Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.2 Review

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.2 is the continuation of one of the most influential and acclaimed comic book runs of the Man Without Fear – Daredevil. Frank Miller continues his highly successful run of the series with Inker-Penciler Klaus Janson collecting Daredevil #173 – 184 from August 1981 to July 1982. Their character defining run continues here on the second of three collected trade paperbacks that covers the midpoint of their four year run. 

Frank Miller continues his gritty noir take of Daredevil, street level crime and unraveling legal conspiracies while infusing the series with the tone that has become so synonymous with the character. This was the era where Miller first introduced the ninja element to the series, creating the ninja cult The Hand and introducing Stick, Daredevil's former mentor and - perhaps most importantly – Elektra, returning for a lengthy story arc that would become what the series was best known for. It achieved a height of success and acclaim years before Miller later returned to the series to for the amazing story arc Born Again.

This is the book that's the core of Miller and Janson’s run and everything great about Daredevil, I got this book long before I purchased Volume 1 and 3 of the series due to its recognition. The Gladiator makes a sympathetic appearance in an early story line, even fighting alongside Elektra and Daredevil. It’s the return his former flame and the escape of Bullseye that weighs most heavily for our hero, with issue #181 Miller’s began writing in a new spectacular fashion.

Elektra remains to be one of the greatest parts of the Miller’s time on the series. Her first appearance in the previous collection marked in debut Daredevil #168 and this era of stories is what’s been viewed as the highlight of Miller’s original run on series, putting his biggest addition at the forefront of a story that was dubbed The Elektra Saga. She was earlier introduced as a long lost love interest to Matt Murdock who became an assassin. This is the main story arc of the collection, The Elektra Saga, (starting with her debut in Daredevil #168 from Volume 1 and issues #174-182), the conclusion of the story became one of the most shocking and iconic aspects of comics, the imagery is unforgettable. All of the previous plot points cumulated in Daredevil #181, it was a great story with superb action sequences. The double length issue a big deal for its time and still holds up as a significant read more than thirty years later and still considered as one of the major high points of Miller’s Daredevil run. It’s highly likely the one story line fans think of in relation to Miller’s original run in the late 70’s/early 80’s. Miller was at the top of his game, doing his best work as writer and artist, the duel between Bullseye and Elektra is iconic. Its outcome results in Daredevil gradually became a darker kind of hero, this kind of drama and urban crime stories began to attract attention. The revamping of the series might have seemed controversial amongst fans, but it clicked with new readers, increasing sales. Miller had taken a second-tier Marvel character and turned him into on of Marvel’s most popular. It’s really with this era that Frank Miller and Daredevil began to break new ground. It was also in this period that the comic returned to monthly status rather than bi-monthly just three issues after Miller came on as writer. It also highlights Daily Bugle Investigative Journalist Ben Urich as a important player, whom has his own share of the danger as he seeks to uncover truth and conspiracy.

The Punisher first meets Daredevil in a dark and controversial story line “Child’s Play” that concludes the collection. The Punisher/Frank Castle and Daredevil, they are both after a drug pusher who is selling drugs to children. The two crime fighters come into conflict with each other, mostly down to their methods of dealing with the perpetrators. It made for a fantastic story just after the previous story. This one is very different kind of tale, but its dark and gritty, things you’ve come to expect from this interpretation of Daredevil. It was a great story to end the collection.

Daredevil by Frank Miller and Klaus Janson Volume 2 wherein Miller continues his highly acclaimed run, introducing more aspects to Daredevil continuing the most influential period for the character almost redefining a darker interpretation of the hero and stories. The showdown between Elektra and Bullseye remains one of the most iconic moments in comics. Miller's take on Daredevil was characterized by darker themes and stories that hit its peak with issue #181 in this volume. The clash between two Daredevil enemies is one of the most visually iconic and shocking scenes in Marvel history. It stunned readers and the drama was wracked up a few more notches. This is the high point of Miller’s initial tenure on Daredevil. It has so many elements that made the series so great and became a classic. It showcases both Frank Miller and Daredevil breaking new ground, entering a new level of stories and success. If you only pick up one of these trade paperbacks collecting Miller’s original run on the same, let this be the one.The creative team of Miller and Janson’s continue their daring reinvention of the character, raising the series to new heights.

