Infinity #5 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman

Artists: Jerome Opeña & Dustin Weaver

So far Infinity has been an amazing event, and easily one of the best that Marvel has produced in a while. It has especially been brilliant in the last couple of issues, having some phenomenal moments, and if Jonathan Hickman keeps this quality up it could become one of the best events ever.

Plot

The Avengers continue to save world after world from the Builders whilst Thanos tries to make the Illuminati's Antimatter Projection Systems work.

Review

This was a brilliant issue and although it wasn't quite as good as the last couple of issues, it was still a fantastic issue and did a fantastic job of setting up the conclusion. Now it isn't a terrible thing that Jonathan Hickman has slowed the pace down in this issue, as after all the explosive events in the last couple of issues it needed to slow down slightly, and with this being the penultimate issue it is better to do all the building up in this issue, leaving more room for excitement in the conclusion. Besides this however Hickman would also manage to add a lot of drama and suspense, as although the transition between sequences wasn't quite as smooth as it's been up till now, it wouldn't hurt the quality of the issue that much.

The art on this issue was also amazing, as although it wasn't quite as good as it has been up till now, it was still brilliant, and Jerome Opeña and Dustin Weaver did a tremendous job. I did however feel that the detail in this issue wasn't as good as it has been up till now, as although the detail was brilliant throughout most of the issue, there were quite a few imperfections, which is something that we haven't seen too much from Opeña and Weaver so far. The layouts were however once again outstanding, adding a lot of depth and tone to the issue. The small bit of action and character emotion would also be fantastic, with one sequence featuring the Hulk smashing being truly phenomenal.

This issue would start by showing the aftermath of Infinity #4 and Avengers #21 with the Avengers wiping out any remaining Builders, making many Avengers Worlds. Now this wouldn't do much for the story as a whole, setting up the Avengers return to Earth. It was however still very entertaining and interesting, and I found the interaction between Thor and Captain America to be very entertaining. The conversation between Cap and Oracle was also very interesting, and I loved Cap's shock to the appreciation of the planets they're saving.

We'd also get to see the first encounter between Thane and a member of the Cull Obsidian as Ebony Maw would find Thane in this issue. Now I won't go into much detail about this sequence as the major development during it was extremely interesting, even if it was also mainly set-up work. The interaction between Thane and Ebony Maw however was very interesting, and I especially enjoyed the emotion on Thane when he realises that he's a killer just like his father (even though he didn't mean to). 

Thanos would also have an impact on this issue, with him and his Cull Obsidian trying to get the Antimatter Projection Systems to work. This would be the continuation of a development that happened in New Avengers #11, and although this issue wouldn't see a lot of development happen, it would still be very interesting to read. I especially enjoyed how much intensity Thanos showed in this sequence, as although he wouldn't be as angry or intense as he was during his fight with Black Bolt, he would still show his disapproval of failure, expecting his Cull Obsidian to find the answer quicker than they are. I also loved seeing the malice in Thanos' facial expressions, as it would add a lot of depth to the sequence.

Final Verdict

This was yet another amazing issue in the Infinity crossover, as although it wasn't quite as good as the last couple of issues, being a bit slower, it did do a brilliant job of setting up the conclusion. The would also be some interesting developments, as well as some explosive artwork, and the issue as a whole has me very excited for the conclusion. Due to this I'd highly recommend this issue as although not quite as good as the last couple of issues it was still an amazing addition to the event.

Rating: 9/10

New Avengers #11 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Mike Deodato Jr.

This has so far been an amazing series, and the Infinity event has made it even better, and so far has been one of the best events that Marvel has produced in years. The New Avengers and Avengers tie-ins however have also been wonderful, and for the first couple of months the New Avengers parts stood out as the best the event had to offer, though the main event itself has rightfully taken over that spot for now.

Plot

The Illuminati are taken to another universe where they meet a different set of Builders. Meanwhile Proxima Midnight goes to war with Wakanda.

