Oliver Queen, also known as the Green Arrow, is widely regarded as the world’s greatest archer and a senior member of the Justice League. Throughout his career, he has faced countless foes, but who was his first archenemy? The answer would be Malcolm Merlyn, also known as The Dark Archer or The Magician, who first appeared in Justice League of America #94 back in 1971.
Once a celebrity master archer, Merlyn’s skill with a bow inspired Green Arrow to take up archery himself. However, after vanishing from public life and joining the League of Assassins, Merlyn returned years later to challenge Green Arrow to a public archery duel to the death. Since then, he has proven to be more than a match for the Emerald Archer, trading wins back and forth over the years.
A grave new threat arrives and it is up to The Avengers to work together as a team to save the world!
The Story:
The Ashen Combine, a group of god-like v Cityslayers, have arrived on Earth from The Impossible City. Just as Kang warned, these are no normal enemies. Each member of the Cityslayers has selected a city around the world and destruction and death has followed. Captain Marvel must decide how to lead her group of Avengers to put a stop to this new evil!
From The Avengers #3 Written Out by Jed MacKay, Art by C.F. Villa and Federico Blee, and Letters by VC’s Cory Petit (Credit Marvel Entertainment)
The Writing:
Jed MacKay displays a real understanding of Captain Marvel as she tries to jump into the threat head on and her reluctance to make a plan. MacKay also does a wonderful job with Black Panther and Thor as they react to the Cityslayers. The new enemies get a great, if not a little rushed, introduction and, while it may take another issue to really get to know them, I came away with a good understanding of their unique powers and motivations.
From The Avengers #3 Written Out by Jed MacKay, Art by C.F. Villa and Federico Blee, and Letters by VC’s Cory Petit (Credit Marvel Entertainment)
The Artwork:
The art team of C.F. Villa and Federico Blee absolutely shine once again! The designs of the Cityslayers are disturbing and interesting to look at and the destruction that they cause is believable and massive! Of course the The Avengers look great with my favorite design for Thor and incredible versions of Iron Man and Black Panther.
The Verdict:
Overall this was another home run for the creative team. Solid visuals and attention to character details makes this one you don’t want to miss. The only downside being the quick exposition dump to introduce the Ashen Combine. However, I have no doubt that we will get more time for these villains to be fleshed out as The Avengers have to deal with them in stories to come.
Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this edition, the coolest book at the LCS has returned for another arc via BOOM! Studios. The story of Jessica Harrow came back with a big return last month. Now with things looking very dire, an unexpected offer was made that could literally change everything.
Currently, life for Jessica Harrow isn’t exactly going all so well. After a series of events following the deadly battle between The End and Death, people stopped dying. This lead to the Reaper’s powers starting to fade.
However, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend” has become Adira’s motto now. Annabel is trying to unleash an evil as payment for betraying Jessica and using Jessica’s friend Marcel’s soul as payment to Kelly (a devil). With the pressure rising, Adira visits the pair in their prison and does the unthinkable. Adira is willing to give Jessica Death’s Scythe to handle this looming issue.
MORE FROM BOOM! STUDIOS
With no Death, Adira (Current ruler of the Afterlife & Jessica’s aunt) has been trying to avoid an uprising from the reapers while eliminating the threat to her position as ruler. She made Jessica the prime target for blame. After an assistance from Annabel (a reaper with ambitionsof her own), Adira has imprisoned Jessica and fellow reaper Eddie.
Meanwhile, Jessica’s human mother Lilah has escaped prison and is being courted by Life, who wants an amulet in Lilah’s possession. Offering the world hasn’t been enough so far, but he is determined to get it.
This issue starts with a flashback to the initial encounter between Death and Lilah. readers witness how Lilah’s past caught up with her and changed her future forever. Fast forward to the present and Life makes another play for Lilah’s amulet. Just when he thinks he’s got it locked up, Lilah turns the tables on him.
At this same moment, Adira pleads her case to Jessica. During the conversation, something happens with the scythe that no one sees coming!
What happens now? Will Jessica take the deal? Can Lilah continue to deny Life? There is much more to process as the story heads into a new direction that will eave fans guessing at what is about to unfold!
