Iron Man relies on a brand new armor, some recently acquired black market weapons, and some good old fasioned deception to try to put a stop to Feilong’s Stark Sentinels.
War Machine vs Stark Sentinel!
Story:
Tony and Rhodey hatch a plan to take out the Stark Sentinels before they can come online using some of the weapons that Tony has stored up from the previous volume of The Invincible Iron Man. The plan is simple, Rhodey clears out the warehouse employees in disguise as Iron Man while Tony plants explosives on the sentinels in his new and improved stealth suit. Of course, the best laid-plans of mice and men often go awry, and so too Stark’s plan fails when the sentinels come online and put up one serious fight! While Tony escapes, War Machine is captured and accused of murder and Tony is left reeling as he realizes that he may be responsible for his friend’s death.
Writing:
This is, once again, a slam dunk for Gerry Duggan! The story unfolds perfectly, the plot twists and turns quickly and the ending is like a punch to the gut as the reader discovers Rhodeys predicament at the same time as Tony. On top of the overall plot, the dialogue was witty and full of the banter that one would expect from two life long friends. I laughed out loud more than once in this issue and that is the sign of a master writer at work!
The Mark NIL, Tony’s newest stealth suit!
The Artwork:
The art in this series continues to sore with each issue! Juan Frigeri’s design of the Mark Nil stealth armor is truly a thing of beauty. I fell in love with this armor the moment I turned the page and I sincerely hope that it sticks around for a few issue. The action scenes flowed easily and the emotional beats hit like a freight train. Seeing Tony Stark on his knees in front of his armor, broken and exhausted, is an image that will stick with me for a long time!
Conclusion:
This story has been great from the first panel! I’m really enjoying the ride that this creative team is taking me on and I’m not ready for it to end any time soon! This story feels like it is building towards something big and I cannot wait to see where it goes!
The last time Marvel fans had gotten a new Disney+ premiere MCU show was back on August 18th, 2022 with the release of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. That is almost a full year without a Marvel show.
Does the first 2 episodes of Secret Invasion live up to the awaited time between Marvel Disney+ shows? Absolutely. By the end of the first episode alone we are shown the stakes, the emotions and the character work that will be taking place in this 6 episode event.
What stands out the most is that the series’ tone is fairly serious, much in the vein of Captain America: the Winter Soldier, but even then it is amped up to a more mature level with the story it tells and with how graphic they can get.
Now a big stand out of Marvel content over the years has been the trademark humour that has become known to so many, but in this series even the humour is used to a different array and effect. The jokes are more mature, much more subtle, cheekier than before and even somewhat of a head scratcher to some degree. The tension is high and the paranoia for the safety and identity for many characters run deep. The level of story telling in these early episodes has honestly not been seen in any of the MCU shows yet and is somewhat of a breath of fresh air, even as an Marvel fanatic.
The themes of being a victim and what that entitles a victim towards sparks a deep conversation to be had both in the series and in our own world, but while at it the show also engages the audience to question the state of our own world as the series scarily reflects the geopolitical issues that are currently going on in ours right now. This may drive some away from wanting to tune-in but despite the real world issues that are being reflected upon it still has components of a spy-espionage story that fans of the comic event Secret Invasion would like.
Nick Fury is the protagonist of the series and while at first I felt hesitant about having such a covert character be the focus of what I thought should have been a universe spanning event into such a focused smaller scale series, I am happily wrong. The series immediately shows me why this story needed to be so focused with just how personal the stakes are for Fury and Talos, and then throw in the internal drama of the characters that compliment this espionage story to such a wonderful degree, it has the makings of what might be the best Disney+ marvel series and possibly even the best superhero show since Daredevil.
If you are someone who has been feeling as though the Disney+ Marvel shows have felt the same for the most part and that the majority of them can be reduced to a formula then give Secret Invasion a try, because you will most likely be surprised by how Marvel has decided to take this series. Now, if you are someone who has been enjoying the Disney+ shows then still give this series a try, it’s different and refreshing, but still just familiar enough for those of us who enjoyed the likes of Hawkeye, Loki and Ms. Marvel.
Awesome Con is a pop culture convention that takes place annually in Washington, DC. The three-day event starts today and celebrates the world of comics, movies, television, toys, games, and more. The convention is a hub for fans of all ages to come together and share their love for all things geeky.