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.1 Review

Daredevil by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson Vol.1 is the beginning of one of the most influential and acclaimed comic book runs of the man without fear – Daredevil. Frank Miller began his highly successful tenure starting as penciler then co-plotter and finally series Writer taking over from Roger McKenzie who was an early influence on Miller’s own writing. It collects Daredevil #158 – 161 and #163 – 172 with inker-penciler Klaus Janson. Peter Parker, the Spectacular Spider-Man #27-28 is also collected. Miller and Janson’s daring reinvention of the character quickly made Frank Miller on of the biggest and most influential stars of comic book industry. This character defining run begins here on the first of three collected trade paperbacks and the beginning of his four year run.

First appearing in 1964, Daredevil got a new lease of life during 1979-1983 by Writer-Penciler Frank Miller. This trade collects the beginning of Miller’s legendary run starting with issue #158 when Miller first began penciling Roger Mc Kenzie’s scripts. He first drew Daredevil in Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #27–28 which guest stared Daredevil assisting a temporarily blinded Spider-Man. Miller then began Daredevil art duties beginning with issue Daredevil #158 and later took over from issue #168 where he introduced Elektra, who would go on to become a long time fan favorite character and staple of Daredevil universe. The majority of the book features mostly standalone stories with appearances from Natasha Romanoff/The Black Widow, The Hulk, Doc Ock and classic Daredevil villain The Gladiator, while lengthier three part stories arcs feature The Kingpin and Daredevil’s best and greatest adversary Bullseye. Investigative Reporter Ben Urich sets up a new relationship for Daredevil for many stories to come. The issues collected from February 1979 to July 1981 and contain a few noteworthy issues including; #158 first Frank Miller art of the Daredevil series, #168 Miller took over on the series and first appearance of Elektra and #170 the first appearance of The Kingpin to Daredevil comics and remains a big part of the Daredevil universe.

Miller brought many new aspects to the Daredevil series during his four year run. As an artist on issue #164 Miller which was a re-envisioning of Daredevil's origin story, the creation of ninja assassin Elektra and bringing Spider-Man villain Wilson Fisk/The Kingpin to the series, all these elements would be something Miller revisited during the retelling of origin story in his 1993 miniseries The Man Without Fear, which now incorporated included all these elements for the redefined Daredevil origin story with John Romita Jr. Elektra remains to be one of the greatest parts of the Miller’s time on the series. Her first appearance in Daredevil #168 marked in debut and first meeting with Matt Murdock during their college years. Although a single appearance Miller would later bring her back as presented in the second volume of this trade paperback series in a larger story arc that became one of the one of the highlights of Millers tenure as well as becoming on of the most iconic moments in comics. Miller’s inclusion of The Kingpin is a recurring foe connects to his later work on the series and character including Love and War, The Man Without Fear and the permanent classic Born Again.

These classic stories mark the start of Millers run on the character that reinvented the series. The series quickly evolved into a sprawling epic with riveting dramas and Miller infused the series with its noir tone that is now synonymous with the character. These are elements were still remaining for a long time after the torch was passed to new creative teams. He laid the groundwork for many years of stories to come and setting a darker tone for character which pretty much remained up until a 2011 relaunch from writer Mark Waid. This collection is a fantastic start to a new era for the character that influences had been felt all the way up to the current Daredevil series on Netflix. Daredevil Vol. 1 collects the beginning of Miller’s critically acclaimed series that brought the character to new level of heights fame and success. If you’re like me and a big Frank Miller fan, having already checked out the best of his other Daredevil work, its great going back to beginning of Miller’s initial run on the character. 

Since his creation by Stan Lee and Bill Everett in 1964, the work by Writer Artist Frank Miller became one the first major highlights of the characters lifespan. Miller’s influential tenure during the early 1980’s evaluated the character popularity as well as Miller’s own reputation. This collection is the begging of a new era for both; Comics legend Frank Miller and one best character’s in comics Daredevil. Daredevil by Frank Miller and Klaus Janson Volume 1 is where Miller slowly sows the seeds for many of the iconic elements of the Daredevil mythos to come, starting off the most influential period for the character.

Avengers Age of Ultron - Movie Review

When Tony Stark jump starts a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as they battle to save the planet from destruction at the hands of the villainous Ultron.

Avengers Age of Ultron is the much highly anticipated sequel of earth’s mightiest heroes. The movie follows the elements of its predecessor in terms of action, scale and humor. It’s exactly what you expect. It defines your expectation rather than soaring above them like the most recent Marvel movies.

