QUICK FIX MEGAMIX: BLOOD & THUNDER #2!
Test Your Might (Malibu/Midway)
Where: Mortal Kombat: Blood & Thunder #2 When: November 1994 Why: Charles Marshall How: Patrick Rolo

Quick Fix...
If you're an old hat at the Infinite Wars, you know we've got a strong vein of Street Fighter in the Secret Archives. With the announcement of the comic-clashing Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe it was the perfect opportunity to bring America's leading beat 'em up franchise to the Infinite Wars!

Over the past few weeks we've been taking a closer look at the substantial cast of characters that could potentially match-up in the upcoming game [Fantasy Fights R1, R2, R3, R4, R5!]. Also on the agenda have been other features, like last week's megamix review of Blood & Thunder #1, which will all help to paint a fuller picture of the Mortal Kombat/DC universe.

Admittedly, a lot of our discussion has dwelled on documenting the negatives of the Mortal Kombat franchise. It's fair to say this once prominent series has done little to maintain it's respect in an increasingly artistic field, but that's not to say it is without it's charms. For Mortal Kombat, escaping the nineties quaint had to be the driving factor behind an uncharacteristic pause after MK4 in '97/'98.

There's a strong sense of irony surrounding MK and it's crucially dedicated fanbase. Despite the vital creative success of 2002's Deadly Alliance; common consensus amongst fans typically rates 1993's Mortal Kombat II as one of, if not the, greatest game in the series. Though representative of MK's peak significance as a pop culture phenomenon, MKII harkens very specifically back to an era where technological limitations meant many characters were differentiated only by colour and the specifics of four or five custom moves.

This strong nostalgia vote has seen recent recession in MK's creative direction post-Deadly Alliance, doing very little to sway the opinions of critics, or the dismissively uninformed. Sadly, beneath this unimpressive exterior, still lurks the heart of a strong story and potentially significant cast of characters.

Using Malibu's licensed comics as a vehicle to discuss the positives of Mortal Kombat is not easy. It's not at all unfair to say these series represent some of the worst qualities of popular comics of the mid-1990s, and also the worst qualities of the games of the same time. Front and centre, as you might imagine, are the iconic ninja characters from the games.

Colour coded yellow for Scorpion, blue for Sub-Zero, green for Reptile, and grey for Smoke; these iconic characters have never actually had a lot of artistic reason to resemble one and other. In truth, only Scorpion is a ninja among the group that eventually grew to include black Noob, purple Rain, and red Ermac.

Key to the quality of the post-MK4 revolution in the series was a long due overhaul for the individual designs of these series stalwarts. Rare was the opportunity to see story and specific logics influence and dictate the appearance of these characters. Sub-Zero, gradually moving away from the homogenized ninja suit, saw his powers increase naturally, and through the inclusion of a medallion introduced through the series canon.

While it has it's issues, it's arguably the saga of Mortal Kombat that makes this such an engaging series. Sharing much in common with the on-going adventures of superheroes, the MK characters have spent the best part of a decade-and-a-half running their own races of resurrection, revelation, and revenge.

The reveal of franchise icons Sub-Zero and Scorpion in the upcoming MK/DC game has been disappointing. Harkening back to the days of shared sprites, these characters have lost much of the individuality and design that was making them so exciting. No doubt there will be plenty of criticism in the coming months as we hover around the series, but I hope to have more specific positives to share with you at some point. In the mean time; comic book fisticuffs!

- LIEUTENANT LANCE versus KANO
There's something strange about the undertaking of a licensed adaptation. Somewhere in the translation vital elements are lost as writers and artists try to enfuse successful materials with variations and additions of their own design. I do not know why this is such a widespread phenomena, particularly given the long list of infamy that surrounds such a move, but these comics are no exception.

To the credit of Malibu, their additions aren't without their logics.
For starters, it's always been a little dubious that an elimination tournament would have between eight and ten fighters. In an effort to flesh that out, without killing off the trademarks they've licensed, they introduce guys like Lance.

With one cybernetic arm, Lieutenant Lance looks much less US Special Forces than he does one of the team from C.O.P.S! Fortunately we don't have to deal with him much longer. After joining Sonya in her vehicular pursuit of Kano, it's Lance that steps up to take on the felon in the tournament, reinserting Sonya's classic revenge motiff as a more personalized event for readers.

For those who don't know, it's tradition in games like Mortal Kombat for characters to have some sort of wooden motivation for entering the tournament. For Sonya, the tried and true story of a law enforcement agent seeking revenge for the murder of a partner. In the games that partner was never revealed, allowing us to imagine anyone from Pam Grier, to Jim Kelly, to Van Damme.

The less than impressive extendo-armed Lance does little to enhance this age-old plot, but I suppose an excuse for extra combat in this series is nothing to complain about, no matter how swift.

Despite getting the drop on Kano initially with an electrical charge, the Lieutenant's destiny is quickly fulfilled with a backhanded swat, and Kano plunging his hand into Lance's chest, only to remove the heart in a splash of blood rare in the comics. Mmm, toasty!

The Fix: 2.5 Winner: Kano (Fatality!)

- SONYA BLADE versus KANO
None too happy with the death of her partner; Sonya begins her vendetta against Kano quite immediately with blatant disregard for the rules of the tournament!

Mortal Kombat's always a bit of a misnomer, not only for the apparent immortality of many of it's characters, but also for the nature of combat. Though never really elaborated upon, many of the characters rely on energy attacks, such as Sonya's pink ringed power blast.

It's fair to say much of MK's mythology relies heavily on the conventional logic of martial arts fiction, but in typical MK style, none of this is really explained or detailed, sometimes making the characters look boarish, undisciplined, and severely lacking in the skill department.
One might argue this is a fairly accurate reflection of the fighting quality of the games, but more often than not the fiction asks us to believe they are in fact, master fighters. I digress, but it's all food for thought.

Sonya's energy attack stuns the Black Dragon clansman, leaving him wide open for another trademark attack, the head scissor lock. Sonya vaults the villain head over heels, raising the attentions of Shang Tsung's masked guards.

Sonya defiantly turns her aggression on the guardsmen, launching into a diving kick that swiftly topples two of the anonymous warriors. Not so cocky, is Sonya, when the four-armed Goro interjects, delighted by her vigor, but intolerant for her impetuousness. The Special Forces agent is led away with her arms bound by the spare hands of the mighty Mortal Kombat champion.

Sonya is arguably one of the most significant female characters in American video game culture. In a strange sort of sexualized way video games managed to make a prominent step forward for female empowerment in fiction. Leading the way were characters like Metroid's deceptively armored Samus; beat 'em up icons like Chun-Li and Sonya; and the once significant, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

Inspired by martial arts actress Cynthia Rothrock and baring the name of co-creator Ed Boon's sister; Sonya actually managed to coast through the first MK fairly anonymously. Brought to life through digitized capture of actress Elizabeth Malecki, Sonya set herself apart from genre counterparts Chun-Li and Cammy with the distinction of wearing pants. Despite representing a meagre ten percent of the first game's otherwise all-male cast; Sonya stood out as an early indication of the empowerment of female players in games to come.

