COMIK-POLITIK: Brand New Day (Same Old)

"Every story you can tell works just as well
if they’re married or just dating and in love."
Editor-In-Chief, Joe Quesada, on decision to end "Spider-Marriage."

EIC Joe Quesada prepares for long career as comedic straight man.
Fans asked to look forward, and appear shocked when Harry Osborn goes bad.
Aunt May porno B-story off to an apparent slow start.
Quesada's DC counterpart, Dan DiDio, to compare tightness of skin on head, at year end.
Disappointed gluttons question Steve McNiven's power for compulsive purchasing.
90s art-driven market model still a go. Variant covers TBA. You maniacs, it was Earth.
[Comic Book Resources: OMD Interview Part 3 (of 5)]

CROSSBONES versus CAPTAIN AMERICA
Out of Time: Part 4 (Marvel)
Where: Captain America #4 When: April 2005
Why: Ed Brubaker How: Steve Epting

The story so far...
He was the legendary super soldier of the Second World War, and after being frozen in a block of ice, Captain America was thawed out by the Avengers to have a second chance to change the world as a beacon of all the American dream hoped to be.

Of the past, all the man behind the mask has is memories, but when Steve Rogers begins having flashbacks, things no longer seem the way they once did. As the flashbacks increase, so too do the deviations in what Captain America recalls as fact, including fateful events like the scene that saw the death of his partner, Bucky Barnes.

The subversive attack continues as the unmarked graves of two wartime mystery men; Spirit of '76 and Patriot; are desecrated, sending a direct message to the man whose mantle both men would at one time occupy.
Having investigated the graves Cap spins into yet another flashback, before finding himself under fire on the freeway from an old foe -- Crossbones!

Tale of the Tape...
Strength: Crossbones 4 (Steroids)
Intelligence: Draw 4 (Tactician)
Speed: Captain America 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Captain America 5 (Marathon Man)
Agility: Captain America 4 (Gymnast)
Fighting Ability: Captain America 6 (Warrior)
Energy Powers: Crossbones 2 (Projectile Weapons)


- With a death on his hands, the juvenile Brock Rumlow would flee New York City and seek refuge with one of the Taskmaster's infamous schools for criminals and mercenaries. There he would excel in the fighting techniques Taskmaster taught, which would allow him to graduate into a prominent mercenary in his own right.
His career would bring him to the attentions of the Red Skull, with whom he would pledge permanent employment and allegiance, and gain his codename.

Crossbones is a highly skilled hand-to-hand fighter trained extensively in various martial arts styles, military combat techniques, and street fighting.
He is also extremely proficient with a wide variety of weaponry including a catalogue of guns, knives, and other projectile weapons.

- A scrawny and frail individual, despite his best efforts, Steve Rogers was unable to enlist to serve his country on the cusp of the Second World War.
Given his gusto, Rogers was invited to partake in the top secret Operation: Rebirth, which intended to chemically alter a man's biology to grant him fantastic speed, strength, and endurance, making him a super-soldier! The serum proved successful in turning the diminutive Rogers into a battle ready super-soldier, but the serum's creator, Dr. Abraham Erskine, lived only long enough to see the fruits of his labours, before being assassinated.

Thus, Rogers lives on to honor Dr. Erskine as America's only super-soldier, and sentinel of liberty: Captain America!

The serum grants Captain America peak human physical conditioning, a sharp mind, and an altered physiology that drastically slows his aging. These physical and mental attributes are complimented by extensive training in hand-to-hand combat, (including the use of a vibranium-steel alloy shield), and briefing in tactical maneuvers, urban military combat, and survival tactics.

The Captain has amassed decades of experience in the heat of combat, and carries with him a confidence that reflects this, and exudes the authority that he has established throughout the superhero community as leader of the Avengers.

The Math: Captain America Ranking: Captain America (#5)

What Went Down...
Distracted by flashback, the motorcycle mounted Captain America is snapped back to reality by gunshots that puncture his front tyre. He is able to gracefully tumble from the jacknifing bike, and takes immediate shelter behind his shield, as the mercenary Crossbones walks across the road firing.

As Cap ponders the likelihood of Crossbones' involvement in the destruction of his allies' graves, he finds himself yanked into a flashback of his partner being tortured right before his eyes by the first Baron Zemo.

Crossbones mercileslly beats the Captain, ignorant of his struggles between distorted images of the past, and the present. Reliving the moment, Captain lets out an uncharacteristic howling objection.

Fighting to stay in the present and to protect himself; Captain America throws himself into a charging maneuver that puts his shield between he and his burly assailant. Crossbones relishes the opposition, but puts on a show of his strength, punching the shield before yanking it aside with the barrel of his gun.

Cap continues to struggle with his uncontrollable memories, recognising the threat they pose to his survival, let alone victory. He is barely able to jump aside as Crossbones threatens with a clubbing blow that leaves a dent in a car trunk.

Evasive maneuvers prove futile as Crossbone's fists catch up with the Captain, dropping him with one fell blow. Crossbones puts the boot in, mocking his arch-nemesis, only to find unexpected retorts calling him a coward.

Down, but not out, Cap suffers another boot to the gut, before getting a total denial from the masked mercenary. Seeking vengeance for the murder of Red Skull, Crossbones reveals that he was told of the Captain's whereabouts by an anonymous Russian tip.

With the truth verbalized, Crossbones throws another boot to the already floored Cap, before declaring disinterest in facing him in his weakened and distracted state. Showing a rare taste for ceremony, Crossbones disappears into the surrounding wilderness, leaving the beaten Captain to the scattered traffic on the highway, and the plaguing flashes of memories that did not occur.

The Hammer...
Despite being the bigger man, (for walking away), we've got no choice but to declare this a victory for Crossbones and an awful start to the year for Captain America, who is already the most defeated character on the books!