The Avengers are now a fully functioning independent unit, the opening battle shows how they now fight together as a team. Captain America and co. launch an assault on Baron Von Strucker’s castle, the last of the HYDRA strongholds. It’s during this assault we meet two important characters; Wanda and Pietro Maximoff, the twins glimpsed during the credits of Captain America: The Winter Soldier. They are the catalyst for much of the conflict to come. Wanda along with her super-fast twin brother Pietro attack the Avengers, causing them to see their worst fears brought to life. Wanda’s ability to get inside their heads and exposing their fears and weaknesses leaves a lasting impact. So much so that when Iron Man/Tony Stark retrieves Loki's scepter from the castle he see’s this as the key to implementing he and Bruce Banner’s goal of Artificial Intelligence, an initiative for Stark’s global peace keeping force serving as a means to help save the world from potential alien invasions. With its creation, Ultron is born, the sentient A.I. see’s the only way of truly protecting the earth is to eradicate humanity. What follows continues to an action packed, dramatic and highly enjoyable Avengers sequel, faced with a menacing threat giving the movie a darker and more ominous tone. Hawkeye’s role is much more expanded than last time, he’s a prominent hero in this movie. Natasha Romanov and Bruce Banner develop a romance. Thor takes a mild detour to fully understand his vision of events to come and Tony Stark continues to fulfill his ideals of the modern world while Steve Rodgers furthers his feelings as a man out of time trying to do the right thing in an increasingly complicated world. Our hero’s fearful visions give them each something to deal with. Hulk goes on the rampage that prompts the arrival of the Hulkbuster amour that is earlier than expected, which adds to the enjoyment.

Ultron is one of the most well known and recognizable of Avengers villains, here he can feel like the evil doppelganger of Iron Man/Tony Stark, his motivations, his technology and its humor is unexpectedly sarcastic. Vision is late addition to the team, he has great presence and it’s a character that an audience can quickly like. The characters appearance is largely practical consisting of old school effects with minor CGI elements, which is a nice touch to movie such as this. You instantly like the character that also provides one of the greatest moments of the movie.

Avengers Age of Ultron is immensely enjoyable but it does not reach the heights that comic book films can achieve. It satisfies as the sequel to its predecessor, one of the biggest superhero films ever nor does it have the impact as previous Marvel phase two movies particularly Captain America: The Winter Soldier. It does sustain the high quality for the 11th movie in the franchise whilst setting up future movies primarily Thor’s next solo movie Thor: Ragnarok and the third Avengers movie Infinity War. It’s a victim of its own success, the first Avengers film achieved so much, it was the culmination of four years of meticulous planning that proved to be a massive hit and one of the best superhero movies ever.

While it lacks have the shock element of previous installments of the franchise it does continue to be every bit as enjoyable and exciting as you could hope. It’s a smaller step forward than recent movies that doesn't attempt to re-write the superhero movie formula. Avengers in 2012 just achieved so much and was unlike anything we’d seen before. Avengers Age of Ultron is amazing and brilliant, a 5 star movie that doesn't fully achieve what comic book movies have done in recent years.

Daredevil Volume 7 Review

Daredevil tangles with monsters, the Jester and the white supremacists group; Sons of the Serpent in this final chapter of Mark Waid’s three year much acclaimed run on the Man Without Fear; Daredevil. This final trade paperback features art by Chris Samnee, Jason Copland and Javier Rodriguez throughout issues #31 – 36.

The concluding collection of Waid’s 2011 series is consistently entertaining and brilliant throughout, the story continues as Foggy goes through his treatment and Matt continues to lead his double life of running the law firm and being the crimson clad vigilante. At lest he’s got a replacement to help with one on his careers as Kristen Mc Duffie returns, bringing back romance into the forefront to Matt’s life. An early interaction between Matt and Foggy provides one of the funniest moments of the series but it very quickly goes into a very serious territory as Daredevil takes on something that is different from his usual super villain antagonist. A riot instigated by the media manipulations of the Jester working on behalf of the Sons of the Serpent. It’s a more realistic problem than we've been used to and maintains that the story feels fresh and being a great chance of pace.

Members of the white supremacist group are hidden everywhere in plain sight across New York and even hidden within the justice system. They've employed the Jester to help prompt riots and spread their message of hate throughout the city. In an attempt to stop the group Matt seeks to learn more and his investigation leads him down South crossing paths with the Legion of Monsters. Their inclusion of the monsters is a slightly kookier element to the series but Waid makes it work, it injects some variety and who better to reveal the occult origins of the serpents than these monsters whose own origins come from the occult.

