ABEL versus BIRDIE
(UDON/Capcom)
Where: Street Fighter IV #1 When: February 2009
Why: Ken Siu-Chong How: Joe Ng

The Story So Far...
With his past shrouded in a fog of uncertainty, the French mixed martial artist cum mercenary called Abel relies on a single certainty to give him purpose. Having been found in his amnesiac state in a Shadaloo cell, and rescued from the demolition of the facility by the USAF Lieutenant Charlie Nash; Abel seeks answers and retribution by launching a one-man assault on the international criminal empire responsible for Charlie's death!

Following a lead to London; Abel finds the pro-wrestler turned small time crook, Birdie, running a bungled weapons smuggling operation for Shadaloo's arms dealing branch, S.I.N! Things turn from bad, to worse, as the French fighter seeks information from the hoods about this organization rising from the ashes of Bison's apparent defeat, but Birdie is no slouch in the fighting department!

Tale of the Tape...
Strength: Birdie 4 (Enhanced)
Intelligence: Abel 3 (Straight-A)
Speed: Draw 2 (Average)
Stamina: Draw 4 (Athlete)
Agility: Draw 2 (Average)
Fighting Ability: Abel 5 (Martial Artist)
Energy Power: Birdie 2 (Projectile)


- With his past shrouded in mystery, Abel made for himself a new life as a mixed martial arts mecenary hailing from France. Abel was discovered by US Air Force Lieutenant, Charlie Nash, whilst scouting a Shadaloo SIN weapons facility before it's destruction. It was Charlie who placed the scarred and confused fighter in the care of the mercenary he came to know as his father.

Devestating in his proficiency with the fighting style learnt from his adpotive father, Abel is a capable grappler and striker. He uses these skills in his pursuit of any vestige of Shadaloo's operations he is able to track.

- Hailing from England, the former pro-wrestler turned punk rocker, Birdie, is an undisciplined fighter with aspirations of joining the international crime syndicate, Shadaloo. In an effort to get noticed, this wannabe thug partakes in petty crime on the streets, while using his trademark chain as a weapon in street fights.

Birdie eventually used his reputation to reach the ranks of Shadaloo, but when the temptation of power leads Birdie to devise a plan to use M. Bison's psycho-drive as a means of overthrowing him, a subsequent team-up with Balrog leads to Birdie's undoing, and the alleged collapse of Shadaloo.

Math: Abel Ranking: Birdie (#299)

What Went Down...
Just as Birdie berates his gang for confusing shipments of dolls containing armor-piercing ammunition, the French dynamo enters to learn more about the weapons specialist division of Shadaloo called S.I.N!

Abel puts Birdie's goons out quick with a palm strike and toss, but leaves himself open to the Brit's deadly chain. It wraps up around his neck from behind, but the Frenchman shows incredible strength, using the length to drag Birdie into his clutches for a punk-shaped hammer toss that levels the rest of the gang, before dumping their leader on his head!

Birdie shows considerably more resilience than his gang buddies, laughing at Abel's confidence as he launches into his own unique attack, a rising headbutt the Frenchman didn't see coming!

With unlikely agility for a man so large, Birdie springs to his feet, whipping his chains in trademark style in the same motion. Abel dives beneath the stinging stream of metal, getting into close quarters that return to him the advantage.

Like a raging bull, the grappler charges with Birdie in his unbreakable clutches!
The Brit becomes a human battering ram as his giant frame smashes through wooden crates before colliding with the back wall of their warehouse!

Abel unloads with a three-string combination of punches, before launching into a flipping throw that vaults Birdie's enormous frame overhead to provide a landing pad for the leaping Frenchman! The blow puts an end to Birdie's rebellion, leaving him helpless against the wall once more, with no choice but to divulge the secrets Abel seeks to continue his battle with Shadaloo and his past.

The Hammer...
Let us welcome Abel into the annals of Street Fighter and Infinite Wars history as we declare him the undisputed winner! Yay!

Flash back to the end of February and there's every possibility you were a part of a movement that spread across home consoles worldwide -- Street Fighter IV for PS3 and Xbox 360!

Those who've splashed out to pick up the obscenely priced collector's edition will have already familiarized themselves with the peripheral source of story for the game, which relegates depth of narrative to an hour long animé feature on DVD.
In this respect, the coindiciding release of UDON's most recent expansion of the Capcom/Street Fighter license agreement plays a role as part of a cross medium promotion. To the initial benefit of the work, the series hasn't really been marketted as that kind of a tie-in, but it certainly seems to fit quite nicely!

While the animé provides context for the clash between the heroes of Street Fighter and the looming threat of SIN, the comic dives a little further back, elaborating on the backstory of Crimson Viper and Seth, while also turning attentions to fellow new inclusion, Abel, and overlooked old favourite, Birdie.

Top 25 Game Fighters
#1 Ryu (Capcom)
#2 Shang Tsung (Midway)
#3 Shao Kahn (Midway)
#4 Goro (Midway)
#5 Sonya Blade (Midway)
#6 Dhalsim (Capcom)
#7 Ken Masters (Capcom)
#8 Johnny Cage (Midway)
#9 Noob Saibot (Midway)
#10 Sheeva (Midway)
#11 Raiden (Midway)
#12 Guile (Capcom)
#13 R. Mika (Capcom)
#14 Stryker (Midway)
#15 Sagat (Capcom)
#16 Kano (Midway)
#17 Fei Long (Capcom)
#18 Kintaro (Midway)
#19 Akuma (Capcom)
#20 Hotaru (Midway)
#21 Sakura (Capcom)
#22 T.Hawk (Capcom)
#23 Jin Kazama (Namco)
#24 Rose (Capcom)
#25 Dragon King (Midway)The British punk rocker from the original game, (later revamped for the Alpha series), seems to be a favourite for writer Ken Siu-Chong, who appears slightly less out of his depth in this latest incarnation of the comic. While not entirely out of the ordinary, the character's appearance does have the negative sting of a series of repetitions that have plagued UDON's releases. If their comics are anything to go by, you certainly don't want to spend time in any kind of restaurant in the land of World Warriors!

Street Fighter IV recovers slightly from a steady decline in quality that culminated in the latest of UDON's sequentially relevant series, Street Fighter II Turbo.
One can't help but wonder if the writer is the sole person to blame, given that the issues really do read very much like something coming from an art studio. The writing, in a traditional sense, is at fault, but I wonder how much of these issues are a collaborative effort, spreading the blame as evenly for the bad, as the good, such as the regular use of visual cues familiar to gamers.

