Last week, publishers turned out a ton of great comics. Here are some quick peeks at some books I enjoyed:
Daredevil No. 1: One book worth shelling out bucks for this week is the newly relaunched Daredevil No. 1. Now, here’s a character that writers have been taking a dump on over the last few years, effectively turning him into the most depressing hero in comics. So, if anyone needed a big revamp, it was Daredevil. Fortunately, writer Mark Waid understood the state of this title’s main hero, and delivered a super-fresh take on “the man without fear” — a take that’s full of life, lightness and fun. Buy it.
Witch Doctor No. 2: After enjoying the first issue of the new supernatural/humor limited series Witch Doctor, the cynical reader in me was sure that such a quality tale was just a first-time fluke. Well, I stand corrected — because the second issue was just as funny, creepy and clever as No. 1. Plus, this issue gives a deeper glimpse at the characters and opens up the book’s mythology a tad more. Be sure to buy it.
B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: Monsters No. 1: Speaking of supernatural books, it’s a shame that some folks only visit the world of Hellboy when Mike Mignola is at the drawing board. At this point in the development of the Mignola-verse, a number of creators are churning out great stories based on the characters that Mike created. And the latest B.P.R.D. series — Hell on Earth: Monsters — is an example of how good the books are these days. This particular title pits the formerly missing Liz Sherman against some magic-tinged trailer park residents. What more do you need, folks? Buy it.
Snake Eyes No. 1: Lastly, I never would have imagined that I could ever really dig comic books starring the G.I. Joe squad. But writer Chuck Dixon has made me a believer in the pages of Snake Eyes’ ongoing solo series. The Joe’s most famous ninja is on issue No. 3 now, but I’d suggest tracking down all of the first three editions. Dixon makes the book work by injecting in enough real-sounding military jargon to make you feel like you’re not reading a comic book based on a line of toys. Plus, my inner child still thinks Snake Eyes is one of pop culture’s baddest dudes — right up there with Wolverine and Han Solo. Buy it.
Reviewed materials provided by Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find: www.heroesonline.com.
This article appears in Jul 26 – Aug 1, 2011.
