Welcome to Paperweight Entertainment’s Hall of Armor: Reforged! New intro, 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 see if everything really is “better down where it’s wetter” as we dive into (See what I did there?) the Iron Man Model 6, AKA the Undersea Armor! Debuting in The Invincible Iron Man #218 by Bob Layton, David Michelinie, Bob Sharen, and Janice Chiang, the Undersea Armor was designed to survive for long periods of time underwater. Check out what the Model 6 was packing in the video below!
This is it, the end of Murewa Ayodele and Dotun Akande’s love letter to Iron Man and Iron Man fans!
The Story:
Tony Stark has a problem and enlists the help of a metal controlling criminal, Deola, to help him build a planet protecting cannon. During this time it is revealed that there are multiple Tony Starks in the world due to Tony’s Consciousness Backup System. While dealing with the problem of multiple clones of himself and trying to complete the cannon, an old enemy appears in an attempt to destroy Iron Man, once and for all!
The Writing:
From I AM Iron Man #5 written by Murewa Ayodele with art by Dotun Akande (credit Marvel Entertainment)
Tales of Suspense Vol 1 #40 Cover by Jack Kirby and Don Heck (1963) (credit Marvel Entertainment)
As with each issue of this limited series, Murewa Ayodele proves that he knows how to craft an interesting, compelling, and out there bonkers story about old Shell Head! The attention to detail that Ayodele goes into with characters and past events is a marvel to behold. The very fact that the giant alien threat in this issue is an upgraded version of Gargantus, the cover villian from Tales of Suspense #40 (Iron Man’s second appearance!) was mind blowing!
The Art:
From I AM Iron Man #5 written by Murewa Ayodele with art by Dotun Akande (credit Marvel Entertainment)
Dotun Akande has proven himself to be a real powerhouse with this series. Not only has he shown expert line quality and colors, he has impressed over and over again with his ability to create cinematic movement between panels. The layouts have been impeccable! I’m very happy that Dotun got the chance to bring so many different versions of Iron Man to the pages of this series, including some new ones. His contribution cannot be overstated, these books soar and it is in large part due to Dotun Akande and his director’s eye!
The Verdict:
I AM Iron Man has been a real treat for this life long Iron Man fan. This finale is no different! This powerhouse creative duo have a bright future ahead of them. I am feel very honored to have been allowed to cover this series and it is one that I will revisit again! If you are a fan of Iron Man, Marvel Comics, or just solid action and sci-fi don’t wait to read this book. Thank you Murewa and Dotun, from the bottom of my heart, this has been Marvelous and I cannot wait to see what you do next!
Over the course of the last week, discussions of one of mankind’s worst and deadliest creations have been buzzing. And with these conversations, it becomes more important than ever to acknowledge the impact of such creations from the past. Through film, we are able to learn more from different sides of one of the biggest historical times. And there are many films that depict the atrocities of World War II on all fronts.
But it’s worth noting that several have received criticism for leaning on the side of propaganda and hiding truths, especially regarding conflicts between the US and Japan. However, there are two absolute must-see films that do not shy away from the reality of WWII’s ending: Isao Takahata’s Grave of the Fireflies and Mori Masaki’s Barefoot Gen.
Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Directed by Isao Takahata under Studio Ghibli and Shinchosha, Grave of the Fireflies was released in 1988 as an animated war tragedy film. The film is based on a short story of the same name written by Akiyuki Nosaka and depicts his real life experiences before, during, and after the firebombing of Kobe in 1945. While it is a fairly simple film, Grave of the Fireflies speaks loud and clear about the impact of the war on all fronts through the eyes of innocent children who are simply trying to survive.
The film follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko Yokokawa who reside in Kobe, Japan. However, when American planes destroy a majority of Kobe, the now orphaned siblings must now continue on a path of survival. While some truths are kept hidden from Setsuko and while both siblings receive aid through distant relatives, the means to keep on living are scarce. Food is difficult to come by, hospitals are rapidly being wiped out or destroyed, and the prospect of death draws nearer with each day. The film ultimately leads into an outcome that is understandably predictable but not at all isolated and most certainly heartbreaking.