It deftly mixes action with moments of serious, cultural insight .The story approaches a thrilling climax as Matt is faced with some hard choices, things get darker and more intense for Matt Murdock. It also continues to inject humor and fun to the character that has been really put through the worst of times of his life, adhering to the initial approach of the series.The drama, the twists, the turns all takes place in this final chapter of this acclaimed run, making Daredevil one of the greatest and best superhero comics, returning the vigilante hero to his former glory Making one of the best Daredevil series since Frank Milller and Brian Michael Bendis’s earlier runs.

The final issue does have that grand series finale feel to it, Matt’s revelation in the story’s conclusion is felt throughout the Marvel universe. This story arc was a great end to a fantastic series, Mark Waid wrapped up his run in a satisfying ending. Few superhero books have kept the consistent high level of quality that Daredevil has these past few years, for 36 issues this series has been one of the best monthly superhero comic around. To call it amazing doesn't really give you the full scope of how good it is, but it must be said: Daredevil is amazing, describing it as monumental probably doesn't do it justice. From the very first issue Mark Waid gave this series a new direction and tone that was a brighter and more adventurous Daredevil that, at times, felt like the heart of the Marvel Universe.

Collected over seven trade paperbacks this era of Daredevil comes to an end,the series focused a lot on Matt Murdock, the legal practice and the nature of his abilities. The creators also sought to bring out the swashbuckling namesake of Daredevil, becoming more daring and adventurous than before. We’re reminded that his abilities are both a blessing and a curse, the stories never feel stale, Waid gives the readers enough innovations to keep his stories feeling fresh and creative. The shift in tone both narratively and visually continued to open the character and his stories to more possibilities than just crime noir which had characterized the horned hero for decades. a character so used to be steeped in darkness, constantly getting knocked down, he reached a turning point, changing his attitude to what he had to deal with, giving a more upbeat and positive spin on the character’s perspective. Mark Waid’s run had a good balance of lighter fun moments and dark tense moments, which always made it an exciting and exhilarating series easily making it one the best superhero comic book around. I've never read a series from issue #1 to its end, It is a stellar series.

What you expected was a bittersweet end to an amazing series, the sad poignant cover art of the final issue, that even has an the inscription “DD vol.3 2011 – 2013” hidden along with the names of previous Daredevil creators makes it all feel like the end, only its not. Thankfully it would continue onto a new series for 2014 with the same creative team returning starting again at #1 as Matt Murdock takes on the next part of his adventure that had been set up in the final pages of this story arc. It will be exciting to see that gives way to what will hopefully be an equally fantastic series. I bide my time though I’ll wait and get back into previous successful runs on Daredevil by Frank Miller and later by Brian Michael Bendis. For three years Mark Waid’s take gave a very different and unique approach on the Daredevil, sustaining his reputation as one of my favorite and most underrated comic book characters. 

Superman Unchained Deluxe Edition Review

Since his arrival Superman marked the dawn of the superhero age, the Man of Steel waged a never-ending battle for truth and justice, no matter when or where. But decades before the Last Son of Krypton became Earth's champion another being of incredible power fell from the sky. This “super soldier” has been living in secret and working for the US Government since his arrival 75 years ago.

Superman Unchained is a nine issue mini series celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Man of Steel. The action packed series, created by two of comic’s greats; writer Scott Snyder and artist Jim Lee, collectively crafting a story of comic’s greatest hero. The launch of the New 52 series also coincided with the release of the character’s return to the big screen in 2013’s blockbuster; Man of Steel.

The most recognized superhero in pop culture, Superman has been elevated to mythic folk hero status. Rocketed to Earth from the dying planet Krypton, baby Kal-El was found by a farming couple who named the boy Clark Kent and raised him as their own. Discovering his enormous powers, they instilled in him strong moral values—and inspired him to become a hero.

Since The New 52 began, the only two series I collected in graphic novels was Batman and Justice League. Superman Unchained is written by Batman writer Scott Snyder with Justice League artist Jim Lee. One of comic’s greatest writers and one it’s greatest artist coming together giving fans a new take of the world’s greatest superhero in one of the greatest Superman adventures told in this limited and stand alone series. 

Superman is not the only super powered alien being that fell from the sky, one existed before him but had remained in secret for the United States Military. Superman begins to uncover the decades old secret when satellites start to fall from the sky, leaving the big question of whom or what altered the trajectory of the last one. This alien being of immense power and strength arrived on earth in 1938 (a nod to the original creation of Superman) working with the US Government and Military since his arrival. An example of the extent of both his role and power is revealed within the opening of issue #1, a flashback to the bombing of Nagasaki during the Second World War in 1945.