Review

This was an amazing issue, as although it wasn't quite as good as the previous New Avengers Infinity tie-ins, it was still brilliant, being extremely interesting and exciting throughout. Jonathan Hickman so far has done a great job of balancing the three main series involved in this event, as although New Avengers and Avengers style and tone make it obvious that they're tie-ins, they also add more depth to the story as a whole. Hickman would also give some very interesting developments in this issue that played off this weeks Avengers issue perfectly, without spoiling it for anyone who decided to read this issue first. There was also a lot of excitement in this issue, and the end of this story is looking even more interesting.

The artwork in this issue was also fantastic, and Mike Deodato Jr. once again did a phenomenal job. The detail of Deodato Jr.'s art was also outstanding, as it was very consistent throughout, being simply perfect. The layouts of Deodato Jr.'s artwork was also once again brilliant, as it was very dynamic, and added a lot of excitement and depth to the issue. I also felt that Deodato Jr. handled the action in this issue perfectly, with it being very explosive and exciting, having a brilliant tone and atmosphere to it as well. I was however once again not a fan of how he drew Beast, as although he continues to improve with Thanos, I still feel that his version of the Beast is way too big, and too much like a gorilla.

The main development in this issue would be the Illuminati being taken by an Aleph of an other universe to meet with the Builders and Ex Nihili of another universe. This was probably the most interesting sequence in this issue, as although it may have not been the most exciting, it would have the most impact on the event as a whole. The interaction between these Builders and the Illuminati was very interesting and dramatic, and I especially enjoyed the different attitude that these Builders had. I was however not that fond of the different look for the Ex Nihili's though, as I much prefer the normal gold and black colour.

There would also be a big fight sequence as Proxima Midnight would lead an army against Wakanda, with the ultimate goal of finding the location of the missing Infinity Gem. This was easily the most exciting sequence in this issue, as although the Builders appearance had a more interesting development point, the action was simply amazing being very intense and exciting. I also loved the interaction between the Cull Obsidian prior to this, and the dialogue between Proximan Midnight and Black Panther (Shuri) throughout it added a lot of drama and suspense as well.

Thanos would also make an appearance in this issue, showing how he is continuing with his search for both Thane and the remaining Infinity Gem. Now the fight Thanos had with Black Bolt was amazing, so I was slightly surprised to see how calm he was in this issue, though this is Thanos so that fight would have probably been nothing to him. I did however enjoy seeing his interaction with his Cull Obsidian, and the discovery that he made in this issue was also very interesting, though his response to it was slightly disappointing, though worked perfectly with Thanos' characteristics.

Final Verdict

This was yet another fantastic tie-in issue, as although it wasn't quite as good as the previous tie-in issues that New Avengers has produced, it was still a very exciting and enjoyable issue. It also had some brilliant action, as well as having a lot of drama and suspense throughout. On top of that there was some very interesting developments that have me looking forward to Infinity #5 even more than I already was. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue, as well as the main Infinity event and the Avengers tie-ins as they are all truly amazing.

Rating: 8/10

Avengers #21 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Leinil Francis Yu

Infinity has been an amazing event so far, and one of the best that Marvel has produced in a while. Although the main series itself has been the stand out part of this event, as it should be, the Avengers and New Avengers tie-ins have also been simply outstanding.

Plot

Following the surprising death of a Builder at the hands of Thor, Captain America and his army take the fight to straight to the Builders.

Review

This was yet another brilliant issue in the Infinity event, and one of the best from the Avengers series. Jonathan Hickman followed on from the amazing events of Infinity #4 perfectly, keeping the story flowing smoothly. The issue did however fall down in quality for the same reason every other Avengers issue in Infinity has, and that's due to Hickman not wanting to take too much of the development away from Infinity itself, using this to work in some extra development. In saying that this was still a very exciting and dramatic issue, as although there wasn't as much suspense in the action as there is in the Infinity issues, they were still very entertaining sequences, having a fantastic tone.

The artwork was also amazing, as although like last issue it wasn't Leinil Francis Yu's best work, it was still outstanding. It was however not to the level of quality that Yu usually produces, with the artwork lacking in detail at times, and having a few imperfections. It was however overall wonderful, and for most of the issue it was simply beautiful. The layout of Yu's artwork was also once again outstanding, being extremely dynamic, adding a lot of tone and depth to the issue, showing why Yu's style's perfect for this tie-in. The action sequences were also very exciting and explosive, and it showed exactly why cosmic battles can be some of the best that comics produce visual wise.