Phillips devotes a big portion into Lilah’s story. Seeing the initial encounter between her and Death starts putting together pieces to the larger puzzle at hand.
The interactions with Life prove there is more going on with her than she is letting known. Since her introduction, she has been a character shrouded in mystery. With this issues structure, readers can start building a strong reaction to her.
Jessica’s current situation is another great swerve to the story at hand. The tension between her and arguably the book’s best character Adira continues to lock readers in. The endgame is very unclear with Adira and that’s nothing but win for fans.
Seeing where Jessica ends up by this issue’s conclusion will keep things exciting until the next issue hits. One guarantee with this series is to always expect the unexpected.
Flaviano and Renzi make a big splash with the art for this issue. The moment that Lilah is shot, the perspective from seeing it through her eyes is a unique visual that readers will feel as the story plays out. The biggest image that will “WOW” readers is a moment with Jessica that gives more clarity about the destiny she is running from.
It is a full page panel that screams in volumes! The final act is another visual hit. Where Jessica lands up and who/what she encounters makes a bold statement with an excellent backdrop. With this series, the art is a sure-fire win each time out.
FINAL POINT: 8.5 OUT of 10
The latest installment of Comics’ favorite reaper dives head-first into the power struggle of the afterlife with a can’t miss issue. Phillips’ excellent writing is complemented by the always impressive art of Flaviano to showcase the dangers unfolding not just for Jessica, but her mother as well. There’s a reason why this is comics’ coolest series at the LCS on New Comic Book Day.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Grim #12. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative!
The biggest award night of the year for the comic book industry has come and gone with SDCC. The Eisner Awards were given out that weekend, resulting in some big winners, such as James Tynion IV taking home the award for Best Writer for the second year in a row plus Tom Taylor and Bruno Redondo, who won the award for Best Continuing Series (Nightwing, DC).
Just because the Eisners are over, that doesn’t mean that award season is done for the comic book industry. The 6th annual Ringo! Awards are just around the corner in September, and they have just recently released their list of nominations! Before we go over the nominees, let’s learn a little bit more about the Ringo! Awards themselves.
The Mike Wieringo Comic Book Industry Awards, more commonly referred to as simply, The Ringo! Awards began in 2017 at Baltimore Comic-Con. They began as a replacement for the departing Harvey Awards, which had left the convention the year prior.
The awards are named after comic book artist Mike Wieringo, best known for his work on titles such as The Flash (DC), Fantastic Four (Marvel) and the co-creation of Tellos (Image) with Todd Dezago. Mike passed away in 2007, and his classic “Ringo!” signature was incorporated into the design for the awards named after him.
The awards have quickly become one of the more sought after awards in the comic book industry, particularly for independent creators and publishers. The nominations are determined by popular vote, with fans and pros alike able to vote for their favorite projects. With over 20 categories, it’s also an award that offers ample opportunity for new and veteran creators alike.
In today’s article, we will show you some of the bigger awards nominees as well as list the remaining categories at the end! Let’s take a look at the 2023, Ringo! Awards nominations!
Welcome to another New Comic Book Day review from the NI Bullpen!
If you have been searching for a new fantasy adventure to sink your teeth into, then I would say Quest #1 from Image Comics is a solid title to check out. Writer/Artist Jonathan Luna(The Sword, Alex + ADA) teams up with up and coming writer Crystal Wood(The Black Ballad & Hearts of the Fallen) for this Southeast Asian inspired fantasy epic.
Romance, royal intrigue and mystic realms abound in this new series. Along with demonic threats, a kidnapping plot, and a defiant princess, Quest #1 is looking to be a great addition to the Image Comics lineup.
The story takes place on a fictional continent, the name of which has yet to be revealed. On the very first page, however, we are given a partial map of the region where our story begins. Naming such places as the kingdoms of Menidush and Yachai, which lie just next to each other along the coast of the Sidang Sea. On the far eastern side of Yachai, we see a location called “Demon Lands Border.” The rest of the map is covered in a fog.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the region’s layout, let’s dive into the story itself.
Issue 1 opens with a wedding ceremony between the Prince of Menidush, Devyan and the Princess of Yachai, Anya. We are told a bit later that the two were betrothed to be wed years ago, but this has turned into a true marriage of love, not just duty.