Superman Unchained features a fully realized but younger Man of Steel. The opening of the story features Superman is taking on a colossal disaster of satellites all simultaneously crashing towards earth and the presumable perpetrators of the catastrophe is Ascension, a cyber terrorist group. The conflict of crashing satellites is well fit for Superman’s talents as well a providing action scenes on a massive scale. One noteworthy addition Snyder brings to the series is Clark’s internal monologue depicting his thought process before an incredible feat. This aspect is absent as the story progresses but makes a return in the penultimate issue. The story features Superman’s best supporting characters featuring Lex Luthor, Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, Batman, Wonder Woman and the mysterious alien known as Wraith all figure into in this epic story.

Wraith had arrived before Superman and has been cooperating with the US Government in a way Superman never would, sharing its advanced technology with the military and being their own super solider, their very own Superman. The two super beings meet earlier than expected in the story and in a surprising way. Rather than get into a battle the pair work together, which makes sense as Wraith has been on earth for decades and why now suddenly want to fight the Man of Steel. Everything concerning the being is mysterious his arrival, the extent of his powers and why he really works with General Lane and the military, there is more to this new character than meets the eye. The benevolent figure does fulfill a mentoring role to Superman, examining his time on earth, he questions our hero to re-evaluate his cause, his duty and his choices on his adopted home world. He gives Superman the realization of the futility of some of his actions. For a series that celebrates the 75th anniversary of Superman, it puts significant focus on his legacy, examining his place in the world and his relationship with humanity. Never before has a story showed the human side to be a weakness of Superman, the ineffectual of his existence as an outsider is very interesting and valid point. If the function of Wraith is to make our hero better he fulfills it here putting Superman’s role and duty to his adopted planet in the spotlight. Just as New 52 Superman is young, capable and intelligent, Lois Lane equally shares those qualities, she captures some of the spotlight in own intriguing side story as she is faced with the cyber terrorist group Ascension. One of the biggest changes to Superman in the New 52 was that he was no longer married to or in a relationship with Lois Lane, it was wiped from continuity. For fans of that classic romance, Lois and Superman share a touching moment together, the likes of which haven’t been seen since before the New 52. It’s fresh approach for the two pair to share a connection without Lois having to overly admire/ moon over Superman. One relationship that hasn't changed is that of Superman and Batman, they still share the unique friendship with the Dark Knight being one of his greatest allies and confidants. Snyder has plenty of experience of writing Batman and takes a different take here playing a significant role in the story and has some great lines getting to have his own brand of “fun” in this story. In my opinion, some of the best Superman stories feature General Lane and the military, giving a grounded element to a story. The revelation that Wraith arrived on earth prior to Superman gives the military further reason to distrust him, he hasn't fallen in line and co-operated with the military the same way Wraith his predecessor has. Throughout it continues to be an action packed and exciting story of the greatest hero on earth, making Superman appear more human without downplaying his godlike qualities.

It’s great to see Superman penciled by Jim Lee once again since the brilliant Superman For Tomorrow and as part of the Justice League. Lee’s New 52 redesign of the character was my favorite of the re-launch. His art gives you some of the some of the best comic book art you will ever see. The action packed fights, action and almost dialogue free finale lets the artist tell so much of the epic story. Artist Dustin Nguyen does equally well in a handful of backup and flashback sequences, similar to the artist’s role in Snyder’s Batman series.

The story is action packed and the story is both intriguing and exciting from issue #1. The action doesn't let up, there is rarely a quiet moment within the nine issue story, sometimes lengthy story arcs that run as long as this can lose momentum or dip in story quality, this story gets better and builds with every issue. Just when you think the final you know the final conflict, it’s merely a prelude to a much bigger threat, a testament to the quality of the creators story telling abilities. It does feel akin to the blockbuster 2013 Superman movie, both redefine the character for a new generation, their action packed and Superman’s alter ego Clark Kent doesn't feature too heavily, he makes minor appearances in this book. It’s a vastly entertaining and large scale Superman action story tackling the ever changing meaning of his existence.

The Deluxe Edition is a large volume and a great bonus it collects the over 50 variant covers of the series depicting notable eras in the characters 75 year history. The self contained story and the inclusion of all Superman’s best known supporting characters make this accessible to new readers whilst having more than enough subject matter of Superman’s legacy to satisfy long time fans. Also contains #1 Director’s Cut.