If you're just joining us, it might be nice to know that we're beginning he year by serving up first dibs to the top ten characters of 2007, which saw the good Captain come in at number three. Really not too shabby for a dead guy who got beat up more than anyone remembers!

So, speaking of being beaten up, we've got another one of those 'benefit of hindsight' scenarios which raises a great frustration found in a good many superhero stories: the villain and a sense of ceremony.

It's worth acknowledging that the presence of the Red Skull makes for two very different contextual settings, but never the less, the problem I find here is that Crossbones leaves Captain America, not content with beating him in a situation that has him anywhere but his best. A contorted warrior's logic, but something not too difficult to give to a comic book villain.

Unless, of course, a couple of years later they're at the centre of story built on shooting a shackled Captain America from a sniper's post miles away.

Again, I acknowledge there are a lot of variables involved. In the latter example, Crossbones is acting with instruction from the Red Skull. Likewise, there's a larger plot surrounding mind games with Sharon Carter and a whole lot of convoluted mess that really only raises different script issues, but at the heart of it, the scenes depicted here really feel awkward.

I suppose part of that is due to the nature of Crossbones as a villain.
I think these street level mercenaries more than others ask for an honesty in their depiction, which isn't easy to carry in the serialized medium. The balancing act of serving a story, maintaining a character's competence, and allowing your hero to escape, are not necessarily easily managed -- particularly when your villain is supposedly a highly skilled, amoral mercenary who hates the hero.

When you look at the motivations of the character and the stark scope of the reality, it becomes a very difficult pill to swallow. Here it might even require a greater suspension of disbelief than Batman's constant decisions to allow the Joker to live. It's the difference between a costumed vigilante and a multi-coloured murderer who kills with fish -- and a soldier versus a man with a gun.

We've been critical of Brubaker's work a lot, and I have to say at the very least, these early issues really helped summon an atmosphere that I don't ever recall being around Captain America. Though he's operated independently and on an urban scale, the art direction, and motley colours of Frank D'Armata really help sell the more urban movements of Captain America in a pseudo-real world.

That said, the visual direction comes with criticism. Though it seems to have been very well received, I personally find the inks and droning colours on Epting's pencils to be a little more than unattractive. Though the general concept is definitely complimentary to the tone of the fiction, in it's isolation it clashes with some of the comic book conventions, and it proves stoicly unexpressive, much like a lot of the writing.

The dark colour palette, at it's worst, feels more like a broad allusion to something, in essence similar to Brubaker's insinuations of a story more involving than it is. On the flipside, the Brubaker/Lark combination is much more palatable, even if it features Lark's trademark unfinished lines.

We've talked a lot about the myth of 'Lazy Brubaker Syndrome', and though the story gradually built to it's first milestone - the return of Bucky - I found myself becoming distracted and disinterested by around issue five. Which, at the time, was of great frustration because otherwise it was a very positive push forward for the character, I feel.

You might measure the story's penchant for rewriting history against the recent One More Day debacle, but I think you'll find far purer motivations here, even if it isn't particularly well represented by the transition of canon.

Contrary to more widespread opinion, I find Bucky's 'resurrection' almost as silly as the Prime-Punch return of Jason Todd. While Winter Soldier presents a more grounded explanation, the relation it holds with decades of stories doesn't gel particularly well. Even so, Winter Soldier has proved a welcome addition to the Captain America family, and will officially don the Cap costume in 2008.

Overall, I think it's the broad conceptual strokes that leave Brubaker deserving of praise. Even if execution has been frustratingly lacking, the map of ideas has been there enough to bring me back to Cap for the odd taste. I just wish it was the kind of must-read book it clearly wants to be.

The Fight: 4.5 The Issue: 4.5

Agree or disagree with our opinions? Under the on-going team of Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting; Captain America has been one of the most popular titles published by Marvel, revered by many. If you're looking for an easy way to scoop yourself an acid test, why not head to Amazon where the first trade serves up the first storyarc in a convenient little package! Mmm, kick-backs!

IN STORES: January 09, 2007
You can probably find complete shipping list updates on most major comics sites. Consider this an opportunity to either do all your info-shopping in the one place, or get a speculative perspective on what might be worth checking out. These are untested reads. Secret Wars on Infinite Earths can offer no guarantee or endorsement of quality. These are simply titles that may be of potential interest. Some items may ship late.

Thin and Crispy...
NOV070176 52 AFTERMATH THE FOUR HORSEMEN #6 (OF 6) $2.99
NOV072219 BEYOND TP $14.99
NOV073467 BOYS #14 (MR) $2.99
SEP070080 BPRD TP VOL 07 GARDEN OF SOULS $17.95
NOV072235 ESSENTIAL CAPTAIN AMERICA TP VOL 04 $16.99
JUL070032 GOON #20 $2.99
NOV072150 HULK #1 $2.99
NOV072044 INFINITE HORIZON #2 (OF 6) $2.99
OCT073865 JENNA JAMESONS SHADOW HUNTER #0 (MR) $0.25
SEP072215 MIGHTY AVENGERS #7 SII $2.99
NOV072226 NEXTWAVE AGENTS OF HATE TP VOL 02 I KICK YOUR FACE $14.99
JAN072389 ONSLAUGHT REBORN #5 (OF 5) $2.99
NOV072172 PUNISHER WAR JOURNAL #15 $2.99
NOV070178 SALVATION RUN #3 (OF 7) $2.99
SEP070206 SPIRIT #12 $2.99
NOV070170 TEEN TITANS THE LOST ANNUAL $4.99
NOV072177 TWELVE #1 (OF 12) $2.99

The Deep Dish...
- NOV070013 BPRD 1946 #1 $2.99
I can't imagine I need to elaborate. The title, 1946, plus BPRD, is all but assured to be a fantastic read, and the only negative that immediately springs to mind with these successive BPRD releases is the fact that I'm getting so damned far behind!