In 2023, Awesome Con is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and it promises to be the biggest and best event yet. The convention will feature a star-studded lineup of celebrity guests from various fandoms, including actors, artists, and anime stars. Fans will have the opportunity to meet their favorite stars, attend exclusive panels, workshops, and meetups, and participate in cosplay events.
Along with celebrity guests, Awesome Con 2023 will have a packed schedule of events, including the Destination Cosplay, Science Fair, Book Fair, and more. With over 50,000 fans expected to attend, the convention promises to be a weekend full of excitement and fun.
What is Awesome Con?
The convention is known for its impressive lineup of guests from the worlds of comics, movies, TV, toys, games, and more. In 2023, attendees can look forward to meeting Lord of the Rings cast members Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and Andy Serkis, as well as actors Christopher Eccleston, Billy Dee Williams, Danny Trejo, Levar Burton, and Phil LaMarr, among others.
In addition to meeting their favorite stars, attendees can participate in a variety of events and activities throughout the weekend. These include cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, and art exhibits. There are also vendors selling all kinds of merchandise, from comics and collectibles to clothing and accessories.
Guests Attending in 2023
Awesome Con 2023 is set to welcome a star-studded lineup of guests from the world of comics, movies, television, toys, games, and more. Fans can expect to see their favorite stars and artists from across various fandoms during the three-day festival in Washington, DC.
Some of the notable guests attending Awesome Con 2023 include Karen Gillan, who is best known for her role as Nebula in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans of Star Wars can look forward to meeting Billy Dee Williams, who played Lando Calrissian in the original trilogy. The convention will also host Elijah Wood, who starred as Frodo Baggins in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Voice actors will also be in attendance, such as Phil LaMarr, who voiced Samurai Jack and Green Lantern in Justice League. Fans of anime can meet Justin Briner, who voices Izuku Midoriya in My Hero Academia, and Colleen Clinkenbeard, who voices Monkey D. Luffy in One Piece.
In addition to the guests mentioned above, Awesome Con 2023 will also feature appearances by Felicia Day, Maurice LaMarche, Rob Paulsen, Billie Piper, and Andy Serkis, among others. Fans can check the official website for the full list of guests and their scheduled appearances.
Programming and Awesome Con Jr.
The programming at Awesome Con 2023 is diverse and engaging. Fans can attend panels on a variety of topics, from comic book tropes to Wonder Women of NASA. The National Science Foundation is also hosting a series of science-related panels that are sure to be of interest.
For younger fans, Awesome Con Jr. offers a range of activities and events designed specifically for kids. From story time to crafts, Awesome Con Jr. is the perfect place for families to enjoy the convention together.
Schedule and Mobile App
The schedule for Awesome Con 2023 is available on the convention’s website and mobile app. Fans can plan their days in advance and make sure they don’t miss any of their favorite events. The mobile app also includes a map of the convention center and information on exhibitors, guests, and more.
Tabletop Gaming and Destination Cosplay
Tabletop gaming enthusiasts will be thrilled with the selection of games available at Awesome Con 2023. From classic board games to new releases, there’s something for everyone.
For cosplayers, Destination Cosplay is the place to be. This interactive exhibit allows fans to step into their favorite worlds and take photos in front of detailed backdrops.
Workshops and Movement Zone
Fans looking to learn new skills can attend workshops on a variety of topics, including writing, drawing, and cosplay. The Movement Zone offers classes and demonstrations on martial arts, dance, and more.
Super Art Fight and Exhibitors
Super Art Fight is a live art competition that combines drawing and improv comedy. Fans can watch as artists battle it out on stage, creating unique and hilarious works of art.
Exhibitors at Awesome Con 2023 offer a wide range of merchandise, from comic books to toys to collectibles. Fans can browse the booths and find treasures to add to their collections.
Main Stage, Bot Stage, and Memory Lane
The Main Stage at Awesome Con 2023 features celebrity appearances, musical performances, and more. The Bot Stage offers a range of programming related to robotics and technology.
Memory Lane is a special exhibit that celebrates the 10 year milestone anniversary of Awesome Con. Fans can take a trip down memory lane and see some of the highlights from past conventions.
Nerd Nite DC, Panels, Meetups, and Celebrity Appearances
Nerd Nite DC is a special event that features talks on a variety of nerdy topics. Panels at Awesome Con 2023 cover everything from comic book history to the latest trends in pop culture.