Joe Ng's art style returns to the comics a visual flair more familiar to the Capcom properties than the radically different departure by Turbo's Jeffrey Cruz. Most notable is the difference in pacing, which returns to an evocative flow reminiscent of Alvin Lee's glory days on earlier issues of the license.

One gets the sense that Capcom's presence was more felt on Street Fighter IV, giving it the direction the other series have lacked. This first issue delivers a sense of purpose that seems potentially fitted between the cracks of the animé and game. It has a sense of contributing deliberately to the larger picture, which rarely, if ever, was as present during previous series, Turbo included. Minor discrepencys leave doubt over whether or not it will fit seemlessly into the saga of SFIV, but only time can confirm or deny that.

The team could never be accused of dishonoring the spirit of the property.
The inclusion of Birdie, who was sorely missed from the cast of characters included in the game, highlight this. Afterall, even if his inclusion is a way of avoiding to committing to characters without interrupting their predestined paths, at least they chose to utilize one of the beloved B-listers of the universe!

Walking a precarious line between the classic mould of mixed martial arts and nationalism, Abel might be my favourite of the new inclusions. I can't say I'm especially fond of his amnesia plot line, which appears unresolved in his game conclusion, and has a nervous twitch of Cammy about it, but I like him.

As a sense of story unfolds, I've ever found myself looking upon Crimson Viper with a more positive light. She certainly shines in the feature, but looks set to accept a greater sense of humanity than the role of antagonist allows during her animated pursuit of Ken, and Ryu. Seth too will hopefully grow beyond the boss role expressed in the animé, without losing the associated presence.

As you can no doubt tell, I continually find myself looking upon the sole writer with scepticism. At only four issues, one would hope SFIV can maintain the course suggested by a fairly solid first issue. UDON are certainly tapped into the culture of these characters, who so often suffer interpretations that do not do them the service of their twenty year history. Such strong and vibrant characters deserve a story that can reflect their adventures and story to the fullest, in all of it's philosophical, political, and action-packed glory.

And hey, for those with the issue, I'm sure little nods like the Mortal Kombat hybrid ninja (baring the colours of Sub-Zero, Scorpion, and Reptile), doesn't go too far, either. Like I said; these guys really are steeped in the culture. I just wish they could more consistently use that knowledge for more involving ends.

The Fight: 5 The Issue: 4.5

Street Fighter IV hit PS3 and 360 this week, and it's the collector's edition you'll have to grab to get a hold of all the extra goodies, including the explosive animated adventure that brings Chun-Li, Guile, Cammy, Ken, Ryu, and Sakura together again to fight the forces of evil! You can pick that up, or any of the UDON collections featuring previously reviewed issues, via Amazon links provided in posts, and the Gift Shoppe! By doing so, you help sponsor future entries of the Infinite Wars! You can also stay up to date on the monthly release of Street Fighter IV from UDON!

SHIPPING LIST: FEBRUARY 18, 2009
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
The Independents...
DEC082236 AMBER ATOMS #1 $3.50
DEC083911 DEATH DEFYING DEVIL #3 $3.50
NOV082254 DYNAMO 5 #0 $0.99
JUN082257 FIREBREATHER SERIES #4 $2.99
DEC082228 GREAT UNKNOWN #1 (OF 5) (MR) $3.50
JUN082259 GODLAND #26 $2.99
NOV080062 GRENDEL DEVILS REIGN TP $19.95
DEC082264 INVINCIBLE #59 $2.99
AUG082261 NOBLE CAUSES #39 $3.50
NOV084307 PLUTO URASAWA X TEZUKA GN VOL 01 $12.99
NOV084409 SHADOW DOUBLE NOVEL VOL 25 $12.95
DEC084296 STREET FIGHTER IV #1 (OF 4) TSNAG CVR A $3.95
DEC084083 WHATMEN (ONE SHOT) $3.99

The Corporates...
DEC082356 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #587 $2.99
DEC080120 BIRDS OF PREY #127 (ORIGINS) $2.99
DEC082371 GHOST RIDER #32 $2.99
DEC080132 JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #30 (ORIGINS) $2.99
DEC082378 MARVEL ADVENTURES AVENGERS #33 $2.99
DEC080115 OUTSIDERS #15 (ORIGINS) $2.99
DEC080114 ROBIN #183 (ORIGINS) $2.99
OCT080140 SUPERMAN BATMAN #55 $2.99
DEC080147 TANGENT SUPERMANS REIGN #12 (OF 12) $2.99
DEC082349 ULTIMATE WOLVERINE VS HULK NEW PTG #2 $2.99

The Spotlight...
- DEC082236 AMBER ATOMS #1 $3.50
Always interested in the chatter over at When Fangirls Attack, I'll be very interested to see how they receive the titular heroine. Assuming (writer/artist) Kelly Yates is a female, this will be a rare chance to take a look at a significant pop-superheroine written by a woman!

- DEC082313 DARK AVENGERS #2 DKR $3.99
Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Brian Bendis is capable of writing a functional superhero comic book. If you ask me, that deserves a round of applause, because I'd genuinely begun to forget exactly what it was that made that name mean something to the hive-mind peasants. Particularly after Secret Invasion, it's nice to see a script that puts up and shuts up, introducing all the elements of the team, and ending with a direct hook to action! I'm not sure Morgana Le Fay, and personal squabbles from the Dark Illuminati, was the action I was looking for from this extension of the Thunderbolts, but we'll see how it goes.

- NOV082254 DYNAMO 5 #0 $0.99
With comics prices inflating every few years, it's bargains like these that can really make a title stand-out. In an especially lacklustre week for the corporates, Jay Faerber couldn't have picked a better time to release this 99c sampler! You'd be mad to pass it up!

- DEC082228 GREAT UNKNOWN #1 (OF 5) (MR) $3.50
Again, in such a slow week for the corporate big two, independent issues have a great opportunity to break through this week! The Great Unknown leaps out at me, not just for it's engaging cover artwork, but the premise of a mystery to unfold. Be sure to consider this, and the many other indie titles listed above, when heading to the store (even if we're late with this).

- DEC084296 STREET FIGHTER IV #1 (OF 4) TSNAG CVR A $3.95
Long time readers will know my excitement for all things Street Fighter, but the more I read UDON's various licensed mini-series, the more I long for another manga series. With each subsequent series seemingly devolving further into mindless fan service, the need for a writer to take over from Ken Siu-Chong becomes increasingly evident. Production, as you would always expect of the well established art studio, remains high caliber, but the writing and editorial really has reached amateur proportions. Spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and meandering plots that go nowhere generally aren't going to be a concern for core SF fans, but for everyone else, it might be getting a little embarassing. I can only expect the release of SFIV will further expose UDON's complete lack of cohesive vision for the concepts and writing of their series.

