Jurassic Park #1 Review

The much-awaited return of the Jurassic Park franchise to comics is finally here! This new ongoing series from IDW from Bob Schreck and Nate Van Dyke takes place 13 years after the first Jurassic Park movie. Right off the bat I am happy that the series is just ignoring the second and third Jurassic Park movies since the only quality Jurassic Park film was the first one.

The issue has a really slow and confusing start. The story is following three major story lines, as well as a few smaller stories that are only just touched upon. This many stories are a lot to cover in a first issue and I feel as though it detracts from the quality of each. There is a story revolving around each of the children from the first JP movie, as well as a story revolving around Dr. Wu, who had a minor role in the first movie, but a much larger role in the Jurassic Park novel. One thing in common about each story is that they are all pretty hard to follow. The issue tends to be wordy, but explains next to nothing about what is going on. After finishing the issue, the only major point you know about any of the stories is that they all revolve around either opening Jurassic Park all over again, or closing it forever.

The art of the book is mediocre at best, nothing special about it, but it is not that bad. In my opinion, it just seems rushed. The best part of the art is the colors done by Jamie Grant. The writing is pretty good, but it has the tendency to be wordy and confusing, but for the comic it works because most of the time the characters are talking about the scientific aspect of JP.

All in all the issue was not bad. Towards the end of the book the story picks up, and reverts to true Jurassic Park action when the T-Rex is shown for the first time. This book is a must read for hardcore Jurassic Park fans, but if you haven’t seen the first movie I suggest seeing it before you attempt to read this issue.

6 out of 10

*Originally posted on the Chris's Comics Website

Superman 700 Review

I have been waiting for this issue of Superman to come out ever since I saw that J. Michael Straczynski was going to be taking over the title, also I knew this issue marked the end of the whole New Krypton cross-over that had been prohibiting me from being able to jump onto the Superman band-wagon. I was also excited that Stracynski was picking up the series starting with the milestone issue, which is always a nice place to start reading a series that has been going as long as Superman has.

One thing that is always interesting with milestone issues, is that you get to see the work of many different artists and writers that have been involved with the series over the years, which allows the reader to compare and contrast within a single issue. With Superman 700, the reader gets a story by James Robinson (War of the Supermen), Dan Jurgens (Death of Superman), and of course J. Michael Straczynski (Thor, Brave and the Bold). For the most part, these three stories were quality stories, but like any comic, they had their up and down points.

The first story focuses on Lois and Superman’s first encounter after the events of the 100 Minute War. After reading the entire issue, I can see why this was the first story featured in this milestone issue, since it was the least exciting of the three. I am fan of James Robinson’s, but after reading the action packed story that was War of the Supermen, a love story between Lois and Superman just didn’t compare. I was more disappointed with the art than anything in this story. My big problem with the story was that I feel as though when doing a love story in comics, the artist needs to be able to convey the facial expressions that come along with love and that just was not here in this story.

The second story in this issue was the “fun” story of the issue. The story doesn’t really focus on Superman, which was the only negative aspect of the story in my opinion and that is only because this is supposed to be the Superman anniversary issue. Regardless, this story was very entertaining and focuses on the ever-popular sidekick of Batman, Robin. One thing that made this story so entertaining is that it took place in the past, which usually provides a good setting for a story because it takes place back during a simpler time before events like Blackest Night and War of the Supermen. The story revolves around Robin’s interaction with Superman while Batman is off serving his duties as Bruce Wayne for the night. It is a fun story to read and it really shows off Superman’s true nature as a kind nurturing individual who will always be there in the nick of time for the people of Earth, which the reader soon finds out plays a large role in Stracynski’s story. The story is beautifully written and never has a down point, but what else can you expect from the guy who had the writing power to kill the Man of Steel?

The third story is the story that all the readers have been waiting for, the start of J. Michael Straczynski’s run, and the immediate aftermath of War of the Supermen. The story has a strong beginning, showing Superman answering the press’s questions revolving around the 100 Minute War, only for it to be halted by Superman receiving a slap that would cause Superman to re-work his whole sense of being; which is why this prologue is fittingly titled the Slap Heard Around the World. The story focuses on Superman trying to cope with the fact that during the time that he was overwhelmingly involved with the events that occurred on New Krypton, he neglected to fully protect the people that he had sworn to protect so long ago. As the story continues, the reader sees Superman interacting with a few of DC’s big wig characters, trying to figure out just what he needs to do to make up for everything he let happen during his time of leave. He would soon learn that it would not be the advice that he would get from his fellow heroes that would lead him in the right direction, but it would be advice that he received a long time ago from someone very close to him that would put him on the right path.

After finishing the entire issue, I was very pleased with the overall product. Straczynski provided a great story that just left me wanting more, like usual with his writing, and Eddy Barrow’s art on the last story was nothing short of impressive. He really knows how to bring life to the Man of Steel. The one thing that really bothered me about this issue as a whole was the price of the issue. I don’t mind paying $5 bucks for an issue if I am getting substantial material for the price, I was disappointed to say the least when I saw that Superman 700 was substantially smaller than Batman 700 just a week prior, which had the same price tag as this issue. I know Batman may be a bit more popular that Superman, but Superman fans need some loving too DC! Overall it was a solid issue and lived up to the majority of my expectations. I am excited to see what happens to Superman as Stracynski continues with his run, there is no doubt in my mind that it will be any less than spectacular.