Fans can also attend meetups and connect with others who share their interests. Celebrity appearances include the cast of Attack on Titan and a range of comic book guests.
Overall, Awesome Con 2023 is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of geek culture. With so many events and activities to choose from, fans are sure to have a blast.
Science Fair
The Science Fair is an interactive exhibit that showcases the latest advancements in science and technology. It offers a range of activities for kids and adults, including hands-on experiments, demonstrations, and talks by experts in the field.
Book Fair
The Book Fair is a must-visit for book lovers of all ages. It features a wide range of books, comics, and graphic novels from various genres and publishers. Kids can also attend author talks and book signings, and participate in book-related activities.
There can never be too many biographical films in this day and age, especially when a great story can come out of it. Streaming on Hulu is Searchlight Pictures’ newest film, Flamin’ Hot, which is the perfect example of a film following this exact trend. The film depicts the true story of Richard Montañez, a Mexican-American who decides to leave behind a life of crime, and build a better future for himself and his family. When he lands a job at a Frito-Lay factory down in Southern California, his curiosity leads him to create the iconic cheese snack we all know and love today: The Flamin’ Hot Cheeto.
Jesse Garcia as Richard Montañez in “Flamin’ Hot”, now streaming on Hulu. All Rights Reserved by Searchlight Pictures.
Any fan of Flamin’ Hot snacks knows that these are some of the most tasty and addicting snacks known to mankind. To be able to see the story of how our favorite spicy cheese doodle came to be is something that we can’t miss out on. The film itself wastes zero time in introducing us to Richard Montañez, his wife and children, and the communities he is a part of, and the audience is immediately thrown into his story.
The retelling of Montañez’s life is unique and enough to get you engaged, and much of this largely in part due to Jesse Garcia’s upbeat and animated narration throughout the film. Not only that, but his on-screen presence as the Flamin’ Hot legend makes the film so fun to watch and gets you rooting for him from beginning to end. But it isn’t just Garcia who adds entertainment to the film. The supporting performances of Annie Gonzalez as Judy Montañez, Dennis Haybert as Clarence C. Baker, and even the adorable Brice Gonzalez as Steven Montañez manage to greatly enhance the journey that the film intends to portray.
(l-r) Brice Gonzalez as Steven Montañez, Annie Gonzalez as Judy Montañez, Jesse Garcia as Richard Montañez, and Hunter Jones as Lucky Montañezin “Flamin’ Hot”, now streaming on Hulu. All Rights Reserved by Searchlight Pictures.
A large portion of Flamin’ Hot takes a meaningful approach toward the family dynamic of the Montañez family. Being a part of a low income and marginalized community, family plays a large role in the decisions that each person makes. For Richard, there’s a clear turning point for him as he decides to abandon his past, live an honest life, and do right by his family. Meanwhile, his wife Judy juggles raising children, searching for jobs, and being the biggest cheerleader for Richard. It’s easy to feel for them but it’s also endearing to see family be the key thing that keeps them together and pushes Richard to keep going.
While I did expect some discussion of the hard times that fell upon Frito-Lay due to their lack of growth, I did not expect so much of the film to make that a primary focus of the plot. It’s rare to see lower and middle class workers be represented in the media, especially in a light where most of these people are simply trying to make a living for themselves and their families. Not to mention, there’s an open yet subtle conversation regarding racial differences, and the fact that someone could know everything there is, be able to teach and train others on everything there is to know, and still be stuck where they are. Flamin’ Hot does well in highlighting so many more workplace issues that we as regular people understand and have experienced.
(l-r) Jesse Garcia as Richard Montañez and Dennis Haysbert as Clarence C. Baker in “Flamin’ Hot”, now streaming on Hulu. All Rights Reserved by Searchlight Pictures.
But here comes a major gripe regarding the movie. While it is expected to see more of the business end of Frito-Lay and the Flamin’ Hot brand of snacks, it lacks heavy emphasis on the actual creation of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Throughout much of the film, I kept waiting for the scene from the trailers where the family is working together to combine various spices and flavors, and I had hoped for more of a deep dive into that process. Unfortunately, it didn’t last long, and felt rushed and forgettable, and it ended up being overshadowed by everything else going on in the film.