Advertise here! Contact for more!
Know Your Trade...
NOV080173 BATMAN AND THE OUTSIDERS THE SNARE TP $14.99
DEC082447 CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI 13 TP VOL 01 SECRET INVASION $15.99
NOV080189 DIANA PRINCE WONDER WOMAN TP VOL 04 $19.99
DEC082464 ESSENTIAL CLASSIC X-MEN TP VOL 03 $16.99
NOV080062 GRENDEL DEVILS REIGN TP $19.95
DEC082437 MARVEL ADVENTURES AVENGERS TP VOL 08 DIGEST $9.99
NOV084307 PLUTO URASAWA X TEZUKA GN VOL 01 $12.99
DEC082428 PUNISHER WAR JOURNAL PREM HC VOL 05 SECRET INVASION $19.99
DEC082442 SECRET INVASION TP INCREDIBLE HERCULES $14.99
DEC082444 SECRET INVASION TP THUNDERBOLTS $19.99
NOV084409 SHADOW DOUBLE NOVEL VOL 25 $12.95
NOV080182 SUPERMAN CHRONICLES TP VOL 06 $14.99

QUICK FIX MEGAMIX: FINAL CRISIS #2!
Ticket to Blüdhaven (DC)
Where: Final Crisis #2 When: August 2008
Why: Grant Morrison How: JG Jones

Quick Fix...
So far in 2009, our perspective has been fixed on relatively recent developments in the world of the big two. Nurturing this interest in particular was DC's Final Crisis, a story that has become as infamous for it's reception, as it has the details of apocalyptic turmoil that face the heroes.

For a series that explores the metatextual consequences impacting comic book universes, it's almost a self-fulfilling irony for the book to become slightly overshadowed by the meta-event of it's interpretation. For many, the broad scope of the DCU and the channel surfing delivery of it's doomsday, proved overwhelming, to a point of apparent confusion.

The second issue is far too early in the series to launch any kind of responsive assault on the impressions of less-than-impressive readers. In ways few could have predicted, those claiming confusion from the very first issue actually had some good reason to do so, even if they were completely unaware of why.

The first issue could easily have been mistaken for a more conventional outing, setting up the details of an adventure centred on spotlighted characters; Dan Turpin, Green Lantern, The Question, The Society, Darkseid, and The Monitors.
In hindsight, the conclusion isn't exactly that removed from the beginning, at all, but a conventional linear story, this isn't.

Anyone who did the Infinite Crisis thing a few years ago, probably didn't have any trouble interpreting "Final." While concept drove events to initiate slower than the previous Crisis - and Morrison's choices included smaller details - it is none the less, quite similar in it's basic approach to touching an entire universe. Both tales deal with the congregation of parallel Earths, placed in peril by the emergence of a threat on our central Earth. In the case of the Geoff Johns story; Alexander Luthor Jr's efforts to revamp the multiverse with remnants of the Anti-Monitor gave the heroes a rallying point, while tangentially related battles were fought at other checkpoints. In Final Crisis, the dual menace of Darkseid's spread of the Anti-Life Equation, and his penetration of time and space, threatens the entirety of our existence, leading all struggles to branch out from there.

For those who made similar assumptions based upon the first issue -- the second provided quick clarification. I would argue, based on some of the chatter I picked up at the time, that many readers made the mistake of deciding what type of story Final Crisis was going to be, before even giving it a chance.

The details of the story become further unfurled, revealing more of the myriad of forces conspiring against the DCU. The descent into apocalypse only now begins to take form in a way heroes can recognise, and as we're about to see in our fight recaps, the likes of Batman discover this all too late.

Strands are concluded, as is the case throughout much of the series, but the chopping attention granted to various factions within the DCU makes the global significance of Final Crisis very apparent. Morrison's descent into Kirby files really kicks off here, too. Dan Turpin, Sonny Sumo, and various other characters from Kirby's insular DC projects, all begin to shift toward centre-stage, joining the villainous New Gods as powerful DC-centric figures in building event.

This post is about the fights contained within the issue, as is typically the case on the site. I'm torn about trying to elaborate more upon what I believe lies within these pages, ie; the potential comparisons between Morrison's in-fiction exploration of cultural "existentions" and the internet age's proliferation of wannabe do-it-yourself comics creators/heroes.
At the same time; one of the points that I hope to underscore as we travel through the pages of subsequent issues, is that this doesn't need to be as complicated a story as some people want. There's still a very enjoyable superhero epic to be read, even if some of the finer details are lost on you, and yes -- even if you do not have an encyclopaedic knowledge of DC's history.

I hope we can share some interesting tidbits, but leave some of the legwork to you, because, that is half the fun of this wonderful medium of ours. Those who have struggled with this concept seem to have inadvertently been exposed by the purity of a story supremely indulgent in superhero comics culture.

MEGAYAKUZA versus SONNY SUMO
Morrison kicks off with a trip to the thoroughly suitable world of Japenese pop culture, suturing social phenomena into the world of superheroes. Here he not only contributes more colourful characters to DC's international landscape, but also consolidates key figures to the story, including Sonny Sumo, who was thrown through time in Jack Kirby's Forever People, becoming stranded in feudal Japan.

In a super-fantastic superhero themed Tokyo club, a comparably unassuming individual walks through the crowd of garrishly coloured teens and wannabes. He is Sonny Sumo -- and on this night, he simply wants a glass of water, with ice.

The legendary hero's presence does not go unnoticed, both by admirers, and those who would seek to gain reputation through his name. Megayakuza -- a towering mecha-suited newbie -- steps up to quite literally challenge Sumo!

Sonny attempts to disuade the armored fighter, suggesting he seek means of competition that will offer a forum of rules to prevent him from killing his challenger. Megayakuza does not take this rebuttle kindly, dousing Sumo's back in a ball of fire spewed forth from his mechanical gauntlets.

Megayakuza learns the hard way exactly what it means to challenge one who wields a portion of the Anti-Life Equation. With his back aflame, Sonny casually finishes his water, before driving his fist through the heart of the mechanical Megayakuza suit -- as well as the man inside of it! He leaves the gurgling muscle on top of his glass and retreats to the men's room. Another victory.

Sonny Sumo's inclusion in Final Crisis had to be one of the more curious elements of the book -- which is saying something! Few would be familiar with the brief appearances of the character in Forever People, where his history as an underground competition fighter was elaborated upon, and he wielded a portion of the Anti-Life Equation that is to eventually spread globally to enslave humanity in Darkseid's name. All part of the unashamed Kirby-worship mentioned earlier in the post. These characters; along with the Shilo Norman-Mr. Miracle, who joins Sonny shortly after this fight; all owe their defining creations to the late comics legend, whose characters provide a throughline for the entire story.