The two exchange some very lovely wedding vows and their god has blessed and approved the marriage through a ritual done during the wedding ceremony. While the happy couple are celebrating, their respective bodyguards are discussing a peaceful future when the festivities are interrupted…violently.
Wedding Crashers
Just as the reception for the wedding is about to get underway, the peace and happiness in the room is shattered. Three demons have just burst through the wall, and they aren’t here for the wedding.
Without warning, the demons begin to slaughter wedding guests and guards. Devyan and Anya’s bodyguards are unable to reach them through the crowd of fleeing wedding guests. Seeing that help can’t get to them, Devyan grabs Anya’s hand and attempts to lead her to safety. Anya refuses, instead grabbing a sword from a fallen guard.
Anya, her bodyguard Tor, Devyan and his bodyguard Nuru begin to try and fight back. Tor and Anya are actually able to injure one of the demons during the ensuing fight. Once the other demons join the fray, it’s simply too much for our heroes. Devyan is knocked unconscious and is kidnapped, while Anya, Tor and Nuru are powerless to stop it.
The Rescue Plan
In the aftermath of the chaos and bloodshed, Anya and Devyan’s parents, the rulers of the kingdoms of Yachai and Menidush, are arguing amongst themselves about what to do. Anya’s father is preaching caution and patience. Devyan’s father is hell bent on leading an army across the Demon Lands Border to rescue his son. Anya has her own plans.
After a heated argument with her father over her stated intent to lead a band of warriors herself into the Demon Lands, he orders his daughter confined to her room.
Anya obeys and returns to her room. She has no intention of staying a prisoner in her own home however. As she begins to don her warrior garb, her bodyguard Tor comes into the room.
Immediately, Anya accuses him of wanting to gain favor with her father by ensuring that she remains detained in her quarters. He retorts, stating that in fact, as she should know after his years of loyalty, that he is with her in whatever she decides to do. So rather than keeping her here, he intends to go with her into the Demon Lands to rescue her love.
Johnathan and Crystal have begun to weave a beautiful fantasy story here. While there is no shortage of violence and gore, there is an overall theme of a woman who is willing to risk everything for the sake of her husband.
Anya is defiant, independent and fierce, refusing to idly sit by while Devyan is taken to who knows where by a group of demons. She is tempered by her bodyguard Tor, who brings some calm to her rage and fury in the aftermath. He is her rock, and she is his only concern. Rather than currying favor with her father by holding her against her will, he defies his own King, resolving to remain loyal to his charge, rather than his actual “employer.”
There is a true sense of panic in the dialogue after the wedding. The two fathers are screaming at one another, the mother’s are not much better. Anya is, for the most part, ignored and told to stay out of danger. The writing here wonderfully reflects the sheer frustration from Anya, and the reader begins to feel that frustration with her.
By the end of the issue, I was cheering to myself as Tor and Anya leapt through the window to set off on their rescue mission.
Artwork Overview
The artwork from Luna is some of the cleanest interior work you will see in a fantasy comic book. While it is certainly not your typical “comic art style” as far as heavy inks and motion lines, the detail and realism that has been put into the character and environment design is some of the best I have seen recently. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it matches the story and theme beautifully.
Whenever magic is being used on the page, it FEELS like magic is being used on the page. The colors are bold and vibrant. Everything that should pop and stand out does.
The inclusion of the map on the first credits page is an excellent detail for this series. Being in a fictional world, it can be hard sometimes to picture what the land and world itself actually looks like beyond what we see printed. Add in the fact that we are only given part of the map, suggesting that there will be more revealed in subsequent issues, makes me excited to see what the rest of this world actually looks like.
Overall Score: 7.5 OUT OF 10 – “Pull”
If you are looking for something new and unique this week on New Comic Book Day, I honestly say that Quest #1 from Image Comics is a solid choice. Beautiful artwork and a wonderful story combine into a fine new addition to the Image Comics lineup.
The Sacrificers issue one by Image Comics was a book that might have flown under the radar (no pun intended), but is one that will be loved by both science fiction and non science fiction readers! This issue does a great job setting the stage for what feels like a dark, gritty story with difficult predicaments around every turn of the page!