Superman Unchained is a modern re-introduction of the character to ever growing complicated world, no longer the all knowing ultimate do-gooder, instead is man trying to do the best he can in the ever increasingly complicated world. Stepping away from the ol’ fashioned and dated portrayal Snyder uses his story line as a means of not just redefining the Superman but better defining the character becoming more contemporary. The inclusion of Superman’s best known supporting characters ensured that the story had the intent of being a great Superman story whilst the revelation of another “Superman” assured fans that this would be a distinctive adventure, it feels like a sure future classic. It all makes for a really enjoyable, really smart, and visually sharp Superman story. 

Superman Unchained succeeds in both being an exciting and thrilling contemporary story, in addition to acknowledging the longevity and legacy of the world’s first and greatest superhero.

SHAZAM! Volume 1 Review

Shazam! Volume 1 is the New 52 retelling of the origin of earth’s mightiest mortal, formally known as Captain Marvel, written by Geoff Johns with art by Gary Frank. Shazam began appearing as part of backup stories of DC Comics New 52 flagship title Justice League, and collects the arc from issues; #7-11, 0, 14-16 and 18-21. I was a huge fan of their previous collaborations; Superman: Secret Origin and Batman: Earth One Volume 1.

First appearing in Whiz Comics #2 (Feb. 1940) and later bought by DC, Captain Marvel was once even more popular than Superman and Batman. Young Billy Batson could speak the magic word; “SHAZAM!” and transform into the powerful hero with powers to rival Superman’s. He is sometimes referred to as “The Big Red Cheese”, a lighter take on the Man of Steel whose powers are derived from Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles and Mercury, bestowed onto him by a powerful wizard. In an era when comics were predominately most popular with children, it served to young readers providing a kind of wish fulfillment, the same reason why Robin was introduced as Batman’s teen sidekick. Whiz Comics created the idea of young boy saying the magic word and becoming a superhero. Readers and fans latched onto the concept and even Elvis paid homage to the hero with his stage costume. Times have changed but Captain Marvel endured, remaining in the main stream where other magical based heroes were re-imagined during in the Silver Age of comics. Captain Marvel will always be a lasting reminder of a simpler time.

DC Comics have officially renamed Captain Marvel as Shazam as part of their 2011 relaunch; The New 52. For decades, science has ruled the world, but now magic is returning. Beginning from the back up stories of Justice League #7, we are introduced to a teenage Billy Batson, a foster child struggling to remain in a home. It’s a character trait that would garner sympathy for the teen but we quickly learn that he’s obnoxious, arrogant and a little bit troubled. In this revised origin he’s not very likable, which is easier to accept as a conventional type of kid that would be in an adventure story such as this opposed to the rather than the wise beyond his year’s radio personality of past iterations. Billy struggles adjusting to his new life, his new home, his foster parents, school and his foster siblings although he begins to become more likable and endearing. The story purposely takes its time developing Billy’s character. Most of his early interactions are with his new siblings, they've always played an important part in the character’s history. It places more emphasis on the new family dynamic between Billy and the others as well as effectively overhauling the mythology of the character.

Two of Captain Marvel’s best know villains are introduced. Dr. Sivana, a mad scientist type of character now depicted as a respected scientist desperate to save his family from an unknown plight. With science having failed him, he turns to magic and specifically the legend of Black Adam, the ancient but evil predecessor to Captain Marvel, the first to be endowed powers by the wizard but corrupted by them. Their connection takes inspiration from Shazam! #28 (1977) in which, Dr. Sivana is directly responsible for the resurrection of Black Adam. In true action adventure story telling style the big villain makes his debut before our hero prompting the wizard to bestow young Billy Batson with similar powers to help stop Black Adam.

After Billy is transformed into the wizard’s champion, he’s not quite sure what to do with his newly acquired abilities and doesn't fully understand or heed the Wizard’s warnings. Instead the self centered man child sets off doing what anyone in his situation would do in this modern day story. He concocts a money making scheme, pulls pranks and wishing to buy beer. It’s all short lived as he intervenes in crime after crime which was slightly unbelievable but, the moment I felt that way it was quickly resolved as the characters in the story even made the same point with a swift resolution. One of my favorite aspects of the character is that he’s a boy in a man’s body. He’s naive and when a young woman wants to repay for her rescue her real intentions go right over his head and asks for cash instead. It’s a fun and exciting story full of great moments. Despite the method that this story was originally presented it flows greatly and you don’t sense the start and end moments as you would in most graphic novels/trade paperbacks. It’s a lighthearted take, in a world full of superheroes getting darker, serious and more grounded in reality where their origins are that of circumstance and tragedy. Shazam! fully embraces its magical elements of the character and its world. Justice League #21 was a full issue given to the finale of this incredible story. Black Adam is a fascinating character with a complex but darker origin of his heroic counterpart and there final battle does provide enough action but the end satisfyingly leans more towards an emotionally-driven finale than an action oriented one, fully embracing the concept of family and the idea that it's "not what it should be, but what it can be." A theme that’s underlying throughout, that provides one of the best and most memorable moments of the entire story.