No doubt we'll be talking much more about Sonya in the future!

The Fix: 4 Winner: Sonya Blade

- SUB-ZERO versus GRUM
Continuing the trend of ready-made cannon fodder, Malibu serve up another unforgettably ridiculous addition to the series. Grum out-does iconic Mortal Kombat champion, Goro, by bringing yet another additional two arms to the fight! One can only imagine that makes Grum even better than Goro, non?

No. Not at all.
Sub-Zero; a character who became a central figure to the story as significant as Liu Kang, or any other hero; gets a chance to shine on his own terms.

Eagle-eyed readers will have noted that links to Sub-Zero thus far are tagged with the name Noob Saibot. Noob was an all black palette swap of Scorpion in 1993's Mortal Kombat II, which also revealed the playable Sub-Zero as brother to the character of the same name, who had actually perished in the first game.
2004's Deception introduced the fact that that first Sub-Zero had been transformed into the dark wraith called Noob Saibot. This concept was soon supported in '05 through the release of the adventure spin-off Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.

The key distinction between the two incarnations of Sub-Zero were the heroic nature of the succeeding brother, and the tie between the former Sub-Zero and his arch-nemesis, Scorpion. The latter version of the character earned the protection of the undead spectre when Scorpion discovered his true identity, leading to further complications later in the tale of his curse.

The Malibu series doesn't quite adhere to the established canon of the video games, allowing the first games' Sub-Zero to survive, and even appear more heroic than his in-game counterpart. X-fans will probably appreciate the parallel between comic book mythology, and the convoluted twists of the MK universe...

As to the matter at hand; Grum intimidates with six sets of nunchaku spinning wildly, if inconsequentially. Sub-Zero summons the powers of cryomancy to render his opponent inert, leaving Grum helpless before a flying kick.
Goro, having watched the fight, laments on his disappointment in not getting a chance to snap his good friend's neck in battle, settling for Sub-Zero instead.

Sub-Zero is sure to be a prominent representative of Mortal Kombat as we continue to initiate these characters into the Infinite Wars rankings. I hope we might get a chance in the future to take a look at his successor, if only for the opportunity to make a less confusing statement about the identity of each character. Apologies to anyone now irreversably cross-eyed after reading the previous explanation of the two Sub-Zeros.

The Fix: 3 Winner: Sub-Zero (Who eventually becomes Noob Saibot...)

- HYDRO versus JOHNNY CAGE
Ah! Few characters unique to the Malibu comic series have caused as much confusion and interest as the aptly (but ridiculously) named, Hydro!

For those who've grown up with Mortal Kombat as an influence on their vernacular, Sub-Zero is probably so intrinsicly associated with the character, they no longer realise how absurdly descriptive a name it is for a stealthy, bad ass Chinese warrior. In that respect, I feel it's again worth acknowledging precedent for Malibu's ridiculous contribution.

Unfortunately, however, the true status of the character became entangled with rumor, fan distribution, and a healthy dose of vintage arcade-style lying.

The popular practise of MUGEN allows fans to insert, combine, and create playable characters from a wide range of franchise video games. It's here the MK fanbase was able to realise Hydro as a mechanized Lin Kuei cyber-warrior, complete with his own special moves. This, however, only fanned the flames for confusion over whether or not Hydro actually existed.
A quick YouTube search will fill you in on these devices used for fantasy battles between the likes of; Akuma, Homer Simpson, Robocop, and Brolli.

Meanwhile, in the bowels of Shang Tsung's palace... Johnny Cage and Liu Kang seek the Shaolin tandem of Sing and Sang; warriors whose powers combine to make Malibu's most embarassing inclusion -- the green mohawked, Siang!

Whilst navigating the labyrinth of hallways they come across the lurking Lin Kuei warrior, Hydro, who's none too pleased to see them. Hydro shoots first, firing jets of water from his mortal hands in a move reminiscent to Sub-Zero's ice blast!

Cage is able to duck the move, leaving Liu Kang to glug his way through a face full of water. Cage, smooth customer that he is, takes the opportunity to launch himself into a flying kick that knocks the Lin Kuei warrior into submission.
Further fisticuffs are quickly quelled by the arrival of the masked guards, who surely keep the secrets of the warriors who have obtained victory, only to disappear from the competition...

The Fix: 3 Winner: Johnny Cage

- KANO versus GORO
The final bout in the series sees Kano return to action.
We've already lamented on Kano's role in luring Sonya to the tournament, but as per the rule of motivation, Kano has his own goals. Never one to pass up an opportunity for crime, Kano enters the tournament with an agenda to liberate certain riches from the veiled sorceror, Shang Tsung.

For Blood & Thunder, this motive grafts onto a theme that will encompass the latter half of the series, and distract from the conventions that justify the entire plot of the game. For you see, despite the zealous enforcement of the masked guards, the rules of combat are quickly dismissed when the Earthrealm warriors wind up bundled into a dungeon beneath Shang Tsung's palace.

The introduction of a book of riddles; capable of granting the solver power beyond imagination; becomes the omniscient mcguffin that diverts combat to something more akin to the Wacky Racers. Kano brings the book to the A-story when he steals it from behind the back of a fawning Shang Tsung, only to flee to the den of a sleeping Goro.

Goro not surprisingly dispatches the Black Dragon thief with relative ease. An energy blast has little effect on the four armed Shokan, who finishes his opponent with a single backhand, and some dubious dialogue; "I'll have to string you up and finish my business with you later."

Y'know, I always wondered about that ponytail...

The Fix: 2 Winner: Goro (Flawless Victory!)

The Hammer...
I think, if I had to be honest, a big ol' chunk of self-consciousness is responsible for my continued acknowledgment of Mortal Kombat's issues. I'm very conscious of a split audience in this case, but I assure you all the on-going discussions have been vital not only to my sanity, but to the unfolding events of the Infinite Wars!

As something new(ish) to the site, and topical in nature, it's been providing a great subject to breach relatively easily, and mine lots of discussion from. An important fact because, as you might have noticed, I've been a bit distracted from Infinite Wars duties over the past month.

