New Avengers Vol.1 Everything Dies (Marvel Now)

New Avengers Vol.1 (Marvel Now)
2013

Written by Jonathan Hickman
Art by Steve Epting

AvX – the Aftermath:
With the Phoenix now incapacitated, the Avengers (Illuminati) have re-arranged their ranks. Given their past incursions (House of M, Secret Invasion) their group lost trust and foundations with one another. That being all said and done, rebuilding said trust is a huge gambit none of them will be able to payback. Along with the loss of Xavier (the Phoenix took his life), one of their main foundations is long gone. But there is a chance that this team can redeem themselves.

Thy Roster Tis of Thee:
Panther-
During a mission, T’Challa and several young folk venture out in the jungle. Watching, and viewing, an advanced death of an alternate planet. Seeing it fall from the heavens, being absorbed by a wave of light, no longer there. On a mission of self sacrifice, the Black Panther seeks aid from his friends. And the choice to trust a beauty with uncontrollable power begins to make him question existence.

Strange -
A master of the arts, all knowing and seeing, but unable to change the fate of his friends. Many years ago, he was given the choice to empower a friends decision to change his life, a fate to take away his identity. It was then a manifestation of his own abilities channeled from another world, connecting all of their life lines. Thus the Phoenix tapped into an alternate realm, shaping every universe in existence to its will. Can he change his fate, or doomed to repeat another consequence?

Captain America -
Once a leader, always a leader.. or Avenger. Some years ago, the man Steve Rogers lost his life, only to find a new life in another body. Thus becoming a leader of all both X-man and Avengers, two generations of heroes pulled into a fight versus one another. False identities, lives, Skrulls, and the fate of all existence. Once again, he is pulled into a team of Illuminati, only to be tested. Can he keep it together to be a leader? (or did Cap lose his position once and for all?)

Namor -
Guardian of the Oceans, always vigilant in protecting his homeworld of Earth, only to find troubles from the land walkers. Never a quitter, he always works alongside villain or hero, (at the behest of Reed Richards, Namor still has a thing for Susan) On another story, he is now part of the Avengers once again, becoming the herald of truth and justice. But can he handle that gig he once lost?

Black Bolt -
An Inhuman, once and always forever a leader of his people. But there was a time when he was replaced with a replicant (whom also contained his powers). See he is unable to speak words, but signs to his allies of words to give aid. If he ever does speak, may it only be for battle, because lo and behold a mighty an righteous wrath will come upon those who become wrapped into his energies and succumb to its unspeakable powers. Oh, and he has a sense of humor.

Iron -
Tony Stark, a dreamer, an engineer, now a team captain. Seeking the aid of his friends to secure our existence in this reality. The Infinity Gauntlet given to Cap, lost its gems. Now on a quest with his allies, it becomes a race against time, including a duel with a “World Eater” they never want to face again.

I haven’t read an Avengers series for awhile, I took a break with the Avengers vs Xmen chapter because it was just too much to absorb and actually enjoy. The last time I read a series of the NA, was during the Skrull convergence, there were so many chapters to keep up with it became too difficult to catch up. I learned my lesson with this series, it becomes a game of “cat and mouse”. Where the series moves on in the blink of an eye, month to month it now has an interconnected story all its own. Which I find comforting, given Marvel’s history with having every series bend into another involving readers to catch up with the price tags.

On the plus side, I have to give kudos to the new writer of this series. Hickman is a talented fellow, since this is the “Illuminati” literally the who’s who of the Marvel Universe. It is unlike any previous series, with a constant story flow where every character is involved by manner of dialog or emotion. In Black Bolt’s case by expression (with he being himself again), long story. Steve Epting, I remember his art style from the Captain America series (before Civil War) and Death of + Return. It is both dark, gritty, real, and solid detail in storytelling with both of these talented characters together.

Do not miss a single issue, for the truth is always unraveling.

Obtain the collection here @ Marvel's online shop marvel.com/comics/.../new_avengers_vol_1_everything_dies_hardcover‎

Superior Spider-man: My Own Worst Enemy (Vol.1)

Superior Spider-Man Vol.1 (My Own Worst Enemy)
Webbings by Dan Slott
Artworkings by Stegman and Camuncoli

Dying Wish to a Dawn of a New Spider=
With the aftermath of the “Dying Wish” chapter, Doc Ock and Peter share one mind/body/soul. But there is a catch, everything Peter used to hold back on, Doc may have a change of heart. Everything he never could, he just might turn the tides on everyone.