The issue opens with an amazing splash page by Max Fiumara of the moon overlooking a cozy bungalow that seems very inviting with its smoking chimney. The coloring, by Dave McCaig gives the opposite vibes with a pastel color palette for everything except for the full moon overlooking the eerie mountain side.
It’s this, in combination with the words coming from the home that immediately gives the reader mixed feelings about what is going to happen next. An instant hook to want to know more!
The attention to detail in the art and color carries over to the character designs where we are introduced to a family of blue bird-like humans. From the wrinkles and facial hair on the face of the father, to the clothing choices of vintage farming wear makes the reader almost forget that these characters were birds.
These human-like characteristics in both design and overall mannerisms helped make these characters even more relatable.
The second main set of characters we see appear to be flame gods that wield fire powers that have yet to be fully explored. The father’s (Rokos) design was very unique and eye-catching. His full flame body and solid facial features (eyes, nose, mouth) gave him the perception that he is all powerful and not to be messed with especially since he comes home flying on a magic carpet!
The daughter on the other hand has features that are almost opposite to the fathers where her whole body is solid except for her fiery hair. This led me to believe that the mother could be of human form which may lead to some family conflict later on in the story. The palace that they are in reminded me of Disney’s Aladdin, which will be very nostalgic to most readers.
Overall this first issue does a great job exploring the characters and building out the world around them. Throughout this issue I felt conflicted about some of the characters based on their actions. Part of the issue was I was completely against them and but then towards the end I almost understood their reasoning for their actions. In the end I was left with more questions than answers and I am excited to see where this story goes!
Overall Rating: 8.25 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…
It appears BOOM! Studiosare out to take over the world this year as it appears they have yet another hit on their hands. BUFFY THE LAST VAMPIRE SLAYER is set in an alternative world where Buffy Summers was left alone wandering the streets of London. Until that, is she was called to become the caretaker of Willow and Tara’s daughter Thessaly who has become a slayer herself. With the help of Spike and another wonderful surprise character the Slayerverse is back!
BUFFY THE LAST VAMPIRE SLAYER #1 by Casey Gilly, Oriol Roig Gloria Martinelli ( Credit: Boom! Studios!) Cover Ario Anindito
SPOILER FILLED RECAP
The story kicks off after our prelude where we see Thessaly who is now a slayer herself making a fun and cheesy at-home video and showcasing her skills such as the magic abilities she has picked up from Willow’s side of the family. Thessaly, Buffy, and Spike are known as ” The Watchers” according to Thessaly and are the remaining hunters out to defend against the evils of the night.
We see Thessaly at work and she has a girlfriend named Cora and the scene is set for a warm-hearted love story within this messy world. We cut to Buffy and Spike who are preparing for a romantic getaway and yet Buffy is struggling with becoming older and all of her belongings being a relic of her old life. Enter Anya!
Yes, a beloved character has made her return to “watch over” the 21-year-old Thessaly for the next 10 days whilst Buffy and Spike have their getaway. Thessaly proves herself to be a formidable foe as we get scenes of her hunting while Anya is also out hunting before Thessaly meets up with Cora.
The issue wraps up with Cora banging on Anya and Thessaly’s door as Cora thought she had been with someone else. As Cora leaves Anya says that she doesn’t trust Cora as the stage is set for the story ahead as Cora is seen killing her brother and his friends amidst a pentagram drawn on the floor.
BUFFY THE LAST VAMPIRE SLAYER #1 by Casey Gilly, Oriol Roig Gloria Martinelli ( Credit: Boom! Studios!) Cover Ario Anindito
HOW DO WE FEEL?
Fans of the beloved Buffy franchise are immediately sent back to the late 90s as the story pays homage to the characters everyone grew up with while telling a fun new imaginative tale.
Seeing Buffy as an older and worn down slayer while Spike shows his more caring side is a relationship that just works in this alternate reality. The fun inclusion of Thessaly, who is a spunky 21-year-old full of life and adventure showcasing her powers and having that fighting attitude encaptures readers from the jump.
