WCBR Quick Reviews

Amazing Spider-Man #579 – Review (Marvel Comics)

Not much of a memorable story here, but it is a good one, nonetheless. Mark Waid does a great job in capturing some excellent character moments, pounding home the idea of Spidey’s selflessness and undying spirit. Marcos Martin’s artwork is no where near as complicated or brilliant as his previous outings, but he’s still ahead of his peers in terms of storytelling presence and sense of drama. There’s a lot of fun here not to be missed. (Grade: B)

Haunted Tank #1 (of 5) – Review (Vertigo/DC)

Here’s a book that completely took me off guard. I was expecting a serious story with a possessed tank that came to life. Instead, I got a hilarious romp through the Iraq War with hilarious racial overtones, lots of attitude, and beautiful artwork. The interplay between African American tank commander, Jamal Stuart, and his ghostly ancestor (completely dressed in Confederate garb) is priceless.  This is one of the best books I’ve read over the past week. Highly recommended. (Grade: A-)

Marvels: Eye of the Camera #1 (of 6) – Review (Marvel Comics)

As beautiful as his art is, Jay Anacleto is no Alex Ross. And this book shouldn’t have been made without Ross at the healm. Still, I tried hard to let myself be absorbed by Kurt Busiek’s story, I only found myself struggling. It’s not only bad that we don’t really see any superheroes in this first issue, but the disconnect I feel is enormous. I’m not sure what it is, but something in this book doesn’t feel right. Maybe Marvels didn’t need a sequel after all. I’m hoping the next issue will be able to grab hold of me. I hate the fact that I’m not enjoying this. (Grade: C-)

Solomon Kane #3 – Review (Dark Horse)

I’m still immensely enjoying this book, though the sudden turn of events seems to have happened very quickly. I was hoping for more of a slow boil with the plot, but now everything’s out in the open and all we’re left with is the inevitable confrontation. Nonetheless, there’s no denying Mario Guevara’s stunning artwork and Scott Allie’s talent with words. This is easily the best of Dark Horse’s Ron E. Howard line of books. (Grade: B)

– J. Montes