What I Learned From: Blackest Night

Hey guys, this is a new edition to JTCS. It's called "What I learned From", and it'll feature numerous facts I learned from each topic. In this debut of What I learned from, I'll tell you guys the super amazing things I learned from Blackest Night. That's right, everything from A to Z, from Atrocitus to Zombies, so get ready for a bunch of small facts and thoughts of what I learned from, Blackest Night!

~The following are the views of the Jason Todd Comic Spot, they are in no way, shape or form considered to be coherent in any language or to any race or creed of people. Without any more stalling, I present to you What I learned from Blackest Night.~

What I learned from Blackest Night

That when people die, they come back as zombies to rip your heart out to power a huge battery so an obscure villain can come back to life.

When That obscure villain DOES infact come back to life, he will stand around for about four issues until finally it only takes one punch from Hal Jordan to defeat him.

When Sinestro is the only White Lantern he manages to die at least twice, when Hal Jordan is White Lantern he manages to recruit about 10 other people then defeat Nekron with the aformentioned one punch.

When the Anti-Monitor, scourge of the 1980's and the main reason Barry Allen died, by sacrificing his life to stop him comes back to life, no one cares at all. Not even Barry Allen.

When you come back first during the zombie invasion (Martian Manhunter, Aquaman, Firestorm) prepare to sit around for a bunch of issues doing and saying nothing, although in the issues where you returned you were a force to be reckoned with.

When someone carries around someone else's skull, It's not them.

If Batman's skull is to ever be found somewhere, it will almost definitely have Bat-ears for some reason,

In a time of Crisis, Batman, Red Robin and Robin will call each other Dick Grayson, Tim Drake and Damian Wayne right in front of people who do not know their secret identities.

Dove didn't rise because apparently he was content being dead, as he now has all the time in the world to read every book known to man.

DC couldn't go one major event without including at least ONE talking monkey.

Apparently when you're Captain Boomerang, you can die fat and out of shape and come back slim and in the best condition of your life.

When you're an obscure character who's whole way of life is being Dead, DC will bring you back to life just to show they'll resurrect ANYONE but Ted Kord.

Lex Luthor wants to be Superman.

Larfleeze wants a Blue Lantern Ring.

Mera didn't want kids apparently.

J'onn Jones wants some goddamn oreos, asap!

Despite being "Batman", Dick Grayson did absolutely nothing during Blackest Night. The most important thing he did was freeze himself so the Black Lanterns would think he was dead...and then they left and that's it.

Osiris got revenge on Sobek, and was finally at peace....then for some reason they brought him BACK to life.

Max Lord apparently is strong enough to mind control Guy Gardner, someone who has more Will than almost everyone on the entire planet.

Stay away from Blackest Night: Wonder Woman or else...for the love of God just stay away!

If everyone comes back from the dead magically, they will always, ALWAYS, strike a super cool pose. If you don't believe me, tell me why the hell Firestorm is making an energy orb in the picture below?

That's all I can think of right now but feel free to submit your own, what you learned from Blackest Night answers below, and as always feedback is appreciated. Don't forget to vote on the new poll as well that's Brightest Day related. As for Last week's which villain should get their own comic series.

Lex Luthor - 62.5%, Lex Luthor wins again, I bet you guys were the same that made him President :P
Jason Todd - 25.0%, 2nd place for the 2nd Robin.
Deathstroke - 12.5%, Third place for the World's Greatest Assassin
Sinestro - 0%, no votes for our favorite Fear monger.

Thanks again for reading and voting and until next time, you've just been gobsmacked!

- Jason Todd

Ratings and Rantings

Hey loyal readers, welcome back to my Red Hood. Jason Todd here with another edition of Ratings and Rantings. Picking up where we left off last week with the conclusion of Blackest Night. Also we're taking a look at Teen Titans #81, Gotham City Sirens #10, and JLA 43 which continues our DC's Rise and fall storyline. Also I'll be adding a new poll shortly after this post, as our winner this week looks to be Static, but more on that later. Let's start things of with our lovely ladies of Gotham City, Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy and Catwoman, The Gotham City Sirens.

Gotham City Sirens #10

First things first, anyone notice that for some reason on the first page The Riddler looks JUST like Hal Jordan? It's more so the mask than anything but it just caught me by surprise, I had to do a double take. You'd think they'd make his mask less Green Lantern like. Anyway, it was dumb enough to bring Aesop back, I mean he's like a Z-List villain, but his motivation was quite possibly the dumbest I've ever heard. I mean of ALL the reasons to be upset, THAT one?! Also that whole stealing the other people's clothes routine is so old and played out I can't believe Dini even did it.  (Not complaining about Harley in a dress though...) What was the point of it? What if Riddler dies why their changing clothes?! Also how the hell does Aesop get all the way across the room in two seconds? One second he's opening a cell the next he's going all Barry Bonds on Selina's head. Anyway, the main villain proved to be as useless as ever. The only interesting thing was the ending with The Riddler. That builds a storyline I'm interested in seeing so that alone saved the comic, so I'll give it a 4/10 rating. Here's hoping Sirens is better from here on out, hell bring back Selina's sister, Joker or someone else.