A new beginning for a classic character in this one shot stand alone origin tale before Shazam joined the ranks of the Justice League. Backup stories can be hit or miss and a lot of the time they are an unwanted addition, but it’s not the case here as the story is so good that it’s worthy to get collected in a single edition turned into seamless storytelling of a fantastic story, proving to be one of the best since the New 52 began. It’s a fun and exciting, a real change and variation from the adult superheroes we’re used to reading. It’s not afraid to be a little bit silly and slightly goofy. Embrace this lighthearted and fun story that’s rooted in fantasy and magic making it a vastly enjoyable story of the young boy imbued with great powers that’s both modern and contemporary that I’m keen to read again soon, it’s excellent. SHAZAM!

Batman Volume 5: Zero Year - Dark City Review

Batman Volume 5: Zero Year Dark City is the next part of the Zero Year story line that ended on a cliff-hanger in the last collection; Batman Volume 4 Zero Year Secret City, in which Bruce Wayne became Batman and successfully stopped the Red Hood gang. After that confrontation Edward Nygma made his presence known as The Riddler and in his first appearance announcing his control over Gotham, shutting off its power and challenging its residents of to rise up to the challenge to turn it back on. Also, the Gotham City Police Department's gruesome discovery sets up the main conflicts for the concluding chapters in this large scale story arc.

Having witnessed Bruce Wayne become the Batman in the last collection, Dark City is the first big challenge in the Batman’s career. He has to save the whole city while being public enemy number one in the eyes of the GCPD. The Riddler’s blackout is not Batman’s primary concern, a series of suspicious and gruesome murders are, wherein the victim’s bones grew out of their own bodies. Doctor Death was one of Batman’s original enemies; being the very first super villain Batman faced, first appearing in Detective Comics #29 in 1939, two issues after Batman’s original appearance. Zero Year Secret City featured the Red Hood, an early Batman villain, the same trend continues here in this re imagining of The Dark Knight's early crime fighting career. Both Doctor Death and the Red Hood are important players in the whole Zero Year saga, they both go way back to the earliest Batman adventures in the Golden Age of comics. Writer Scott Snyder takes one of the first villains he ever faced and puts him into the New 52 continuity as one of Batman’s first super villains. Dr. Karl Helfern, a scientist working on a bone growing serum whose experiments have turned him into a grotesque monster. The results of which have been teased in the final pages of the preceding volume. It’s a throwback to the mad scientist style of villain, Dr. Death provides the physical challenge to Batman in the first part of the story in which The Riddler can’t give. He’s also strikingly designed by Artist Greg Capullo, this modern revamp of the character is the most monstrous, disgusting and grotesque villain created and is extremely well suited to Capullo’s artistry, a most vile creation.

Edward Nygma’s New 52 origin was revealed in the first installment of Zero Year , it reveals that Nygma was once a high level employee of Wayne Enterprises and later becomes The Riddler, causing the blackout. The groundwork had been set and initially The Riddler hovers in the background as an unpredictable threat causing chaos in Gotham. He is not a physical challenge to Batman instead possess a sharp intelligence and cunning mind used to devastating effect. It’s more that just a battle of wits in the biggest scheme in the history of The Riddler. An entirely new version of the character, it’s startling and exciting to reveal as to what this new Riddler is capable of. Snyder has taken the classic Batman villain and has made him work so well in a contemporary Batman story. Some elements of Batman’s early days are somewhat predetermined. The Riddler’s schemes are not, which effectively makes the threat of Zero Year all the more terrifying. Giving Batman challenges unlike ones he’s ever faced before: A broken city, self doubt, and challenges to the essential functions of Batman himself.