9 out of 10

*Originally posted on the Chris' Comics Website

New Header, what do you think?

I got nothing but Camels with RPG's and Bunny G.I.'s

I don't why the camels and rabbits are fighting, but it is strangely amusing. Warning this video has rabbits brutally attacking and killing insurgents camels with assault rifles, sniper rifles, knives and even a gunship. Also there is one swear word in the show's title. Please watch and tell me what you think about it.

Camel Vs. Rabbits.

Do I NEED an E Reader?

hummm

Second article today about technology.

Well, the E-Reader fight is working out well for the consumers. Especially those of us that haven't picked one up yet.  Barnes and Nobles just lowered the price of their Nook to $149.  Then Amazon lowered the price of the Kindle to $189.

I know two people that love their Kindle.

These are guys that read a good amount of novels monthly.
I try to read at least two novels in a month. Depending on the time of year. (More reading in winter and crappy weather with not much else to do).

The one reason I would consider getting an E Reader is the wealth of free books available.  Public domain novels and such.
Hey Myron! help me out. 
I look forward to anyone's thoughts on this.  Thanks!

The Loud Sigh of Relief

Hear That?
That sigh is coming from hundreds of retailers finding out that the Invincible Iron Man Annual #1 Download will cost more then the physical comic book.
If you don't know, Marvel is releasing the issue this Wednesday. On the same day, you can download the same comic. It will be broken up into three pieces. Each piece costing $1.99. Making it $5.97 for the download vs. $4.99 available at your local comic shop.


I don't know if Marvel will always make the download more expensive then the physical comic version of books. We all know that you can never stop the advancement of technology. Digital comics may be the wave of the future. But for now, riding that wave is more expensive.

My First Posting!...well kinda a mini rant (Its about time)

So I figured that it's about time that I actually post something on this blog. Since I bugged Jared to add me on here and then just never actually posted anything on here.

So yeah, I was going to write up a comic review to post up here but that takes a while to write and its already pretty late at night. Wow its nearly three in the morning and I'm still on the stupid computer, plus I have to get up early tomorrow. I just don't think these things through sometimes.

Anyway none of that is important, but what is important is DC's recent announcement made via their official blog, The Source.

So Lately I'm sure some of you have noticed(hopefully) some new books being given to the incredibly talented Jeff Lemire, writer of the amazing series Sweet Tooth. It has been announced that starting this fall, Jeff will be the creative mind behind a new superboy ongoing series, and of course starting in the next issue of Adventure Comics, Jeff Lemire will be handling an Atom back-up.

Then just this week DC announced that Jeff Lemire has signed and exclusive deal with DC. This is great news and I hope this signing leads to more DC books written by Lemire. This announcement is also following recent exclusive signings by DC of Paul Cornell, David Finch, and (I believe) JMS.

This signing is great news for DC as they need to begin signing some of the great young talent in the industry because as it stands right now, Marvel is dominate in that department. I mean in terms of young new talent Marvel has: Hickman, Fraction, Mayberry, Aaron, Gillen, and Remender. So hopefully this is the start of DC finding some great new talent which is sorely needed, I mean Geoff Johns cannot write every title at DC forever.

Wow this has kinda turned into a bit or a rant so I'm just gonna end this here. So in closing....just buy Sweet Tooth....

Millar and McNiven do it again! Nemesis #2 is Better than the First

The first issue of Mark Millar and Steve McNiven’s was mind blowing. The story was above and beyond, and McNiven’s art was especially great as usual, even though some people thought it was lacking because of the way it was inked. Regardless, it was a solid issue. Just like issue one, there was nothing lacking in issue two.

Issue one was used to mainly established Nemesis and the way he does business, as well as introduce all of the supporting characters. Issue two finally tells exactly who Nemesis is, as well as giving a small back-story about the character. One major change I noticed in issue two was the inks and colors. In issue one it just seemed like only pencils were used over inks and the colors were kind of opaque, whereas in this issue they were a little brighter which brought a lighter feel to it. I am still unsure which I like better.

I do wish that Dexter Vines (Civil war, Old Man Logan) was part of the series though, he makes McNiven’s art work the best it can be. I wholly believe that even though Vines usually bright and colorful, I think that he would be able to do that darker grittier feel that Nemesis is going for.

Now that Nemesis is half way done, I feel that the next two issue will be even more action packed, informative, and maybe even more exciting that the last two issues if that is even possible. The only problem that I had with Nemesis was one of the same problems I had with issue one, the issue read way too fast. In a positive light it leaves me wanting more, but since this book takes so long to come out I just wish that it gave me a little more, but since this is the only negative aspect of the book overall, I really shouldn’t be complaining in the slightest

I’d like to applaud Mark Millar and Steve McNiven for yet another beautifully written series and drawn series and I hope that it will finish on time, unlike some of Millars other series. I know that I will be eagerly awaiting issue 3, and I am sure I’m not the only one feeling this way.