Top 25 Gamers#1 Ryu (Capcom)
#2 Noob Saibot (Midway)
#3 Dhalsim (Capcom)
#4 Ken Masters (Capcom)
#5 Johnny Cage (Midway)
#6 Guile (Capcom)
#7 R. Mika (Capcom)
#8 Goro (Midway)
#9 Sagat (Capcom)
#10 Fei Long (Capcom)
#11 Raiden (Midway)
#12 Akuma (Capcom)
#13 Sakura (Capcom)
#14 T. Hawk (Capcom)
#15 Jin Kazama (Namco)
#16 Rose (Capcom)
#17 Sonya (Midway)
#18 Chun-Li (Capcom)
#19 Vega (Capcom)
#20 Birdie (Capcom)
#21 Scorpion (Midway)
#22 Kano (Midway)
#23 Liu Kang (Midway)
#24 Balrog (Capcom)
#25 Sodom (Capcom)As always, I hope this shift in subject can be enlightening and enjoyable for those who log on for more than just our sports league brand of comic fights.

The ranking aspect is always going to be interesting, particularly given the age old debate between Western fanbases surrounding MK and Street Fighter; but there's more at work here. These are characters of archaelogical significance in the pop culture realm, and it feels right to talk more about them, particularly to an audience irrevocably connected, but seemingly disinterested.

As we rocket toward November's Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe I hope we can breach and share some of what's made the series an enduring topic for me. I'm all too aware of MK's problems, but I'm pretty comfortable in the thought that I'm a relatively intelligent fellow and believe I have some credibility in describing the franchise as much more than just 'that fossil of techno syndromed acrobatics masquerading as martial arts'.

This is a franchise populated by characters who've earned their place in the on-going fictional canon. The promotional exercise of the video game seems like the perfect opportunity to remind comics readers of that shared pursuit. It will be a real shame if DC aren't to announce a licensed crossover comic to hit sometime around the game's release, because this is a series so desperately crying out for a decent comics treatment.

The comics creator in me is a little disheartened by the team-up.
Long have I desired the opportunity to tackle these characters in a way they deserve. It was a dream to give these characters the treatment they deserved under the NLT banner, but I'm not too worried.

The deck isn't quite stacked for what I would call a penultimate Mortal Kombat comic, but with competent individuals like Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray involved, it's definitely my hope that we can get some sort of decent project out of this. If there are advantages to be shared for each franchise, replacing the Malibu comics with something more reflective of the strong fiction of the video games seems like a good place to start. We shall be watching!

Fix Average: 3 The Issue: 3.5

IN STORES: MAY 21, 2008
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.

The Infinite Wars now has a gift shop!
Now you'll find Amazon purchase links to hardcovers, trade paperbacks, and other collections, not only on regular entries -- but also new releases at the bottom of the Shipping List, and now a whole catalogue of potential purchases via the Infinite Wars: Amazonian Gift Shop. [Men are also welcome!] By shopping with Amazon via our purchase links, you not only find yourself a great deal, but also sponsor future entries on the Infinite Wars.

READ THE PREVIEW - VISIT THE SITE - BUY THE COMIC
Thin and Crispy...
MAR080139 BATMAN AND THE OUTSIDERS #7 $2.99
MAR080163 BIRDS OF PREY #118 $2.99
MAR082063 BOMB QUEEN V #1 (OF 6) (MR) $3.50
MAR082173 CAPTAIN AMERICA #38 $2.99
FEB080182 COUNTDOWN TO MYSTERY #8 (OF 8) $3.99
FEB082151 DYNAMO 5 #13 $3.50
MAR082175 FANTASTIC FOUR #557 $2.99
MAR080030 GRENDEL BEHOLD THE DEVIL #7 (OF 8) $3.50
MAR080024 INDIANA JONES & KINGDOM O/T CRYSTAL SKULL #1 FLEMING CVR $5.99
MAR080025 INDIANA JONES & KINGDOM O/T CRYSTAL SKULL #1 STRUZAN CVR $5.99
FEB082124 INVINCIBLE UNIVERSE PRIMER #1 $5.99
MAR080172 JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #21 $2.99
FEB080227 JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #15 $2.99
MAR082207 MIGHTY AVENGERS #14 SI $2.99
MAR080214 PROGRAMME #11 (OF 12) $2.99
MAR080159 SUPERMAN BATMAN #48 $2.99
MAR080126 TANGENT SUPERMANS REIGN #3 (OF 12) $2.99
MAR082155 ULTIMATE X-MEN #94 $2.99
MAR082240 WOLVERINE ORIGINS #25 $3.99

The Deep Dish...
- MAR080164 BRAVE AND THE BOLD #13 $2.99
A title seemingly designed for cancellation, I struggled to get much farther than the first issue of DC's Silver Age nostalgia reboot of Brave and the Bold. Mark Waid delivers the quaint with a hint of contemporary character, but does so without enough oomph or event self-awareness to really make for an enjoyable read.
If I were buying strictly to represent modern combat, the lure of a Batman/Flash team-up against an android samurai is pretty enticing, but on any other day, I wouldn't mention it. Waid truly feels lost in todays market, and I really don't understand why, and I get the impression, neither does he.

- MAR080152 CATWOMAN #79 $2.99
After tying very specifically into the recent Salvation Run crossover, I'm hoping this will be a much needed breath of fresh air for the Catwoman title. Not unlike a lot of titles under Ed Brubaker's guard, I felt the title was started to become somewhat bogged down by the rigmarole of storyarcs feeding into storyarcs. I suspect the structure shall remain the same, but it'll be nice to get away from stalwarts like Hammer and Sickle, to rekindle some of the sassy urban chic that made the title such a joy under Darwyn Cooke and, rather ironically, Ed Brubaker!

- MAR080165 CHECKMATE #26 $2.99
There's a question engulfing this title even bigger than the fictional mysteries detailed in the pages within: Is there life in the old girl after Rucka? Though a fan of the title, I actually like to think it can get better from here. As solid as Rucka was in managing and introducing the elements now associated with Checkmate, I don't think he was nearly as smart or complicated as some thought. That's not necessarily a bad thing, quite the contrary really! I imagine it shouldn't be too hard for Bruce Jones to pick up the title cleanly, while infusing his own minutia and style. Here's hoping the title gets enough grace to survive a disaster, just incase.

- MAR080137 DC WILDSTORM DREAMWAR #2 (OF 6) $2.99
We've been talking a lot lately about DC's pending video game collision with Mortal Kombat.
As bizarre as the announcement might have seemed, it's fair to say DC aren't exactly strangers to the crossover, logical or otherwise. Here we see what is presumably promotional filler to try to boost Wildstorm's lagging numbers amidst editorial conundrums and terminal delays. Described as Universes Colliding, one hopes it's a sign of things to come for a comic tie-in for the game.

- MAR080170 FLASH #240 $2.99
It's bizarre to think just a few years ago Flash was a must-read buzz title finding strong characterization under Mark Waid, and ebbing pathos and significance under Geoff Johns. Oh, how the mighty fall!
The Flash seems has been suffering speed wobble since being shunted aside during the end of Infinite Crisis. A prolonged absence was bungled when Bart Allen filled the boots briefly before being killed off, along with his starring title and it's former TV-series writers, in favour of a belated return of the 'real deal' - Wally West!