The art does more than sell us on this fun new adventure. What Oriol and Gloria do are nothing short of wonders leaving a color palette that catches your eye and inviting action sequences reminiscent of 80’s sci-fi sequences.
All in all, as a reintroduction to the BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER universe, this does a great job of bringing returning fans and new fans in alike.
Ending on a cliff-hanger has me wanting to immediately read the next issue which is a telltale sign of a great comic book. BOOM! STUDIOS hit a home run with Casey and her creative team helping this run. As a fan of the franchise and the supernatural world, I give this book:
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we are returning to the land of Kiros with one of Image Comics’ best series. BLACK CLOAK by Kelly Thompson, Meredith McClaren and Becca Carey has been an incredible journey with its’ murder mystery within the fantasy realm. Each issue has led readers into a web of mistrust and power struggles that have tested two of Kiros’ best in law-enforcement.
With issue #6 marking the first arc conclusion, fans are anxious to see what secrets get revealed now. Let’s not wait any longer and see where the case leads us now, shall we?
Freyal III of Sidra, the heir apparent to the royal family of Kiros has been found dead in a questionable area of the city. Phaedra Essex and Pax are the two Black Cloaks (Kiros Law Enforcement) assigned to the case. This hits especially close to home with Phaedra as she was linked to Freyal at one point. With Freyal’s death, tension has mounted to a fever pitch with Kiros’ residents. The public wants answers. Vested parties have interest.
BLACK CLOAK #6 by by Kelly Thompson , Meredith McClaren and Becca Carey (Cover: Tula Lotay) Credit: Image Comics
With everyone from the Queen and family to the Kiros Three (last humans left) watching, the pair of Cloaks haven’t had an easy go-around.
The search for answers have put Phaedra especially in the line of danger more than once. With some new information into their case, the pair has crashed a party in the Royal Castle. As they make their way through the party, they stumble across secrets neither were expecting.
This issue begins with Essex and Pax discovering the Taka Pens beneath the Castle. Readers find out quickly that Kiros has a very horrible secret that the family has been covering up. The Taka have been used and abused for their magic in energizing the city.
The revelation is frightening as what one goes thru is displayed with no punches pulled. Essex and Pax can not believe what they have witnessed. As they plan on exposing this heinous treatments, they are stopped Lysanthir, one of the queens’ most loyal magicians.
BLACK CLOAK #6 by by Kelly Thompson , Meredith McClaren and Becca Carey Credit: Image Comics
What secrets get exposed, readers will brace themselves as the connection between Freyal’s death and the Taka begins to come clearer. With each page, the threads of mystery unwind. There is a great deal of information to take in which should bring closure to many lingering questions.
That said, the final act brings forth a rollercoaster of emotional payoffs and fast paced action. If you have read this series since day 1 (like I have), the ending will pack a serious inner blow as how events play out.
If this is your first time diving in, you are either going to be searching your LCS for copies or waiting for the TPB in the fall. This issue packs everything you could want. The closing moments bring forth an interesting perspective heading into its’ next phase. it is a perfect closing….for now…..
Thompson has mastered leading readers into the deep layers of this story. Once this finale gets rolling, their patience is paid off with a tremendous issue. Phaedra and Pax have been protagonists that are easy to cheer for. Their reaction to the Takas is very reflective of how the readers will be. Once that revelation hits, the story shifts into high gear.
BLACK CLOAK #6 by by Kelly Thompson , Meredith McClaren and Becca Carey Credit: Image Comics
Like any mystery, the clues behind Freyal’s death come to light. Thompson paints such a tragic picture and hits on many levels. Never at any point was it treated as open and shut. As more information comes to light, readers can see how impactful these actions were. Thompson doesn’t let up as events shift forward into the Taka situation.
The pacing gave each plot point ample time to become enamored in. It is never felt as wasted space or forced time. It is a perfect set-up to lead into the closing moments. For where things go from here is anyone’s guess. In the present, fans will have nothing but praise for this concluding issue and story.
McClaren and Carey present some intense visuals for this closing arc chapter. The Taka scene in the beginning spares no time in bringing the horrors directly to the reader. This is capped off with a full-page panel that drops a big exclamation point on the scene. Once the fallout from this begins, the emotions start pouring out of the panels.
