy allies. The pair has also crossed paths with Jetfire (a Cybertronian) which delighted fans when the reveal became public.
After making a last ditch attempt to fix a ship to fly away, the pair makes an escape from the planet with secrets discovered to tell. Readers found out the backstory to the warring aliens and now know the bitter enemies must find a way to come together before they are all doomed. All roads point back to the Sacred Ring. With a final attempt, luck appears to be on their side. However, Darak and Solila’s escape leads to a bigger problem. While in space, they are hijacked by figures Transformer fans know: The SKUXXOID!
This chapter begins with the pair fighting a Skuxxoid. The action is fast paced with the pair on their heels. Dark is hit with a shot in the skirmish. Dark tried saying “Save Yourself” but Solila ignores the request. In a creative use of her weapon, she takes down Skuxxoid long enough to buy time for Darak and her to escape. Skuxxoid opts not to Perdue but rather inspect the ship he acquired.
The unlikely duo make their way through the gigantic ship with danger lurking all around. How will they figure out a way home now? What obstacles lay in their path? Readers quickly find out that there is no easy way home as the pair have to make some questionable calls on the road to return. Just when readers think they have an idea where the story is going, there’s a few twists along the way that will keep them guessing until the next chapter drops.
VOID RIVALS #3by Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Matheus Lopes and Rus Wooton (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment – Cover: Taurin Clarke)
Kirkman keeps things interesting with the events of this issue. At its’ core, the story still is anchored around the born enemies as Dakar and Solila carry the uneasiness of their alliance. Forcing them to work together against Skuxxoid kicked things off with Solila slowly revealing her true nature.
By far and away, she is the breakout character of this series. Darak (much like the readers) are slowly picking up there is more to her saga than she is letting on. The action sequences are well-timed as they push the pair to work together, breaking up Darak’s question.
The Skuxxoid resolution is a great twist and one readers shouldn’t see coming. The final act is compelling as the next phase is crucial of how it’s handled. The final moment solidifies that the true nature of this book has only just begun and that’s a massive win for readers.
De Felici and Lopes fuse the action with the drama nicely for this issue. The images of Skuxxoid fighting off the pair set a strong tone early. This is topped by their first obstacle they come across on the escape.
The (near) full page panel pops off the page and heighten the events of the high stakes at hand. The art team also utilizes the body language of the pair to exemplify the struggles they’ve had returning home. The prime example is the final act. The panels build to a striking image to close events, connecting with a final image to throw everything we know thus far away.
FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10
The Energon Universe’s odd couple dives further into danger with another excellent chapter. Kirkman, De Felici and the team waste no time building the tension and turmoil to a show-stopping conclusion. Make plans to pick this issue up as the story hasn’t begun to even hit its’ next level yet!
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what your thoughts are for Void Rivals #3. Thanks for reading Parlay points on Nerd Initiative!
Welcome to another New Comic Book Day review from the N.I. Bullpen!
We have a big one to cover in this review. So big we had to make this review a 2 parter! Weighing in at an impressive 144 pages, The Shadows of Thule from Humanoids is as epic as it is large.
This is a story filled with war, magic and monsters. Ancient Rome is at the height of its power and is attempting to exterminate the Picts from Northern Britain and Scotland. The King of the Picts is attempting to hold together what remains of his people. There is a witch who is attempting to steal Pictish magic in order to release horrible monsters. A woman is slain in a convoy attack and a young man stolen from his mother at birth is at the center of it all. And that is all within the first 36 pages!
This is a dive into history and mythology all wrapped into one beautifully gorey package that is The Shadows of Thule. It’s a Roman Age epic you don’t want to skip out on.
Buckle up, because this is going to be a big one. Let’s take a look at part 1 of this review for The Shadows of Thule from Humanoids!
The book begins by telling us a legend of the origins of the Picts in Scotland. It says that originally, a race of giants from the island of Thule called Northern Scotland their home. One day the Picts arrived and instead of driving them off, the giants allowed them to make their homes in the forests.