As mentioned before, Grave of the Fireflies is a simple film with a straightforward story. But a simple film doesn’t mean there is no emotional weight attached to it. For ninety minutes straight, we watch innocence fade over time. And for ninety minutes, we see hope and light gradually disappear. The film’s dialogue and animation stays hyper-focused on the small moments of life that give joy to the sibling pair, even when we as the audience have an idea of what to expect. Grave of the Fireflies ultimately takes on a much more subtle approach to the harsh impact of war. But its overall effect on the audience grows heavier as we approach the very end of the film.
Barefoot Gen (1983)
Directed by Mori Masaki and released in 1983 under Madhouse and Gen Production, Barefoot Gen is another equally impactful film that dives straight into destruction in Japan. The film is based on the manga series of the same name by Keiji Nakazawa. Similar to Grave of the Fireflies, the manga series and the animated film depict Nakazawa’s real life experiences as a survivor of the Hiroshima bombings.
The film follows Gen Nakaoka, a six year old boy who lives in Hiroshima with his family. As tragedy strikes their family throughout 1945, Gen is forced to find a way to survive along with what is left of his family, scrounging for food but while suffering from malnutrition. Barefoot Gen is the lesser known animated film, with many calling attention to it now as the discussion over the ending of WWII portrayals within media has garnered attention.
It’s important to note that this film is incredibly graphic and much harsher than Grave of the Fireflies. The animation is much more specific in terms of the physical impact of war and conflict, indirectly pinpointing the consequences of one man’s creation. There’s no denying that this film in particular is difficult to stomach and it isn’t your average animated film as it is certainly not intended for young audiences. One could say it can serve as nightmare fuel, and purely because it was a nightmare that became a reality. Barefoot Gen does not shy away from the gruesome casualties of war and was made with the intent to have its audience face the reality of the situation.
The Reality Is…
Neither film provides the ideal happy ending, but it’s important to acknowledge why and to understand the grave impact of worldly conflicts of the past. Every film depicting any part of the world’s history has the responsibility to tell the truth. But ultimately, it is also the responsibility of the audience to discover that truth and to hold meaningful conversations acknowledging those truths. And it’s the result of the film and television, and those who create these forms of entertainment that we are able to have these conversations. Grave of the Fireflies and Barefoot Gen are animated films that depict heavy subject matter that should be approached with caution. But if it can teach us all something valuable in the end, it’s worth appreciating and bringing attention to them.
Writer’s Note: The films discussed in this article are under companies and studios that are not currently struck. Nerd Initiative stands in solidarity with the WGA and SAG-AFTRA as they strike to achieve equal and fair compensation and protections. For more information, please visit the links below.
The Invincible Iron Man #8 written by Gerry Duggan with art by Juan Frigeri, colors by Bryan Valenza, letters by vc’s Joe Caramagna, with cover artist Kael Ngu, brings the Stark Sentinels fully online as Tony Stark continues to navigate the legal ramification of Feilong’s acquisition of his company.
The Story:
Rhodey is in prison for a murder he didn’t commit, Tony has to turn over his armor as a part of Stark Proprietary Technology, and Feilong launches his Stark Sentinels to take out Emma Frost.
During an attack on Krakoa, Washington DC, and the Brooklyn Bridge the Stark Sentinels track down Emma Frost and attempt to capture her. It’s up to Iron Man to save the day, but with three Stark Sentinels standing in his way it is not going to be an easy task!
This issue demonstrates one of Tony Stark’s best qualities, even when he has lost he keeps moving forward. After losing his fortune, getting his best friend arrested, and nearly being killed by the Stark Sentinels Tony is still making moves to protect the people he cares about and stop Feilong.