BLACK CLOAK #6 by by Kelly Thompson , Meredith McClaren and Becca Carey Credit: Image Comics
The flashback moments prove to be quite eye-catching as the color scheme used makes them pop off the pages. They don’t lose the key elements of the story that they are telling. Each reaction and mannerism adds more to Thompson’s writing. Readers don’t have much time to recover from all these moments as the story picks up its’ pace going into the closing. The art team demonstrate how quickly things are progressing with the actions. Going into the final pages, McClaren and Carey tie in reactions with the characters to say goodbye, leading to a closing full page panel ushering in the next phase of this amazing story.
FINAL POINT: 10 OUT OF 10
The world of Kiros and its’ magical mystery gets exposed in an unforgettable story arc conclusion. Thompson, McClaren and Carey have welcomed readers into an incredible tale filled with fantastic writing and spectacular visuals that builds towards an emotional send-off that won’t be forgotten anytime soon. Highest possible recommendation for this series and issue for New Comic Book day.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Black Cloak #6. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative!
Yoshi is a beloved character and a staple of the Super Mario Bros series, and there are so many lesser-known facts about him that are worth exploring.
One little-known fact about Yoshi is that he was originally designed as a Koopa Troopa. However, the design team decided to make him a dinosaur instead, which led to his distinctive appearance and abilities. Another interesting fact is that Yoshi’s name was inspired by the Japanese word “yosshī,” which means “good fortune” or “good luck.”
Despite being a fan favorite, Yoshi’s early appearances in the Super Mario Bros series were limited. He first appeared in Super Mario World for the SNES, but it wasn’t until the release of Super Mario Kart that he became a playable character. Since then, Yoshi has been a staple of the franchise and has appeared in numerous games, spin-offs, and merchandise.
Origins of Yoshi
Yoshi is a beloved character in the Super Mario Bros. franchise, known for his cute appearance and helpful abilities. But where did he come from?
Yoshi first appeared in Super Mario World, which was released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). He was introduced as a new companion for Mario, who could ride on his back and use his long tongue to grab enemies and items. Yoshi’s design was inspired by a combination of different animals, including a dinosaur, a turtle, and a frog.
Since his debut in Super Mario World, Yoshi has become a fan favorite and has appeared in many other Mario games, including Yoshi’s Island, Yoshi’s Story, and Yoshi’s Woolly World. He has also starred in his own spin-off series, including Yoshi’s Island DS and Yoshi’s Crafted World.
Overall, Yoshi’s origins are rooted in the world of Super Mario Bros., where he has become a beloved character and a staple of the franchise. That’s Nintendo’s Yoshi, and “Now You Know!”
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast on Nerd Initiative!
For this entry, we are diving into the Dawn Of DC with one of their best titles. If anyone hasn’t checked out the SUPERMAN line lately, you are missing out on some of the best work in comics. Every book on the line has been hitting the high marks. This week’s entry hasn’t misfired with its’ current story arc. It also doesn’t hurt having one of comics best writers steering the ship either.
ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN: JON KENT #6 by TOM TAYLOR, CLAYTON HENRY, JORDIE BELLAIRE and WES ABBOTT present the conclusion of “The Injustice Saga”. Let’s waste no more time and jump right into the story finale, shall we?
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
In this story, Jon Kent has to confront a threat that has inflicted a deep personal wound on him: Ultraman. after stealing years of his childhood away by imprisoning him, Jon has to stop him on the evil mission of killing Clark Kent’s throughout the Multi-verse. Val Zod and Red Tornado (Lois Lane) from earth 2 are accompaning him on this mission. Once the group tracks Ultraman down on another planet, they head to attack with a Phantom Zone Imprison device.
ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN: JON KENT #6 by TOM TAYLOR, CLAYTON HENRY, JORDIE BELLAIRE and WES ABBOTT (Credit: DC COMICS) LAURA BRAGA COVER
During their encounter, the plan backfires. Ultraman gets the upper-hand and sends Val and Lois into the Phantom Zone. Using all the power he can muster, Jon unloads an attack onto Ultraman.