New duds, gear, and suit, Superior Spidey outdoes everything that made the ASM series great. It redefines this new series, by turning everything we know about what made Spidey a hero, now a anti-hero. From his relationships with: MJ and Carlie, to working side by side with JJJ, and visiting Aunt May. Could the villain have a heart of gold? Behind this sinister heart, beats the villain’s consciousness, ever plotting, changing, evolving the intellect that was once another human being.

What keeps this story intact is that although Peter may not have his body, in spirit he watches over every move this new “Spidey” makes. Breaking rules, making decisions he never could. Including accessing memories via their connected minds, reliving the past and able to tap into what made them push the others buttons. No longer hero and villain, now one and the same, fighting for existence where one will prove the victor.

As time passes, this new Spidey may have changed the way NYC sees the classic hero. Being the ever vigilant; watchful eye over everything that goes on. But is it too much power? And is the villain emerging?

**I have to admit, it is daunting to read Doc Ock taking over Peter’s body. But since “Ends of the Earth” there was something hidden within Dan’s script. It was haunting how Doc Ock vowed to never give up, even on his deathbed surrounded by his old ‘Sinister Six”. With Peter challenging every move he made since the day they first met. What could happen next? 

Snag the series with Marvel's online catalog! marvel.com/comics/collection/.../superior_spider-man_trade_paperback‎

Amazing Spider Man - Danger Zone TPB

ASM – Danger Zone
50^th Anniversary Edition finale
Issues 692-697 + Avenging Spidey #11

Written by Dan Slott
Artistic webbing by Ramos, Gage, Camuncoli, Wellis and Dillon

Origins and the fallout of the Webhead-
It was fifty years ago, when a duo of characters created a crazy world filled with heroes. Spider-man was based on a kid from Queens, lived with his aunt and uncle. Until one tragic filled day, a spider bit him, he gained powers, misused them for his own gain, lost his uncle, nearly lost his aunt. And then came the fall with Norman Osborn…

Fifty years ago, there were stories filled with action, drama, suspense, and comedy. Truth be told, no one knew it was going to be a hit. Stan Lee and Steve Ditko just worked on a tale about a guy who unwillingly becomes a hero to stand up for the little guy. Years later, with films, tv shows, and a long saga of storytelling a change was coming. Spidey defines a generation of storytellers, from kids to adults, and grandparents. Spidey isn’t just a character, he is within all of us, even without superpowers.

Alpha 692-694
From a test lab, Horizon Labs has always been on the cutting edge. Till an unwilling kid does a heroic deed, and gains powers; (unlike a certain character). Like the saying “great powers, comes with great responsibility” this kid does not respect that honored code. Fighting time, and having to ask for help from his long sought family of heroes. Alpha may change the way Peter sees his future.


 Avenging SM#11
From day one, Peter’s powers came second to those he cared about, most of all Aunt May & Uncle Ben. For the longest time, he’s tried to tell the truth, but she never listened. Or did she?

Danger Zone pt1-3 695-697
Powers on the fritz, and two Hobgoblins (yup the original returns), and Madame Web forsees a horrible fate for her brother in webs. No longer able to control his powers, Peter has to succumb to his human side to save himself, with some help from his boss from HL. Working against time, they change their fate in just doing the right thing, stopping an armada of ninjas (with the Kingpin) whom apparently after Big Time is walking freely (and taking a fellow scientist under his grasp). Worlds collide, as two goblins fight for supremacy and control over the name as their powers clash over the skies over New York.

From Madame Web’s visions, Peter’s destiny is not good, and things are going to change in the worst way possible.

(to be continued in “Dying Wish”) with Superior Spider-man now taking over!

Best part about this collection is the dedication the writing and art team collaborate together. Mixing hints of the past with the present, as everything has changed since day one. But just maybe the past is a hint of what’s to come, everything changes, it evolves. For all those Spidey fans, we are in for a new chapter that may be another ride worth taking.

*This collection is available in trade paperback, and hardcover editions.
You can order them directly via Marvel's website, or through their gigantic series catalog online!
marvel.com/comics/.../spider-man_danger_zone_tpb_trade_paperback

Two Bournes, a Campaign, and An Idiot Aroad

First welcome to a mix of goodies!

+Bourne Supremacy:
The second chapter in the ongoing action series. Where the truth comes to light, with a new team boss, and the lies surface. Crossing over into unsafe territory, the mystery man comes to those who need help as he tries to find more answers that lead to more questions.

+Bourne Legacy:
The fourth film in the series takes off in a new direction. As it turns out the project is viral, and those who can handle being superhuman are put to the test with one known survivor. The hunt for the cure versus time, and the backing of another field team seeking to close the case.

+The Campaign:
Will Ferrell vs The guy with a hard name to say
A funny yet truthful film about the rush of politics. Sex, lies and promotions. From values, to risking one's neck to push their wants and needs vs the public's. Until it all goes too far with one mistake.