This issue would start by showing that Captain Universe is still in a coma following her time as one of the Builders prisoners. Now there would be more development to this later in the issue, and although I won't go into any details about that I will say what I thought of her addition in this issue. Although I'm not the biggest Captain Universe fan I was very happy that she was brought back into this story with this issue, as due to her having a lot to do with the build-up to Infinity it was natural for her to have some impact. After reading this issue however I do see why Hickman has kept her back, as it has made this appearance much more exciting, and I hope she continues to appear throughout the rest of the event.

Following the death of a Builder the Kree work on repairing the power, and preventing the demise of the Supreme Intelligence. Now it would be the interaction between the Supreme Intelligence, and one Kree member in particular that interested me most about this sequence, with the Supreme Intelligence believing that the death of a Builder at Thor's hands was nothing but luck, and that it doesn't change anything. What I enjoyed about that was that it showed disbelieve in the Avengers, as following the boost in morale this kind of criticism from such an intelligent being makes you look at the bigger picture, showing that whether he's right or wrong that there's still a lot of work to be done.

Captain America and his army would continue on from their victory in Infinity #4 by taking the fight to the Builders, allowing Ronan to lead them into battle. Now this was easily one of the best parts of this issue, as although the development near the end would probably be my favourite part of the issue, this was probably the next, being very exciting. What I liked most however was the tone, as it managed to be rather sombre and elegant, feeling like an action scene from a film that's quite. I also loved seeing all the Avengers that were involved in this fight, and especially the likes of Hulk and Hyperion, who looked like the powerhouses they are.

Final Verdict

This was yet another amazing addition to the Infinity event, and although much like the other Avengers tie-ins it didn't come close the the outstanding developments that the main Infinity series has been producing, it has still been very interesting, working of the main series perfectly. The issue would also have a lot of drama and excitement, having some rather intriguing developments of itself. Due to this I'd highly recommend this issue, as well as both the Infinity series itself, and the New Avengers tie-ins, as they three series give the best reading experience for this event.

Rating: 8/10

Infinity #4 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Jerome Opeña & Dustin Weaver

This has been a phenomenal crossover event so far, and although it took a while to become phenomenal, it has been brilliant since the start, with the main event as well as the Avengers and New Avengers tie-ins also being amazing. It did however jump to another level with the last issue, and I just hope that it continues to be great, as so far it has been the event that Marvel has needed for years.

Plot

As Captain America goes over his final plans with the Council, he sends Thor to negotiate their surrender. Meanwhile Thanos battles Blackbolt over the location of his son, Thane.

Review

This was yet another phenomenal issue, and this series has certainly moved up a level over the last couple of issues. Jonathan Hickman once again does a fantastic job of following on from both the last issue as well as the Avenger tie-in. Hickman also added a lot of drama and suspense in this issue, and although the start of the issue was slightly slow, it made up for that quickly, being very exciting for most of the issue. The dialogue in this issue was also terrific, and especially during the Thanos/Black Bolt fight, helping to add depth, as well as in this case tension. Hickman also once again did a brilliant job of balancing the two stories involved in this issue, allowing each to compliment the other.

The artwork in this issue was also fantastic, and Jerome Opeña and Dustin Weaver once again did an amazing job. The detail from both artists was spectacular as usual, being very consistent throughout. Both artists also compliment each other perfectly, as although I've always preferred Opeña's art slightly, Weaver's works perfectly alongside it, with both having very similar styles and tones. I also really enjoy how Weaver handled the Thanos/Black Bolt fight, as it was very exciting and explosive, and along with the layouts both artists produced for this issue, it was easily the best thing about the artwork. On top of all that both artists also did a fantastic job of showing the emotion in this issue, adding a lot of tone with it.