The inclusion of Sonny Sumo might not give twelve year olds warm and fuzzy memories of the Justice League cartoon show, but it introduces them to one of the unique joys of superhero comics. There is an entire multiverse to be explored and absorbed, and as he so often seems to do, Morrison makes good use of it, expanding the horizons of a community that all too often focuses on the United States and it's usual suspects.
[More on Morrison and the (Justice League) International condition].

The Fix: 4.5 The Winner: Sonny Sumo

LT. INSP. DAN TURPIN versus THE MAD HATTER
SCU cop, Dan Turpin, returns to follow strands tugged at by the Question in the previous issue, relating tangentially to the death of Orion. With the issue of people's confusion fresh in mind, I realise that a sentence like that isn't an inclusive way to begin a section of review. It's a deliberate reference to events that occurred in the first issue, and like many good writers, I would respect you enough to expect you to recognise that, and pursue the information as you please. Unfortunately, it isn't available on the site, but if you're persuaded by the information that is presented to pick up Final Crisis, you will have something untainted to extract and appreciate. That's how we do things here.

Returning from digression -- we arrive to find Dan Turpin in the living quarters of one, Jervis Tetch, better known to the staff of Arkham Asylum as, Mad Hatter.

Having already administered a beating, Turpin probes the nervous cuckoo for information on the whereabouts of children kidnapped by the Dark Side Club. This might be a more easily justified scene if Turpin hadn't already discovered the children in the first issue when he came face-to-face with Boss Dark Side -- evil incarnate!

Turpin revels in breaking Tetch's face with his knee, finding an unnerving pleasure in the experience of "... the sound of breath whistling through smashed cartilage..."

Even as Mad Hatter trails blood toward the bathroom with a steady crawl, and Turpin follows, he questions of himself exactly what he is doing. Using a toilet seat as a weapon, he gains the last piece of information he seeks. With sickness rising in his stomach, Turpin finds a direction to move toward: Blüdhaven.
Doubt tells us he knows deep down this isn't about children any more, but what ever it was he was exposed to in the Dark Side Club, it has left him clouded and violent. He's changing from the inside-out, and when he reaches Blüdhaven, he will know his name, and fate, as the god of evil -- Darkseid.

I suppose if you were desperately in need of a conventional arc through which to enjoy Final Crisis, it might be the perception of the tale as Dan Turpin's story. His entry into the first issue is quickly followed up with one of the most significant scenes in the first act, one that firmly establishes the growing of Darkseid's influence, and the return of New Gods, as men. Turpin experiences the story right up to it's conclusion, where he suffers the bullet heard around the multiverse, intended for Darkseid. [More on that when we reach #6!]

The Fix: 5 The Winner: Dan Turpin

ALPHA LANTERN KRAKEN versus GREEN LANTERN STEWART
Found dying on the docks; the New God Orion did his best to deliver ominous final words that could give humanity a fighting chance. Alas; all his death achieves is to lure the presence of the universe's most powerful weapons.

When Dan Turpin passes on the case, it inevitably falls into the jurisdiction of the better equipped intergalactic police corps, the Green Lanterns.
Designates of Earth's Sector, John Stewart and Hal Jordan, are the first to investigate the scene, but a rare instance of deicide demands a flawless investigation. Thus, the Guardians of the Universe deploy their recently instated Corpsman of inhuman incorruptability -- the Alpha Lanterns.

While Batman and the Justice League examine Orion's body during the Alpha Lantern's transit, John Stewart returns to the scene on the advice of Batman to look for further evidence. Stewart receives a brief visit from fellow Corpsman, Opto309V of Sector-2260, who leaves just as Stewart discovers the presence of a fifty-year old radion bullet buried in the concrete beneath Orion's resting place.

Opto isn't the only visitor, however.
Upon completing the analysis of evidence, Stewart's ring begins to fizzle out, leaving him helpless as the Green Lantern is met with a hail of green spikes! They pin him by the wrists to wooden crates lying on the docks.

A heckling cymbal-monkey construct distracts Opto from returning to save his fellow, who gazes upon his disguised attacker with shock! Stewart summons the will that earned him his ring, tearing free of the wooden box behind him, to meet his attacker's hand with a thunderous punch. Even though the blow is caught, and Stewart ultimately incapacitated, his last ditch effort makes it's mark. Literally!

Wonder Woman and Dr. Mid-Nite come to Stewart's aid, while the Alpha Lanterns aprehend their chief suspect in the attack, Hal Jordan. Jordan's history as a vessel for the fear-entity, Parallax, doesn't exactly help establish character, but one would still assume the influence of the New Gods, who have corrupted the once thought incorruptable Alpha Lanterns, is really what's at work here.

Presumably the disguise employed by the true attack (Kraken) was for the benefit of Opto, or any other witnesses to the crime. Admittedly, if you aren't paying attention, this fact might have passed you by, leaving you to blame the crime on another hooded, white-gloved Lantern, such as Taa (of Sector-996).
That said, it isn't long before the facts of the truth are revealed...

The Fix: 4 The Winner: Alpha Lantern Kraken (w/Granny Goodness)

BATMAN versus ALPHA LANTERN KRAKEN
Batman steps into the Final Crisis, appearing opposite Alpha Lantern Kraken who is commandeering Orion's post-mortem investigation. Her alien cynicism toward the capabilities of humans oozes into their tension-filled confrontation reminiscent of a power struggle between rival departments. Whilst jostling for control of the situation, the pair even butt heads on the status of Hal Jordan, whom Batman himself is sceptical about, but keen to defend.

Kraken appears to show a brief moment of weakness, but in fact, this is the true Alpha Lantern shining through the influence of the evil New Gods!
Showing the cracked imprint of John Stewart's ring on her palm, she delivers a slightly cryptic warning not unlike Orion's, declaring their weapons useless to an enemy that is eating her mind.

Batman is quick to act as the alien presence of Granny Goodness regains influence over Kraken. He sounds the alarm, declaring a highest priority alert, while making attempts to subdue the Alpha Lantern whilst requesting backup. Her intricate knowledge of the League's present activities allows her to recognise the prompt response of only Dr. Mid-Nite, whom she assures the Batman, will eternally regret that he failed to arrive in time.

With that; Kraken turns out of Batman's wrist-lock, using her ring to create an alien bug-like creature that administers a crippling nerve pinch to the Dark Knight detective. A mass of energies gathers as Kraken opens a boom tube to carry the falling Batman to the Blüdhaven Factory of Evil.