+An Idiot Abroad:
What would you do if friends sent you all around the world? Well if you have friends like Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant, you might want to think it over first. Join Kyle Pilkington on his merry adventures around the globe and beyond. (best part its gritty, uncensored, and for all honesty shows what the dark side of some places can be for an outsider. Laughs, tears, and some smiles to be shared. 

Doctor Who Complete Specials (David Tennant) run

Four mini-films, all told in a parallel storyline "the end" for No.#10. But not a normal end, but a new beginning, only a scratch on the surface from what he was capable of along with his past, present, and future companions. Each film takes place during the end of series 3, and beginning of series 5. There is a huge dynamic in the Doctor's personality traits like never before. I will share key fragments you should look out for as well.

"The Next Doctor"
This first of the last chapters in Doctor 10's journey explores a "what if" scenario. The past collides with the present, as another claims the title "the Doctor". Working side by side they thwart the evils of a newly reformed Cybermen (from another timeline!) Oddly enough they have a human host, which is rare.. until things get a bit more darker.

"Planet of the Dead"
A lost treasure, a London bus, and another realm equal one gigantic mess. Oddly enough its one of the rare occasions that the Doctor does not have the Tardis. Working side by side with a crew of aliens versus the oncoming invasion of parasites.

"The Waters of Mars"
Time collides with the fate of space and humanity. A journey to Mars opens up a nightmarish outcome, with the Doctor having to wrap himself up in a exploring the planet. One of the darkest films in this collection, exploring a darker side of what its like being the Doctor. Choosing life, destiny, versus death and consequence it it not the usual "hero" we're used to.

"The End of Time Part I & II"
The Master returns in a long waited battle, but he is not the only adversary as the Lords of Gallifrey have also joined in the journey of taking the Doctor's life force. As a two parter, it expands on the good/evil side of the two main characters of the tale. Expanding on how their relationship versus one another over the years may have opened up a possibility to change the universe.

Confidentials (the behind the scenes docs)
*Confidential (companion to “The Next Doctor”)
Like all special episodes, this one covers the Xmas episode of series 4. Starting the last saga of David Tennant’s run. A timeline fracture causes the destinies of two Doctors to work together. But like all tales it has roots in the past as the Cybermen have faced numerous battles (some won and lost). What makes this tale unique is the alliance of the cyborgs with a human (a “lady of the night”) to that accord it is a action and dramatic piece that dares asks “what if the doctor was a part of someone else?”

*At the Proms 2k8 –“Music of the Spheres”
Covering a massive collection of tunes from series 4, incorporating a live orchestral performance with interactive segments (with the lovely Freema Agyeman as hostess). For those of us stateside we have never had a chance to see this even before. It is an awesome experience worth sharing with fellow Whovians.}


*Confidential (The Land of the Dead)
It begins with a bus, and its journey to the desert. With one exception, its in Dubai and the bus adventure is way a bit of chaos mixed in. So going with the flow, it becomes a wormhole transporting the vehicle to a foreign planet and it becomes a new adventure. According to RTD this one was “the last fun romp with the Doctor, because from here on out it gets more serious. “

To the transition of a new companion; from ordinary to extraordinary. This is how new ideas were built from, expanding characters like no other series before. As a thief, she carries a bit more persona as an explorer and adventurer. Versus the cops chasing this lady cat burglar, expanding a bit of her run from the law, and winding up as an ally with the Doctor.

Oh and the deserts of Dubai are unpredictable, it is one of the toughest environments (makes you wonder if Earth is connected to a parallel universe sometimes).


*Confi (The Waters of Mars)
Fighting the fate of time, the Doctor attempts fate in saving a crew that literally fights to survive the same fateful day. Taking place in a secluded exploration settlement, the crew has resolved life from Mars. But lo and behold its nature unravels, as its biological hazards have “cause and effect” on the exploration team.

Is it possible for colonization? Going back to 2006, it was evident by NASA proving that there was study of nature and biological inhabitation or evolution of the planet itself. **And there’s a hint of the classic villains, the “Ice Warriors” and they are able to change their homeworld and invaders. Water itself is a substantial element that is part of who we are, and other possible planets.


The End of Time Part I&II
And so it ends as it began, the Tenth Doctor’s journey ends here. As “The Master” is brought back from the beyond, his conquest has been to battle with the Doctor till the end of time. In the two part confidential bonus goodie, it covers the past battles, with the tenth Doctor’s journey’s against time and space to do battle with the evil mastermind. While neither is a normal human being, both characters have gained characteristics opposite one another that keeps them connected forever.