When it comes to a film about food, one would hope that there would be more of a discussion about the various flavors involved, a bigger explanation of the food shared within a community that inspires reason and motivation. So it was to my disappointment that there was so much discussion of business, numbers, and the ups and downs, but not enough focus on how we got there in the first place.
(l-r) Hunter Jones as Lucky Montañez, Jesse Garcia as Richard Montañez, and Brice Gonzalez as Steven Montañezin “Flamin’ Hot”, now streaming on Hulu. All Rights Reserved by Searchlight Pictures.
With all that said and done, Flamin’ Hot still holds comedic value, and is absolutely one of the better feel-good biographical films we’ve seen thus far. While it is lacking in some areas, it attempts to make up for it in other ways that may or may not be to its benefit depending on the viewer. It is still an engaging story that also focuses deeply on family, the struggle of the lower and middle working class, and the decline and rise of Frito-Lay, all thanks to one man and his family. If you’re a fan of Flamin’ Hot snacks, you love a good biopic, or you just love movies about food, this is a fun and easy film that you’ve got to watch.
Samosa Rating:
Flamin’ Hot receives 3.5 out of 5 Samosas.
Flamin’ Hot is now streaming on Hulu. Runtime: 1h 39m
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog of the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, we’re following along the latest hit horror series from Cullen Bunn as the family dynamic of the Agates seems to have a paranormal problem. Ghostlore #2 from Cullen Bunn, Leomacs, Jason Wordie, Ed Dukeshire and Danny Luckert via BOOM! Studios, invites readers to follow at their own risk, into the unknown dangers waiting. Let’s take a closer look and see how this issue fares, shall we?
Ghostlore #2 – Cullen Bunn, Leomacs, Jason Wordie, Ed Dukeshire and Danny Luckert (Boom! Studios)
One fateful night has changed the Agate family forever. When leaving church, Pastor Lucas Agate, his wife Emily, and his quiet son Chris, are involved in a car accident when his daughter Harmony swerves from a boy standing in the middle of the road.
The car crashes into a tree. After the crash, Harmony is convinced someone is in the road, but her father doesn’t believe it. Chris emerges from his silence and starts speaking about what Harmony is seeing. Chris’s story talks of a child who turned into a monster after some young boys bullied her. Chris swears never to speak a word, even when the boys are killed. With a small community rocked, the parishioners of Pastor Lucas’s church start losing faith.
The Puzzle Of Chris
Chris’s story is puzzling to his dad but it sinks in that this isn’t Chris, but his spirit as he and Emily were killed in the crash. Once confessing, Chris can finally rest with Harmony now carrying the weight of his guilt. Surrounding the car are more ghosts who want their story heard to gain peace.
This issue jumps in with Lucas and Harmony coming to grips with what has happened. The scenes are cold and reflecting of the loss they’ve endured. Leaving the house in silence, Harmony sets out for some errands. Lucas is still waking up when he’s approached by a spirit wanting to talk.
With Harmony gone, what happens when it’s Lucas now talking with the spirit? What story do they have to tell? Readers watch with chills as the spirit confesses their tale. With a new dynamic in play, will things go smoothly or crash and burn? The final act leaves nothing behind as it closes this chapter definitively while featuring a final panel that adds more to the mystery at hand.
Ghostlore #2 – Cullen Bunn, Leomacs, Jason Wordie, Ed Dukeshire and Danny Luckert (Boom! Studios)
Bunn role reverses from last issue’s fallout with Lucas stepping into the ghost conversation. The opening moments give the readers a sense of how things have weighed down the family with no real sense of improvement. The ghost appearance made for an interesting dynamic as Lucas fills in for Harmony.
Its’ story is arguably the strongest pint of the book as the ethics behind it leave much to be figured out. The results show that nothing is “normal” about how these meetings are conducted. Bunn filters in Lucas’ anger with a newfound layer into his character. The closing will catch readers off-guard but makes for more drama as the story progress into the following issue.
Artwork Overview
Art duties are split again with Leomacs taking the main timeline and Luckert stepping in for the flashback story. This is a winning formula as the story comes across to readers as truly told thru the spirit’s eyes. Luckert’s visuals bring the emotional backstory into the spotlight. It wastes little time in creating the sense of fear haunting the ghost and the burden now on their shoulders.