A well orchestrated conspiracy of circumstances is key to the eventual defeat of Earth's greatest champions. Here, Batman's human frailty is swiftly taken advantage of, even while Wonder Woman's compassion shifts her to a more vulnerable position on the board, and Superman is taken care of by the machinations of Libra (and his access to villains like Clayface).

The Fix: 5 The Winner: Alpha Lantern Kraken (w/Granny Goodness)

The story really unfolds from here as the remaining heroes find themselves, much like the trinity, overwhelmed by forces they neither anticipated, nor recognised.
The dominoes fall as the New Gods pursue their various goals, including the rebirth of Darkseid, whose post-death descent [depicted in DC Universe #0] plays an important role in the deconstruction of time and reality on Earth. A phenomenon that not only disarms the heroes, but the reader as well, who's along for the ride via the chopping pace of Morrison's script, which gives us a grand view of the chaos, but keeps us only so many steps ahead of the characters.

I would've liked to have delved deeper into Final Crisis, but that might be a goal better suited to later reviews. I'd like to think our site is well positioned to at least reveal the basic aspects of the story that made this series an incredibly enjoyable superhero epic on a conventional level. There's more to find on the page, but the value of the tale on a simplistic level was, I feel, one of the most misrepresented aspects of Final Crisis, by critics.

I'll be very interested to hear any of the opinions you might have. I regard the story as a potentially massive moment in the current era of superhero and DC comic books, significant to the definition of a period. If you haven't read it yet, I would recommend considering picking up the upcoming trade collections, or finding the issues cheap from any reader who felt dissatisfied.

Fight Average: 5 The Issue: 6

Final Crisis won't find it's way to collected format until June, but if you're that keen, you can pre-order the hardcover edition, and the companion that collects bonus materials and additional specials, from Amazon! By using purchase links provided on the site, you help sponsor future entries, and no doubt get a valuable reading experience out of it, as well! Future reviews of Final Crisis will no doubt continue to drip filter onto the site throughout the year, so you might like to get caught up on the 2008/2009 epic before we dive deeper!

COVER TO COVER: SOMETHING WORTH FIGHTING IV!
I'm pretty sure this is where I'd usually type a quick soft-entry into the subject at hand, but let's face it: you don't need to be informed! You'd have to have been plucked from another time period to be oblivious to the Street Fighter revolution, and even then, if you were from any point in the nineties, you'd probably have anticipated the 'unlikely' return of the brand, anyway!

Ken, Chun-Li, Sagat, Bison, and all the old gang are back! Reuniting in a brand new instalment that brings them back to their roots, the world warriors have conquered and reignited competition in the arcades, and are now bringing the fight home in February on PS3 and Xbox 306!

Okay, okay. There's a chance you might have missed out on the specifics of a new core entry into the series, but even if you aren't "savvy" enough to have encountered the downloadable UDON re-release of the classic fighter; Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix; you will know about either the UDON comic series often discussed here on the site, or the upcoming Kristen Kreuk feature-film, Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li!

While it might be Chun-Li who has the (mis) fortune of starring in her own live-action film; the journey of iconic protagonist, Ryu, continues! Today we have a selection of stories previously observed on the Infinite Wars, each contributing a vital piece to the puzzle of the wandering world warrior! Throughout the differing interpretations, his story is one of self-reflection and philosophy, a tale of a supreme fighter whose very nature is potentially his greatest downfall.

Street Fighter II #1 (July 1994)
"Battle 02: Little Las Vegas" Masaomi Kanzaki
Super cool wandering warrior, Ryu, has found his way to the man-made manhattan of the island, Shad.
While looking for a decent meal, he runs afoul gangsters who have been plaguing a small family owned restaurant for insurance money.

Ever the hero, Ryu comes to the aid of the sexy store manager, but not before incurring the wrath of the gang boss -- former boxing champion, Balrog!

Ryu offers Po-Lin and her little brother Wong-Mei a chance to free themselves of debt if they bet money on him to win the fight. But does Ryu have what it takes to win?


Street Fighter Alpha (1999)
"The Tournament Begins" Yamauchi/Yoshida
Having returned to Japan for a major street fighting tournament; Ken Masters, wealthy United States champion, reunites with his fighting rival and best friend, Ryu. Together they mourn the death of their master, Gouken, and together face the threat of the dark hadou energy that threatens Ryu.

In an effort to curb the dark energy rising in Ryu, he limits all fighting activity, opting only to accompany Ken to the tournament, along with a young Brazilian orphan claiming to be Ryu's half-brother.

Though Ken would ultimately be side-tracked and miss registration, the young Brazilian boy, Shun, would go on to enter and pitted against overwhelming odds. Emerging from the opposition cage the Russian man-mountain: Zangief!

Street Fighter #1 (September 2003)
"Two Years Ago..." Siu-Chong/Madureira
It was one of the greatest battles in Street Fighter history, and changed the course of many lives in an instant!
Watch as Ryu gains his legendary victory over the mountainous muscle of the King of Muay Thai -- Sagat!

It is a victory that will forge one of the strongest rivalries in Street Fighter lore, and bring Ryu's fighting potential to the attentions of the man secretly behind this first street fighting tournament: The lord of Shadaloo -- M. Bison!

Check out Joe Madureira's return to American comics as he details his own version of this milestone moment in delicious detail! PLUS: Chest scar origin!


Street Fighter II #1 (November 2005)
Siu-Chong/Arn
Some might say it is here that the Street Fighter legend begins. Though the truth was remained a mystery to gamers for years, here we see the brutal reveal of the death of Ken and Ryu's legendary master - Gouken!

Displaying the terrifying potential of the dark hadou Gouken's own brother is swallowed up by his own murderous intent, turning the ancient ansatsuken style to it's most vicious technique -- shun goku satsu!

It's the aftermath of this very scene that will prompt Ken and Ryu to enter the Street Fighting world and seek out their master's killer, who is not the vile Bison, but rather the legendary disgraced warrior: Akuma!

Street Fighter Alpha Vol.1 (April 2007)
"Round. 5" Masahiko Nakahira
For practitioners of an unnamed ansatsuken fighting style, mastery brings great power through the focused energies of ki through practise of hadou. Wielded by a skilled warrior, the hadou can be channelled into fireball projectiles and devestating ki-sponsored attacks, but these powers do not come without risk.

After defeating legendary Muay Thai fighter, Sagat; Ryu struggles with the inner darkness that was unleashed when he delivered the shoryuken that toppled his opponent, and scarred Sagat forever.