Aesop: And what else would I call one who sells out his former brothers in crime to the police?

The Riddler: Forgive me, "Bro" but I don't recall the two of us ever spending any quality time in the Arkham rec room.

Justice League of America #43

James Robinson wrote this, and after Cry for Justice I can't say that excites me, so here's hoping no more little girls die for no reason at all.... better watch your kids Wally. Anyway, I couldn't agree with Dick more when the comic starts off, he read my mind. This JLA isn't a JLA, it's just a bunch of people on a team. There's no leader, no unity and no real team. Once again Barry being dead forever comes into play, with the fact that he doesn't know ANYONE on the team besides Dinah and Dick. And who the hell is this blue guy?! When did Mystique jump from Marvel to DC? Also, just so you know, Mon-El has yet to say a word halfway into this comic. And Dr. Light may have just said the most dumb thing I've ever read, it was so dumb it earned instant line of the issue status. Anyway then the issue jumps from Pre-Blackest Night to post Blackest Night and loses like half the cast for no reason at all. Everything about this just annoyed me to no end. The only good thing was the ending, and not even the main comic ending but the...very ending I guess? Anyway I hated this, 3.5/10. I'm really close to dropping JLA. Also just for the record, Mon-El never did speak a word for this entire issue, even though he's on the cover.

Doctor Light: Green Arrow was here! Look, His arrows!!!

(...YA THINK?! I mean you don't think it's obvious to EVERYONE when there's GREEN ARROWS ON THE FLOOR, that just MAYBE, they belong to GREEN ARROW?!)

Teen Titans #83

(No cover because it has spoilers on it)

Teen Titans picks up where we left off with some of our Titans captured by the villainous Holocaust. Meanwhile our other Teen Titans have apparently been asleep, because when your buddies consisting of three women and no guys at all go out to look for someone who's missing, the remaining shape-shifter, the martian, the guy with alien technology for a suit and the for lack of a better term, witch, all decide to stay at the hotel and catch some Z's. Meanwhile Cyborg is shown talking to some mysterious figures about retirement. Later we get some stupid conversation that's completely out of character for Bombshell, as well as a bunch of stupid jokes and Teen's laughing because everyone knows even when their in danger, teenagers laugh at stupidity. Also we see Holocaust kick everyone's ass on the team, because no matter how obscure, he can still completely own a team of 8 superheroes. Lastly the comic ends with an awesome return I won't spoil for you. As you can see from my lack of enthusiasm I hated this comic, if it weren't for the last page (a common trend tonight) I would've given this a 1. But because of it, I'll give this a 3/10. I wouldn't recommend this as it was very boring but It did lead to something I've wanted for a while, so that alone made it worth checking out I guess.

Blue Beetle: NGGH! Gearing up... so painful!
(Why? Because I hate Jaime "Hai-Me" Reyes and I love seeing him in pain. We want Kord, we want Kord!)

Blackest Night 8

And now, this is your MAIN EVENT, hailing from the talented mind of Geoff Johns, weighing in at an astonishing 36 pages not counting ads, from DC Comics, the undisputed heavyweight series, OF THE WORLD, Blackest Night 8!!! *Crowd cheers* Okay, enough of me. After months we finally get the end of Blackest Night, and it did not disappoint. While there are ALOT of unanswered questions, this comic definitely delivered. The action, the plot, the story lines being built and the HUGE HUGE revelation we got near the end was definitely worth the wait. Do I think they dropped the ball a little? Yes. Ted Kord anyone? But this did what it was supposed to, end Blackest Night and move us towards Brightest Day. I'm definitely looking forward to Brightest Day, more than I was for Blackest Night now. There's alot to be explained and I for one can't wait. Also the page with the White Lanterns definitely made this a classic. Gotta give it a 10/10, I loved it and can't wait for Brightest Day.

Larfleeze: Victory is mine baldy! And if you had any hair I'd take that too!

So a subpar week with a huge Blackest Night ending. Teen Titans didn't impress me, as for the poll Static wins with two votes. Bombshell, Miss Martian and Wonder Girl are all in second with one vote a piece. I knew adding a ton of people (all the Teen Titans) was a bad idea but eh, I didn't wanna show favoritism. So will Static be the breakout Teen Titan? Only time will tell, but be sure to check out the newest poll featuring four Villains and cast your vote. This upcoming week, I'll be picking up and reviewing Batman & Robin 11 (As you may recall, I liked the last issue), Flash Secret Origins, Red Robin 11 and Superman: Secret Origins 5. So until then you've just been gobsmacked.