9.5 out of 10

Originally posted on http://www.chriscardscomics.com/

Better late than never... Red Dead Redemption review.

The year is 1911. The Wild West is dying. Former outlaw John Marston must hunt down his former friend and posse member Bill Williamson in order save his wife and son from the Federal Government. That is the plot to Red Dead Redemption. John Marston's journey will take you from the Province of New Austin, Mexico, and the Rockies. Almost all the characters are memorable. The story overall is quite enjoyable even when it a little slow in Mexico.

Now the world of Red Dead Redemption is quite beautiful and a joy to explore. Whether you are helping/terrorize random strangers, picking herbs, hunting game, playing poker, blackjack, liar's dice, finger fillet, horseshoes, breaking horses, drinking, or treasure hunting there is always something to do. Tip: always look out be on the lookout for cougars and bears they hate you and your horse. The environments are quite vary.

The control are tight and the gun play is quite entertaining. The Dead Eye mechanic is quite fun but still balance. Sometime the cover system act a like funky, but doesn't break the game. There is a decent amount of weapons in the game. Also there is Fame and Honor which can effect your game depend whether you play as an outlaw or whether you do good.

Overall, I love this game.

CARL - DON'T GET LEFT IN ELMIRA

Carl - Dana called, said he's no longer going to Philly, and no one has your email or phone number to contact you. Jared said you check the blog with a religious fervor, so hopefully you'll see it before 5:30 am on Saturday. If you still want to go, I can give you a ride down on Saturday instead-I'm leaving from Towanda. Give Jared a call or e-mail me timmychops@yahoo.com

And The World Gets their First Look....

So they recently released pictures of Captain America and how his costume is going to look in the movie...Here is a picture and the Website where it can be found. I am not unhappy with it, I actually really look that style costume from Ultimates, maybe it will work well.

CONVERSE!

Frank Miller brings you... Xerxes?

Frank Miller is crazy. I mean why else would he do a six issues miniseries about the villain of 300. Who really want to learn more about Xerxes? Does anyone even care about Xerxes? The mini will be published by Dark Horse in 2011. Anyone else think Miller is just trying to cashed in even more on 300? Also is kinda late for this? Robot 6 has the complete story.

Congratulations Five Star Bank!

I want to congratulate the Five Star Bank in downtown Elmira for going a whole four and a half months without being robbed!
Five Star was robbed December 21st 2009. An older gentlemen attempted to rob the same bank on January 2010.

On the other hand, since Chemung Canal Bank has hired Kevin Falkenberg. They have not been robbed.

Coincidence? I think not.

Other businesses that have employed Kevin are Blockbuster, Heroes Your Mom Threw Out Comic Shop, and Toys R Us.
Kevin has been known to take "security dumps" while employed at these businesses.

Thus, the reason I feel that they have never been robbed.

Thanks Kevin.

Check it Out!

Only because I don't want Jared to be completely late to the party:





...and also because it is absolutely brilliant.

Enjoy!

Cornbread's Favorite and Least Favorite Comics of the Week - 5/26

Favorite Comic: X-Force #27


Mike Choi does it again! I guess my true bias shows up when an issue of X-Force comes out that is drawn by Choi and inked by Oback. But aside from their involvement with the book it was yet another great issue of X-Men Second Coming. The greatest part of this book was the first 6 pages or so that were text free and let the reader just soak in and feel just what was going on with the battles that have been waging for the past 2 months. It really illustrates how powerful Choi's art is. This issue was great because it is finally pushing us towards the end of the cross over since there are only 4 issues left. The action in the books was spectacular and the ending was even better. I'm not going to spoil any of the story line for anyone, but to see where the book takes what happened at the end will be pretty interesting, even though everyone knows that the worst outcome wont happen. I am kinda disappointed that next week is a by-week for the cross over, I have really enjoyed the week after week of progressing story line. Lets just hope that the cross over can keep up its momentum and finish strong.

8.5 out of 10

Least Favorite: Amazing Spider-Man Annual #37

The reason why this issue was so disappointing is not because it was a bad issue, it was because it did not live up to last year annual and that is what I was expecting. The whole issue kinda took place in the past. The stuff with Captain America was interesting and fun because I am a fan of Cap and Spidey but it just wasn't enough. I was hoping the issue would be less like a one-shot and more part of the current story arc with the Kravens. It was kinda nice to see that the second half of the annual wasn't a reprint from an older issue and to see that it was just a throw back to the 90's with an unused story, that actually wasnt half bad.

Over all the issue was not bad, it had pretty good writing and decent art and the stories were bad, but like I said I was just expecting something else entirely and when it didn't deliver it was disappointing. The good thing is that, although it didnt give me what I wanted, its better than giving me something I hated.

6.5 out of 10