Having been taken over by the evil intent of the dark hadou once before; Ryu reluctantly agrees to accompany Interpol agent, Chun-Li, in attempting to uncover the recruitment of underground martial artists by a villainous organized criminal empired called Shadaloo!
Unbenknownst to Ryu, other forces have a stake in his fated confrontation with darkness and the villain called Bison. Watching from afar is Rose, whose tarot predicts an uncertain destiny for the Japanese martial artist.

JUSTICE LEAGUE PART 2: FRANCHISE RESISTANCE!
Since their (1960) inception, the Justice League have been the premiere organized crime-fighting unit. Offering selections of some of the DC Universe's finest heroes, the JL's recruitment philosophy has varied to include; regional concern, covert operations, villain-centric obstacles, and the goal to assemble the cream of the crop. The latter arguably makes up the most famous incarnation of the League, constructed to represent versions of the leading corner posts of the DCU, and colloquially known as "the big seven."

Despite their eclectic origins, the Justice League remains popularly associated with it's foundations in the United States. Last year we paused to consider what might truly be possible for the team if they were to reinstate the now defunct International branch. Since; Final Crisis has plunged the entire DC multiverse into chaos, forcing the many factions of heroes and villains to unite their powers as a single force, not just for good in their world, but all fifty-two key universes!

I would love to proliferate the potential grand significance of Final Crisis, but that seems destined to be a discussion for a much later date.

Grant Morrison's apocalyptic epic gave readers a taste of the chaos, disorienting with a structure described as "channel surfing" through the DCU in it's moment(s) of peril. In casting such a wide net over the evolving DC landscape, Morrison was able to suggest a multitude of ideas and interpretations, some more subtle than others. Of particular interest to us, the way in which the segmented heroes are able to unite in resistance against Darkseid and his viral Anti-Life Equation.

These divisions of heroes are what inspired this series of articles, which began last week with our brand new big seven; Justice League America.

Seperated by the implicit purposes served during Final Crisis, we posit the theory that these four Leagues can emerge from great darkness, their relationships galvanized by the ordeal of their experience. They represent concise facets of the DC Universe, adding functionality to the sentimental origins of their listing. There is nothing to say there won't be development in these teams -- they are not ready-made -- but the prospect of looking broader than the simple formula of the American team was one of the things that made Final Crisis so fantastic!

Today's team shares much in common with recent incarnations of the League, but is built from the unlikely group of survivors who banded together to combat the spread of the Anti-Life Equation. Their efforts were among the vital components in a complex uniting of efforts to defeat Darkseid and his hope of creating the fifth world on an Earth on the brink of destruction. Ironic, given their make-up.

In many ways, this team fulfils the "America" brand far more practically than last week's candidates for the super-seven. This is a team closer to the streets, less equipped to deal with grandious cosmic threats, than they are more familiar dangers of a superhuman, criminal, or subversive design. They are the heroes capable of rising above themselves, utilizing subversive means, and fisticuffs, to stand firmly as the final resistance against overwhelming evil.

Black Canary (Dinah Lance)
Alt. Affiliation: [Birds of Prey]
First Appearance: [Justice League of America #219]
Year One: [1983] JLA Year: [1969]
Cumulative Rank: [#41] Win Percentage: [60%]
2006: [#69] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [#13] 2009: [#17]

Understanding exactly where Black Canary stands in Justice League history is a little tricky. Sharing a chopped up history with her pre Golden Age counterpart; the Canary's youthful persona probably made it particularly difficult to accept her when she recently ascended to a position of leadership over Batman, Wonder Woman, and Superman. As awkward as the fast-promotion might've been, it's metatextual struggle found a place on the page, allowing her credentials to blossom just as anyone might grow into a role, in life!

During the spread of the Anti-Life Equation, the Canary was front-and-centre as a select few heroes and loved ones escaped to the Justice League Watchtower. There, they formed part of a last stand, doing what they could to repel the growing forces of Darkseid's Purifiers! Canary showed exactly how capable she was of tackling the quandary of leadership, a fighter to the end, even when forced to make terrible personal sacrifices.

Green Arrow (Oliver Queen)
Alt. Affiliation: [Outsiders]
First Appearance: [More Fun Comics #73]
Year One: [1941] JLA Year: [1961]
Cumulative Rank: [#22] Win Percentage: [55.56%]
2006: [#11] 2007: [#47] 2008: [#145] 2009: [DNR]

Always ready to stand for the downtrodden and innocent, Green Arrow has always been a hero ready to go to great lengths for the greater good. Uncompromising in his pursuit for justice, he is a hero who walks in two worlds, possessing only the powers money can buy, and those of training and dedication.

Where there's Black Canary, there's usually Green Arrow, sooner or later.
During the onset of Darkseid's Purifiers, it was Green Arrow who volunteered to be left behind, fighting to the end to allow his fellows to escape. It's dedication like that, and the experience of he and Canary's working relationship, that make them a valuable senior duo in any collective of heroes!

Black Lightning (Jefferson Pierce)
Alt. Affiliation: [Outsiders]
First Appearance: [Black Lightning #1]
Year One: [1977] JLA Year: [2007]
Cumulative Rank: [#81] Win Percentage: [100%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [#32] 2009: [DNR]

Only a fairly recent inductee into the 'Meltzer League'; Black Lightning could be accused of being a minority vote. I almost find it hard to believe that wasn't discussed at the table when it came to drafting time, but like a John Stewart or a Steel, this is a character who has far surpassed a charitable vote into the biggest superhero team in comics! Lightning's looked right at home hanging with the big boys for the best part of the decade, among his exploits, joining Green Arrow during Dr. Light's vengeful reawakening with the Society.

Lightning served as a vital cog in the resistance against Darkseid, risking his life to carry intelligence that provided the heroes a much needed defense against the powers of the fallen New Gods. Though he fell to become a slavish Purifier, his legacy was carried on by those he stopped to save. His message is vital to bridging the gap between the traditional Justice League, and those stepping up to any version of the League. He understands both perspectives, and is more than hero enough to embue any new member with inspiring values.

Tattooed Man (Mark Richards)
Alt. Affiliation: [The Society]
First Appearance: [Green Lantern #9]
Year One: [2006] JLA Year: [2008]
Cumulative Rank: [DNR] Win Percentage: [NA]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [DNR] 2009: [DNR]

The man who carried the New Gods' circuit after Black Lightning fell?
That would be Tattooed Man; the Society's resident superhuman street thug from the Metropolis 'hood of Suicide Slum. A former marine; Richards possesses the ability to manipulate the animated Modora tattoos that adorn his body. His unique ability was vital in unlocking the secrets of the New God miracle circuit, that, when painted across his body, granted him (and others to bare it) immunity from the influences of the Anti-Life Equation.