- Jason Todd

Review A Few

Hey everyone, Jason Todd here as usual, it is my comic spot anyway. Once again here with a review a few. Today I'll jump into Blackest Night 7, read about our favorite Green...er, um, I guess Black Archer, catch up with Static and The Teen Titans in Dakota and see what our favorite Sirens are up to. And finally finish up with the Flash Rebirth, which literally took nine months. (Badum-Tsh!) So, now that my bad attempts at comedy are done, lets get right to it, starting off with Gotham City Sirens.

Gotham City Sirens #09

What can I say about Sirens? Well, I guess I could go the obvious route. Riddle me This, what happens when you take a Cat burglar, a Harlequin, an Eco-Terrorist and a former villain playing detective? You get this issue of Gotham City Sirens. Basically our Sirens witness a murder and turn to Edward Nigma for a little help to figure out who the murderer may be. This takes place after our former Riddler was blasted in the face by a bomb so we really don't know where he stands. Is he still on the up and up or is he going back to his villainous ways? I will say I liked alot of aspects of this comic, like the fact that it was shown in a "Pulp Fiction" like style with interconnecting stories. I've always been a big fan of that but some things irked me. The fact that our big reveal was a D-List villain I don't think I've ever even heard of definitely hurt the story in my eyes but for what it was I did like it. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to the next issue of Sirens but this one gets a 6.5/10.

Harley Quinn: Once dressed, I launched into a three-hour battle with Red Master, Lady Cataclysm, and Killobot 7!

Edward Nigma: Hang on, I've been out of the villain world for a while, who are those hoods? Are they part of a team? What are their powers?

Harley Quinn: Oh, Their just guys I usually fight online with, usually about Movies or TV.

Teen Titans #80

Um....Okay. Well this comic was, very bad. I never got into it, it jumps from a fight to just being very boring. I felt like I was watching a show that has filler episodes between the fights of people just talking about random nonsense. Then you have Static who doesn't trust Holocaust for the ENTIRE comic, then trusts him, then doesn't. Like...what? Why was that even in there. Also, the stuff with the Teen Titans annoyed me even more. We get it, Gar wants to be in charge, Cassie is in charge. Okay, that's enough. It's just overkill at this point. I'm not even interested in the next issue and it ended with a cliffhanger. And Lastly, what the hell was up with that art work? One second Gar looks human, next second he looks like some type of alien hybrid. Why does he look like he's 16 still? Anyway, I'll give this issue of Teen Titans a 4/10. Maybe it's Harsh but it's generous in my book.

Holocaust: I got the check.

Static: I'll pay my own way. Don't want you thinking this is a date.

The Flash Rebirth #6 of 6

There's not much to say about this comic. We all pretty much knew how it ended thanks to Blackest night but for what it was, and how it ended the story I can't complain. It was a good read and it kept me interested, and I'm not the biggest Barry Allen fan or anything but I can say I thoroghly enjoyed it. This Mini may have lasted forever but it brought back Barry and Max Mercury. What I really loved about this issue is the bomb dropped by Thawne about one of Wally's kids. That was just awesome. I'm gonna go ahead and guess it's the boy, I think his name is Jai. I'm sure it's him since it looks like he just got screwed over by the Speedforce. I liked the mini-series though and I can't wait for the first issue of the upcoming Flash series. I give the final issue of Flash Rebirth a solid 8/10.

Reverse Flash: When they get older, one of your children is going to destroy your life.

Black Lantern Green Arrow #30

I love how this is BL Green Arrow #30 like there's 29 other issues somewhere. Anyway, I love this cover, it's such a great switch of the classic GL/GA cover. Man I could talk about how awesome this is for hours so lets move on to the actual comic. That being said, I was gonna complain about how dated this is, I mean they showed the part where Hal and Barry ran away from the Black Rings and that was so long go, but honestly I don't even care. I LOVE Black Lantern Ollie. He's such an asshole I can't even hate the guy. The things he said to Dinah, Mia and Connor were so brutal they even made me feel bad. The whole Ollie sharing his memories with arrows was kinda weird...I wish they explained how the hell he could do that but I'll chalk it up to Black Lantern powers. The artwork was phenomenal and helped the story, but whoever drew Dinah must have gotten her confused with Power Girl because they made Canary REALLY top heavy, not that Ollie's complaining. But really, I loved this comic. Sure it's the basic Blackest Night tie in but being a big fan of everyone involved really helped my like this comic, I'd say it's a great addition to Blackest Night and probably my favorite of all the one issue tie-ins. I gotta give this a 9/10, there were a few things I didn't care for that I mentioned but for the most part I really loved this issue. Also, anyone find it weird that he was more worried about Hal than he was with Dinah? 