Leomacs makes the opening scenes click with no words uttered. It’s only body language that the readers can cypher. The panels speak volumes on how things are deteriorated between Lucas and Harmony. It’s countered with some truly horrific imagery stemming from the ghost story. The closing panel is very subtle but is sure to set the Agate family into another tailspin before it’s all said and done.
FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10
The supernatural hold on the Agate family becomes tighter as the pressure mounts in the latest chapter from Bunn and Leomacs. Strong imagery raises the frightening tale being constructed into new heights. Don’t miss checking this book out on New Comic Book Day.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Ghostlore #2. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.
This series is sure to be one talked about on New Comic Book Day. Klik Klik Boom #1 by Doug Wagner, Doug Dabbs, Matt Wilson and Ed Dukeshire brings the mystery of Sprout and her unique vision of the world for a story that can’t be missed. Let’s take a deeper dive and peel back the layers of this intriguing tale, shall we?
Klik Klik Boom #1 by Doug Wagner, Doug Dabbs, Matt Wilson and Ed Dukeshire (Credit: Image Comics)
The story begins in New York City. Someone is leaving polaroid pictures in various spots throughout the city. One picture is that of a family celebrating a birthday with some cake at a restaurant. Readers see that there is a mysterious woman (known later as Sprout) taking pictures of the family outside the venue.
It appears as though she is trying to use the photos to communicate with the family but the photos are clearly not welcomed by the celebrating party. After being threatened, Sprout leaves but not before leaving a picture of the cake on the window.
From here, readers see Sprout walking down the street when she’s harassed by two men. The one smacks Sprout on her backside. She responds by staring at them followed by taking a picture. Leaving the pair, she walks by a man walking down the street and smacks him on his behind. If this wasn’t puzzling enough, the next action leaves many questions.
Klik Klik Boom #1 by Doug Wagner, Doug Dabbs, Matt Wilson and Ed Dukeshire (Credit: Image Comics)
Sprout goes into her bag and draws a gun from a sea of Polaroids of a man readers find out later is her grandfather. With gun in hand, Sprout walks into a bank. With no vision inside, readers see shots fired and someone screaming. Suddenly, Sprout walks out unscathed, picking up a dropped picture of her grandfather. This leads to a flashback where readers get a little insight into Sprout’s past 12 years prior.
In the present, a reporter named Serena Biggs is on the phone piecing together the mystery of Sprout. Readers find out what happened in the bank and how that is the tip of the iceberg behind a bigger conspiracy yet to be revealed.
What is found during Serena’s investigating? Who is a vested party of interest? How does Sprout figure into all of this?
Readers don’t wait too long to bare witness to paths crossing and more questions raised. Just when the answers seem to appear, they get lost in the rising danger of Sprout’s world leading into a closing act that proves the enigmatic story of Sprout hasn’t even begun to be unveiled.
Story Review
This mystery is one that will capture readers attention and not let go easily. Wagner presents Sprout as a lost soul in a big world. The initial interactions with the people of New York City comes across as awkward and curious. Keeping the bank scene hidden elevates the reveal of events later in the issue perfectly.
Klik Klik Boom #1 by Doug Wagner, Doug Dabbs, Matt Wilson and Ed Dukeshire (Credit: Image Comics)
The addition of Serena plays as a dual role for the readers. Serena is asking the questions they are thinking while trying to process what world she has now stepped into. The conversation when it is revealed why Sprout takes pictures is one of the noteworthy points of the issue.
Wagner does a great job of keeping Sprout’s true motives elusive with mixing in surprise locations throughout the journey. There never is a loss of tension and wonder for the duration, leading into a strong final moment.
Artwork Overview
Dabbs and Wilson bring a certain mystique to the artwork for the book. The use of 5-6 panel pages gives a feel of the reader themselves are looking at the polaroids while moving thru the story. The bank sequence is a strong moment in the book. Using only a few wide panels, readers can sense the action taking place and the surprising fallout when Sprout leaves.
The flashback time with Sprout and her grandfather gives the readers a solid idea of their quirky relationship without fully playing all the cards to what has transpired. This formula is shown against when Sprout is involved in an altercation. The use of small panels and bright colors tell just enough before switching gears. Superb closing visuals to lead into the next issue of what is sure to be a monster hit.