- NOV070165 COUNTDOWN TO FINAL CRISIS 16 $2.99
It's slowly becoming universal fact that, as one would expect, things are starting to really come to a head in Countdown. As an outsider looking in, it almost seems like people completely forgot how a the previous fifty-two issue series was structured, with the third act emerging quite certainly in the latter issues. Either way, having just read some of Countdown: Arena, I expect some good action and development as Monarch switches from villain-to-hero as he faces off against the Monitors with his interdimensional army.

- NOV070179 GREEN ARROW BLACK CANARY #4 $2.99
I think if I see another cover with the DC heroes gathered behind a dead body, I'm going to scream. Not sure if this book's living up to the previous series, but I'd like to think cliches and meaningless redux aside, it's a good title.

- NOV070207 GREEN LANTERN CORPS #20 $2.99
Geoff Johns recently quoted his intentions to 'bring Superman back' in Action Comics, the way he did Green Lantern. At that point, even though I enjoyed Sinestro Corps War, I wanted to object to the totality of the statement. But then again, I glance at the cover for GLC #20 with giddy delight, and maybe have to question myself.

- NOV070185 INFINITY INC #5 $2.99
I get the impression this is probably a thoroughly mediocre title. A lot of no-name characters running around doing something that probably isn't very interesting, and is destined for cancellation. I'm such a stupid Steel fan, I really wish the book could survive long enough to get good, but I'm not holding my breath.

- NOV072155 MARVEL ADVENTURES HULK #7 $2.99
Last month it was Namor, this month it's Terrax and the Silver Surfer.
Uh, I think I'm going to have to start rethinking my policy on the kid books. Wow!

COVER TO COVER: 25 NEW BEGINNINGS - Round 2!
A new year brings new tidings, and we're using that as a convenient excuse to take a look back at some of the classic reviews from Infinite Wars past! To mirror the theme of the new year, (in)famous first issues are the special of the day!

The very fact that we can quite easily squeeze twenty-five first issues out of our back catalogue speaks to the sheer volume of series, and revamps, constantly finding their way to shelves. We spent a lot of time late in 2007 talking about the value and design of a first issue. As you browse over the exciting battles contained within each entry, you might like to draw conclusions of your own!

Avengers #1 (November 1996)
"Awaken the Thunder" Valentino/Liefeld/Yaep
Earth's mightiest heroes have been thrust into a pocket dimension where, without their knowing, they become destined to fullfil their history all over again, reborn!

Smack dab in the centre of this circle of the inevitable is Loki, Norse god of mischief. As was the case in their very first gathering, it is Loki's machinations that inadvertently gives birth to his greatest adversaries!

Loki's machinations are preceeded by an Avengers mission to Norway, where SHIELD look to utilize their unique skills in archaeological developments. Encased in impenetrable amber, the Avengers must free Thor, Norse god of thunder!

Thunderbolts #1 (April 1997)
"Justice..." Busiek/Bagley
Though their battle with the Hulk proved less than successful, the world has come to appreciate and accept the super-team called Thunderbolts! Their efforts come in a time when the apparent deaths of the Avengers and Fantastic Four leave a gaping hole in the superhero community, but behind their heroics lies a dark secret!

When the Thunderbolts are called into battle against an out-of-control Wrecking Crew, they've got all the edge they need, intimately familiar with their opponent's moves. Why? Because their leader is not who he seems, and their goals are quite the opposite of saving humanity. Thunderbolts? You can call them: The Masters of Evil!

Thor #1 (July 1998)
"In Search of the Gods" Jurgens/Romita Jr
Having relived their lives in a pocket universe, the heroes have returned to the world that missed them, but not everyone is so pleased. Life has gone on, and the perils of supernatural forces have not once stopped.

With Asgard in ruins and the Norse gods nowhere to be found, Thor finds himself returning to a kingdom torn asunder. The only recognisable piece of his history is the Destroyer armor, which has come into the possession of a disgruntled soldier. Sharing much in common, Thor has little time to sympathise with a man who threatens to destroy existence. The Avengers may have turned up alive, but this battle might just be the one to end them for real!

Dark Knight Strikes Again #1 (November 2001)
"Book One" Frank Miller
In a dystopian future the superheroes have been shunned by society, and their greatest member of all has become little more than a puppet for ideals long since dead.

When the Dark Knight returned he rattled the cages of the establishment, but it took faking his own death to inspire a new fire in the Superman's belly, and ignite his war on crime once more. A war no longer waged alone.

Having returned from hiding once more, Superman is forced to confront Batman at the Batcave, and like their last encounter, suffers the consequences. It's the rematch of the next decade, but if Batman wants to get his licks in, he might just have to get in line!

JLA/Avengers #1 (September 2003)
"A Journey into Mystery" Busiek/Perez
When two cosmic entities; Krona and the Grandmaster; come face to face, they foster a mutual alliance in the name of destruction and creation. Grandmaster challenges Krona to a game of manipulation, in exchange for the secrets of creating universes.

Thus, the mightiest heroes of the DC and Marvel Earths are pitted against one and other in a chase to collect powerful cosmic and mystic artifacts! These champions, little more than pawns, exchange blows completely unaware of the perils they face should they succeed.

With each team believing the other to be the villain, it's not long before their heaviest hitters come to blows!

BATMAN versus SUPERMAN
With a Vengeance! Chapter Four: Smoke and Mirrors (DC)
Where: Superman/Batman #23 When: November 2005 Why: Jeph Loeb How: Ed McGuinness

The story so far...
When a Kryptonite meteor is headed for Earth, Captain Atom is volunteered to pilot a rocket ship of intervention to protect not only the planet, but also it's greatest hero, Superman, from a life-threatening shower!

When Captain Atom reemerges in Japan, Superman and Batman soon discover the meteor housed a conscious entity called Kryptonite Man, capable of possessing and embuing a host body with incredible powers of Kryptonite radiation!