Eventually, after teaching the Picts everything they could, and feeling confident that they would protect the land, the giants returned to their island of Thule. They left the King of the Picts at the time with a warning after he asked;
“What is the Hirudinea return? What if we need your help to drive them away?”
To which a giant responded “If that were to happen, it would mean that all hope is lost.”
And with that, the giants leave for their homeland of Thule.
We are then sent ahead hundreds of years to Scotland in 136AD beyond Hadrian’s Wall in Roman occupied Britain. A Roman convoy carrying a pregnant woman named Domina who is traveling so that she can give birth with her husband present. Her husband is Roman General Gaius Horatius, the general leading Rome’s troops in battle against the Picts to the north.
Along the journey, the convoy is ambushed by an army of Pictish warriors, who go one to make short work of the convoy’s soldiers. Domina and her attendant Briaca are forced to attempt a hasty retreat, fleeing from their carriage into the surrounding forest.
When they stop to catch their breath, they are met by one of their Roman guards, who had already been killed in the ambush with an arrow to the eye. This “dead” soldier (placed under some sort of evil magic) then swiftly proceeds to decapitate Briaca, then stabs Domina. Coming from behind this soldier is the same woman who advised Domina to travel here to give birth, a “Prophetess” named Ithome.
She tells Domina that she was brought here to play a part in a larger plan of Ithome’s. Since she is now here and about to be killed, she has played her role. The reanimated soldier then stabs Domina again, killing her.
In the aftermath of the battle, a group of Pictish warriors find the tracks of the 2 fleeing women. They follow the tracks to find a gruesome scene. Briaca beheaded, Domina slain, a dead roman at their feet and a baby boy born in the middle of his mother’s murder.
One warrior thinks the child should be killed, reasoning that when he becomes a man, he will be just another enemy to fight against. Another warrior decides to spare the infant, adopting the orphan and resolves to raise the child as a Pict.
Within the first few pages I was hooked. The world that Mallet has crafted in this book is both gritty and brutal as well as wondrous and magical. He gives us a glimpse into the past, while adding the magic and myths of the region and time making for an immersive experience for readers.
While there is a lot of jumping around from time to time and place to place, I never felt lost or confused as to who was who or what was happening. The story flows nicely and the pacing is a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows right from the very beginning.
The art and coloring from Marty and Gonzalbo only adds to the immersion of this book.
The battle scenes hold nothing back, showing you every bloody detail of each sword and spear thrust. The background fades to a dark gray, forcing your attention on the carnage taking place on the page.
During the slower moments in the story, we get to see the detail put into the backgrounds and environments. The glow of a campfire for example makes the surrounding area seem cold and unforgiving, drawing your eye to the warmth of the fire. The color used in The Shadows of Thule is nothing short of excellent.
If you want something to share with the kids, this is not the book for you.
If you’re a mature reader who is looking for something new to really sink your comic teeth into then this is outstanding. It’s brutal and violent while at the same time deals with a people who are facing extinction and a witch hell bent on achieving her own goals.
Make sure you ask for The Shadows of Thule at your local comic book shop this week on New Comic Book Day. Also, be on the lookout for part 2 of this review tomorrow covering a bit more of this amazing graphic novel!
As always everyone Be Safe, Be Kind, and Take It Easy!
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this edition, we’re checking out arguably THE best superhero comic on the market today. Bringing together two of the most iconic characters in all of pop culture, let alone their presences in comics history, can be a challenge. With Mark Waid and Dan Morabehind this book, fans have been greeted to fresh takes that reminds everyone why this pair earned the moniker of “World’s Finest”
The series has a shift in art for the next two issues but duties are in safe hands. Travis Moore steps in for Mora with Waid, Tamra Bonvillain and Steve Wands along for the ride as Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #18 looks to take a trip back in time to where things all began for the pair. Let’s not wait any longer and see how this new story arc begins!