This issue would give us a deeper looking into Thanos' son, Thane, showing him as a healer in the Hidden City of Orollan. Now I won't go into too much detail as to avoid any spoilers, but this issue would give us a very good look at the character that has caused Thanos' wrath, also giving him some sort of origin as well. This was something that I really enjoyed, as after it was revealed that Thanos was looking for his son I was wondering what sort of role his son would play. Now this issue doesn't actually answer that question, but it would give a lot of development for the character, as well as hint at what his future may be.

Cause of Thane, Thanos and Black Bolt would become involved in a huge battle, that sees Thanos pushed to his very limits. This was a fight that I was looking forward to since the start of the series, and although I was expecting it to come a little later in the series, I'm going to complain, as it was a brilliant fight. I also liked that  due to Black Bolt battling Thanos in this fight it allowed him to use his full powers, not  back. I also loved the carnage that would come due to this fight, and the development that would come out of it. The fight itself was also very intense and exciting, adding a lot of entertainment to the issue.

The other part of this issue would see the Avengers try and negotiate some form of peaceful surrender with the Builders, with Captain America sending Thor to do the negotiating. Now the moment that it was revealed that Thor would be the negotiator I was very happy, as due to the cover I expected him to have a big involvement in this issue, and was glad that he did. Without going into any details I also really enjoyed the form of negotiation that Thor took, and this sequence turned out exactly as I expected, but in a very unique way, and overall this has been some of Hickman's smartest work on the event.

Final Verdict

This was an amazing issue, and so far this has easily been the best crossover event that Marvel has done in a long time. This issue itself had plenty of suspense and drama, with tons of excitement, and brilliant character depth. It also had a fantastic fight between Thanos and Black Bolt, and has really shaken up the development of the event. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue, as well as the rest of the series so far.

Rating: 10/10

Avengers #20 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Leinil Francis Yu

Infinity has amazes me on so many levels so far, as although it's not the best event that I've ever read, it is the best in recent years, and has the potential to even become one of the best of all time. The Avengers and New Avengers tie-ins have also been amazing, and sometimes better with the series flowing through all three series perfectly.

Plot

Having currently won a battle against the Builders the Avengers head to rescue their captured members and plan their next move.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and yet another solid issue in this fabulous event. Jonathan Hickman has done a fantastic job of continuing from the Avengers victory in Infinity #3 as although this wasn't as exciting as that issue, it was still very dramatic setting up the next part brilliantly. The issue also had plenty of other development points throughout, as although there were some parts that I was slightly disappointed about it was still overall a very enjoyable read, and I am glad that the event has managed to keep up this consistent level of quality. I also loved how Hickman handled the dialogue in this issue as it managed to keep the story interesting, adding little bits of excitement here and there.

I was actually slightly disappointed with the artwork in this issue, as although it was overall brilliant it wan't as good as Leinil Francis Yu usually produces. Overall however Yu did do a great job, and continues to bring the perfect style for this story. The only problem that I had with his artwork was that there were quite a few imperfections in his artwork, with not quite as much detail as he usually gives. He did however once again produce some amazing layouts, that were very dramatic, adding a lot of depth to the issue. Yu also once again did a great job of adding excitement, as although once again there wasn't much action, there were still some sequences that were quite intense, having plenty of emotion to them.

The last issue of Infinity would see the Avengers get a victory over the Builders. Due to this they are able to go and free the captured Avengers in this issue. I personally felt that this sequence was very exciting and interesting, as although it wasn't what I quite how I expected the captured Avengers to be free, it was still very interesting, being a very explosive sequence. I also loved the interaction between characters throughout the sequence, and especially the interaction between the captured Avengers just prior to being rescued, as it added a bit of humour to the issue.

The other development for the Avengers in this issue would see them plan their next move against the Builders. Now I won't go into any details as to avoid spoilers, but this was yet another interesting sequence, and unlike the previous planning sequences this one was also slightly exciting, having a lot of tension between the characters involved. I also really enjoyed how emotional this sequence was, as you could see the passion in some of the characters, which was brilliant, and along with the amazing dialogue that made this sequence a little more impressive.

They wouldn't be the only developments in this issue, as with the issue being full of developments we would also see some from the Builders, as well as the Ex Nihili's. Now again I won't go into any details over the plot in this but the sequence that featured the Ex Nihili's was very interesting, as although nothing too exciting happened in this issue, it would cause a very interesting development that I look forward to seeing expanded on.