The previously mentioned troubles Mark Waid's been experiencing have been front and centre in the Flash. After seemingly removing himself from the title dismayed, it feels like damage control as Flash matters become resolved and ignored both here, and in the Justice League title. Hopefully a clash with Gorilla Grodd can be just the kind of return to superhero normalcy the Flash needs to balance back out, because it'd be nice to have some footing before speeding head-first into Final Crisis and the possible return of Barry Allen!

- MAR082211 INCREDIBLE HERCULES #117 SI $2.99
Hanging on the fringe of the Marvel Universe, Incredible Hercules has managed to be the sleeper hit of 2008! Diversity and superhero smackdowns have been the key to this road trip through the Marvel landscape. A scuffle with the Eternals will provide the first pit-stop for Herc since World War Hulk, as he forms a pantheon of new gods to counter the Skrull gods playing a part in Secret Invasion.
I'm almost disappointed to see the title get caught up in the latest headline crossover, but the book's sure to present a unique perspective of the invasion.


Know Your Trade...
FEB080249 BATMAN VS TWO FACE TP $19.99
DEC070065 GRENDEL DEVIL CHILD HC $14.95
OCT070037 GRENDEL HC DEVIL QUEST $14.95
JAN080088 HELLBOY COMPANION TP (RES) $14.95
JAN080090 HELLBOY TP VOL 08 DARKNESS CALLS $19.95
MAR082273 HULK VISIONARIES JOHN BYRNE TP VOL 01 $24.99
MAR082266 HULK WWH TP INCREDIBLE HERC $14.99
MAR082252 MMW MIGHTY THOR HC VOL 07 $54.99
FEB080257 SHOWCASE PRESENTS GREEN LANTERN TP VOL 03 $16.99
JAN080204 SUPERMAN ESCAPE FROM BIZARRO WORLD HC $24.99
OCT071973 TIM SALE BLACK & WHITE HC $39.99






Site Update...
Is it just me, or has May been in hyper-time?...
Because the traffic demands it, we'll be taking another ranked look back at the Mortal Kombat comics. Time has made it difficult to maintain the balance, but you can count on some more Iron Man making it's way to the site, as well as future entries into the Smash Hits. Be sure to spread the word about the site if we're touching on anything of relevance, and be sure to take full advantage of specials and already low prices in the Gift Shoppe, and also the $1.99 price tag on my own twenty-two page black and white comic, The Kirby Martin Inquest!

FANTASY FIGHTS: MORTAL KOMBAT/DC UNIVERSE (ROUND 5)!
A looming threat promises a destructive Final Crisis for the DC Universe, but for this dark prophecy to come to fruition, there'll need to be a DC Universe! Such is the threat posed by the upcoming Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe video game, that pits the champions of both worlds against one and other in one-on-one combat!

During the week readers of the Official UK Playstation Magazine got the first sneak peak of the Man of Steel as he appears in the game. For everybody else, keep your eye on the official website for promised updates that will probably include the rendered image, as well as one of the other confirmed characters; Batman, or Sub-Zero.

Last week we got our first glimpse of a retro-inspired Scorpion, which was disappointing, to say the least. Fortunately the iconography of DC's greatest icons leaves little margin for error. Superman is exactly as you would expect him. Bold in blue and red; Midway's sculpt is a contemporary-classic representation of the hero with enough detail to appease old fans; such as a very strong Ed McGuinness-esque jawline.

EDIT: Midway officially released their Superman render, along with backgrounds of a ruined Metropolis and the Netherealm. I dare say the Superman model looks somewhere between Byrne and recent Kubert. Lighting isn't great on the image, giving it a very flat look, but it looks like it could do with a deeper colour palette. Shades of Brandon Routh (or maybe Reeves) are hard to escape.

As a fan of both franchises, the Infinite Wars are paying homage to the characters potentially matching-up in the upcoming video game.
We've been pulling out a whole range of names to give both camps a chance to better acquaint themselves with elements in enemy universes, all the while counting down to the big names everybody knows, and wants to see!

I have to admit, I'm starting to suspect a subconcious DC bias, given that the bulk of these match-ups were pre-scheduled mere hours after the announcement of the video game. As mentioned, it's fair to say the two sides would be more than competitive, but there is a reason behind my concluding leanings.
For better or worse, Mortal Kombat's cast is notorious for being characterized under fairly shallow conditions. Often traits of naivity or stupidity are magnified, while many of the DC characters boast the maturity of of forty-years of publication, and characters dependent on intelligence.

Basically, there's a pecking order, and MK factors pretty low on it. However, fret not! The half-way mark brings a colourful and eclectic group of characters to respond to last week's fairly mediocre line-up. You can find it, as well as weeks one, two, three, (four), and the recent Blood & Thunder review, in links provided!

AMAZO
[#367] :RANKING
[40%] :ODDS

CYRAX
RANKING: [NR]
ODDS: [65%]
Outerworld
Investigation
AgencyCYRAX versus AMAZO
Strength: Amazo 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Amazo 4 (Tactician)
Speed: Amazo 6 (Mach Speeds)
Stamina: Draw 6 (Generator)
Agility: Cyrax 3 (Acrobat)
Fighting: Cyrax 5 (Martial Arts)
Energy: Amazo 6 (Mass Destruction)

The Battle...
Last week the issue was raised regarding the nature of Mortal Kombat's characters. It's worth remembering that this is a world of gods and monsters, not just quaint martial artists.
Most of the characters have some sort of extraordinary skill or power, even if it's only the summoning energy of their spiritual chi. So, while Superman might give everyone a run for their money, and I might have a leaning toward the DC heroes, don't think these franchises aren't potentially on the level.

A prime example of power is the cybernetic additions from Mortal Kombat 3!
When Shao Kahn launched an assault on the realm of Earth, the Lin Kuei opted to convert their fighters into souless robotic warriors. Fighters like Sub-Zero opted to flee the corrupt clan, but the conveniently named Sektor and Cyrax were not so lucky!

Cyrax and Sektor were stripped of their humanity, programmed to hunt their former clansman (Sub-Zero). Defeat left Cyrax malfunctioning and trapped in the desert, only to be discovered by Special Forces agents. Though irreversibly mechanized, part of Cyrax' humanity was restored by the group, allowing him to join icons, Jax and Sonya, in the top secret Outerworld Investigation Agency.

Amazo has far less noble origins as an android created by Professor Ivo to combat the combined might of the Justice League. Built to harness and imitate the various powers of the League's greatest champions, there are many different versions of the robot, but Amazo commonly possesses the abilities of; Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Aquaman, Green Lantern, and Martian Manhunter.