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
BATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST #18 – Mark Waid, Travis Moore, Tamra Bonvillain and Steve Wands (Credit: DC COMICS – cover: Darick Robertson & Diego Rodriguez)
The story begins in Gotham City years in the past. Commissioner Gordon leads the investigation into a heist on a showboat. The only clue they have to work with is “a riddle.” Gordon doesn’t seem to phased as he senses a certain caped crusader might be already on the job.
Meanwhile in Metropolis, The Daily Planet has taken notice of the events in Gotham. Jimmy Olsen points out the news to one Clark Kent. They break down that “the Riddler” (as called by the cops at this time) is behind the stealing. Along with the thefts, there has been some disappearances. As Clark looks at the case, there is a message left in a foreign language to humans, but not Clark. It is in KRYPTONIAN!
Superman flies to Gotham and meets up with Gordon. As they exchange information of the case, Clark references a vigilante in Gotham. Gordon mentions he has his own way to interact with the investigation, but Superman flies away catching Batman listening in.
At this stage, readers are treated to the first meeting between the World’s Finest! How does the initial interaction go? What happens when ideologies clash? What connection does the Riddle have with Superman? This issue has much to offer fans new and old as a great mystery has begun. The final panels give readers a solid parting image to hold them over until next issue.
Waid captures the essence of the total opposite mannerisms that make this pair great. The “by the books” method of Superman conflicts during each encounter with Batman’s more “direct” approach to solving crime. The little variances were a treasure to read. Superman’s time in Gordon’s office is a great example. The conversation comes off more cordial and a stark contrast between Batman’s brooding.
BATMAN/SUPERMAN: WORLD’S FINEST #18 – Mark Waid, Travis Moore, Tamra Bonvillain and Steve Wands (Credit: DC COMICS – cover: Meghan Hetrick)
Readers can rest assured that the dark Knight demeanor is still there (though turned down a few notches) when he and Clark meet for the first time. The story builds itself at a steady pace with each following time, the pair starts to lay the foundation for their iconic bond. Readers will be walking away very pleased at what’s happening and waiting to see what lies ahead.
Moore’s art sets up these classic images nicely throughout the issue. The Superman/Gordon encounter kicks off with a solid visual of Gordon reacting to seeing Superman flying in his office. Its’ matched when the iconic heroes finally meet for the first times (as alter-egos and in uniform) as well.
Moore’s use of half-page panels for these moments hit their marks flush. Bonvillain’s coloring is a major part on how these brief visuals leave a lasting impression. There’s great action thrown in the latter half of the book with a can’t miss full page panel leading into a reveal keeping readers on the edge f their seats until the next issue drops!
FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10
A magnificent part of DC Comics history is brought to life with an exceptional start that all comic fans won’t want to miss. Waid, Moore and the team construct the beginnings of a legendary duo with superb writing and art. The series continues to define what superhero storytelling is all about.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #18. Thanks for listening to Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative!
Harley Quinn: Black White and Redder #2 by Kelly Thompson, Annie Wu, Clayton Cowles,Ro Stein & Ted Brandt, Andrea Shea, Ryan Parrott, Luana Vecchio, Becca Carey, and Matthew Levine (Cover – Chris Samnee – Credit: DC Comics)
Harley Quinn: Black White and Redder #2 by DC Comics
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 DC Comics Series that presents one of its’ superstar characters in a different space. The “Black & White” brand is a unique format where creators can tell short stories that fit outside the normal continuity with primarily black and white coloring.
Originally, this format made it’s debut in 1996 with “Batman: Black and White”. From it’s popularity, it has grown into a creator’s playground to share stories that feature the lead in a different perspective.
Harley Quinn: Black, White and Red made its debut in 2020. Fans raved about the fresh takes on one of the most popular DCU characters. With that success, a new series made it’s debut in July 2023. Coming off the heels of a strong debut, issue #2 looks to leave a lasting impression.