Amidst struggles with inter-dimensional elopers called the Maximums, Superman and Batman find themselves unwitting pawns in a much larger plot waged between Mr. Mxyzptlk and the Joker. Kryptonite Man returns to become the latest piece in the conflict, possessing Batman to best strike at his enemy, Superman!

Tale of the tape...
Strength: Superman 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Batman 5 (Professor)
Speed: Superman 6 (Mach Speed)
Stamina: Superman 6 (Generator)
Agility: Batman 4 (Gymnast)
Fighting Ability: Batman 5 (Martial Artist)
Energy Powers: Superman 5 (Lasers)


- When he witnessed the street murder of his parents, the young Bruce Wayne's destiny was forever shaped to be one dedicated to an ideal. Having spent his formative years studying the various sciences, martial arts, and crime fighting techniques, Bruce is ultimately inspired to become the one-man war on the criminal element in Gotham City: Batman.

Perhaps Batman's greatest power is the millions inherited from his industrialist parents, and the various facilities that came with that. They prove crucial in the design and construction of his many weapons, which are typically non-lethal, and have a variety of uses.

Complimented by his keenly strategic mind is Batman's expertise in the martial arts. He is extensively trained in multiple fighting styles, and commonly regarded to be one of the greatest hand-to-hand fighters in the world. He is also extremely proficient in general urban warfare.

- With the planet Krypton on a path toward destruction, a scientist, Jor-El, bundles his only son into a rocket ship designed to take him far from the impending doom. The young Kal-El would be rocketted far from his home to come to land on the planet Earth, where a yellow sun would grant him the powers to become the man of steel - Superman!

A spiritual leader for the superhero community; Superman has a wide array of physical capabilities to back his presence up, the stalwarts being; super strength, flight, heat-vision, super breath, and super speed. He also has a keen intellect, his Kryptonian brain enhanced in much the way his body is.

A keen strategist, Superman has a broad understanding of sciences and battle tactics, but is often hindered by his own sense of caution and responsibility.

Additional: The rivalry in Frank Miller's dystopian superhero future has set the tone for the relationship between DC's, if not the entire medium's, two most prominent characters. The tradition of their friendship is restored today, but often with the tense undertones introduced vividly in Dark Knight Returns.

Jeph Loeb was responsible for the previous encounter on record [Batman #612], when it was Superman who was acting against his will, influenced by the potions of Poison Ivy, who herself was part of a larger plot in Hush.

The other recorded battles came from Miller, both set in the DKR future, where Batman's superiority was challenged by few. Common to all of three fights is Superman's role as aggressor, and his resulting defeat.

History: Batman (3-0-0)
The Math: Superman Ranking: Batman (#2)

What went down...
Having spotted Batman, Superman descends toward The Maximum's island headquarters, unaware that the Kryptonite Man has returned and taken possession of his ally's body. He soon gets the picture:

Emitting Kryptonite radiations, the possessed Batman easily matches Superman's invulnerabilities and rocks him with a devestating blow.
Weakened from the moment he drew near the island, Superman struggles to pull himself up by Batman's costume. He's punished for the naivity with a stiff headbutt reminiscent of Batman's own arsenal, as much as any Kryptonite Man's.

Kryptonite Batman continues the assault, raking at Superman's chest, before putting him down with a devestating roundhouse kick. His blows prove powerful enough to spill the blood of the badly weakened Superman.

Despite the sapping presence of Kryptonite, Superman is still strong enough to tear away at part of the Maximum's headquarters, using the architecture as a battering ram.
Alas, the lithe body of the Batman provides Kryptonite Man with the tools necessary to leap the clumsy shield, and swoop dowm with a punishing boot to the face!

The kick sends Superman hurtling like a wounded bird, downward from the top of the elaborate design of the Maximum's dome. His landing is a harsh one, cracking the landing pad of the Maximum's jet, and alerting the attentions of the Maximum called Robot.

Rattled by the devestating impact, Superman gingerly rises to ask for help from Robot, who was only recently his adversary. The bulky android remains silent while Superman shares his plans, not long before the Kryptonite Batman descends.


Emitting a flaming green glow, Kryptonite Batman lunges sloppily at his target, underestimating the Superman. Kal shows a little fighting skill of his own, whipping his super-strong hands into Batman's torso.

The pressure point blow leaves Kryptonite Man unable to move half of his host body. The moves gives even the ailing Superman all the room he needs to move at super-speeds to surround the paralyzed Batman with the metallic casing that makes up Robot's hull -- made of lead!

The lead casing creates a safe barrier between Superman and the weakening substance. With no organic alternatives, and Superman's body a death sentence fo the Kryptonite spirit, he's left with few choices when Superman demands he exit Batman, or face the prospect of permanent imprisonment within the suit.

The intervention of the Maximums and an order for Robot to suit-up puts an end to the stand off, but as the armor leaps off of Batman's body, he confirms that the presence of the Kryptonite Man is gone. A small consolation given yet another impending confrontation with the Maximums!

The Hammer...
Well, it took four tries, and the assistance of a Robot, but let the record show that Superman has finally scored a victory against his statistical inferior, Batman.

Granted, it's not a particularly good start for Batman in what guarantees to be a big year for the character, but even with the conceit of featuring 2007's top ten characters, we try not to give that kind of thing too much thought. Also, I thought it would be nice to recall our first month of Infinite Wars, where two of the previous Superman/Batman showdowns were showcased, albeit in a much shorter form.

Jeph Loeb's work is one of those things that seems to polarize a good many comics readers. While I tend to think some of that is due to a process of absorption by readers indulging in online forums, there are also those inevitable qualities about something like Superman/Batman that can be jarring.

As seen with a concept like the Kryptonite Man; Loeb goes very broad with his Superman/Batman work, indulging in the bold action that Ed McGuinness is so capable of serving, without any large intent to rewrite the face of comics. This arc in particular reads so much like an exercise in popcorn, bringing together two cultural giants for little more than a rip-roaring good time.