Black Canary: You're lying. You're not even Ollie.

Black Lantern Green Arrow: Don't you mean that you know I AM Ollie BECAUSE I'm Lying?

Blackest Night #7

And last but not least, the main event of the week, Blackest Night 7. Wow...who the hell saw THAT coming. Not the corps thing, we all saw that, but the last page was just too awesome for words and I don't know what to say about that. Couple that with Scarecrow's rant, the huge battle with Guy, and the rest of the color corps in space and Lex Luthor stealing the show with his new obsession and I think we see why Geoff is one of the best writers in the business. With one month of Blackest Night left things have definitely heated up even more and I for one can't wait for the final issue. Some things did confuse me but I'm sure those will get explained next week. Blackest Night's main books continue to be something worth checking out and I can only hope the upcoming following arc to Blackest Night is as good as this is. But anyway, I give Blackest Night 7 a solid 9/10 and here's hoping the final issue finishes just as strong as it started.

Lex Luthor (in The Lasso of Truth): The T-Truth is, what i really want... is to be Superman.

Wonder Woman: Of course, you do.

So, I think we had some pretty awesome comics from the DC home front this week. I didn't regret reading any of them so that's always a good sign. Expect some other stuff within the next week since there won't be a Review a Few because there's absolutely nothing that interests me enough coming out this week to pick it up. Also, next week's comic day just happens to be a certain Falisha Ann's birthday. :) So feel free to wish her a Happy Birthday and check our her wonderful art blog. That's all for now, so until next time, You've just been gobsmacked!

- Jason Todd

Review a Few!!!

Hola Senor's and Senorita's, Jason Todd here with another edition of Review A Few. We got a packed week as I actually pulled in 7 comics that I'm currently keeping up with, so you guys know the deal. Quick overview of my thoughts and whatnot, and of course the world famous "Line of The Issue" will be in light blue. So, let's do it!

Batman #696

Continuing Tony Daniel's current Batman run is this month's issue of Batman, picking up where it left off in #695. Before I say anything let me just say, whoever told Tony Daniel that people talked this way should be smacked. "That be it, baby." Really? Come on now. Plus Damian saying "Epic Fail!" was one of the moments that reminded me why I hate him so much. So, basically B-Man falls victim to a little plot cooked up by Jervis "The Mad Hatter" Tetch and The Penguin. What we do learn in this isse is that Dick Knows who Black Mask is, and we'll find out next week. Sadly I already KNOW who it is because they made it obvious as hell. I mean..come on now. Reading that page they TELL YOU who it is. Anyway, I didn't care for the layout of the story, there was too much jumping around Chris Yost style. I'll give this a 4/10 just for establishing that the next issue will show who Black Mask is.

Dick Grayson: My head feels like it's dancing inside a bag of rocks...but I can think again. Clear enough at least... to know who the Black Mask is.

Green Lantern Corps #45

GLC Corps last left us with a raging roid like Red Lantern Guy Gardner vs. pretty much the entire Green Lantern Corps. I just wanna say that words can not express the awesomeness of seeing the good and bad moments of Guy's life. That page alone definitely bumped the score, and even more so seeing him get punched by The Dark Knight. But besides all that, this was a great issue. I was surprised at how the ending came about but I kinda saw it coming. I will say that Green Lantern Corps has really renewed my interest in guys like John, Kyle and Guy. That being said, this issue was very well done, I loved the artwork and Peter Tomasi can write a damn good story, so I give GLC a 9/10. It was a good story but I can't justify giving it higher than that.

Kyle Rayner: How many people that I care about do I need to lose before enough is enough?!? HOW MANY?!?

Blackest Night Flash #3

Damn this issue starts out gruesome. I was having doubts then like seconds later I was hooked. Once again I gotta say I love Wally's new suit and I think it looks better than Barry's to be honest. Anywho, um...really hate the fact that this came out before Flash Rebirth #6 because they ruined the ending. Also, Blackest Night apparently takes place one week after, which I couldn't tell because Blackest Night has been going on damn near as long as Flash Rebirth. Also the fact that Black Lantern Bart thinks Wally wants to be Kid Flash again is just incredibly stupid. He's a grown damn man! Also, man...the return of one person and the death of another, this comic has it all. 9/10 a definite must read for Flash fans.

Trickster: Think you can melt them?

Heatwave: Trust me kid. EVERYTHING has a melting point.