Harley Quinn: Black White and Redder #2 by Kelly Thompson, Annie Wu, Clayton Cowles,Ro Stein & Ted Brandt, Andrea Shea, Ryan Parrott, Luana Vecchio, Becca Carey, and Matthew Levine delivers three great stories for readers to check out. Let’s take a closer look at what is unfolding here, shall we?
Harley Quinn: Black White and Redder #2 by Kelly Thompson, Annie Wu, Clayton Cowles,Ro Stein & Ted Brandt, Andrea Shea, Ryan Parrott, Luana Vecchio, Becca Carey, and Matthew Levine (Cover – Joëlle Jones – Credit: DC Comics)
*** POTENTIAL SPOILER WARNING ***
Due to the lengths of stories, the overview of each tale will be shorter than usual reviews.
Thompson and Wu’s story opens the issue. Zatanna has been kidnapped by Harley. She’s brought to the penthouse home shared by Quinn and Poison Ivy. After some convincing buy Ivy, Harley frees Zatanna and explains her reasoning for kidnapping. Harley wants Zatanna to use her powers to give her a new origin.
Next up is Brandt & Steins turn. At Gotham’s Pet Club annual show, The League of Super-Pets are being awarded with a prestigious honor. Representing them is Robin. However, someone disputes their claim to the award. Harley arrives with her hyenas along with…THE LEGION OF DOOMINALS! The competition is on for who is the best in show amongst DC’s super-powered animals!
Closing this issue out is Parrott and Vecchio. Jim Gordon and Harley are sitting in a diner. The place has been wrecked. Harley is in handcuffs. Gordon is letting her have some pie and a discussion is sparked that readers will not want to miss.
Each story stands on its’ own and exemplifies why this series is such a hit with fans and creators equally.
Harley Quinn: Black White and Redder #2 by Kelly Thompson, Annie Wu, Clayton Cowles,Ro Stein & Ted Brandt, Andrea Shea, Ryan Parrott, Luana Vecchio, Becca Carey, and Matthew Levine (Cover – Annie Wu – Credit: DC Comics)
Thompson and Wu’s tale is one that plays into a factor which has followed Harley no matter where she goes. The sense of identity crisis is a major factor in Harley’s daily life. Thompson poses this theme with an entertaining backdrop. The various origin stories are brought to life with Wu’s fantastic art.
There are two full page “transformation sequences that make an impact of how things begin in Harley’s quest for self-independence. The ending leaves readers with a fitting ending that is 100% all Harley. Seeing Thompson’s take here should get fans more excited for the new Birds Of Prey series coming in the fall. FINAL POINT: 9
Brandt and Stein dive into the more over-the-top side of Harley’s world with their take. The setting is centered around fun with the pets stealing the spotlight. Having the “friendly competition” go off the path is everything readers want and expect when Harley’s leading the charge.
The art is excellent and pair with great moments like stolen bank accounts and a rescue gone awry. There’s a great near-full page shot of all hell breaking loose that is a crowd-pleaser. Great closing moment to cap things off. FINAL POINT: 8
The story with Parrott and Vecchio might be the show-stealer for this issue. Parrott gives readers an in-depth moment between the uneasy acquaintances. What would normally be an open and shut case turns into a odyssey into what’s the motives on why Harley and Gordon do what they do.
Parrott touches upon Harley’s psychology background in a stand-out moment that brings a new look to the image of Commissioner Gordon. Vecchio’s art captures the reactions and emotions of the conversation perfectly. The panels are very grounded in their reflections but pay off huge when readers arrive at the conclusion. FINAL POINT: 10
OVERALL ISSUE FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10
The world of DC’s Miscreant of Mayhem is spotlighted with three incredible stories that will not escape readers after reading. Each one dives into a differing element of what makes Harley Quinn such a fascinating character. This issue needs to be added into your comic collection on New Comic Book Day without question.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Harley Quinn: Black, White and Redder #2. Thanks for reading Parlay points on Nerd Initiative.