In my experience of previous Batman origin tales, Bruce Wayne had always trusted Jim Gordon to some degree. He was the one good cop in Gotham. Their trust and mutual respect was always the foundation of that partnership. In this case, Bruce loathed and hated Jim Gordon along with the rest of the GCPD. It is a terrific addition to the story, Bruce saw Gordon as corrupt, distinctive of Gotham’s law enforcement and part of what turned him into a vigilante. Dark City examines Gordon’s tenure within the GCPD and puts a face to corruption that drove Bruce into taking matters into his own hands. It is a terrific addition to the story; He saw Gordon as corrupt, distinctive of Gotham’s law enforcement and part of drove Bruce into taking matters into his own hands. Dark City examines Gordon’s tenure within the GCPD and puts a face to corruption. This offers a change in the approach of how Gordon and Batman get to work together. The other part of that legend remains unchanged; a young beat cop named Jim Gordon was first on the scene to comfort the boy after the murder of his parents. His role remains the same and the event remains fully intact, it’s what comes after their faithful meeting that is altered so much that young Bruce Wayne grows up hating him. This turn of events adds a new mystery to their story giving readers and fans a twist on their iconic relationship. In the past, Jim had to prove that he would be worthy ally of Batman, Zero Year takes things one step further, personalizing the story to Bruce. Gordon had to earn back Bruce’s trust in order to earn Batman’s. After ripping down the foundation of trust between them, readers and long time fans now get to see this iconic partnership grow once more.

While the partnership of Batman and Gordon is unquestionably vital to the mythos, no other relationship is as commensurate as the one between Bruce and the ever supportive Alfred Pennyworth. While he has often shown to worry about Bruce and his protégés in the past, we now are given a depiction of Alfred constantly against Bruce’s mission. They've always had a conflict and difference of opinions and beliefs. Eventually though, Alfred proves that he basically simply wants the best for Master Bruce, and that he’ll always be there for him. He may not always fully understand or support his Master’s mission but will be ever dependable. Infusing a great deal of meaning and significance to a already meaningful relationship by adding dramatic elements that helped unite the pair in a way never seen before /innovative manner of story telling.

Bruce Wayne of Zero Year Dark City is still a refreshing change of pace from the dark and brooding persona that we've come to know. He’s less honed and regal, taking joy in what he does, a victorious smirk creeps across his face on occasion. He takes joy in what he is doing, his remark about a newly acquired scar he received as “First real kiss of Gotham” is telling of his attitude to his chosen undertaking. Zero Year Batman is a less experienced crime fighter capable of failure, he is still learning, he is vulnerable and the task at hand is too large to do on his own, it’s nice to see emphasis on the heroes without masks that carry Bruce when he falls. This is truly an origin story that enriches Batman’s character significantly, facing his deadliest challenge in his early career. This is a Batman driven by his guilt rather than vengeance. Bruce Wayne is The Batman and not the other way around as has been established over the decades.

Earlier story arcs in this best selling and critically acclaimed Batman series by Snyder and Capullo have been ambitiously large adventures but pale contrast to the Zero Year saga in terms of its sheer scale. A rookie Batman against mad machinations of monstrous Dr. Death and the ingenious of The Riddler, with only newly founded allies of both Jim Gordon and Lucius Fox to aid him in ultimately stopping Nygma’s control over Gotham City. That moment that the story has always been building to, Gotham City in ruins and Batman about to face his foe, teased way back in Batman #21 at the beginning of this story arc.

Snyder and Capullo add plenty of Batman references/easter eggs throughout, paying homage to what has gone before his re-interpretation of the Batman. The final act has a slight reminiscence of The Dark Knight Rises film.

Whereas Batman Year One was slightly more focused on Jim Gordon, Zero Year is a Bruce Wayne story. Presenting Batman’s formative years in the face of Gotham’s biggest threat, while giving insight of both characters pasts. Origin stories can typically be a short mini series or short story arc outlining the highlights of that hero’s journey. Zero Year is a large scale story, told within the pages of this Batman series, It is the origin of one of comics best heroes. Not just how Bruce Wayne came to be The Batman, but how Batman became the protector of his beloved city in the time when it was most in need. The conclusion is a deep and meaningful ending that gives new meaning to a symbolic connection of Batman and his city.

Batman is a character that is infinitely renewable, Zero Year was never intended to override what came before it instead Snyder simply/merely wanted to give his own interpretation of Batman’s origin in a modern contemporary setting of the New 52, Refining and giving us a new Batman going forward for the 75 year old character. Before Robin, the Batmobile and The Joker there was ZERO YEAR, a new take on Batman’s origin unlike any before. A 12 issue story arc offering an expanded and broader scope of an origin story. It doesn't have the appeal of a single short trade paperback graphic novel but instead Zero Year is a large scale and grand adventure, both action-packed and clever to the end. An epic story not to be overlooked and is in my opinion essential Batman story and must read.