Included in EoT, is David’s last video diary playing as the title character. These are always quite fun romps with each actor’s portrayal of a unlikely hero, pushed to bizarre universes, or timelines that find significant changes to humanity. This is what the “Doctor” is all about.

**There is also a commentary for "End of Time" featuring a few recognizable characters =D

For more fun, the DW crew included the 10^th Doctor Comic Con panel (tons of laughs, and hidden surprises galore)

**Extra note- Be sure to read Russell T. Davies book “The Final Chapter”. This novel covers everything about the four year journey of the Tenth Doctor, and the significant impact it had on science fiction writers, and its producer’s trip along with him. It is a very unique book, that unfolds through Russell’s everyday mission of filming, writing, and the lack of sleep (including some flus and colds).

Uncanny X-men - Revolution

Uncanny X-men (After AVX)
Written by Brian Michael Bendis
Art by Chris Bachalo, and Frazer Irving

As a classic BT track called "The Revolution" kicks in "it will be televised, this is not fake!" The same holds true for a new chapter in the X-men ongoing saga. After the fall of the Phoenix in the Avengers vs Xmen mini-series. The rewards of battle have remade the mutants in a whole new way.

**Okay I might have to explain the reboot... see awhile back Scarlet Witch wiped out everyone's memories with her own imagined world thanks to her father (Magneto). With a dream world where Utopia was the planet, and normal begins were secluded by the mutant race that lived in unity with them protecting their freedoms across the stars. But as the truth becomes undone, the damage has taken hold and the mutant race is wiped off the face of the earth.

**Endangered Species - The mutant race may have gained a second chance, or lost it all. With the rebirth of new powers emerging from unknown entities. They come to be a part of the collected X family, and some take up arms against their efforts.

**Beyond space and time = (wait we're not pulling a Doctor Who here!)
With the fabric of reality slowing mending, and the Marvel Universe finally repairing itself the X family finds themselves at odds with another team, the Avengers. Let it be told that the two sides have never agreed with another. But now Scott and his family might not win this one.

So now onto this new chapter with "Revolution". Like the title, Scott and crew have been liberating new mutants to seek the truth and training to find out about their hidden abilities. The sad truth is hidden that they may have lost their old powers, but gained new ones. However their powers unite, it unleashes their real tendencies that have been long hidden since past events.

**okay and Bendis did bend the space time continuum, can't say how but you have to read this book! "Stars and garters" its that good! Oh but it involves Magik (Illyanna) and her powers in some manner.

I honestly wonder how far this new revamped series may go. First the art is great, Bachalo has really matured (way back with Xmen 200, it was more manga-fied than anything) now its gained some solid ground. Plus each character retains their personality, and we even explore territory with the new crew. About the space time thing.. wait till you see what timeline...

Irving illustrates the last piece in this 5 part introduction. With Magik's powers breaking down, tossing her from a place many dare not go. (and its somewhere Peter Parker has been!) **so does that tie into something else? I have often wondered how far that deal went before CW, but it is without a doubt an after effect with every choice anyone has made.

So buy it or shelve it? Buy! (**plus there is the digital extras hidden throughout the book, so for you smartphone users out there, it is a nice extra) And a digital version offer too.

Iron Man - Extremis TPB

Written by Warren Ellis
Art by Adi Granov

Footnote: For those unaware this storyline is tied to a story from a few years back when Tony underwent a transformation. I am honestly unsure why they had to go back and rewrite this chapter. Although it is a solid tale, it just feels weird to see it redone, even 5 years ago.

Before Civil War, before Steve Rogers (died).. there was a different suit. Was it Ultimate? I think there was an alternate version of this story, but it wasn't in the main series. But it did involve a new version of the super soldier formula (the same that created Captain America). However modified, up to date giving the user a significant usage of power, strength, and mental capability.

In this rewrite (or is it directors cut) as a prelude to IM3, Extremis is represented as a new type of SS formula that delivers + or - results depending on the user. Once embedded in their DNA, it amplifies their abilities on a higher plane of existence. Unlike the "Mandarin" as a dragon, this stand alone chapter faces Tony against his humanity, and past as he recalls his memories before he became a hero, and an Avenger.

To tell the truth, its nice to see Tony taking up against a threat by himself. But with all of these rewrites in Marvel's ongoing "Marvel Now" verse, it feels disjointed. Yet the art is great to look at, every page there is action, emotion, and driving points within each panel. I am unsure how to say if it was needed to explain IM3's backstory.. it could have spun things around involving a bit more. Although Tony is in a different frame of mind these days, he still does what he thinks is right, to prevent others from getting hurt.

As much as I enjoy Warren Ellis's writing style, it could have been better.