From The Invincible Iron Man #8 by Gerry Duggan with art by Juan Frigeri and Bryan Valenza and Letters by vc’s Joe Caramagna (credit Marvel Entertainment)
The Writing:
What can I say about Gerry Duggan’s writing on this series that I haven’t said already? Once again, this is a masterful story being crafted by someone who understands the character of Tony Stark and his history. In this issue, the threat continues to escalate as the fully formed Stark Sentinels are shown to be a real problem for Iron Man and Emma Frost. On top of the believable threat being displayed, the dialogue in this issue is on point and dynamic. Each character has their own unique voice and they always feel true to the character speaking. Emma is hot headed, Feilong is overconfident, and Tony is desperate.
From The Invincible Iron Man #8 by Gerry Duggan with art by Juan Frigeri and Bryan Valenza and Letters by vc’s Joe Caramagna (credit Marvel Entertainment)
The Art:
Juan Frigeri and Bryan Valenza knock it out of the park once again! The Sentinels are imposing and terrifying but also are framed in a hopeful way when shown from everyday people’s point of view. The action, emotion, and destruction are all beautifully laid out with colors that pop and truly delight the reader. This art team is firing on all cylinders at this point and I am so very excited to see what they do next issue!
The Verdict:
The Invincible Iron Man continues the trend of showing the reader who Tony Stark is outside of the armor while also showing how powerful Iron Man is. With great supporting characters, a stellar villian, incredible action, and a cliffhanger ending this is one you don’t want to miss. This is shaping up to be a defining run for the character of Iron Man!
Grand Theft Auto (GTA) is an action-adventure video game developed by DMA Design and published by BMG Interactive. It was first released for MS-DOS in 1997 and later for PlayStation in 1998.
The game is set in three fictional cities: Liberty City, Vice City, and San Andreas. The player takes on the role of a criminal who must complete various missions to progress through the game. The missions involve tasks such as stealing cars, robbing banks, and assassinating targets. The player can also engage in various activities such as driving taxis, delivering pizzas, and participating in street races.
The game is best know for its controversial violence and mature themes, which led to it being banned in several countries. The original game featured a top-down view, much different from the third-person perspective of later games in the series.
The game was praised for its open-world game play and non-linear structure, which allowed players to explore the cities and complete missions at their own pace. The original game had a soundtrack featuring music from several genres, including rock, hip-hop, and electronic.
Despite its age, the original Grand Theft Auto game is still popular among fans of the series and is considered a classic of the gaming industry. It spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Grand Theft Auto III, which is credited with popularizing the open-world genre.
Luke Cage, also known as Power Man or his legal name Carl Lucas, is a superhero who focuses on fighting street-level threats in Harlem, New York. Over the years, he has faced several local villains, including Kingpin, Cottonmouth, and Tombstone. However, the first villain to challenge Luke Cage’s strength was Willis Stryker, also known as Diamondback.
Diamondback was a former fellow gang member alongside the now reformed Carl Lucas. His rivalry with Luke Cage began before Cage obtained his powers. Diamondback framed Carl out of jealousy over a girl named Reva Connors. Despite Luke Cage’s bulletproof abilities, Diamondback remains a formidable opponent, sparking a rivalry that has endured for decades.
In the beginning, before Carl Lucas became the hero Luke Cage, he and Stryker were both members of a local street gang called The Rivals. Their main rivals at the time was another street gang called The Diablos, and apart from the recurring dust up their activities mostly consisted of low level petty crimes.
At a certain point, Carl was able to leave the gang life behind after finding an honest job. Willis remained in the criminal underworld, eventually working for a local crime lord named Sonny Caputo. Even with their different life choices, the two remained good friends…for a time.
Eventually, the two best friends find themselves in love with the same woman, who in turn is in love with both Carl and Willis. The woman’s name was Reva Connors. Things inevitably came to a head, and Stryker wanted Reva to himself, and Carl out of the picture. How was he going to manage that? Framing Carl with drugs, and getting him sent to prison.