At this point, you can probably see where the conclusion is going.
Given the penchant for compilation characters in fighting games, particularly Mortal Kombat, it's not hard to visualize a character who borrows from his heroic counterparts. Though certain to be maligned by fans, Amazo could make for an interesting visual, if nothing else. At this point, I probably want to qualify that I'm strictly speaking about the burly android from the comics, and not the Silver Surfer-esque tangent from the animated series.

Cyrax has attacks ranging from net projectiles, buzz saws, bombs, energy blades, and lots of other neat tricks, but I've got to believe Amazo would win nine times out of ten. Sorry guys.

The Math: Amazo Our Winner: Amazo

JOKER
[#226] :RANKING
[75%] :ODDS
Injustice League

HAVIK
RANKING: [NR]
ODDS: [20%]
ChaosHAVIK versus JOKER
Strength: Havik 3 (Athlete)
Intelligence: Joker 5 (Professor)
Speed: Havik 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Havik 6 (Generator)
Agility: Havik 5 (Cat-like)
Fighting: Havik 5 (Martial Arts)
Energy: Havik 3 (Explosive)

The Battle...
With a movie on the way it's a big year for the Joker. He's front and centre for the upcoming Batman RIP story, and was a must for the speculative DC line-up.

When it came to pairing the Joker with a character there were a few vague options. On the surface Havik, purveyor of (dis)organized chaos, doesn't seem like a very obvious opponent, but that quickly changes when you start talking about the character. He's a decaying anarchist from the Chaosrealm whose allegiance can be bought in the name of greater chaos, almost a contradiction in itself. Like many inhabitants of the Chaosrealm, Havik also appears almost incapable of dying, defying the laws of logic that govern natural life.

A chaotic character with a penchant for avoiding death?
I think you can probably see why these made all kinds of thematic sense.

I don't know whether to expect the Joker in DC vs MK.
Arguably one of the most recognised villains in superhero fiction, and a foil to one of the most popular heroes (Batman); the Joker isn't especially suited to the combative arena of beat 'em up video games. When you consider the expected tally is unlikely to tip twelve, it seems an injustice to believe the Joker could steal a spot of so many other deserving characters.

Iconic is the word being used to describe the final roster.
The Joker himself is perhaps the most iconic reference of the trickster archetype, and certainly stands out as one of the most enduring villains in the impressive Batman rogues gallery. In-game, I'd expect a gangly but proficient fight style, devoid of grace or majesty, but deceptively powerful.

Acid spewing collar flowers, electric joybuzzers, and maybe even a gun that shoots a BANG! flag for a finisher gag, make a logical line-up of special moves for the clown prince of crime. Is that enough to secure him a spot? I don't know at this point. So far we only have the obvious to go on, with bizarre rumors of inclusions like Poison Ivy defying logic beyond the already unlikely meeting.

The Math: Havik Our Winner: Joker

BRAINIAC
[NR] :RANKING
[50%] :ODDS

SMOKE
RANKING: [NR]
ODDS: [50%]
Brotherhood
of ShadowSMOKE versus BRAINIAC
Strength: Brainiac 5 (Superhuman)
Intelligence: Brainiac 7 (Infinite Wisdom)
Speed: Smoke 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Draw 6 (Generator)
Agility: Smoke 7 (Infinitely Malleable)
Fighting: Smoke 5 (Martial Arts)
Energy: Draw 5 (Lasers)

The Battle...
Though not the first secret character to grace the mysterious side of the Mortal Kombat gaming franchise; Smoke might just be the best known.

As the most accessible character to tempt fans with his appearances in Mortal Kombat II, Smoke went on to develop a strong following even into MK3, where he joined Cyrax and Sektor in the Lin Kuei's conversion to cybernetic warriors.
Also like Cyrax, Smoke eventually malfunctioned, but unlike his yellow counterpart, was never rescued after being reprogrammed as a drone in Shao Kahn's army. This cyber-warrior was left to ruin in the dungeons of Outworld, inactive until discovered and reprogrammed by Noob Saibot.

Brainiac was a Coluan scientist that found himself in need of a human host when he was destroyed by the planet's computerized rulers. In posession of the illusionist, Milton Fine, Brainiac became a powerful telepathic villain, combatting Superman with cybernetic enhancements that gave him even greater mentalist capabilities.

Brainiac's history is a garbled mess leading to various incarnations dependent upon, or working in unison with, technology. The theme here is obviously cybernetics, but in the MK canon Smoke's original association with his namesake was redeveloped by the device of nano-technology. That's right! The Lost mystery is over -- the smoke monster is just a nano-cyber-warrior from Mortal Kombat!

By his recent thirteenth numerical incarnation, Brainiac was entirely cybernetic and similarly capable of sustaining himself as a collective of nano-tech particles. Thus revealing the all-important theme behind the meeting of metals!

I tend to think it's this very confusing history that makes Brainiac a less than desirable character for a game like this. I don't tend to think of Brainiac as a character particularly suited to hand-to-hand combat, even if his many incarnations boast superhuman strength, speed, endurance, and a plethora of tech or mental capabilities for special moves.
Certainly iconic, but historically handicapped, this villain with baggage will always be the bridesmaid to Lex Luthor.

As is becoming common, I tend to think intelligence and experience is key to Brainiac's victory, but you never know.

The Math: Smoke Our Winner: Brainiac

EQUUS
[#238] :RANKING
[20%] :ODDS

MOTARO
RANKING: [NR]
ODDS: [20%]
Outworld ArmiesMOTARO versus EQUUS
Strength: Draw 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Motaro 2 (Average)
Speed: Equus 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Draw 6 (Generator)
Agility: Equus 2 (Average)
Fighting: Motaro 6 (Warrior)
Energy: Draw 3 (Explosive)

The Battle...
To hell with introductions! Mortal Kombat fans rejoice! A battle where MK victory is assured!

Don't get me wrong, though! Equus was an exciting new villain introduced in Brian Azzarello's, For Tomorrow. Though not particularly unique or brilliant; Equus had the distinction of coming organically from an intelligent story exploring Superman's psyche and character; distancing him from less admirable comparisons, such as Doomsday. This firm base lends weight to a character who since went on to appear in the pages of Countdown as an unlikely sparring partner for Karate Kid [who was featured in MK vs DC Week 1!].

Motaro is an equally uncomplicated character, defined as much by appearances, as his surly demeanor and conquests as a warrior. A raging centaur, Motaro was realised in 2006's Armageddon reimagined as a minotaur, a result of design malaise as much as in-story rivalries with the four-armed Shokan fighters.

It's technological restraints like that, combined with the MK team's legendary laziness and ambitious deadlines, that make Motaro all but excluded from the potential roster. Likewise, Equus offers very little originality at an exchange terribly low given the obscurity of the character. As much as I'm reluctant to support it, a Doomsday makes a lot more sense, if you're going to pull from Superman's brawling super heavyweights.