Justice League of America #43

In the last JLA issue we saw Donna Troy and a few other former Teen Titans teaming up with Hal Jordan and trying to convince Oliver Queen to join their incarnation of the Justice League. This picks up with our J. Leaguer's Hal Jordan, Donna Troy, Dick "Batman" Grayson and Starfire taking on Atlas. I loved the opening bit here with everyone's inner monologues somewhat gelling together. Other than that and the character interactions there isn't alot to this comic. The storyline kinda confused me and I didn't care for it much, but it's only the second issue with the new JLA so I'll endure, I'll give this a 6.5/10.

Batman: Now You, Green Lantern!

Batman inner monologue: Weird giving an order to Hal.

Hal's inner monologue: Weird taking an order from Dick.

Streets of Gotham #9

Well, this was a nice little story but honestly I'm looking for the Zsasz story to pick back up. That had alot of action, this has Damien on the cover yet he isn't even in it, and stuff like that just annoys me. Anyway like I said I did like this story, a nice mystery whodunnit type story but that's all it was. Nothing stood out and I'll probably forget it by tomorrow so that's why I can't really rate it higher than a 5/10. Wish I could but it was a very forgettable story. Now lets get Zsasz back into the book and follow up that storyline. 

Gordon: I think I'll get a drink of water and leave you two alone.

Batman: Take your time. Grab yourself a danish.

Scared Thug: NO! No. Stay....

Green Lantern #51

This comic starts off with Lex arguing with Larfleeze over the Orange rings. Just pure awesome. Also I have to mention the art is just fantastic, some of the best damn comic work I've seen to be honest. Okay now this isn't a spoiler in the sense of ruining anything storyline wise but, Dude....Parallax...RIPPED SPECTRE'S FACE OFF. That alone bumped this up to at least an 8 before I could finish reading it. Awesome comic though, I mean I've never seen so many characters utilized so well until Blackest Night came along, everyone gets their time to shine and this definitely kept me hyped for Blackest Night #7. Most people have grown tired on Blackest Night but so far I'm still loving it. I give Green Lantern #51 a solid 10/10, two issues in a row.

Lex Luthor: The Lives an Orange Lantern takes becomes his soldiers. MY Lanterns, and Superman will be one of them. HE WILL BE MINE!

Great Review a Few, I was pleasantly pleased with a few of these comics and can't wait until next week for my newer batch of comics. Blackest Night once again reigns supreme and delivers great stories. As always I appreciate comments and opinions, and expect a review later this week on an animated movie. Until next time, keep it real, because You've just been Gobsmacked!

- Jason Todd


Edit: Update for all my fellow DC Fans as reported from DCU.Blog.DCComics.com
 

Jim Lee and Dan DiDio Named Co-Publishers DC Comics

Geoff Johns to Serve as Chief Creative Officer

John Rood Named EVP, Sales, Marketing and Business Development
Patrick Caldon Named EVP, Finance and Administration

Huge news. Gotta say, I'm very glad to see Geoff and Jim getting bumped up in the DC World, as one of my favorite artists and wone of my favorite writers I'm loving this news. Couldn't have happened to two more talented guys, and here's hoping they thrive in their new jobs.

Review a Few

Review a Few, Man that's all i do now. I'm gonna try to do more frequent posts but basically I've been running low on topics. Anyway there's alot of things coming in this review, so if you're X-Man and you're not caught up :P then feel free to skim, I doubt I'll ruin anything. Other readers like Falisha, Nagash, and Marc feel free to do your thang, read, comment, agree, disagree, whatever. My blog is your blog. So, let's dive head first into reviews with Titans.

Titans #22

This is the supposed last issue of Titans featuring the line up it started with. When Titans started we had Nightwing, Wally West, Roy Harper, Donna Troy, Starfire, Cyborg, Raven and Beast Boy. Man alot can change in twenty-two issues. So with the two remaining members of the Titans, we're left with the close of a chapter and the beginning of another. Now, onto the actual comic. I....don't know what to rate this. I mean...nothing happened at all, then they dropped the bomb on us that all this takes place BEFORE Blackest Night. So...like...why even read it?! I already knew who was joining the JLA, I already knew the stuff about Roy...so...why was this even written? Um...Yeah this sucked big time, I'll be generous and give it a 2/10. That's me being generous...

Cyborg: You've been leader here a few weeks and you already want a secret handshake? What are you, five?

Beast Boy: Sure. But it's dog years so it works out perfectly.

Batgirl #7

This comic....was awesome. I mean, I have no other words for it. Batgirl continues to be one of my favorite series. The art is always great, there's consistent action, comedy, and this is one of the few comics where Dick Grayson as Batman when shown still shines through as Dick Grayson. Plus it's made me like Damian somewhat, and I thought that was impossible. Great as always, I hope the trend continues, plus the next issue is synced up with Red Robin so apparently we'll get an appearance from Timothy Drake, so maybe he'll be written well for the first time in a while. Batgirl #7 gets a 9/10.