HORUS IN HELL #1 BY Allen Dunford and Will Radford (Pocus Hocus, Grandma Chainsaw), Kit Wallis (Good Boy), AND Letters by Dave lentz – Credit: Source Point Press
Creative: Allen Dunford and Will Radford (Pocus Hocus, Grandma Chainsaw), Kit Wallis , AND Dave Lentz
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this edition, we are checking out the phenomenon that took Kickstarter by storm just a few weeks ago.
The team behind the smash indie hit Pocus Hocus has spun off one of its most popular characters into his own series. With Pocus now hitting the comic shops later this year, the little universe being built here has fans excited to see what is coming next.
HORUS IN HELL #1 BY Allen Dunford and Will Radford (Pocus Hocus, Grandma Chainsaw), Kit Wallis (Good Boy), AND Letters by Dave Lentz swings for the fences with its’ explosive debut. Let’s take a closer look and see how events unfold from here, shall we?
HORUS IN HELL #1 BY Allen Dunford and Will Radford (Pocus Hocus, Grandma Chainsaw), Kit Wallis (Good Boy), AND Letters by Dave lentz – Credit: Source Point Press
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The story begins as a normal night on the job with Pocus Hocus doing what he does best. Powered by the strength of “beverages”, Pocus does a trick pulling Horus out of his ear. With the crowd raving in applause, someone is not happy with the current situation. That is Horus.
Readers are taken on a flashback to Horus’ time in Hell’s army. As a respected warrior, Horus’ reputation spoke volumes in the battle between Angels and Demons. The action is not for the squeamish as Horus takes down his enemies in ruthless fashion.
During one of these battles, Horus is on the losing end to a powerful angel. Fearing the end is here, Horus braces to certain doom. However “Demonic” intervention happens in his eyes as a fist crushes the angel. Thinking this is a sign from below(?), Horus embraces the save. Quickly, his dreams are crushed as he sees who’s hand made the save. Horus becomes part of the act as Pocus Hocus pulls him from his magic hat to an audience.
After a random show later, Emily (Pocus’s assistant) has Horus promise he will look after Pocus. He agrees, but little does he realize what he’s in for.
What kind of trouble does Pocus get everyone in this time? Can Horus rise to the challenge at hand? And if he does, is Horus ready for the next chapter in his story to be told? Readers bare witness to Horus doing what he does best: Mayhem and Malice.
HORUS IN HELL #1 BY Allen Dunford and Will Radford (Pocus Hocus, Grandma Chainsaw), Kit Wallis (Good Boy), AND Letters by Dave lentz – Credit: Source Point Press
However, this time, it appears Horus has bitten off more than he can choose as the closing arc sets him on an unforeseen direction which can only lead to more of what fans crave when they see the rampaging rabbit on the loose!
Dunford and Radford strike again with their one-two combination of dark humor and destruction. On the surface, Horus looks the part of Pocus’ sidekick. Once this story gets rolling, readers quickly pick up on how there is more layers to this character than a magic prop. The backstory of his days in Hell instantly build a foundation of how vastly wrong fans might be about Horus.
Seeing his past and ruthlessness in combat easily wins over readers. Once the middle act begins, it is business as usual with Horus. There’s a great sequence where Horus is called a “bunny” which sparks a berserker rage like Wolverine in him. It is playful moments like this which balance out the wild action.
The final act throws a new factor into the mix which is sure to add more heat to the drama. The story moves briskly but at a speed that you can sense how Horus is ready for what lies ahead and whoever is in his way is not ready.