FINAL POINT: 9.5 OUT OF 10
From the opening page, there is a certain enigmatic feel that captures readers and never lets go. Wagner orchestrates a slow burn thriller brought to life by Dabbs and Wilson’s amazing visuals reflecting the gritty and mysterious world of Sprout. This is a must-have on New Comic Book Day.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Klik Klik Boom #1. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.
John Romita Sr., the legendary comic book artist, has passed away at the age of 93. Romita was known for his work on Marvel Comics’ iconic characters, but most of all Spider-Man.
Romita began his career in comics in the 1950s, working for various publishers before joining Marvel Comics in 1965. He quickly made a name for himself as one of the company’s top artists, and his work on Spider-Man in particular is still considered some of the character’s best.
Romita’s passing is a great loss to the comic book industry, but his legacy will live on through his work and the countless artists he inspired.
John Romita Sr’s Life and Career
John Romita Sr was born on January 24, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in a family of artists and from a young age, he showed an interest in drawing. After finishing high school, he attended the Manhattan School of Industrial Art, where he honed his skills in illustration and design.
In the 1950s, John Romita Sr began his career in comics, working for publishers such as Timely Comics (which later became Marvel Comics) and DC Comics. He worked on a variety of titles, including romance, horror, and western comics, before landing a job at Marvel Comics in 1965.
Marvel Comics Career
John Romita Sr’s tenure at Marvel Comics was a defining period for the company. He started as an artist on titles such as Daredevil and The Amazing Spider-Man, and later became the art director for the company. He was responsible for designing some of the most iconic characters in Marvel’s history, including The Punisher, Wolverine, and Kingpin.
Romita’s artwork was known for its dynamic, larger-than-life style, which helped to define the look and feel of Marvel’s comics in the 1960s and 1970s. He was also known for his ability to tell a story through his art, a visionary ahead of his time.
Romita’s legacy lives on through his son, John Romita Jr, who is also a comic icon in his own right. Together, the Romitas have left an indelible mark on the world of comics, and their influence will be felt for years to come.
Many fans wondered who would be the next big superstar to emerge from the top line of comics at the time. They didn’t have to wait too long as one artist made an immediate impact, giving the flagship title a whole new look. His name was Joe Madureira.
Joe Madureira
Madureira was named the artist on Uncanny X-Men in 1994. His work led to the success of the “Age Of Apocalypse” storyline as well as “The Trial Of Gambit” just to name a few. With a style all his own, Madureira quickly became one of the biggest artists in all of comics.
In 1997, Madureira left Marvel to join up with an offshoot imprint of Jim Lee’s Wildstormline known as Cliffhanger. Madureira joined Humberto Ramos(Crimson) andJ. Scott Campbell(Danger Girl) with a creator owned title “Battle Chasers” in 1998.
Battle Chasers
Battle Chasers #10 by Joe Madureira and LUDO LULLABI (credit: Image Comics)
The fantasy-adventure book had a lot of hype behind it, but constant release issues with the series led to the last issue being published by Image in 2001! In that time, Madureira has gone on to different non-comic projects with a few returns to Marvel with “Ultimates 3” in 2007, “Avenging Spider-Man” in 2011 and “Inhuman” in 2014.
However, fans have never stopped clamoring for more Battle Chasers. Image released The Battle Chasers Anthology in 2019 to huge reactions. With a fanbase still clamoring for more, an announcement was made that shocked and electrified fans…
Early in 2023, Image and Madureira announced that they were bringing the series back with the long-awaited Battle Chasers #10 (by Madureira and LUDO LULLABI). The wait is finally over! The book is in stores! Let’s take a deeper look at how the story fares after debuting 25 years ago, shall we!
This issue kicks off with a great recap of characters for readers jumping in for the first time:
Battle Chasers #10 by Joe Madureira and LUDO LULLABI (credit: Image Comics)
Garrison – A former Paladin coming to terms with his past involving Aramus
Red Monika – An infamous figure who plays by her own rules
Gully – The daughter of the legendary Aramus, Gully possess gauntlets once wore by her father that have immense power
Calibretto aka Bretto – A war machine that has a mind of its’ own and is a force to be reckoned with
Knolan – A wizard of great mystery and capabilities
The story as it stands is the world of Gaia is in danger. Mana, a prime resource is dying out. Sides are being taken and conflict is rising. King Vaneer has played a role in the power balance, helping Gully and Bretto in the search for Aramus. The same cannot be said for Garrison who defies an order to capture Red Monika and now becomes a fugitive himself!