Damian: I'm only breaking the non-lethal rule if I maim the REAL Riot, correct?

Adventure Comics #7

Adventure Comics #7 starring Black Lantern Superboy. That title just sounds awesome. And the comic is...This one comic, is better than the other six that were written by Geoff Johns. Now I know that sounds crazy but this comic was SO action packed. I learned a ton of things about SB I didn't know and I feel like I like him more than ever. This comic was great, from cover to cover. I have no complaints at all, and I'm positive this along with Green Lantern #50 are two of the best things about Blackest Night that's not in one of the main books. Perfect 10/10.

Black Lantern Superboy: You know sometimes when I'm alone it's not even you I think about. It's Kara. Sure, she's technically my cousin, but does that even count to a clone?

So yeah, the few ended up being three comics but I'd rather it be this way with two comics rating really high. Next week's review is gonna be alot bigger considering there's Batman #696, Streets of Gotham #9,  Blackest Night Flash #3, Green Lantern #51, Green Lantern Corps #45, JLA #42 and

Superman/Batman #69. So, until next time guys, feel free to comment and I'll catch you guys later. And That's the bottom line....cause J. Todd said so! (I'm trying out new send off lines.) 

- J. Todd

Review a Few

Hey everyone, back for a Review a Few and a new update to JTCS. Basically the reason I wasn't around last week is due to me having an awful awful headache on Saturday that carried on to Sunday. Man I hate those. Anyway this review a few will be the biggest yet, and due to that I'm not gonna go as in-depth as I did last time. Literally just 2-3 lines and then the new inclusion that I've dubbed Line of The Issue aka LOTI. Basically for those who don't understand it, I'm going to pick what I think is the best line of the issue, it may be funny, may be awesome. Either way, I'll also name the best line of the issue and it'll be in light blue. So Line of the issue in light blue, rating in red. Anyway lets jump right into it.

The Atom and Hawkman #46

Atom and Hawkman was unique because one of the main characters is a Black Lantern already whereas The Atom is the recently recruited Indigo Tribe member. Now as someone who hasn't cared much about The Atom since Identity Crisis I will say this issue changed that. Being shown how he's always gravitated around Jean Loring and also his willingness to try to save his friends. Along with Catwoman and Powers of Shazam some of these one month returns have been really good. This one was very interesting from cover to cover. That's why I give this issue a 8/10.

Indigo: Atom. You just saved the universe.

Atom: Just don't tell anyone, I like to keep a low profile.

Gotham City Sirens #8

Gotham City Sirens #8's focus was Poison Ivy. Now I may sound like a broken record but I've been indifferent to Ivy since Sirens started. I've always liked Harley and Selina but Pamela (hm...all their names have six letters) has never really captured my attention until this issue. This issue was amazing. I loved damn near everything about it except the ending bothered me SO much. I hate comics where someone gives up information just because...It you held onto it this long why would you just say, I know where blah blah blah is. That just pisses me off, and it ended everything on a good note just in time to end the issue, but it seemed too peachy keen for me. That dropped the rating, but Sirens 8 gets a 8.5/10.

Gordon: How can I reach you?

Poison Ivy: Tell the Ficus in your office and I'll know.

Justice League of America #41

JLA 41 aka The Birth of the new Justice League. This issue marks the start of a new Trinity as well with Mon-El, Dick "Batman" Grayson and Donna Troy. Basically this issue was just about the JLA gathering new members. That's it. Nothing else was established. I was pretty bored with it, there were some cool moments but for the most part me knowing who was already joining ruined it. Anyway I'd give this about a 6/10.

Batman: Anyway, you're here for a reason, Donna, and I think I know. Judging from your appearance and the tone of your voice, I deduce...you want me in the Justice League.

Donna Troy: That is amazing! You got that just from my appearance?

Batman: Yes... Oh, and Vic called ahead and told me.

World's Finest #4

World's Finest is the four issue comic series that has team ups between people of the Superman mythos and Batman Mythos. The first three issues featured Nightwing & Red Robin, Robin & The Guardian, Supergirl and Batgirl, and this issue features the granddaddy of em all, the first ever Superman/Batman team up with Dick Grayson as Batman. This issue was pretty cool, I hated seeing Supes dressed in his Krytonian clothes because the Superman suit is what makes him Superman, hell he's even wearing it on the cover of the issue. Anyway this was a cool team up but I'd like better villains next time besides Toyman and Mr. Freeze. Maybe Bizarro and Joker or Bizarro and Solomon Grundy or Joker and Lex or something. Either way, this issue gets a 6/10.

Damian: How do you swing around Gotham weighing this much? Criminals probably call you Fat-girl.