Final Verdict

This was a fantastic issue, and although the Avengers series is still not standing out as much as the other two series, it is still very consistent, not being that far behind the other two. The issue itself also had plenty of developments, making me extremely interested in what happens next. Due to all this I would highly recommend this issue, as well as the rest of the Avengers tie-ins, the New Avengers tie-ins, and of course Infinity itself.

Rating: 8/10

Infinity #3 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artists: Jerome Opeña & Dustin Weave

I have really been enjoying Infinity so far, and after a couple of poor events I'm happy that Marvel have finally gotten their act together. The story has progressed brilliant so far, and the Avengers and New Avengers issues work as brilliant tie-ins, being crucial to the story.

Plot

The Avengers prepare for battle against the Builders whilst Black Bolt prepares to be confronted by Thanos.

Review

This was a phenomenal issue, and my favourite of the event so far. Jonathan Hickman has been doing an amazing job with this event as a whole, but what stood out for me in this issue was that it took the recent events in Avengers and New Avengers and expanded on them in a very explosive, and exciting way. I also loved how Hickman managed to keep some mystery in the event, as although he's revealing something shocking every now and then, he seems to still have some stuff kept up his sleeve. I also felt that this issue was very dramatic, and suspenseful, also having some brilliant dialogue, and interactions. I also loved how it's taken the story a major step forward, whilst leaving some fuel in the tank for the second half.

The art on this issue was once again done by Jerome Opeña and Dustin Weaver. Both artists once again did a fantastic job, and although I probably still preferred Opeña's artwork slightly there isn't a huge lot between the two artists. The detail by both artists was simply outstanding, with each sequence being stunning, and especially the ones centred around the Avengers in space. The action in this issue was also handled perfectly between both artists, literally being very explosive, as well as exciting, adding a lot more drama, and tone to the issue. Justin Ponsor also once again did an outstanding job of colouring this issue, and it's his colours that help keep the artwork more consistent.

The last issue of the Avengers would see the Builders learn the location of the Avengers, and the Galactic Council, making the planets in their way surrender to them. I found this to be a very interesting development, showing just how powerful the Builders were. I also enjoyed how it allowed for differences of priorities of the Council members, with some seeing surrender as the wise option, and others not wanting to be controlled, preferring to fight like a warrior, even if that means dying like one.

Even though some of the Council would leave, this didn't stop Captain America and his Avengers come up with a plan, taking the fight to the Builders. Now I won't go into much detail over what happens, but it was a very exciting development point, having some explosive moments. I also loved how suspenseful the sequence was, and how it made the event a bit more lively, as although there has been plenty of action so far, there hasn't been anything quite like this, also being a genius decision.

This issue would also see Thanos make his way to Attilan to confront Black Bolt. Now I won't go into any details over this sequence, as it happens quite a bit into the issue, and I'd prefer to avoid any spoilers anyway. As you would probably guess however, the encounter isn't too friendly, being extremely exciting, and suspenseful. It wasn't however quite as exciting as the Avengers doing battle with the Builders, but still exciting in it own way. It also ended on a brilliant note, leaving me extremely excited for the next part of this marvellous event.

Final Verdict

This was an amazing issue, and my personal favourite of the event so far. It had so much excitement, and suspense, as well as plenty of drama. The developments were also very dramatic, adding some energy to the event. It also had some brilliant action sequences, and has me hooked for the next part. Due to this it's easy to recommend this issue, and I'd also recommend the rest of the event as well.

Rating: 10/10

Avengers #19 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Leinil Francis Yu

So far Infinity has been outstanding, and truly one of the better Marvel events in a while. It has seen some fantastic developments so far, with this, and the New Avengers tie-ins being perfect companions.

Plot

Whilst half the Avengers are captured by the Builders, the rest try to form a plan of action.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and although not quite as good as the main Infinity story so far, another great tie-in. Jonathan Hickman is doing a really great job of this event, and I've loved how he's managed to keep both the Avengers, and New Avengers series in the same tone that they were prior, whilst having the event be a lovely merger of the two. This issue Hickman managed to add a lot of drama, and suspense, as although there wasn't any proper action, there was still a lot of excitement, with some of the sequences being very intense. I also loved how Hickman managed to once again write an exciting issue, without giving to much development away from the main Infinity series.