While I think the bucking brute strength of Motaro would be too much for the genetically engineered mercenary, I still have a real soft spot for Equus. If there were ever an opportunity to introduce more obscure contemporary references from the DC world, I'd definitely enjoy seeing him among them.

The Math: Draw Our Winner: Motaro

BATGIRL
[NR] :RANKING
[25%] :ODDS
League of
Assassins

SAREENA
RANKING: [NR]
ODDS: [50%]
Lin KueiSAREENA versus BATGIRL
Strength: Draw 3 (Athlete)
Intelligence: Batgirl 4 (Tactician)
Speed: Draw 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Draw 4 (Athlete)
Agility: Draw 4 (Gymnast)
Fighting: Draw 5 (Martial Artist)
Energy: Batgirl 3 (Explosives)

The Battle...
The convention of the redeemed badgirl is a storied archetype in popular fiction. It's a theme I think we'll probably see at least once more in our DC/MK fantasy fights, but for this week, it's the exclusive distinction of Sareena and Batgirl.

Today's Batgirl comes from a far more impressive pediree than the yellow and purple heroine depicted famously, but dubiously, by Yvonne Craig.
The daughter of assassin David Cain, and the unstoppable fighting machine that is, Lady Shiva [another week one]; Cassandra Cain became Batgirl in the wake of an earthquake that devestated Gotham City, after serving as an agent of crippled former-Batgirl, Barbara Gordon.

Cain's childhood training to interpret physical language as a means of predicting and countering an opponent's movement in combat left her incapable of speech or language. Though she was soon granted language at the cost of her inate skills, she has since remained one of the most impressive fighters in the DC Universe, clashing successfully with senior rivals such as Shiva and Deathstroke.

Like Batgirl; Sareena's origins stem from the side of evil.
Originally a demon of the Netherealm, Sareena was taken into bondage by the sorcery of Quan Chi. As one of his assassins she eventually developed a leaning toward Sub-Zero during his mission to obtain a powerful medallion. Redemption would came after that man's death, via the parallel sympathies of the succeeding Sub-Zero, who developed a similar romantic interest in the demon.

Though struggling with her darkside and the pull Quan Chi has over her, Sareena becomes an ally of Sub-Zero's new Lin Kuei.

There's a certain redundancy to a character like Batgirl, certainly when speaking in terms of a fighting video game. The bat-brand is already flagged by it's originator, and in terms of fight mechanics, only the details of her style would differentiate from the arsenal utilized by her mentor. In a better game I might like to see Batgirl's lifelong training interpreted in an interactive environment, but as is, I wouldn't expect to see her.

Sareena seems equally unlikely to appear, but remains a disappointingly under developed character. Her relationship with Sub-Zero seems to be regularly aborted, regardless of incarnation, and her association with Quan Chi continues to drag her to supporting status. With only twelve-or-so characters to choose from, I highly doubt Sareena to be among them, but if the realms were truly in peril, I can't imagine a logic that sees her leave Sub-Zero alone in battle.

The Math: Batgirl Our Winner: Batgirl

PROMETHEUS
[NR] :RANKING
[25%] :ODDS

SHUJINKO
RANKING: [NR]
ODDS: [15%]SHUJINKO versus PROMETHEUS
Strength: Prometheus 4 (Enhanced)
Intelligence: Prometheus 5 (Professor)
Speed: Prometheus 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Draw 4 (Athlete)
Agility: Draw 3 (Acrobat)
Fighting: Prometheus 7 (Born Fighter)
Energy: Prometheus 5 (Lasers)

The Battle...
I've been keeping an interested eye on some of the fantasy matches being cooked up by fans. I've seen a lot of names floated, some sure to appear in our own listing, but Prometheus has been surprisingly absent for the most part.

Having debuted only ten years ago; Prometheus is among the more prominent villains known for his fighting prowess. A uniquely designed helmet grants him Matrix-esque abilities to download skills and techniques stored on disc, many drawing inspiration from compilations of DC's best fighters!

It's his white elephant penchant for borrowing moves from DC's greatest fighters that leads me to pair him with the much maligned protagnist from 2004's Mortal Kombat: Deception. Shujinko, the subject of a forty-year mini-game, develops an arsenal over the ages that borrows techniques from Mortal Kombat's icons.

The embodiment of MK's naive and poorly developed characters; Shujinko really should have become an instant classic. Inspired by the mythological legend, Bak Mei, Shujinko fails to capture the world weary brilliance of an unbeatable martial arts master. His role should arguably make him one of the most powerful fighters in the Mortal Kombat universe, but it's hard to acknowledge that level of skill.

Shujinko borrows special attacks from the likes of Sub-Zero, Scorpion, Raiden, and Liu Kang. Again, this highlights the popular tradition of characters borrowing techniques from their opponents. A quality famously started by the sprite morphing boss, Shang Tsung, and continued with chagrin by subsequent characters.

Fortunately, Prometheus brings with him more than just the martial arts fighting techniques he's copied. Also in his arsenal is a baton capable of inflicting superhuman blows, a cosmic key to a pocket dimension that allows him to teleport, and a range of projectile weapons including darts, missiles, poison gasses, and a variety of incapacitating devices. A brilliant strategist, Prometheus is a formiddable fighter without his helmet, and a character tailor made for a fighting video game!

The Math: Prometheus Our Winner: Prometheus

NEXT WEEK: The second-half of the Fantasy Fights has everything from the iconic to the obscure! We've got Scorpion, Stryker, and everything in between as we continue to roll out some heavy hitters from the DC Universe! Be here!

COVER TO COVER: INVINCIBLE IRON MONTH (ROUND 3)!
For this month's C2C I decided to divide up our catalogue featurettes to accomodate different qualities that make up Iron Man. After all, he's a multi-facetted character. Don't believe me? Pick up a couple of different titles featuring the character right now and you'll find anything from the flying adventures of a superhero, to the mysoginistic beddings of a playboy, to the stressful politics of an espionage director.

We've already spotlighted the flying superhero and the golden Avenger, but what of the secret life of Stark? As a character deeply involved with political tensions, corporate espionage, and international intrigue; many of Iron Man's struggles seperate from his life with the Avengers! The private battles Stark endures include everything from alcoholism, crippling injuries, Russians, Chinese, space aliens, and more!
Perhaps Tony Stark's greatest feud remains his private war with the anti-technology terrorist, the Mandarin! The following are just a handful of Stark's veiled conflicts.

Iron Man #271 (August 1991)
"Dragon Flame" Byrne/Ryan
If by now you've seen the movie, then you've already met James Rhodes, the man destined to become War Machine! You probably saw that coming, but did you know Rhodey has stood in as Iron Man for several tenures throughout he and Stark's partnership?