Teen Titans #79

Teen Titans #79 is the first issue to really make Static the main hero of the comic so far. As a fan of Static from his TV show plus the fact that there's no really alot of notable African American superheroes in DC, I mean John Stewart, Black Lightning, Cyborg and Vixen are the only ones that I can think of off the top of my head. Anyway this issue is the first time we see Static head home to Dakota since he was kidnapped as a member of the Dark Side Club. Static's parents and family don't seem to know that he's Static, then again they might, everything seemed so vague. I like Static but this issue was more of a round about and featured too many time jumps, it was very Yost-like which means I hated the style of it. I do like what their doing with Cassie though. That said, I give this issue a 4/10.

Virgil (Talking to his Sister) :You look better. I mean, you're still ugly, but you look better.

Superman: Secret Origins #4

Is it just me or does Rudy look exactly like Carl from Aqua Teen Hunger Force minus the Mustache? Anyway, the origin they gave Parasite was genius. It makes such perfect sense so I commend Mr. Johns on another fine part of this Superman Origin. Now can anyone tell me if Lois Lane has ALWAYS had typos in her work because I saw it on Smallville and now it's in this and I never really noticed if she usually has typo's while working at the planet. Anyway, the character development with Jimmy Olsen was very interesting as well. All in all, another good issue of a great Origin story so far. I give this issue a 9/10.

Clark: We've actually met before Mr. Luthor. Clark Kent. From Smallville.

Lex: Yes. It was some time ago, but I'd remember those glasses anywhere.

Batman and Robin #7

First off...The fact that this arc is called Blackest Knight is just pure awesomeness. And that's the only thing. AWFUL COMIC. Oh My God, I hated everything about this comic, Why the hell are Batman, Robin, Alfred AND Batwoman all in the UK? Who the hell's watching Gotham, Stephanie?! This comic was so bad, everything sucked. And on page 29... some idiot screwed up the bubbles so Batwoman is saying Batman's lines and Batman is saying her lines. Oh man I hated this comic, every single thing about this reminds me why I'm so hesitant to read anything by Morrison. To think I had to wait TWO MONTHS to read this steaming piece of crap just infuriates me. God that was horrible. Also why the hell would Grayson even THINK about putting a dead Bruce in the Lazarus pit after all the shit he gave Tim about wanting to put Connor, Steph and his dad in one in The Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul?! 0/10....think I'm joking? Seriously 0/10 and don't look for a line of the issue because there isn't one.

Green Lantern #50

Man oh man. After reading Batman and Robin 7 I thought that nothing could raise my spirits but boy was I wrong. This is the epitome of a great comic. This is why Geoff Johns continues to reign over the comic world. Man everything in this comic was wonderful. Things from Blackest Night Flash 2 were shown to show continuity. Everything with Scarecrow, Luther and Mera was great. I mean I don't have words for how good this comic was. Also, Hal has joined damn near every color corp by now hasn't he? This definitely warrants a re-read. Perfect 10/10 for the epic 50th issue of Green Lantern.

Green Lantern: I don't care who the rings chose. I want them off those psychos now!

Larfleeze: What do you think I'm trying to DO, Green Lantern? SHARE?!?! Gimme that back you thief!

Lex Luthor: No. S'Mine!

Alright guys, that's my Review a Few. Normally I'd end it here but considering this upcoming week there's a two hour event known as Smallville: Absolute Justice I figured I'd mention it. Why do you ask? Because instead of our usual message from Dido at the end of this weeks DC Comics, we have a promo pic for the upcoming episode where a Pre-Superman Clark Kent meets the Justice Society of America. Featuring appearances from Lois Lane, Green Arrow, Dr. Fate, Stargirl, Hawkman and Amanda Waller this looks to be a huge TV event. Also it's written by Geoff Johns and it if it's anything like the two comics by him I reviewed today it should be great. So before I take off I leave you with the promo poster for Smallville: Absolute Justice.

- Jason Todd

Jason Todd's "Review A Few"

Okay okay, now I know review a few isn't as catchy as X-Man's "Best of The Rest" column but I didn't wanna rip him off 100%. Basically this is the same gist though, I used today to read a couple of comics that I hadn't gotten to yet, so I'll name each comic, say a few words about it then give it my final rating. No spoilers will be mentioned so don't worry, I'll just give a quick one of two sentence summary, my thoughts and then move on to the next comic. Sounds easy enough, so lets jump right into it.