It is in prison where Carl Lucas obtains his powers through a government experiment gone wrong, and takes the name of Luke Cage. After Cage escapes prison, he goes on to confront Diamondback leading to their first of many conflicts over the years.
Its Thurday again and that means it’s time for another First Villains episode! This week im going over the first villain to challenge Luke Cage, Diamondback! #NerdInitiative#CreateWithoutFear#ComicBooks#MarvelComics#LukeCage#Diamondback#FirstVillain#Marvel Who was Luke Cage’s first villain in the comics? Luke Cage’s first enemy. Was Diamondback the first villain of Luke Cage? Marvel Comics. First Villain. comic books.
While the bulletproof protector of Harlem has faced many more serious threats since his debut. No one else is able to claim that they were the first to attempt to take down Luke Cage. Only one person can claim that title, and his name is Willis Stryker, aka. Diamondback!
Welcome to a brand new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we’re checking out the latest chapter of a throwback style series from Image Comics. Since it’s debut, the Savage Strength of Starstorm has brought out elements of the vintage superhero stories of the past.
With its’ latest chapter (by Drew Craig and Jason Finestone), the series looks to expand further ona growing universe. Let’s take a glimpse of what’s happening in the life of Grant Garrison, shall we?
THE SAVAGE STRENGTH OF STARSTORM #3 by Drew Craig and Jason Finestone (Credit: Image Comics)
Who is Grant Garrison? That is the question surrounding the mysterious teenager who is found with amnesia. When trying to assume a normal high school life, a meteor crashes into Kirby High School. With only fellow student Jen surviving, Grant becomes tangled up with an object that awakens powers inside of him.
Since then, Grant has tried figuring out what happened. Making matters worse, it appears that there are more elements at play with ZOMBIES lurking. Plus, there’s also vested parties in space looking for what Grant ahs to! Suffice to say, things are never dull in his world.
This chapter opens up with Princess Z’Shan Draigo addressing the Tiger Clan about retrieving the Sharsrum, the object which gives Grant his powers. Meanwhile on Earth, Grant is dealing with a Tyrannosaurs Rex rampaging. After somehow using his powers to transform the dinosaur into frogs, Jen tracks Grant down about what happened to them.
They fly to meet Jen’s half-brother Ian in the hospital, recovering from the injuries of the meteor attack. However the happy reunion is cut short as the Tiger Clan arrives to Earth looking for their bounty.
THE SAVAGE STRENGTH OF STARSTORM #3 by Drew Craig and Jason Finestone (Credit: Image Comics)
THE SAVAGE STRENGTH OF STARSTORM #3 by Drew Craig and Jason Finestone (Credit: Image Comics)
Is the rookie hero ready for this challenge? Readers see quickly that Grant might have bitten off more than he can chew with this fight. Readers won’t believe the outcome of this skirmish as a message is sent without any uncertainty. The final page leaves much to question as the universe being built here doesn’t stop growing.
This issue was much stronger that the previous one and cleared up some lingering questions. Craig shows no fear in expanding this universe very rapidly. The addition of the Tiger Clan played a bigger role than expected and in a short amount of time, Grant has a steady rogues gallery building.
However, the scenes in the hospital were ones I keyed in on. Hearing the recap thru the conversation streamlined a great deal of the fast moving portions of the series. Once the major conflict happened, readers were all in about Grant fighting back. The closing moments of the battle proved to be a surprise but one that felt like there is way more to that character’s story yet to be told.
The biggest positive to this series is how much the visuals radiate the Kirby style of superheroes. From the initial two-page spread of the Tiger Clan introduction to the two page battle with the T-Rex, Craig showcases he’s having fun with this story. The panels carry a classic feel that most books don’t have these days.