That's right! When the Mandarin returns from apparent death he brings with him the menace whose back scrapes the sun in an effort to test the legitimacy of his foe. Suspicious that the armored hero might not be who he seems, Mandarin, and his own master, watch as Rhodey does battle with Fin Fang Foom!

Fin Fang Foom is just one of the classic Iron Man villains unlikely to make it to the big screen, so the only place you'll soak up the sights of the alien dragon are in the comics!

Iron Man #316 (May 1995)
"Triangle" Kaminski/Morgan
Right behind the Mandarin and Fin Fang Foom are two villains from an age when relations between the United States and Communist Russia where cold, to say the least. For some soldiers in the Soviet red army the war never ended.

With the Black Widow by his side; Iron Man launches an attack to stop the Titanium Man, who's been sabotaging and attacking recently developed parks maintained by Stark Industries!

The Titanium Man's unrelenting assault is only provoked further when his former soldier in arms, Crimson Dynamo, arrives to pacify the cold war venom of the armored villain. It is an intervention that costs the Dynamo dearly, but opens the door to a new chapter in the secret life of Stark. A humble moment as he waves the flag of the Russian hero who gave everything to stop his countryman!

Iron Man #3 (March 2005)
"Extremis" Ellis/Granov
The former US Secretary of Defense is forced into defensive action when the survivor of a radical terrorist family from the American South obtains experimental technology designed to reprogram DNA to create a living weapon. With the threat to national security, Iron Man faces the angry youngman in the field of combat, but soon finds he's bitten off more than even he can chew!

Anyone looking to make the transition from film to comic will want to get a closer look at Extremis - the story that leads to the modern rebirth of an armored icon! With political, social, and economical undertones, the story not only pits Tony Stark against a powerful new foe capable of his destruction, but also leads to the moment when Stark himself undergoes the Extremis procedure, and finally becomes a living Iron Man more machine than man!

New Avengers: Illuminati #1 (February 2007)
Bendis/Reed/Cheung
As a successful industrialist, former Secretary of Defense, and Director of SHIELD, Tony Stark knows a thing or two about secrecy. The word takes on a new meaning, however, when the greatest minds and powers of the superhero community unite to form a secretive cabal designed to monitor and manipulate the most serious of threats to the human race, and issues internal to the powered community.

With Black Bolt, Dr. Strange, Reed Richards, Namor, and Prof. Charles Xavier; Tony Stark undertakes efforts to guard infinitely powerful cosmic weapons, prevent existential experimentation, and stop the rampaging aggressions of the Hulk -- but of all the interventions of the Illuminati, the most infamous is sure to become their warning to the Skrull. Watch as Stark attempts to save the planet, only to condemn it to assured destruction at the hands of a secret Skrull invasion!

Nova #3 (August 2007)
"Home Truths" Abnett/Lanning/Chen
After championing the Superhero Registration Act; Tony Stark was elevated to the official senior role of Director of SHIELD. His position gives him jurisdiction over America's heroes, but what of the powers outside America's invisible boarders?...

The alarm is raised when the last surviving Centaurian of the Nova Corps returns to planet Earth after battling the Annihilation Wave that threatened to exterminate life in the universe! Once a member of the youth group, the New Warriors; Richard Ryder returns world weary and ill prepared for the fickle rule over super powers.

Unwilling to turn his back on injustice, Nova uses his cosmic power, earning attention for his illegal vigilantism. A public showdown ensues in the most violent way, ensuring a beurocratic biff between Iron Man's SHIELD and the autonomous Thunderbolts!

SMASH HITS: GEORGE MICHAEL

George Michael - Freeek! (2001)
Seven years before Iron Man hit cinemas [that makes 2001, kiddos!] liberally minded museos got a glimpse of what might-be in the sexually charged futureshock that was; George Michael's, Freeek!

I know what you're thinking: Why did it take so long to see George Michael in the Infinite Wars?!

Somewhere between 2000AD and a sci-fi Japanese pink box; the video calls for viewer discretion. If you can stomach bumping and grinding your way through Michael's European #1 hit watch for the fully realised unveiling of an Iron Man-styled armor, goateed sans helmet, somewhere around the three minute mark!

And with that, we're officially back up-to-date here on the Infinite Wars.
At least, until the next terminal delay...

IRON MAN versus TERRORISTS
Extremis: Five of Six (Marvel)
Where: Iron Man #5 When: March 2006
Why: Warren Ellis How: Adi Granov

The Story So Far...
A top secret process designed to reprogram genetic coding of human DNA has been stolen by American terrorists. Hell bent on exacting revenge for familial deaths and perceived wrongs by federal authorities; a young man named Mallen undergoes the Extremis process to turn himself into a living bio-tech weapon.

In an effort to fight fire with fire; Tony Stark submits himself to his own genetic reprogramming. The process cocoons Stark, forcing his mind into a dream state that recalls resonances with his original rebirth from industrialist, into the golden avenger: Iron Man.

Long ago technologies protected him from a potentially lethal piece of shrapnel working it's way toward his heart. As attonement for his life as a decadent weapons manufacturer, Stark continued to use his armor for the greater good, becoming a cold vision of justice. This time, however, the pursuit of justice will sacrifice Tony Stark's humanity as he emerges more machine than man...

Tale of the Tape...
Strength: Iron Man 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Iron Man 5 (Professor)
Speed: Iron Man 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Iron Man 6 (Generator)
Agility: Iron Man 2 (Average)
Fighting Ability: Iron Man 4 (Trained)
Energy Power: Iron Man 5 (Lasers)


- While on a field tour to observe the effects of weaponry designed by his corporation for the United States military; billionaire industrialist, Tony Stark, soon finds himself face-to-face with the bold consequences of his actions.
Caught in a rebel booby trap, Stark suffers a near fatal wound that lodges a piece of shrapnel inches from his heart. The rebels take Stark hostage to demand he apply his genius to the design and construction of weapons built from their limited resources. In doing so, they provide Stark the means to construct a suit of armor that preserves his heart, and turns him into an invincible Iron Man!

Stark's mastery over technology allows him to bring his designs home, where the availability of rapidly upgrading technologies allow him to continue to refine the build to become increasingly mobile and efficient. Stark soon dons the Iron Man armor on a regular basis, not only as insurance against his life threatening injuries, but as an opportunity to atone for the wanton destruction delt by his weapons of death. Stark protects his secrets through the duality of a secret identity, projecting to the world the image of Iron Man as a hi-tech bodyguard.

Advancements in Stark's arsenal have advanced to a point where he has now undergone cybernetic synthesis on a genetic level. The armor now not only provides him with superhuman strength and an array of offensive weapons, but also gives Stark full wireless control over the armor and other peripheral devices, as well as access to information databases, including SHIELD resources under his control as Director of SHIELD. Iron Man remains a staple of the Avengers roster.