 

Batman: The Widening Gyre #4

Written by Kevin Smith

Art by Walt Flanagan

Widening Gyre #4 picks up where things pretty much left off with Bruce encountering Baphomet, and still being in love with a certain young woman. Widening Gyre #4's villain was Crazy Quilt who was prominently featured. I love that Kevin Smith has been using lesser known/used villains than going straight for Joker and Two-Face like most writers do. I also loved the frequent flashbacks, whereas unlike Chris Yost in Red Robin, they fit well and added to the dynamic of Bruce and his need to writing down memories and reliving them. Plus with appearances by Nightwing, The Outsiders, Catwoman and a few other characters this was definitely an action packed comic book. Widening Gyre continues to blow me away and I give issue #4 a 10/10.

Booster Gold #28

Written By Dan Jurgens

Art By Dan Jurgens (Double Duty!!)

Booster Gold #28 takes place after Blackest Night where we found out Booster's sister Michelle was a few years in the past living in Coast City not so far off from when Coast City was destroyed and Millions were killed by Hank Henshaw aka Cyborg Superman. In this issue we're treated to Booster taking on the Royal Flush gang, and being the arrogant Booster that everyone is used to while giving an interview. I've always been a fan of Booster putting on the cocky role to protect his true mission of being a Time Cop basically, and addressing rumors that he and Power Girl may be dating was icing on the cake. Without giving away the other things in this issue I'll say I did enjoy it but not much happened. It was an okay read but just the opening of a storyline that I think will get better. I of course skipped the Blue Beetle story with Hai-Me Reyes. Anyway Booster Gold #28 gets a 6.5/10.

Power of Shazam #48

Written By Eric Wallace

Artwork by Don Kramer

Power of Shazam # 48 is a one month revived comic series due to the Blackest Night. Osiris, brother of Isis and Brother-In-Law of Black Adam rises from the dead with a Black Lantern ring. Unlike the other Black Lanterns he can still think and isn't controlled. This is one of those one shot issues I can't describe without giving away stuff so I'll make it brief. I was a fan of Osiris and my jaw dropped in 52 when he was murdered brutally by his "friend" Sobek. I 'll say that this wasn't that good of a read, as a one shot there's not much that could really be done with it though but I will say I'm glad to finally get a chance to put the Osiris character to bed per se because I hated how he left the comics during 52. I also hated to see Billy and Mary in this comic. They don't have powers so why even show them at this point? All in all it was great to see Osiris but that doesn't make for a great read. I give Powers of Shazam a 4/10.

Batman #695

Written by Tony Daniel

Artwork by Tony Daniel (Oooh Fancy)

O....kay. Well after reading that issue I was left very confused. There's like three people who we have no idea who they are and that annoys me. I do like that this follows up with Arkham Reborn for the most part, but some things like The Riddler just annoy me. As someone who was happy with him in his last role as a good guy detective I hate to see him back step and become a villain again if that's indeed whats happening. One thing about this issue is it showed that Dick is really stepping into Bruce's role. if I didn't know he was Dick Grayson and if not for a joke he made during his inner monologue I would have never known that Batman wasn't the Bruce Wayne we all know and love. Basically this was a very interesting comic but it left open a lot of loose ends which leaves me wanting more so I'll give Batman 695 a 7/10.

I think that's all for now, i have a few other things I may read, I picked up Superman and Batman vs. Vampires and Werewolves for some reason unbeknown to me. I also have a few other things I may read today including X-Men Origins (Cyclops, Jean Gray, Sabretooth and Iceman), 52 Aftermath - The Four Horsemen, Kick-Ass and some more comics. So until then I'll catch you all later.

- Jason Todd

The Color Corps. Come to Detroit!!!

Jason Todd here, not with a a comic review or anything, just an update. Anyone who's anyone knows about the Blackest Night storyline that's taking DC Comics by storm. So about a week ago I decided I was gonna start  collecting the Color Corp rings. I'd always had an interest in them but after reading X's comments on how awesome they were and how they're not crappy plastic I decided to act upon my collector's instinct.

So I mentioned to my Girlfriend Falisha a.k.a. Poison Quinn of Batmania that I was going to start collecting the rings. A few days later she ran into a huge comic fan in one of her art classes who was wearing a Green Lantern Corp ring. Well...my first thought is GL Ring + Art Class = Kyle Rayner? But sadly it's not him. Anyway she told me that the GL Ring he had looks pretty awesome as well so I REALLY wanted to get the collection. So in her spare time today she hit up the Comic Book shop by her and purchased me all 8 Rings for an early Christmas present. Now isn't that awesome, lol. And being the art nerd my girl is she even assembled them in ROYGBIV order, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet and Black last. So thanks to my girl I'm ready for the impending Invasion of the Black Lanterns....and If I can't beat em, I'll throw on my Black ring and join em.

So, now that I've updated my two followers so far...one that was in the story lol, Expect my Jason Todd post within the next week, depending on when I get around to typing it up and when I stop reading Grimm Fairy Tales. Anyway thanks for reading guys.


- Jason Todd