Garrison On The Run
Red Monika wakes up in Garrison’s house after escaping Lord August. Garrison is waiting at the house and informs her that she was followed. Outside the house is Mastreo, leading the Martial Paladins on their bounty mission. Readers get a quick introduction into what they are capable of after they dispose of Akiman, Monika’s partner. Mastreo and his team bicker about what to do when Garrison and Monika make a break from the house. However, they don’t get too far before the Paladins make another play.
Battle Chasers #10 by Joe Madureira and LUDO LULLABI (credit: Image Comics)
All the while, Gully is confronting her alleged brother Sebastian Nefar, who is rotting in a cell with no hands after trying to put on Gully’s gauntlets. Their conversation is brief but sets Gully on a quest to find answers.
What happens when she goes searching? What of Garrison and Monika’s fate? How does Bretto play into the mix? Readers are taken on quite the adventure as events are set in motion, kicking the saga of Battle Chasers into high gear.
Madureira plays into the strengths of what makes this series such a beloved one with fans. The relationship between Garrison and Monika has always been combustible. Madureira focuses in on this for some great back and forth moments. The latest threats of the Martial Paladins are an interesting one. They come across to the reader as highly dangerous and ones that have a separate agenda all their own.
Battle Chasers #10 by Joe Madureira and LUDO LULLABI (credit: Image Comics)
Gully’s story didn’t get as much time in comparison (only 6 pages) but hit its’ key points. The dynamic between her and Sebastian works flawlessly to set up the forthcoming drama. As a “welcome back” issue, it does a great job for connecting with new and older readers of the series.
Artwork Overview
LULLABI steps in the art duties and delivers on fast moving, BIG action panels. The short sequence with them taking out Akiman delved into that frenetic pace. The moments with the Paladins hunting Garrison and Monkia establish the stakes very quickly.
This leads into an amazing 2 page full panel spread closing out Garrison’s portion of the issue. Lullabi does a spectacular job catching Gully’s reactions to Sebastion’s manipulations. Ranging from anger to puzzled to defiant, the emotions display sold that time in the book and made up for the lack of pages. Great final panel to send things off into the next issue.
FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10
The saga of Battle Chasers resumes without missing a beat. Madureira and Lullabi greet new and faithful readers with great storytelling and incredible visuals that encompasses why this series still connects with fans after 25 years! With the action and drama building back up, it is a perfect time to add this series to your comic book collection.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Battle Chasers #10. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.
A new Indie comic Horus in Hell is about a demented pink bunny?!? #indiecomics #indiecomicbooks #horrorcomics
In this demented Saturday morning cartoon from hell, viewers are taken on a delightful trip into the underworld with everyone’s favorite demonic pink rabbit, Horus. Welcome to Horus in Hell!
The plot follows Horus as he finds himself mistakenly eternally pledged to the great magician Pocus Hocus and is dragged into hell, where he must fight his way back through demon angels, alcohol, bunnies, and other bizarre creatures.
The characters in this cartoon are just as unique as the setting, with a cute fluffy bunny aka decorated war hero in Hell’s Army at the forefront of the story. The minds behind Grandma chainsaw and Pocus Hocus add to the absurdity of the setting, making for a truly unforgettable reading experience.
Key Takeaways
“Horus in Hell” is a demented Saturday morning cartoon that takes viewers on a trip through the underworld with a unique cast of characters.
The plot follows Horus, a demonic pink rabbit, as he fights his way back from hell after being mistakenly eternally pledged to a great magician.
The bizarre setting and unique characters make for an unforgettable reading experience.
What was presumed to be a blockbuster hit for the summer is finally here, and fans ranting and raving about it. Across the Spider-Verse is the sequel to the critically acclaimed film, Into the Spider-Verse, and continues the journey of Miles Morales after a year of being Spider-Man. However, balancing his double life is met with many challenges when Miles is reunited with Gwen and introduced to a society of Spider-People, all of whom seem to be hiding something from him.
Note: This review does NOT contain spoilers.
Right off the bat, the film is a prime example of the perfect sequel. Rather than rehashing what made Into the Spider-Verse so successful, it instead pulls storylines from the original film, and provides a relative and useful background. All of this eventually leads into the overall plot and the themes that are heavily discussed throughout the film. It’s not uncommon for franchises to bring up flashbacks or moments from previous films in newer films. But it can end up in disaster if it serves no real purpose for the overall plot or feels like the audience is just rewatching a previous film.