The art in this issue was simply phenomenal, and Leinil Francis Yu really out did himself this time. The detail in his artwork was simply outstanding, and his work on this so far could very well be the best that I've ever seen from him, as he manages to make the complex settings work perfectly, only loosing a bit of detail in the background characters. Yu also manages to show the characters emotions, and expressions perfectly, adding so much depth, and drama to the story, making it feel more alive. Yu also handled the small explosive sequence perfectly, as although I'd have loved it if Yu had drawn more action in this issue, this was enough, with the emotion, and depth of the rest of the story making up for it.

Following the shocking conclusion to the last issue of Avengers I was expecting some follow-up in Infinity #2, so when that didn't happen I was extremely happy to see it continued in this issue, and it was probably better to leave it for this issue anyway. This issue would show that Captain Marvel, and another few Avengers would become captured by the Builders, and interrogated for information. I found this to be a very interesting, and dramatic development for the story, as it would show the characteristics of the Builders, as well as give an update on Captain Marvel, and her team, which I was happy about.

Whilst this was happening the other Avengers would be gathered regrouping, and treating the wounded. Although this sequence wouldn't give much development I still found it very intriguing, as seeing Avengers treating injured Skrulls just seemed odd, and especially with Spider-Woman being amongst these Avengers. I did however also enjoy the dialogue during this sequence, and especially from Spider-Woman, as it would show how bad things are, and that although they've got a victory they've still lost a lot.

This issue would also once again see the Galactic Council gathered, trying to come up with a new plan of attacking the Builders. Now I won't go into too much detail about this sequence, as to avoid spoilers, but I will say my thoughts on a few things in this sequence. First off I loved seeing how serious this was, as after having Gladiator mad in Infinity #2, it was nice to see more reason here. I also found J'son of Spartax' actions to be very interesting, and after the development this sequence would produce I look forward to seeing what happens next.

Final Verdict

This was a fantastic issue, and although not the best that Infinity has shown so far, not far behind, being extremely exciting, and dramatic, having interesting development points. The story also had a lot of tension, and passion in it, with plenty of depth, showing the differences in characteristics perfectly. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue, and can't wait for the next part of Infinity.

Rating: 8/10

Infinity #2 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman

Artists: Jerome Opeña & Dustin Weaver

So far Infinity has been amazing, but theAvengers, and New Avengerstie-ins has been what's stolen the show so far, being extremely entertaining, as well as developing the story in a perfect, but subtle way. Now Infinity continues and hopefully this is shaping up to be the Marvel event we deserve.

Plot

Following Thanos invasion of Earth, Corvus Glaive heads to Attilan in search of the remaining Infinity Gem. Meanwhile the Avengers continue their fight against the Builders.

Review

This was an amazing issue, and although it wasn't quite as good as the first issue, being slightly disappointing considering the phenomenal Avengers/ New Avengers tie-in issues, overall this was a very good issue, and a terrific continuation of the storyline. Jonathan Hickman has done a great job of allowing this storyline to flow throughout the three series' he works on whilst allowing them to re-root back to this issue, meaning that people who don't get the Avengers and New Avengers won't miss much, also adding a quick recap of both issues to help with that. The drama, and suspense in this issue was also outstanding, and Hickman has added the right tone to this story, also being exciting, and entertaining.

The art on this issue was divided between Jerome Opeña, and Dustin Weaver, both who have worked on the Avengers series prior. I have to say that although I love both artists work I have to give the edge to Opeña as his art is simply phenomenal. Weaver did however do a brilliant job as well, with both artists artwork being very highly detailed. I especially loved the emotion that both artists added to the characters, as it really allowed the story to come alive, and given the drastic events so far, this is really needed. The action was also handled perfectly by both artists, being very explosive, and exciting. I also loved the colouring from Justin Ponsor, and feel that it helps keep the same tone to the story.