Wallis is the perfect artist for this story. His style is tailor made for this book. The action scenes pay off as brutal as a fight between Heaven and Hell’s warriors would. There is an excellent full page image of Horus standing in the middle of the page while the fighting is happening in small panels around him. The facial expressions made hit a home run as most rely solely on how readers can watch Horus’ eyes as events unfold. This all leads to a strong final full page image knowing what happens next is going to a one hell of a sight to be seen.
FINAL POINT: 8.5 OUT OF 10
The spin-off title from Pocus Hocus does not mis-step bringing one of its’ most beloved characters into the spotlight. Radford, Dunford, Wallis and Lentz brings Horus “road back to Hell with good intentions” as they combine the brutality with brilliant banter to make for an undeniable debut.
Make sure to check this out (and also pre-order Pocus Hocus) if you’re looking for the next big thing in indie comics to be added to your collection.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Horus in Hell #1. Thanks for reading Parlay points on Nerd Initiative.
CREATIVE: Mason Solimine, Flaviu Pop, Bryan Magnaye, and Mike Bui (Edited by Daniel Calvo and Steve Colle)
Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this edition, we’re checking out a highly successful kickstarter project coming out by way of Alpha Comic Books. With a new superhero universe being born known as “The Alpha Universe”, the expectations are high for this very new independent publisher. Fans have caught wind of Alpha’s moves and fully backed their initial campaign book.
In this day and age of kickstarters being a gateway into readers hands, it is no small feat to have a successful campaign. There has to be something special in the project to connect with fans. Otherwise, it could be grounded before it ever takes off.
The Cardinal #1 by Mason Solimine, Flaviu Pop, Bryan Magnaye, and Mike Bui (Edited by Daniel Calvo and Steve Colle) cleared its goal and is now making its way into comic fans collections. Let’s see how the birth of the Alpha Universe shapes up, shall we?
The Cardinal #1 by Mason Solimine, Flaviu Pop, Bryan Magnaye, and Mike Bui (Edited by Daniel Calvo and Steve Colle – Credit: ALPHA Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The story begins in Dallas, Texas. A costumed figure is rushing into dangers way. He is talking himself up to boost his confidence. Waiting for him are three armed robbers holding up hostages inside a bank. With the help of someone off-site, the costumed hero crashes into the bank and takes out some of the robbers with relative ease. It is a benefit to have super powers in this situation.
After freeing the hostages, an officer asks what happened. One hostage says “He Saved Us….The Cardinal”.
Back inside the bank, The Cardinal is dodging bullets with enhanced reflexes. One assailant decides to end things once and for all. He sets off a time bomb inside the bank. Knowing the risks, The Cardinal grabs the bomb and flies it into the sky. The blast goes off without hurting anyone. Once back on the ground, The Cardinal assists in helping the police wrap the situation up before flying away.
It is at this moment that the Cardinal is revealed to be Terrence Eckard, a high school senior. His partner off-site is his sister Sienna. While saving the day, he almost misses another big moment: His high school graduation.
The Cardinal #1 by Mason Solimine, Flaviu Pop, Bryan Magnaye, and Mike Bui (Edited by Daniel Calvo and Steve Colle – Credit: ALPHA Comics)
While walking for his diploma, Terrence takes the readers into a dive of his past. It is a tragic tale of family and loss. What happened in his past to define his future? Another time jump happens to where readers start piecing some of the puzzle behind the hero together.
Can Terrence make triumph out of tragedy? One night changes everything as the journey into a hero’s origin begins in the final act. The final panels leave no doubt that there is many miles to soar before the final stage has been landed.
Solimine lays a solid base, breaking this debut into three separate stories. The introduction is everything you would expect out of a superhero story. There is action and heroics clearly felt with each page. The only draw back here is The Cardinal does a lot at once and there’s no clear cut definition of powers. It’s nothing that will take away from the story. Terrence’s “Pep Talk” at the beginning is a nice touch considering what readers find out later.
The dives into his back story makes for a compelling glimpse into what defines his character. The initial flashback or Second story sets up for a few doorways for future events. Solimine ties in deep tragedy with a connection that readers will gravitate with.