Of course, with the benefit of hindsight, one tends to wonder how this book was representing DC editorial meetings of the time. Dan DiDio, and other editorial staff assure readers that much of the DC canon is being intimately mapped out years in advance, which would be one explanation for the story's penchant for showcasing some of the parallel Earth's coming to prominance in the new 52-Earths Megaverse.

Preceding even Infinite Crisis; the B-story of Bizarro and Batzarro serves up visits to well known parallel universes now identified as: Earth-11 (Reverse Genders), Earth-12 (Batman Beyond), and Earth-30 (Red Son).

Similarly, Loeb played extensively with parallel realities and dimensions during the Absolute Power storyarc. Events across all stories are mostly inconsequential romps in alternate universe fun, but much like Brian Azzarello's work on Superman served an inadvertant prelude to Project OMAC, [For Tomorrow], one wonders if these aren't fun little easter eggs for fans of the megaverse to go back an discover.

I suppose, amidst the changing references and measurements, it's worth acknowledging that these universes all existed prior to the emergence of the Megaverse at the end of 52. Before that, there was a never ending sprawl of fictional alternate universes referred to as the "Multiverse", which made no attempts to elaborate on the specifics of Elseworlds tales, or anything else.

Today we have 52 numbered worlds in what is again being lazily referred to as the Multiverse. Because of the distinction between the old and new, I preferred and continue to use the early reference of Megaverse, specifically because it implies a greater importance, which speaks to the structure of it all.

If you've been reading DC comics like Countdown, which we haven't, you'll have seen these worlds coming and going regularly. Earlier in the week, in response to One More Day, we made reference to DC's ability to hold on to and utilize ideas, and I think the canonized Elseworlds tales are one of those examples.

The potential to do something amazing with some of the surrounding fifty-two Earths seems so fantastic, which probably makes the promise of a Final Crisis so potentially disheartening. Countdown caught up this week with events from Countdown: Arena, which saw icons of many Earth's murdered in an effort to collect together an army of characters to combat the Monitors.

When we talk about objecting to the license One More Day gives editorial to stop-and-start repeatedly, I think this is the kind of thing we're talking about.
It's about a contemporary standard of storytelling, and avoiding sloppy misdirection and slate wiping because someone doesn't feel they can write their way out of it.

Which brings us back to Loeb's work here on Superman/Batman, which manages to weave in and out of a lot of dated and cheesy concepts, without batting an eyelid. Granted, you need to approach The Kryptonite Man without any baggage, and get ready to go for a fun ride, but it's a prime example of just some of the things DC can achieve with their 52 Earths. A lot of fun!

Of course, now there's the issue of how we categorize alternate counterparts...

The Fight: 4.5 The Issue: 5.5

Half-asleep and exhausted we're still bringing you the very best we can in superhero fisticuffs, discussion, and review. If this entry managed to be coherrent enough to inspire joy, why not seek out With A Vengeance in collected format! The Infinite Wars receive Amazon kick-backs every time you order with a referred link, which means we can bring you even more fast fighting fantastic fisticuffery!

COVER TO COVER: Warbound!
The third issue of World War Hulk found it's way into my hands during the week, and I was surprised to observe a fairly blunt recognition of the Hulk's mixed-up past. Contrary to the coy vintage of 'Hulks will be Hulks'; General Thunderbolt Ross refers to the many shifts between hero and villain that the Hulk has undertaken, specifically recalling certain events in the context of political excuses. Things like possession by Apocalypse, or heroic turns that would earn a Presidential pardon for the volatile Defender.

It's so very interesting to observe the stark contrast that is Hulk's seemingly inevitable rampage toward finality; versus the mangling of the Spider-offices at the hands of EIC, Joe Quesada. As one collapses under the traditions of sloppy superhero story telling, the other seems to be ona a contradictory trajectory that demands, if nothing else, an extended absence akin to Thor's Ragnarok.

At this moment I have no reason to assume Bruce Banner won't be back as the Hulk. In fact, though it undermines the previous remarks, given the final scenes in WWH, I'm not even entirely convinced the new red Hulk isn't Banner.
Not that it really matters. We're here because Hulk's rampage against Earth was inevitable, and even the lie of finality is something to enjoy. So, if you will, enjoy but a scratch on the surface of a history that made for this showdown.

Daredevil #163 (March 1980)
"Blind Alley" McKenzie/Miller
Imagine for a moment you're strapped to an atomic bomb, and it's set to go off at the sign of any annoyance, frustration, or anxiety -- where is the last place on Earth you would want to go?

Bruce Banner ventures into New York City, and finds the densely populated urban sprawl to be the perfect catalyst for unleashing the beast within. Fortunately, he's got friends, and in an effort to protect humanity, Matt Murdock; aka Daredevil; lends his hospitality.

With Hulk on a rampage, DD is forced to put compassion aside to protect the innocent. So, that leaves just one question. Who'll protect HIM?!

Marvel Treasury Edition #25 (1980)
"Spider-man vs Hulk at the Winter Olympics" Mantlo/Gruenwald/Grant/Trimpe
The Mole Man and Queen Kala are locked in a battle for supremacy of the subterranean kingdoms, and the Lake Placid Winter Olympics are about to become their battleground!

The Incredible Hulk and Amazing Spider-man find themselves brought together by fate, and design of the underground rulers, as they're forced to represent each domain in gladiatorial combat!

The US Winter Olympic team take centre stage, but it's Hulk and Spidey who'll go for gold in this icey showdown!


Iron Man #2 (December 1996)
"Hulk Smash!" Lobdell/Lee/Portacio
A fresh start and new job in a pocket universe should be bliss for Bruce Banner, but fate has other plans. Even in a new world the Hulk seems predestined to be reborn, and this time it's as a result of a terrorist attack launched by Hydra! Trapped in the bomb he designed, Banner once again is transmuted into the rampaging Hulk!