When Black Lightning rescued Richards and his family from the onset of Darkseid's Purifiers, the villain was forced to grapple with his blind hatred for all things hero. In a world where society had buckled beneath the destructive evils of Darkseid and his minions, Richards is able to partially resolve his misgivings, finding the common ground between he and his fellow (super-) human beings.

It was Black Canary who granted Tattooed Man honrary status with the team, granting him brief membership with the establishment once his idealistic opposite. No tenure with the League would be smooth sailing, but for a conflicted individual enlightened by crisis, it might be the best place for him!

Supergirl (Kara Zor-El)
Alt. Affiliation: [Teen Titans]
First Appearance: [Action Comics #252]
Year One: [1959] JLA Year: [NA]
Cumulative Rank: [#233] Win Percentage: [100%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [#136] 2009: [DNR]

With Superman taking leave of his earthly duties to observe the progress of a New Krypton (inhabited by the freed citizens of Kandor); Supergirl provides this version of the League some much needed yellow-sun powered muscle, as well as the symbol of the S! While Metropolis benefits from the shared protection of Flamebird, the Guardian, Mon-El, Steel, and others, Supergirl is more than free to lend her might to this multi-facetted team.

Supergirl was one of the most resilient forces to withstand the onslaught of Darkseid and his Anti-Life Purifiers. She popularly clashed with a corrupted Mary Marvel, but also played a vital role in liberating the possessed quintent that made-up Darkseid's new Female Furies, which included Wonder Woman.
Despite her youth, this is a Supergirl who has been rapidly matured in the fires of terrible conflict! A worthy inclusion who has seen crisis, and lived to tell the tale.

The Ray (Ray Terrill)
Alt. Affiliation: [Freedom Fighters]
First Appearance: [The Ray #1]
Year One: [1992] JLA Year: [1993]
Cumulative Rank: [#519] Win Percentage: [0%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [#272] 2008: [DNR] 2009: [DNR]

The Ray's light-based powers were another vital component in the network of skills assembled by the League's resistance aboard their satellite headquarters. Able to penetrate the blackout induced by the Anti-Life Equation by transforming himself into various beams of the vast spectrum of lights accessible to him, he was able to ferry information and people through the JLA teleporter.

Another of the younger heroes in the DCU, Ray has benefitted not only from his status a legacy hero to the previous Ray, but also the company kept by his father, who provided invaluable mentoring as the Freedom Fighters.
Experienced and versatile, he provides unique skills well suited to this team compromised of subversive street warriors, and big-time superheroes.

Bulleteer (Alix Harrower)
Alt. Affiliation: [Seven Soldiers]
First Appearance: [Seven Soldiers: The Bulleteer #1]
Year One: [2005] JLA Year: [2006]
Cumulative Rank: [#236] Win Percentage: [100%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [#139] 2009: [DNR]

Despite only recently being thrown into the realm of superheroes, Alix Harrower has seen plenty of action! Her origins lie in the humble research of her husband who aspired to use his metallic "smartskin" to model himself after the Golden Age heroes, Bulletman and Bulletgirl, in the pursuit of hero celebrity. While the process killed her husband, Alix was protected from the suffocating side effects of her new metallic skin, allowing her to become her own hero.

A long series of curious cameos in times of conflict [ie; Green Lantern #25] has made Bulleteer a seasoned oddity in the landscape of the DCU. After joining the League briefly during the post-Infinite Crisis [52] one year absence of Batman, Wonder Woman, and Superman, later fighting alongside the valiant heroes of Earth's last stand against Darkseid! It seems reasonable that she should finally be officially inducted into the team, having been there before under similar circumstances, and after aiding them in their battle for existance!

NEXT WEEK: The Justice League franchise forms a Task Force!

KILLER CROC versus SOLOMON GRUNDY
The Curse! (DC)
Where: Faces of Evil: Solomon Grundy #1
When: March 2009 Why: Geoff Johns & Scott Kolins
How: Scott Kolins

The Story So Far...
Solomon Grundy... Born on a Monday...

The chalk-skinned behemoth that rose from Slaughter Swamp is a creature of many lives. His existence, as if a curse, sees him rise forevermore, no matter how often he might be slain by the well meaning, or evil, of this world. Stories say he was once Cyrus Gold - a wealthy man of few scruples who lived in Gotham in the eighteen hundreds.

One fateful night, Cyrus Gold's sins came back to bite him, leaving him sinking in the bog of Slaughter Swamp with a knife buried in his heart. There he was said to have sunk, becoming one with the marsh, only to rise again decades later as Solomon Grundy -- the lumbering beast who battled Green Lantern!

Something changed, however. Something brought Cyrus back.
Though he tries desperately to cling to life, Gold's first breath in a hundred years is cut short. Once again he rises as Solmon Grundy, confused and trapped by the lights of Gotham. For a week, Grundy wreaks havoc across the city, only to seek refuge in the sewers on a Saturday night, where he faces the wrath of a Killer!

Tale of the Tape...
Strength: Solomon Grundy 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Killer Croc 2 (Average)
Speed: Draw 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Solomon Grundy 6 (Generator)
Agility: Draw 2 (Average)
Fighting Ability: Draw 3 (Street Wise)
Energy Power: Draw 1 (None)


- Waylon Jones was a two-bit crook born with a bad attitude and a skin condition to match. As a tough guy on the streets of Gotham City, Jones involved himself in petty crime, earning the street name Killer Croc due to his increasingly scaley appearance. The moniker proved a self-fullfiling prophecy as Croc began to undergo a series of transformations that further enhanced his reptilian qualities, mutating him into something very much resembling a crocodile.

Due to his unique capabilities, and penchant for cannibalism, Croc is typically incarcerated in Arkham Asylum upon capture. His criminal activities have brought him into regular conflict with the Batman, leading to repeat capture. Killer has also developed personal rivalries with Bane, who physically dominated him during his early entry into the Gotham underworld. The Riddler and Mad Hatter have also earned his ire in recent times as a result of their repeated manipulations.

Killer Croc's skin is highly durable and not at all sensitive.
Already a powerful man, Croc's strength levels have reached superhuman levels during various periods of mutation. Often these transformations are seen to be accompanied by a decreased, animalistic mental state. He is also known to develop talons, a snout-like mouth full of jagged teeth, and even a tail.

- The true origins of Solomon Grundy are unclear, but it is widely believed he is the spirit of wealthy merchant, Cyrus Gold, who is said to have been murdered in the late 1800's and dumped in Slaughter Swamp. Rising from the marsh, Grundy becomes an undead force that would come to menace Batman, Green Lantern, and both the Justice Society and Justice League.