The Cardinal #1 by Mason Solimine, Flaviu Pop, Bryan Magnaye, and Mike Bui (Edited by Daniel Calvo and Steve Colle – Credit: ALPHA Comics)
The closing act plays more into the present bookending the chapter for now. There is a LOT of unanswered clues to the mystery at hand. Being the first issue, this is expected, so as things progress, readers should expect more things to be clearly established. Overall, it was a step in the right direction with much room to grow.
Pop excels at the action panels for this story. There is a high energy to the fight sequences. This is easily displayed during the bullet hurdling moments at the bank. Going into Terrence’s back story, Pop (with split coloring duties from Magnaye and Bui) gave the panels a defined balance with the emotional reactions of events. This is very noteworthy in the first flashback tale. By the time the issue hits the closing act, Pop ramps up the tempo leading to some great final panels to set the stage for the next installment.
FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10
The debut of the Alpha Universe shows promise with its introduction into the land of superheroes. Solimine, Pop and the team deliver on a tale which leaves much room to spread its’ wings. There is enough substance within the starting point of Terrence Eckard’s journey to come back for round two, so keep on the lookout to see when The Cardinal is flying next on Kickstarter.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of The Cardinal #1. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.
Doctor Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme and Master of the Mystic Arts, has been the ultimate magical guardian of the Marvel Universe since his debut. Throughout his adventures, he has battled interdimensional demons and rival sorcerers alike. However, there was one villain who was the first to truly test Dr. Stephen Strange – Baron Mordo.
Debuting in Strange Tales #111 back in 1963, Baron Mordo was a Transylvanian nobleman who was also a student of the Ancient One alongside Doctor Strange. After Strange thwarted Mordo’s plot to kill the Ancient One, he became their apprentice and later inherited the title of Sorcerer Supreme.
Ever since this event, Baron Mordo has returned many times over the years to do battle with Doctor Strange, having instead become a servant of the ruler of the Dark Dimension, Dormammu, leaving these two characters locked in an everlasting rivalry in the fight between good and evil.
The Avengers split up to take the fight to the Ashen Combine. Thor, Iron Man, and Scarlet Witch engage in one on one battles as Black Panther and Captain America infiltrate the Impossible City in an attempt to learn more information about their new enemy.
Avengers #4 by Jed MacKay, C.F. Villa, and Federico Blee. (Credit Marvel Entertainment)
The Writing:
I continue to be impressed by Jed MacKay as he effortlessly balances action and character interactions. This group of Avengers feels like real people with diverse pasts and motivations. The dialogue between Black Panther and Captain America will make a new reader want to find out why they are not on the best of terms and the manipulation of Wanda is dark and ominous in the best way. The highlight of this book for me, however, was the fight and verbal sparring between Thor and Idol Alabaster. Seeing the god of thunder sharing blows with a false idol had me so fully engaged that I almost felt disappointed when I turned the page and saw that the scene had changed.
Avengers #4 by Jed MacKay, C.F. Villa, and Federico Blee. (Credit Marvel Entertainment)
The Artwork:
What is left to say about this art team that I haven’t said in the past? C.F. Villa’s movement and Federico Blee’s colors during the action set pieces are top notch and the layout of each panel is impeccable. The emotion on Thor’s face as he realizes the affects his attacks have on the people on the streets below, the fear on Wanda’s face as she struggles with what is real and what is manipulation, and the destruction as Iron Man fights against the very architecture around him is truly incredible. Not to mention, the scope and weight of the threat that these new enemies pose. The art team is firing on all cylinders here.
The Verdict: 9 OUT OF 10
This was a fast paced, action packed issue that somehow managed to include meaningful character motivations and back story without hurting the pacing. When I finished reading I wanted nothing more than to pick up the next installment to see where the story goes next. This is cliffhanger storytelling at it’s best. Make sure you pick this one up, you will not regret it!