Alone and confused, the Hulk comes head to head with the man who owned the weapon -- Tony Stark -- better known now as the man in the armor, Iron Man!

Now this brand new world will be the stage for a vintage showdown as Iron Man tries to bust himself a Hulk!

Avengers #5 (March 1997)
"... Let no man tear asunder!" Liefeld/Loeb/Churchill
Their rivalry has been there since the earliest days of the Avengers, and has become the stuff of legends. The barbarian and the monster, two warriors, inevitably locked in repeated battles through time and dimension.

When the Hulk rampages his way through Avengers Island, Thor arrives to find his fellows, including the valiant Captain America, beaten and bruised. What follows needs very little explanation. Thor smash!!!

It's an all out slugfest as these two seemingly immortal powerhouses go head-to-head in fight that promises to prove once and for all who the strongest one is!

Deadpool #4 (April 1997)
"Why is it, to save me, I must kill you?" Kelly/McGuinness
When you're the Hulk, you get used to not quite feeling yourself, (and keeping Doc Samson in business), but this takes the cake! With his Banner-half trapped in a pocket dimension, the wandering Hulk finds himself targetted by one of the most unlikely foes!

Deadpool's healing factor's on the fritz, and a visit from Weapon X' own, Dr. Killbrew, reveals that the 'Pool man is in desperate need of a gamma irradiated blood transfusion. Which explains why he's putting his head in the proverbial big green lion's mouth. Hey, don't worry kids, Deadpool's got a plan... AND SWORDS!!!
OK, Hulk! Please bleed into the cup!

GREEN GOBLIN versus SPIDER-MAN
Down Among the Dead Men: Part One of Four (Marvel)
Where: Marvel Knights: Spider-man #1 When: June 2004 Why: Mark Millar How: Terry Dodson

The story so far...
Theirs is a rivalry that has spanned decades and brought about great misery in each of their lives. Norman Osborn has waged a war on Spider-man in both his identity as Green Goblin, and otherwise. Among his exploits, the impregnation of Parker's then-girlfriend, Gwen Stacy, and her ultimate demise atop the George Washington Bridge.

Norman Osborn would seemingly perish in battle with Spider-man, but amidst the chaos of believing he was a clone who had usurped the life of the true Peter Parker, Spider-man finds a bittersweet truth when Norman reemerges to finally kill the true clone, Ben Reilly.

Yet another skirmish in their lifelong war brings Spider-man to lie resting in an alleyway behind a restaurant. At first mistaking the motionless body for a vagrant sleeping in trash, the store deli employees soon become acquainted with the deadly truth: Enter the Green Goblin!

Tale of the tape...
Strength: Spider-man 5 (Super Strength)
Intelligence: Draw 5 (Professor)
Speed: Spider-man 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Draw 5 (Marathon Man)
Agility: Spider-man 5 (Cat-like)
Fighting Ability: Draw 3 (Street Wise)
Energy Powers: Green Goblin 4 (Arsenal)


- Self-made millionaire and brilliant industrialist, Norman Osborn, finds himself enhanced physically and mentally when he investigates an experimental formula developed by his crooked colleague, Dr. Mendel Stromm.

Unbeknownst to Norman the formula had undergone tampering, resulting in an explosion that embues him with the formula's properties, resulting in further increases in his physical and intellectual prowess, at the cost of his mental stability.

Using his technologies to adopt the costumed identity of the first Green Goblin; Norman embarks on a quest for money and power, seeking to become the new boss of organized crime in New York. His goals bring him into conflict with Spider-man, and begin a downward spiral that would make them bitter enemies for decades to come.

- A bite from a radioactive spider should have killed highschool nerd, Peter Parker, but instead it would irradiate his own blood, granting him extraordinary powers.

After turning to a life of profit, Peter is inspired to use his gifts for the greater good when his decision to allow a burglar to escape leads to the murder of his adopted parent and uncle, Ben Parker.
Ben's sage-like advice, "with great power comes great responsibility", becomes a mantra for Parker as he becomes Spider-man!

Spider-man possesses the proportional strength, speed, and agility of a spider. Adding to his arsenal is a precognitive spider-sense that warns him of pending danger. Self-made mechanical webshooters round out Spidey's abilities, allowing him to ensnare opponents in a variety of modes; travel through the city by web-line; and form basic constructs based on the available quantities of his own formula of web-fluid.

Additional: The rivalry between Green Goblin and Spider-man is one of the best documented in comics. Over the course of their careers, each would discover the other's true identity, and embark in a bitter personal struggle that would affect a great many innocents around them.

The Infinite Wars previously featured one of the purest representations of this feud as it was depicted in the Spider-man feature film. Also worth noting is Spider-mans battle with Osborn's gathered Sinister Twelve, although it did not include his active involvement in the melee [Marvel Knights: Spider-man #11].

History: Spider-man (1-0-0)
The Math: Spider-man Ranking: Spider-man (#1)

What went down...
With two restraunt employees unwittingly walking into the battlezone, the Green Goblin descends atop his glider with two flaming pumpkin bombs for Spider-man and the innocents. The web-slinger leaps from the garbage to toss the two men to safety, barely aon his feet as the Goblin begins a new attack.

The pair fly through a light shower, struggling all the way as the glider swoops low above traffic, causing windsheilds to shatter!

Spider-man gains the upperhand and inadvertently starts an upthrust in their trajectory, as he begins to wail on the Green Goblin. He uses the eyesockets of Osborn's mask to drag his face into an opposing action against his fist.

Engrossed in battle, thhe pair find themselves inadvertently plunging through an office window, wreaking havoc through the studio space that no doubt racks up in the thousands!