The blow drains him and leaves him at Ultraman’s mercy. Things look bleak until Ultraman is killed by a figure many fans know: Superman! But this is no ordinary Superman. This is the Superman of the INJUSTICE Universe!
Jon has stumbled onto the planet where Superman has taken over by force. During his time there, Jon assesses what has happened. Old friends have changed. The man he knows as Superman is not who he envisions. After tracking down Batman of this world, the picture is made clearer.
However, his best friend from home, Damian Wayne, clearly isn’t his now. After putting a tracker on him, Batman’s resistance forces are discovered and captured by Superman’s Justice League.
With the declaration that Batman and Harley Quinn will be publicly executed, Jonathan now is tasked to stop the entire Justice League to save their lives. Can the young hero find a way to save the day?
ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN: JON KENT #6 by TOM TAYLOR, CLAYTON HENRY, JORDIE BELLAIRE and WES ABBOTT (Credit: DC COMICS) ARIEL COLON COVER
This issue begins with Superman addressing the league about Jonathan. With Superman’s feeling being conflicted, now seeing the son he never had, Cyborg and Wonder Woman prepare to handle matters if needed.
Meanwhile Jonathan recharges by flying from the sun with a collision course at the Hall Of Justice. Systematically, Jonathan deals with The Flash, Hawkgirl, Hal Jordan and Wonder Woman in various ways.
With one final stop, Jonathan tries to talk with Damian Wayne once more. Meanwhile, Superman checks in on a prisoner Jon knows all to well: Jay Nakamura. Blaming him for blinding Jon, Superman prepares to attack!
Readers gear up for the battle no one was expecting! Can Jonathan defeat arguably the most corrupted version of his father the muti-verse has ever seen? The battle plays out differently than most would expect.
It goes heavy into how Jonathan Kent is his own Superman. The final act is one that will leave a lasting impression. Rest assured, once the final page is done, there won’t be one comic fan that isn’t counting down the days until the next chapter.
Taylor pulls off a fantastic conclusion to a story that displays the pure essence of Superman. Jon Kent has firmly set himself apart from any comparisons to his father with how he approaches this challenge. The way he engages the Justice League from the beginning of this issue (primarily with the Flash), Taylor presents Jonathan as a hero who perfectly understands a confusing conflict.
ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN: JON KENT #6 by TOM TAYLOR, CLAYTON HENRY, JORDIE BELLAIRE and WES ABBOTT (Credit: DC COMICS) ZU ORZU COVER
On the other side, Taylor drives home how this Superman is struggling to deal with his personal loss. Even with the looming presence of Jonathan, he feels removed from worrying about a possible conflict.
The closing arc brings together moments readers won’t easily forget. The way Taylor structures Jonathan’s approach to the battle is catching. It is unorthodox in comparison to the big brawls superhero fights typically bring.
The resolution of the conflict hits the emotional strings on readers as well. Taylor serves this with heart-string pulls as the true vision of hope stands before those witnessing this story. It is a great ending to a firmly engaging story.
Henry and Bellaire construct the visuals superbly for the finale. The credits opening page is noteworthy as the panel set-up builds for the reveal of Jonathan flying into action. It’s subtle but the panels built up the tension of what is forthcoming.
The art team bring to life the other DCU heroes reactions to what Superman is up to and display a wide range of differing opinions. They also waste no time featuring how unbalanced he is becoming with Jonathan’s actions.
The ending is filled with a few big, half-page panels fitting for the moments. With what has been building up for five issues comes to a strong breaking point. Each character goes into this with unaligned views.
Jonathan steals some of these moments leading into the “final shot” bringing the battle to an end. As much action that has been featured, it’s the emotional mannerisms that leave readers wanting more while waiting for the next chapter to begin.
FINAL POINT: 10 OUT OF 10
Taylor, Henry and the team leave readers with an emotional conclusion as Jonathan Kent’s tenure as the Man of Tomorrow is put to its most personal test. The internal struggles take off with Taylor’s writing. It’s matched with the art team fortifying how deeply personal this conflict was. This is one story fans won’t want to miss on New Comic Book day this week!
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent #6. Thanks for reading Parlay points on Nerd Initiative!