The fight between the Tiger Clan and Grant comes off clean. There are some great full page panels mixed in for a solid dramatic element. Things move at a swift pace with a great stunning ending pieced together. The final moments grow the universe even more but only time will tell how that plays out.
FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10
Craig and Finestone layer the foundation of their expanding universe with an engaging issue. The introduction of more rogues proves dangerous through solid writing and strong visuals. This series has such a vintage vibe to it that if you’re into superheroes, this should be on your radar for New Comic Book Day.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Starstorm #3. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative!
BRZRKR: POETRY OF MADNESS by KEANU REEVES, Steve Skroce, Dave Stewart and Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Travis Charest – Art Credit: Boom! Studios)
BRZRKR: POETRY OF MADNESS by BOOM! STUDIOS
CREATIVE: KEANU REEVES, Steve Skroce, Dave Stewart and Ed Dukeshire.
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 BRZRKR universe from BOOM! Studios for an all new adventure. The story of B aka Unute just wrapped up its’ debut run but that was far from the conclusion of the character. With projects tagged to Netflix still in the works (pre SGA strike), there is much for fans to look forward to.
Leading the way is BRZRKR: POETRY OF MADNESS by KEANU REEVES (“John Wick”, “The Matrix”), Steve Skroce, Dave Stewart and Ed Dukeshire. Where do the adventures of Unute take readers this time? Let’s take a closer look and see how this Kickstarter project to LCS staple shapes up!
Editor Note: If you are new to the series, BRZRKR is an ultra-violent series and some panels aren’t suitable for a younger audience. Discretion is advised.
BRZRKR: POETRY OF MADNESS by KEANU REEVES, Steve Skroce, Dave Stewart and Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Travis Charest – Art Credit: Boom! Studios)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The story begins in Atlantis. A narrator explains for the mystique of Atlantis’ riches have brought out some unsavory characters trying to claim the resources for their own. Zubatai (The Narrator) greets the army storming the gates. She gives them a warning if they proceeed. The savages laugh it off. Zubatai responds with unleashing the King’s Guard: the half Man, half Mortal, All Killing force of nature known as Unute, the Berserker!
One man verses thousands doesn’t sound like fair odds. However, it’s not fair odds for the thousands. The violence is unleashed as Unute takes the fight to the invaders in graphic fashion. When the conflict finally ends, it is Unute as the last man standing.
As he is paraded around the city to a hero’s welcome, Unute is greeted by King Azaes, whom they share a pivotal moment with the readers. Lurking in the background is Visane, a priest who Unute sense danger around.
Later in the evening, Unute stumbles upon a robbery of highly important objects. With the preist looks as the prime suspect, unute makes his way to confront him.
Once he arrives, Unute walks into a surprise situation that leads to nothing but trouble. What dangers have been unlocked? Can Unute stop them? What will be the future of the Kingdom now? Readers get set for another does of drama and ultra violence as Unute does what he does best. The conclusion brings a definite close to what should be a pleasing tale for fans from this series.
BRZRKR: POETRY OF MADNESS by KEANU REEVES, Steve Skroce, Dave Stewart and Ed Dukeshire (Cover: Travis Charest – Art Credit: Boom! Studios)
Reeves doesn’t stray too far from the formula of previous issues of the brutal saga. If anything, this story has more moments of light-hearted dialogue than in recent memory. There is a bit of random swearing mixed in that works for some scenes but feels awkward in other stages.
Unute still connects as a troubled force of nature. Reeves scatters in more “human” elements with the flashback sequences of him filling in as a “father-Figure” to King Azaes. This plays heavy into the closing act, which ties up all loose ends before its’ conclusion.
Readers who want the big action will not be let down as Reeves delivers on those larger-than-life times for a good majority of this issue. There’s absolutely nothing wrong as any long time reader of the series knows. If you want action, look no further.
Skroce steps in for art duties and spares no expense with the sheer brutality of Unute. The initial onslaught is a graphic two-page spread that readers witness limbs torn and cut off.