They come to crash land in the storage space of a delivery truck, where Spider-man finds an offensive edge. Taking full advantage of their shaken state, he puts the full extent of his spider-strength to knock Osborn around inside his Goblin mask, whipping away the water amassing from the rain.

With the one-two having the desired effect, Spidey looks around for "something heavy" to deliver the finishing blow to his levelled opponent. Located in the middle of a manhattan crossjunction, Spidey finds advice from one of the onlooking civilians, who suggests a mailbox.

Finding the notion palatable, Spidey again calls upon his super-strength to rip the postbox from it's station, only to use it as a devestating clubbing weapon, bringing it driving down upon the Green Goblin with a sickening impact!

With the Goblin well and truly out of commission, Spidey webs him upsidedown to a lamp post, where he can be discovered later by authorities.
His work, however, proves yet to be done as onlookers both criticize the severity of his methods, and unwittingly put themselves in peril, exploring several spilled pumpkin bombs that emit a gentle luminous glow. Too exhausted to help, Spidey leaves the crowd to their own devices and injuries - victorious?

The hammer...
So, you wanna hear a funny joke?
First, Marvel erases twenty years of history on the whims of the Editor-in-Chief. Then, in response to the laughable outcome, someone talks about giving Spidey a miss for the year. After that, the first entry of the year declares Spider-man victorious.
By the haw of Hoggoth! That's downright absurd! Or is it?...

See, here's the thing; we aren't totally unreasonable. And although the Infinite Wars will make no bones about standing by Spider-Boycott: 2008; we won't let that interfere in certain structural obligations.

In 2006 we ended the year with our top five characters, which meant when we started fresh for Season 2007, there were some embarassing labour pains in the top five. From now onward, we intend to compensate for that by ensuring the previous year's top ten characters get first bite at the new year.

So, here we are, taking a look at 2007's #1 character: Spider-man.

There are two things that make this a palatable cease-fire to our fledgling boycott. The first, we've already mentioned, but the second is a little less subversive, and ties directly into our motives. Because, as mentioned in the Annual Report, we believe Spider-man fans have had a long wait for truly enjoyable Spider-man stories -- but we failed to consider one man: Mark Millar.

A simple truth: A website like this should really have an entire wing dedicated to Monsieur Millar, because there's every chance we could run the spine of our operations off of Millar's output alone.

Unlike his countrymen; Millar isn't necessarily the kind of writer who will have Americans trying to figure out which corner of their bucket they should be peeing in. Truth be told, there's a lot of the bold yankee spirit beating deep within the cavernous bowels of his writer's heart.
A penchant for "widescreen" action and unashamed superheroics has earned Millar a special place in the comics industry as the closest you can get to a sure thing. His Marvel comics routinely dish out top ten sales figures, making his infamous twelve issue runs some of the most talked about comics every month.

Mark Millar is to us, what Julian Moore is to him: A very foxy ginger.

This far in we should really get to the point, so here it is. In these measly twenty-three pages, Mark Millar teams with Terry and Rachel Dodson to do exactly what One More Day didn't - without a single one of the drawbacks.

Millar pulls out all the stops in a story that I initially criticized for appearing like Marvel's response to the chart topping, Hush. I was quickly silenced by what was quite clearly an excercise in telling a classic kind of Spider-man tale, with a completely modern context. This was Spider-man with a tilted grill, giving us a contemporary fat-free attitude that managed to fullfil all the flavours we wanted, without the old deep-fried calories of boring B-plot, and corny dialogue.

With all of her humanity on show, Mary-Jane provides a frustrated protagonist unable to accompany Spider-man on his journey to save a kidnapped Aunt May.
Though the damsel in distress/bridge top motiff has been repeated ad nauseum, we almost want to meet it on Millar's terms, welcoming it for at least pointing to one of the many uses of the Mary-Jane character.

Dr. Octopus is in obscure full force as a wildcard, playing to a hateful history between he and the Goblin, who provides both an immediate threat, and a sinister mastermind to much larger plots, in his own right. Plots ultimately carried out by Mac Gargan, who gets a revamp not only as Osborn's shadowy super-stooge, but eventually as the much anticipated new Venom.

With Electro, Vulture, and Black Cat in feature positions, this is easily the most inviting experience for fans looking to make the transition from films, to comics, giving them a glimpse of what they sorta know, and what they can come to expect. I almost find a naughty glee in recognising a book that's arguably more ultimate than Ultimate.

In fact, so full of joy for this story am I, that I seem to be getting farther and farther away from my original points. This really is just such a fun read that inspires all of those classic Spider-man feelings, but does so with a vibrant contemporary sheen of confident, velvety inks, and bouncy, kinetic curves.
It's the best of all worlds. It's got the domestic turmoil of Stan Lee, the continuing epic struggle of Gerry Conway, the superhero action of David Michelinie, and the arcing scope of Tom DeFalco. War Mongers, reflecting on One More Day, I don't know whether to laugh, or cry.

To see the same apparent goal achieved so beautifully without any of the disgracefully sloppy writing, or dismissive fan-fiction of blanket retcons, is a bittersweet marvel. Millar seems to understand both Spider-man and modern comics so perfectly, it almost makes you wish the man behind Civil War could've assumed a Geoff Johns/Grant Morrison like hold on his company, to have steered this character to the greener pastures desired, albeit, in a superior way.

At this point, amidst my unashamed fawning, I don't know I've engaged in any kind of coherrent discussion, let alone made an argument for a better way.
I just know that at some point in the future we'll be compelled to end the boycott. It might be the right decision, it might not be, but I know for sure, when that happens, the Infinite Wars will revisit Marvel Knights: Spider-man.

This comic wasn't One More Day.
This comic was smart.