This issue would see Corvus Glaive finally head to Attilan, where he gives Thanos' ultimatum. I found this to be very suspenseful, and exciting, as given the fact that Black Bolt was one of the few Illuminati members not to be personally targeted I expected something to happen here. The ultimatum itself was also very interesting, and typical of Thanos. There was however still a bit of mystery surrounding it, and the revelation that happened surrounding this later on in the issue was mind blowing.

It looked as if this issue was mainly going to centre around the events from New Avengers #9, and although it mostly did there was a continuation from last issue, and the developments Avengers #18 added. I initially was disappointed to see the Avengers retreating, as although this was probably the smart move, it just didn't feel right. I was however very happy when they returned to battle the Builders, and this sequence was simply amazing, also adding some interesting, and shocking developments to the story.

Gladiator also had a brilliant role in this issue, as with him being a part of this war against the Builders it was interesting to see his take on the situation. This itself was typical of Gladiator, and that's what I loved about it, as it was so true to the character, with his passion, and determination being above anyone else's (which is saying a lot when Captain America is nearby). I also loved that we got to see Gladiator in action alongside the Avengers, as it was simply astonishing.

Final Verdict

Although not quite as good as the last issue, this was still a tremendous continuation to the event, and it has certainly kept me excited about the series. The suspense, and drama throughout was simply outstanding, having some brilliant interactions, and leading to some shocking developments. Due to all this, added the brilliant action I would highly recommend this issue, and am looking forward to the next Avengers tie-in, and ultimately the next issue of this series.

Rating: 8/10

Avengers #18 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Leinil Francis Yu

Now I haven't been reviewing this series, and don't actually get the series straight away, with a friend allowing me to read theirs when it's first out. I have however decided to review this series, as well New Avengers throughout Infinity.

Plot

The Galactic Council get a new member in the form of Skrull leader, Kl'rt, and the Avengers take the fight to the Builders.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and although it wasn't quite perfect, it was amazing tie-in issue, and extremely enjoyable to read. Jonathan Hickman did a great job of continuing from where Infinity #1 left off, as although it may be awkward for anyone following the Avengers series, who hasn't been reading Infinity to get into, it was still very well handled. I also loved how Hickman managed to give a exciting, and interesting issue, which follows on from Infinity, without affecting the main story too much, as although it's following on from the events in that series, it's became it's own unique side story. I also loved the pacing of this issue, and how it had plenty of suspense, and drama.

The art on this issue was simply outstanding, and Leinil Francis Yu did a spectacular job. The detail was simply amazing, as with everything that's going on in these panels you'd expect a bit of sloppiness, or inconsistency from most artists, but Yu proves why he's one of the best artist in the business today. The depth to his layouts were also sensational, adding great drama, and tone to the issue. I also loved the way he drew all the characters, with them all looking amazing, also showing great facial expressions. The action was also brilliantly handled, being very explosive, and exciting, also giving more tone, and with Yu working on the art for at least the rest of Infinity I'll be looking forward to every issue from now on.

This issue would focus on the Skrull leader Kl'rt, who is better known as the Super-Skrull, showing him coming to the Galactic Council, and telling of his encounter with the Builders. It's always nice to see Kl'rt make an appearance, and this time was no different, as his tale was both exciting, and dramatic. It was also interesting to see for the first time a weakness in the Builders, as although they appear to still have an upper hand, this would show that they aren't invincible.

Besides this it was nice to see the Galactic Council involved, as with the threat of the universe on the line, it is natural for them to get involved, and following their appearance in Guardians of the Galaxy it's nice to see them feature in this great cosmic event. I also felt that Hickman handled the characters perfectly, and I loved the professional attitude that came from the Council, as despite Kl'rt's tale, they were still wary of fighting the Builders.

Now with all this going on it didn't give a lot of time for the Avengers to get involved, but they wouldn't be left out, it is shown that Captain America's group of Avengers that headed into space at the end of Infinity #1 have arrived at the Council as well. Now I won't go into any details about what the Avengers do in this issue, as it'd give away major plot details, and I like to avoid spoilers as much as possible. I will however say that they had an exciting, and dramatic role in the issue, and considering what they actually did in this issue, I very much look forward to the next part of Infinity, as well as both the next issue of this series, and the New Avengers tie-ins, as this series has seriously got exciting.