Across the Spider-Verse avoids this mishap by providing an intricate web of story that allows you to go back and forth between the first film and the sequel, and find meaningful connections. For example, there is a deeper dive into Gwen’s character and what her story has been thus far. This serves as an explanation for the mysterious decisions she makes, between both films.
But despite these connections, Across the Spider-Verse still manages to be its own film with its own story, character goals, and unique twists and turns. The tone of the story has changed entirely to where it’s darker and scarier, but also deeply heartfelt with heavier themes and emotions. There is a bigger conversation surrounding identity, choice, the connection we have with our parents that hits home for many people, and ultimately, a sense of belonging.
Characters like Miles and Gwen often struggle to make sense of their identity and the act of making a choice, something that kids and adults alike can relate to throughout their life. Whether it’s about your racial and ethnic identities, or being what others want you to be versus writing your own story, Miles and Gwen expand on these topics and relay it to us in terms of being a hero. It is very human for us to need to belong somewhere as well, and to feel welcome in a safe space. It’s Miles’ story that dives deep into this exact topic as he explores what could be a safe space for him, whether or not he belongs and whether or not he will be accepted.
Moving away from themes and story, the film also introduces some fantastic characters while developing existing characters. We get to experience the growth and change with Miles and Gwen, while seeing their relationships with their parents. But we also are introduced to characters like the terrifying Miguel O’Hara, Jessica Drew as the mother who kicks serious butt, the optimistic Pavitr Prabhakar of Mumbattan, Spider-Byte the tech expert, and Hobie Brown, our favorite anti-establishment punk.
While some characters have more screen time than others, their individual introductions are perfect enough to establish who they are and what their role is in Miles’ overall journey. The film also introduces a comedic bad guy, The Spot, which appears unassuming and harmless at first. But it becomes very clear that The Spot will continue to have a massive role going forward as the circumstances quickly escalate. It’s safe to say that audiences will be excited to see more of these new characters shine some more in the next film.
The animation of the film can be jarring and startling, but it is never without purpose. We are constantly seeing unique styles of art across various universes, each representing the style and aesthetic of the individual character that universe belongs to. Gwen’s world comes across more fluid and blended, with watercolor splashes everywhere. Meanwhile Mumbattan is reminiscent of art styles from India, creating the perfect setting for Pavitr’s world. And naturally, the default world of Miles Morales continues the typical comic book art style that most are familiar with. Shot by shot, frame by frame, the animation continues to take risks at every moment, utilizing heavy visuals to aid in the storytelling process.
A huge highlight of the film is its soundtrack which is produced entirely by Metro Boomin and features artists like A$AP Rocky, Future, Offset, Swae Lee, and so many more. While the music for Into the Spider-Verse was indicative of the natural juvenile essence that Miles carries with him, the music for Across the Spider-Verse takes on a vastly different approach. Instead, it taps into the deeper themes reflected throughout the film. There’s a mixture of varying sounds between each track which represent both sides of Miles, whether it’s in regards to his biracial identity or his conflicting identities of being just a normal kid and being Spider-Man.
If you have not yet listened to the soundtrack itself, it does provide audios from the film itself as a way to transition between one track to the next. And while this transition is not always my favorite, it is done especially well for this film as it serves purpose in giving personality to not just Miles, but other characters as well. It’s a common thing for music to give us goosebumps. But it is a rare occurrence to listen to a film’s music, and feel like we are being taken out on a nightly drive to clear our head except the drive is us just thwip-thwipping across a city skyline.
While I can’t speak for all Spider-Man fans, it is difficult to watch this film and not be in awe of the way a community of Spider People are represented in Across the Spider-Verse, while simultaneously giving us a story that cycles through so many difficult themes. Not only does the film introduce key characters that are diverse and relatable, but it also slips in very loud themes about family, parent and child relationships, and belonging and acceptance. It’s also easy to forget that this is only the first half of an even bigger story, so much so that it’s startling to see the film end with the cliffhanger it had. But it’s enough to get us hungry for more and geared up for what will hopefully be a promising and satisfying finale to Miles’ story.
Samosa Rating:
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse receives 5 out of 5 Samosas.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is now playing in theaters. Runtime: 2h 16m