Normally, this might be a bit much, but this fits Unute’s world to the letter. Skroce focus on the details of Unute’s regeneration as he heals up from the viciousness of battle. The gradual progression gives readers a sense of how things work concerning Unute.
They are gifted a wild scenario for the final battle. Unute’s big opponent gives the box office sense of epic once it enters the story. Even with the noticeable difference in structure, the battle brings the same energy as only a BRZRKER story can. Great final one page panel to wrap things up with until we see Unute appear again.
FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10
Unute’s return after the debut series conclusion sends the title character into a familiar realm. Reeves pens the story with a sense of action leading its way. Skroce and the team bring the vividly imaginative tale to life with unforgiving fight scenes fitting for the half-man, half god. If you’re a fan of BRZRKR, you won’t be disappointed with this issue.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts of BRZRKR: Poetry Of Madness. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.
Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we’re following the next chapter of a brand new story coming out of Image Comics. The debut issue was a very spectacular read and let readers with a great cliffhanger. Now on its next chapter, fans have much to be excited about.
KLIK KLIK BOOM #2 by Doug Wagner, Doug Dabbs, Matt Wilson and Ed Dukeshire brings the danger right to Serena and Sprout’s front door. Let’s not wait any longer and dive into this series!
A reporter named Serena Biggs has been investigating the person behind the mysterious polaroid pictures found in New York City. When the danger of searching brings her in the path of a silent assassin named Sprout, Serena has no idea what she has just walked into.
After a “conversation”, Sprout lets Serena (slightly) in on her revenge mission for her grandfather. Now the pair has to prepare for armed gunman walking right to their front door…..
The issue begins with the gunman walking into the hotel Sprout is staying in. They’re pressuring the clerk at the front desk for information. He reveals Sprout rented every room in the hotel. With a full search underway, Sprout and Serena look on as the danger draws closer.
Readers see how Sprout is ready for the attack as the hotel has traps lying all around. Can the pair survive long enough to crack into Sprout’s mission of revenge?
If they do, what is the next steps in the plan or has someone bet them to the punch? There’s a lot going on with this issue that is sure to please heading into the next chapter.
Wagner goes all in on displaying how crafty Sprout is with her mission. The plan of going “Home Alone” in the hotel has a great twist. Readers can instantly see how strategic Sprout is without coming across forced. The flashback sequences with her grandfather hit their marks as to why she’s so committed to her mission.
Seeing the story play out through Serena’s eyes gives a solid perspective mirroring the readers. Leading into the final act, Wagner displays the quirks between the pair before slamming on the breaks for the final image. There’s a lot to enjoy with this story.
Dabbs and Wilson present a situation where the scenes could misfire for being too cartoonish, but hit the marks with a bullseye. The hotel panels are visually popping off, giving the readers a memorable series of events. The flashback panels continue add another layer to the story with how deeply invested Sprout is for vengeance.
The mannerisms between Serena and Sprout pulls back the seriousness of the tale, giving readers a chance to catch a breath before heading into the closing act. Strong final one page panel to end things on a more puzzling note while keeping fans invested heading to the midway issue.
FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10
The odd couple pairing of Serena and Sprout are tasked with finding a way to survive with mounting pressure. Wagner’s writing keeps readers glued in, constructing a multi-leveled tale. This is matched panel for panel with exceptional art from Dabbs and Wilson, giving readers much to ponder while figuring out the true mission at hand. This is a book you can’t miss on New Comic Book Day.
Hit me up on ODPH Social media and let me know your thoughts on Klik Klik Boom #2. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative!
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast on Nerd Initiative!
For this entry, it is the long awaited return of one of the pillars of comic’s most exciting universe: the Massive-verse! The Image Comics line (via Black Market Narrative) has returned with a vengeance following its’ 2023 “Supermassive” Crossover book. The landmark Radiant Black #25 and Rogue Sun #13 have both resumed to much fan reaction. Now, the last regular series Massive-Verse Book is back at the local comic shops this week!