Final Verdict

This was an amazing issue, and one of the best tie-in issues that I've read tie-in wise. It is however not a great issue for anyone who isn't following Infinity, as although it is exciting, and entertaining, it may be a bit confusing. Due to this I'll be lowering the rating slightly, having wanted to give it the full five stars. I would however highly recommend it to anyone who has been following Infinity, but unless you are considering getting Infinity it's probably best to leave this issue alone.

Rating: 8/10

Infinity #1 Review

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Jim Cheung

This has been a series that I've been looking forward to for some time now, as with the disappointment of Age of Ultron, as well as the brilliant build-up in both Avengers, and New Avengers series I'm hoping that Marvel will deliver an amazing event.

Plot

Whilst the Builders head for Earth, Corvus Glaive sends an Outrider to hunt for information for Thanos, and the Avengers learn of the Builder's arrival.

Review

This was a brilliant start to this event, and although the issue wasn't perfect, it shows a lot of hope for it's future, and looks to be the start of something great. Jonathan Hickman has done a great job of building the start of this story, allowing people who haven't been following Avengers, or New Avengers to get a grasp of what's to come in this story without being too confused. He has however also thought of the people who have been reading them series, as this is a great continuation, and all the build-up that has been happening since the start of both series looks to be worth it. Hickman also added some suspense, and drama, but the mystery mainly ruled out, and he did a tremendous job of starting this story.

The art on this issue was simply outstanding, and when I heard that Jim Cheung would be one of the artists working on this series I was over the moon, as I love his work. His art was very highly detailed, with very few minor imperfection, which you'd only really notice if you were looking for them. I also loved how Cheung drew all the characters, and especially Thanos, and the Outrider, as both looked awe-inspiring. The Outrider just looked mean, and Alien like, whilst still being unique, whereas Thanos simply looked the powerhouse that he is, looking maniacal, and sinister. I also loved the layout of Cheung's art, as it added depth, and that along with the way he drew the space sequences made this issue very dynamic.

This issue would see the Builders make their way through the galaxy, with Earth one of the planets in their sights. Now I found it very interesting to see them in this issue, as with the way they've been introduced, and build upon from the Avengers series I was expecting them to have a role in this story. I didn't however expect quite this, and it was a nice surprise. I also found Ex Nihilo, and Abyss' reaction to the news of their arrival to be very interesting, and I question where there loyalties will lie, as although they've recently alligned themselves with the Avengers, this is the people who gave them life.

There would be a new creature introduced in this issue, as another new character called Corvus Glaive would use a creature known as an Outrider to gather information for Thanos. Now we saw a bit of this in the Free Comic Book Day issue, but I loved seeing it continued in this. I also loved the fact that this integrated the FCBD issue, as it allowed the events from that to make much more sense, as when I first read the FCBD issue it was a little confusing. I also loved seeing Thanos in this issue, as although he didn't do much he had great presence, and I look forward to seeing what he'll do in the following issues.

Both sets if Avengers would naturally be involved in this story, with the Illuminati making a small appearance at the start if the issue, and the main Avengers group featuring about half way through the issue. What I loved about their appearance in this story is that they've came into the story knowing that something is amiss, but not knowing quite what it is. Seeing the realisation of this throughout this issue would be very interesting, and suspenseful, as although I was hoping for a little more from them, this was the perfect start, as it's better to build from something that's average-good that start amazingly and slowly decrease in quality, so having things go gradually makes sense.

Final Verdict

This was a great opening issue, and although it wasn't quite what I expected, it was a brilliant way to open the event, as although it wasn't spectacular, it builds everything up nicely, giving a nice picture of what's to come. This also makes it relatively new reader friendly, as although reading Avengers, or New Avengers gives a better overall experience, it isn't essential to read them to understand this. The issue itself also had a lot of development points, keeping a aura of mystery, and I for one look forward to seeing where it goes next. I would highly recommend this issue, as although not phenomenal, it was great, and shows a lot of promise.

Rating: 8/10