The Fight: 5 The Issue: 6.5

Down Among the Dead Men takes advantage of an awkwardly resurrected Norman Osborn. Though this was uncomfortable, the return of Harry Osborn, post-OMD, breaks the friendship. If you feel the same about the comedy of errors, and are looking for an outlet for some great Spider-man reading, you might like to head over to Amazon to pick up MK: Spider-man! Also feel welcome to save and brandish the Spider-Boycott: 2008 banner featured in this entry, with a link back to us. Because... It's just the kind of hype-driven hit response we could use! Oh no, I'm drowning in irony!!!

IN STORES: January 04, 2007
You can probably find complete shipping list updates on most major comics sites. Consider this an opportunity to either do all your info-shopping in the one place, or get a speculative perspective on what might be worth checking out. These are untested reads. Secret Wars on Infinite Earths can offer no guarantee or endorsement of quality. These are simply titles that may be of potential interest. Some items may ship late.

NOTE: Be sure to remember that those in the US (and perhaps elsewhere) will have to wait until Friday for their new books. The Holiday season has shipping running late. Happy New Year!

Thin and Crispy...
NOV072135 ANNIHILATION CONQUEST #3 (OF 6) $2.99
OCT070131 COUNTDOWN LORD HAVOK AND THE EXTREMISTS #3 (OF 6) $2.99
NOV070164 COUNTDOWN TO FINAL CRISIS 17 $2.99
OCT070126 COUNTDOWN TO MYSTERY #4 (OF 8) $3.99
OCT072006 DYNAMO 5 #10 $2.99
NOV072192 EXILES DAYS OF THEN & NOW $3.99
NOV072041 FEARLESS #3 (OF 4) $2.99
NOV072144 HOWARD THE DUCK #4 (OF 4) $2.99
OCT070193 JLA KID AMAZO TP $12.99
NOV070017 LOBSTER JOHNSON IRON PROMETHEUS #5 (OF 5) $2.99
NOV072046 LUCHA LIBRE #3 $5.99
OCT070256 PRIDE OF BAGHDAD SC (MR) $12.99
NOV070303 VINYL UNDERGROUND #4 (MR) $2.99
NOV072081 WITCHBLADE TAKERU MANGA #11 (MR) $3.99

The Deep Dish...
- OCT078502 BATMAN #671 2ND PTG (GHUL) $2.99
Some casual cruising around the message boards turned up a couple of discussions about readers being "confused" by Morrison's Batman. I tend to dismiss this kind of reaction to Morrison's work as a hive-minded exaggeration and evidence of good marketing, moreso than anything inherent to the material.
That said, there might be a good reason for "confusion" surrounding Morrison's work on Batman, and it might just be that it hasn't been very good.

Certain things have certainly piqued my interest, but for the most part, Morrison writes a very different Batman from the one I enjoy. I personally regard the retro introfusion and scattered themes as bad Batman writing that has not been forgotten, but rather, weeded out through time and evolution. This might have surprised, or "confused", some readers. Cross-title tie-ins do little to help.

- NOV070246 JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #41 $2.25
The Infinite Wars doesn't typically sponsor the kid-friendly Adventures books, but both DC and Marvel have gone leaps and bounds with their material, leaving far behind the stigma of bad storytelling. With promise of a new appearance of the animated Joker going up against what looks like the ragtag team of; Elongated Man, Zatanna, and Crimson Avenger; promises a great, rollicking read! Undoubtedly one of the most fun entries into the inevitable pre-movie Joker-wave.

- NOV072164 MS MARVEL #23 $2.99
Ms. Marvel is trapped on Monster Island. No, not that Monster Island!
The Island that Mole Man discovered, which is apparently now inhabited by Brood aliens!

I can't help but think back to an Attack of the Show review of Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, where the question was raised: Who would possibly want to play as Ms. Marvel?!
I know she's a character that bares very little interest for me, and from the few moments I've observed, Reed hasn't really extended the character in any great way. I don't know if Monster Island is the tool I'd be looking for, but if he's able to factor in more high concept issues, I think that's going to go great lengths to breaking up the daily grind that feels typical of the title.

Of course, the upcoming Invasion tie-ins are a double-edged sword, guaranteeing relevance, at the cost of once again becoming embroiled in the outer edge of day-to-day activity in the Marvel Universe.

- AUG072257 THUNDERBOLTS #118 $2.99
Reading some stuff from Countdown, I wanted to come here and just acknowledge that DC are doing a great job of taking every half-decent idea, and making the best of it. I bring that up now, because there seems to be a throughline of having a lot to say about Marvel's output. I think that just comes down to Marvel not living up to their potential in the way the more carefully planned DC projects are.

Thunderbolts is a great example, ignoring late releases. Warren Ellis is a simmering powerhouse in the comics industry, but time and time again his current output of superhero work seems lacklustre and familiar. Thunderbolts is in some ways exactly what we expected, and in others, not at all. It looks like this issue is a much needed punch-punch event involving Doc Samson and Penance, which is something I never thought I'd say a Warren Ellis title needs more of.

As fun as the concepts of some of Ellis' character work has seemed, they struggle to adhere to a regular Marvel superhero schedule. Exploration is sacrificed in favour of the illusion of forward movement, which itself is undermined by the timeframe in which these events appear to occur.
We've seen titles like Nova pick up the slack on the Thunderbolts front, and various mini-series have spun out of the title. I don't know how much Ellis' name has contributed to sales, but as much as I hate to say it, it might be time to cut losses. This is a long way from Iron Man!

- NOV072119 ULTIMATE HUMAN #1 (OF 4) $2.99
Of course, just as soon as we write Ellis off, here's something we have high hopes for.
In the tradition of the long forgotten and terminally unfinished Ultimate Hulk vs Wolverine, comes Ultimate Human, which essentially reads like an excuse to get Hulk and Iron Man punching each other stupid in Ultimate-form.

I think we'd be particularly critical of Ellis' Ultimate output, which has been slow and uninspiring, but with only four issues and an action packed premise, this might just fullfil our itch for techy-talky, face-smacky Warren Ellis goodness. Here's hoping.