THE DEAD LUCKY #7 by MELISSA FLORES, FRENCH CARLOMAGNO, MATTIA IACONO and BECCA CAREYCredit: Image Comics via Black Market Narrative
Returning home for Bibiana Lopez-Yang aka Bibi post military service has not been easy. After being honorably discharged, Bibi is addressing her own mental health issues (PTSD and Survivor’s Guilt) and the event from Afghanistan that killed her platoon along with giving her electrical based powers.
Bibi was also caught in the middle of a battle between Morrow, a tech corporation looking to control San Francisco and the Salvation Gang, a self-touted “fighters for the people”, but are they really? The battle has been brought to her front door with her parents’ restaurant being lost in the fight.
With things escalating, Bibi forges an uneasy alliance with The Salvation Gang to end things once and for all. However, nothing could have prepared Bibi for losing her ex-boyfriend/ally Eddie, who sacrificed himself to save Bibi from a Morrow weapon.
With the gang in shambles and Morrow getting ready for another round, Bibi cuts a deal with Mr. Jimmi Moss, the head of Morrow. The fighting stops when Bibi joins Morrow as the head of their special crimes division. Now on the inside, Bibi makes plans to end Morrow once and for all.
THE DEAD LUCKY #7 by MELISSA FLORES, FRENCH CARLOMAGNO, MATTIA IACONO and BECCA CAREYCredit: Image Comics via Black Market Narrative
This issue opens up in Bucharest, Romania. A young girl is being held hostage by a group of human traffickers. Getting ready to extract her from this situation is Bibi and her new Morrow team. Readers might recognizes some members as former Salvation Gang standouts. With time ticking away, Bibi goes into action to make the save!
How does this mission fare? Readers see quickly how Bibi operates on getting the job done. In its’ fallout, San Francisco has changed. Is it better or worse? Where does Bibi fit into plans? And what of her next assignment? Readers had better buckle up for an exhilarating ride as the stakes have been raised to challenge Bibi even further than before!
Flores brings readers back to a very different landscape than when we last saw Bibi. Right from the start, the story wastes no time getting down to business. The tone is tense with every action impactful. Readers immediately sense the danger and how clockwork-like Bibi operates.
The aftermath of the previous arc lingers with Bibi and her emotions reflect that. Readers see that the loss of Eddie still weighs heavy with her motivations post mission.
Bibi doesn’t do everything perfect and her interactions with her circle of friends and family demonstrates that exceptionally.
THE DEAD LUCKY #7 by MELISSA FLORES, FRENCH CARLOMAGNO, MATTIA IACONO and BECCA CAREYCredit: Image Comics via Black Market Narrative
Heading into the final arc, Flores sets up a great cliffhanger ending with an interesting personal set-up. What should be a routine mission turns into something more which fans will clamoring to see more of.
Carlomagno and Iacono deliver a fair balance of action and emotions panels with this return issue. The extraction portion keeps a fast pace, instantly locking in with readers. Seeing how precise Bibi is with her mission was a perfect way to kick things into motion with Morrow.
The emotional changes between Bibi and her supporting cast also jumped out. The art team focuses heavy on the strain of working for Morrow and the guilt of Eddie’s death. It reflects how her character is flawed and not perfect.
One sequence that defines this is when Bibi is at the family restaurant Seeing the old picture of her and Eddie, followed by the confession of self guilt made for a noteworthy portion of the issue. Strong final act with a show-stealing final page takes readers into the next chapter in an exhilarating note.
FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10
With a new stat quo cemented in place, the return of Bibiana Lopez-Yang kicks off its’ next chapter with an issue you can’t miss. Flores’ incredible writing is matched with Carlomagno’s superb visuals to give readers a combination of action and emotional complexity that simply can’t be missed. Make sure to snag your copy on New Comic Book Day!
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on The Dead Lucky #7. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative!