Grundy possesses superhuman strength and endurance, and a penchant for returning from even the most fatal of scenarios. His personality is seen to shift after many of these lethal experiences, usually with minimal higher brain functions, reducing him to a lumbering and disgruntled monster.

Due to his marshy origins at Slaughter Swamp, Solomon Grundy has been seen to possess the ability to negate the Green Lantern's ring by way of it's weakness for things made of wood. This is presumably due to the bark and debris from the bog that saw his formation.

Math: Solomon Grundy Ranking: Killer Croc (#658)

What Went Down...
Disturbed from his place of rest by a voice emerging from the gloom, the sewer dwelling Solomon Grundy is faced with a challenger. Intent on defending his territory, a sufficiently mutated Killer Croc launches an attack on his intruder!

Killer Croc's jaws clamp around Grundy's throat, powerful enough to flip the undying behemoth over head with a violent snap of his powerful neck. Blood flows into the Croc's mouth, "Tastes like slime." His advantage is short lived.
Grundy sends the reptilian villain smashing into the sewer wall with sufficient force to breach the structure. Killer Croc issues a defiant challenge, "Bring it on."

Croc drags Solomon Grundy into a scrappy exchange in the sewer waters.
Haunted by the memory of his alter ego, Cyrus Gold; Grundy finds a violent inspiration. Towering, he pounds his fists against the sewer tunnel ceiling.

Fighting through the sewer, the pair of creature-feature rejects burst into a cemetary above, Grundy launching his foe with a thunderous uppercut!

In a simplistic rage, Solomon Grundy targets the Croc's deadly maw. Snatching his mouth like a bear trap, Grundy uses his phenomenal strength to break Croc's jaw, tearing the connective tissue at the corners of his mouth with gorey results!

As the clock strikes midnight, the presence of Monday has mystic significance, calming Grundy as his heaving body begins to shrink again into the form of Cyrus Gold. With a stranger watching from the graveyard, Grundy becomes vulnerable again, leaving Killer Croc to writhe and choke on his own blood...

The Hammer...
Born on a Monday, victorious on Friday: Solomon Grundy!

In his increasingly mutated form, I can only imagine Killer Croc will manage to survive having his face ripped open, even if he was left on his back and almost certainly should've drowned in a baptism of his own gore. Should the future reveal something else, we will of course ammend our "kill" statistics, and begin to speculate a possible return in Blackest Night. I really find that rather unlikely, but we weren't exactly confident when we forecast the first deadite to return in the event [spoiler!].

Faces of Evil proved to be a very curious event.
At this point, I'm still not entirely sure what it achieved, aside from giving various titles a graphic overhaul on shelves, using cover space to highlight individual characters on a stark black background. Visually striking, even if the artwork wasn't always spectacular.

The "FoE" specials all provide fairly clear lead-in to upcoming storyarcs.
In the case of Solomon Grundy, we have an action packed seven issue mini-series to look forward. With an issue for each day of his epic week, the series so far promises to delve more into the mysterious origins of the character, while pitting the character against villains, such as; Bizarro and Poison Ivy. Intriguing!

This issue quite obviously promotes the mini-series, possibly at the cost of any substantial material of it's own. I almost wonder if these specials might not have been better served by the popular 99c promotional price, but that might be too harsh an assessment of the content, and the good fortune of a $2.99 tag.
The Killer Croc fight is definitely the stand-out scene of the issue, overshadowing brief glimpses of Cyrus Gold's past, present, and ominous future, by virtue of it's action-packed specifics. The "future" is represented by the issue-end arrival of Phantom Stranger, and Grundy's original arch-nemesis, Green Lantern.

I have an inexplicable fondness for Solomon Grundy, particularly Jeph Loeb's sewer-dwelling gentle giant of The Long Halloween and Dark Victory fame.
That said, even I have to wonder exactly what the point of the mini-series is!

Demystifying the secret origins of the character seems to provide a throughline for the series, Cyrus Gold attempts, presumably, to resolve his death in life, as a way of ending the endless resurrections that have made him a prevelant fixture of DC comics. I'm not sure I'm terribly fond of either prospect, having enjoyed the sense of mystery about the character, and the assurance that he'll come back from any fate, no matter how grim. The chance of failure in his attempts to end his curse is probably reasonably good, but you have to wonder.

More intriguing are the ominous words spoken by Phantom Stranger at the end of the special; "There is an unholy night approaching. As black as the undead's blood. And it's best if Solomon Grundy was not around for it."
It doesn't take the world's greatest detective to speculate that Grundy might have some greater significance in the Blackest Night series. It stands to reason, after all, that a character so intrinsically connected to the power of death would be a potential factor in a story dedicated to the dead rising. Given the grim reticence of Phantom Stranger, one can only assume Grundy's mastery over the resurrection could have dire consequences for all who opposed the Black Lanterns. That is, assuming Grundy even lasts that long!

Scott Kolins continues to redeem himself for some of his work earlier in the decade. I'd still like to see a different inker finish his work, but his recent DC projects have been a substantial improvement on the likes of Marvel Team-Up and the cover I would call one of the worst I've ever seen (New Invaders #3).
His Grundy has a good weight to him, approaching the Hulk-esque proportions of my much loved Tim Sale version.
The introduction of Cyrus Gold as an intrusive personality continues comparisons to the Hulk, less comfortable than a burly frame. While I undoubtedly prefer a monosyllabic Grundy preoccupied with his D.O.B, I wouldn't want the lines to be blurred to a point where the 1940's precursor loses his identity.

Geoff Johns notches up another violent and bloody story to his name, albeit, splitting writing credits with Kolins. I can't say I have any problem with liberal uses of blood in superhero violence, particularly when it adds to a suitably macabre setting, but this was the issue that I really noticed it. Kolins' art style isn't nearly realistic enough to make witnessing Cyrus Gold's bifurcation under a truck as horrific as it might otherwise be, but this probably isn't the comic you'll give small children.

Not that they wouldn't enjoy it, if you did!

The Fight: 5 The Issue: 4.5

The first issue of the Solomon Grundy mini-series is currently scheduled for March 4. A collected edition probably won't emerge until the end of the year, which gives you plenty of time to familiarize yourself with the character's previous exploits! You'll find plenty of collected editions in the Infinite Wars Amazonian Gift Shoppe, including plenty of trades featuring Solomon Grundy, and the stories featured in previous reviews! Using purchase links on the site sponsors future entries in the Infinite Wars, so when it comes time to buy, give Amazon a try!