- In the 1963 origin for Tony Stark's Iron Man; the industrialist found himself the guest of Vietnamese communists. Stark was tasked with the objective of designing weapons from scrap salvaged by the enemy. Instead he was able to save himself from a fatal wound, while also fashioning a powerful suit of armor with the use of his patented micro transitor technology.

Flash forward to 2006 where Warren Ellis introduces one of many spins on the original Larry Lieber/Stan Lee origin. This time drawing upon contemporary conflicts in Afghanistan, Stark's kidnappers become faceless Afghani terrorists. Otherwise; Stark's relationship with fellow hostage, Yin Sen, and the sentiments of the nationalistic march of violence through the enemy remains the same.

The Math: Iron Man Ranking: Iron Man (#4)

What Went Down...
Having survived the donning of his crude magnetized armor; industrial futurist, Tony Stark, applies the remaining shield of his metallic new skin. The bulky, gun-metal grey armor is the product of Stark's genius, for which he was kidnapped. Though a resourceful lot, the terrorist kidnappers were foolish to leave him with tools and salvaged scrap.

The Iron Man emerges from his den, expressionless but vocal in his march.
The terrorists, armed with their weapons, turn on this bizarre automaton, seeking reprieve from it's lumbering wrath. Their bullets are meaningless to a golem of war. Their shower, ungrateful for the beast they have sponsored into being.

Run, scream, and die, do these once brave warriors.
The Iron Man fires beans of destruction from his fingertips -- the very micromuntions the terrorists had demanded. Still more hopelessly flood to claim victory over the monster of their own making. Still more die for their assault.

The Iron Man proves unappeased by the blood of his attackers.
Vengeful is this shining knight who marches through the terrorist camp, exacting his revenge with the bathing warmth of a flame thrower. He is merciless in bringing destruction to those who would purvey such acts on others.

Iron Man's ironic stampede is paused momentarily by rounds fired from a jeep, powerful enough to dent his impressive exterior. Feeling the heat, Iron Man unleashes his secret weapon, a powerful beam from his chest battery that tosses the jeep like a toy into a magnificent explosion.

Iron Man stands triumphant.
Dead, the people he was supposed to save.

The Hammer...
So marks a rather dramatic start to our overdue coverage of Iron Man!
If you're just joining us you might like to remember that the month started with the blockbuster release of Iron Man: the movie in cinemas worldwide. The film has already gone on to gross several hundred million dollars, and continues to receive acclaim that puts it in the esteem of the respected, Batman Begins.

Iron mongers might like to scroll back through Invincible Iron Month to find a peppered release of materials, including our catalogue highlights of villainous battles and Avengers commitments in the Cover to Cover; as well as the newly initiated Smash Hits, featuring music from Black Sabbath.

Fans of the film will probably find this entry fairly familiar. Despite openly drawing on influences of popular casting calls of the time, (Tom Cruise), Adi Granov digitally paints a revised origin that seems more like a storyboard for trailers, than an issue of the forty year old comic (as of this month!).

Movie makers openly acknowledge the influence of this new origin, with Adi Granov close the project contributing production artwork and design.

Warren Ellis, notorious for questionable work ethic on commision projects, puts in a solid showing on Iron Man. While the title doesn't quite devolve into rambling techno-babble, it does boast a hi-tech revamp that remains with the character today. Extremis; the name of a nano-technological bio virus designed to use the healing centres of the human body to reprogram and rebuild, and the title of the storyarc; serves a conventional six-issue arc that pits Iron Man against a new type of terrorist -- one from within!

The metaphorical struggle not only presents a less prominent face of terrorism - that of disgruntled Americans - but also sees the enemy borne from technology developed on Stark's dollar. The sum of these parts make for a thoroughly compelling and modern approach to superheroics and "the golden avenger."

It's no small wonder that Jon Favreau and the men behind the Iron Man feature film would draw upon this savvy modern story. It merges the requisite fantasy of the superhero genre with socio-economic and ethical concerns that are very relevant to today's state of affairs, touching upon not only the politics of war, but the ever-related subject of futurism and environment.

Iron Man has polarized fans over the past few years as a result of his political campaign against the notion of the masked mysterman. Tony Stark's Superhero Registration Act saw the character rise to Director of SHIELD in the absence of a rebel Nick Fury, while also positioning him as antagonist in the Civil War struggle with his freedom-touting rival, Captain America.

A background commentary on the ideals of American society subtly pitted America's dreams (Captain America), against the reality of their hopes (Iron Man), in what was an undeniably compelling concept, in spite of execution.

Tony Stark's complexities as a self-made hero and icon of the establishment makes him one of the most compelling heroes in the Marvel pantheon. Robert Downey Jr sinks neatly into a representing role that demands as much of character as it does the physical trials of being a superhero. These qualities, though resting dependently on America's military-industrial complex, and the self-serving swagger of a decadent playboy, make Iron Man an appealing character to readers/viewers worldwide.

The film, and Extremis, both do well to encapsulate elements of the realism and intrigue of the character. Like a Batman, or Spider-man; Iron Man possesses a versatility of concept that opens up connotations of these super-serious contemporary struggles, while also lending the notion to laser-firing toys, action adventures, espionage tales, and the wacked out world of the cyberpunk genre.
It's with regret, then, that we actually stop to think about the Iron Man catalogue, and the range of nemesis no doubt being considered for sequels.

We already know of potential crossovers with old sparring partner, the Hulk, as well as the concept of an Avengers megamix, but what of stories closer to Iron Man's core? Sadly, on paper iconic villains like the Mandarin, Fin Fang Foom, Titanium Man, Crimson Dynamo, Whirlwind, and the Living Laser just don't ring true for modern, film-going audiences.

Sure, just as Iron Monger was able to rise to the challenge of big screen arch-nemesis, most of these concepts have more than enough moxxy to be developed into something salvagable. Favreau himself discussed potential to develop the Mandarin into a corporate foil, drawing inspiration from the early 1990's era, but still, the concepts seem to demand so much more tweaking than rivals.

It's probably this divide that's held Iron Man from the upper crust of superhero iconography as long as it has. It seems the future of the character comes from internal struggles, as well as the modern-cues of SHIELD's counter-terrorism role, among other comparable concepts (Hydra? AIM? HATE?).

It seems tragic, yet ironic, that this titan of superhero industry would be so incapable of producing sufficient enough change that his villains would provide a big screen vehicle as obvious as Ra's Al Ghul, Joker, Green Goblin, or Magneto.

I leave you with just one previously discussed solution, and hope you've enjoyed this look at the most recent success of Iron Man. With any luck we'll be taking a look back to much earlier in the shellhead's career soon, but in the mean time, look forward to another thematic inclusion in the Iron Month Smash Hits! You almost certainly won't see this one coming, but it's food for thought!

The Fight: 4 The Issue: 6

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