Amazing X-Men #1 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron

Artist: Ed McGuinness

This has been a series that I've been looking forward to for a long long time now, and with the disappointing ending of Battle of the Atom I was even more excited for the release of this issue and the return of my second favourite X-Man.

Plot

Although he's in paradise Nightcrawler can't quite enjoy heaven, and even more so when his father Azazel turns up. Meanwhile Firestar joins the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning and learns that it's not your normal teaching environment.

Review

This was an amazing issue and a terrific start for the series, with the first half being simply perfect. Jason Aaron does a brilliant job of setting the tone for this series, as well as starting what looks to be a great story, as although the issue would become slightly slow during the middle, overall it was extremely exciting and fun, being some of his best X-Men work in a long time. I also loved the character interactions in this issue, as although some would naturally be better than others, they all added some kind of fun or suspense to the issue. There would also be a bit of emotion at the start of the issue that would add more depth and drama to the issue as well.

The artwork on this issue would also be phenomenal and Ed McGuinness would do an outstanding job throughout. The detail in McGuinness' art is simply spectacular being to a very high standard, as well as being consistent throughout. His layouts would also be amazing, being very dynamic and would add a lot of depth and tone to the issue, helping the story to flow smoothly. I also loved seeing McGuinness' unique style showing throughout the characters, and especially with Nightcrawler and Azazel, with the character's facial expressions also adding a lot of tone to the issue. The colours from Marte Gracia were also fantastic and would add a lot of vibrance and tone, heping McGuinness' art stand out even more.

This series would have a lot of hype over the fact that X-Men fan-favourite Nightcrawler would be returning. Now I was one of the many that was excited for this to happen, and with the recent tease in Wolverine and the X-Men I've been even more excited. Nightcrawler in this issue however would be amazing and just as he was when we last saw him, being very lively and emotional, questioning whether being in paradise is what he truly wants. I would also love the change in his tone during the transition from talking about not wanting to go into paradise and springing into action, as it would be very contrasting.

This issue would also feature Nightcrawler's father Azazel, which I was very happy about. Not only has Azazel needed to appear in an X-Men story for a while, but to have him in the story that brings his son Nightcrawler back into the Marvel Universe is something else, and his addition is very appropriate. I also enjoyed that he'd have his own set of Bamfs and the interaction between him and Nightcrawler in this issue was simply amazing and has me excited for his future developments, and how much impact he'll have on this story as a whole.

We'd also see Firestar join as a staff member at the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning. Now I'm not the biggest fan of Firestar, and only really know her basic history, but it was nice to see her added to this series, and especially given the way that she's being used. What I loved most about her addition was that it would show just how chaotic life is at the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning, and weird their lives are. I also enjoyed some of the interactions she would have with other members, and overall I'm looking forward to seeing more of her in this series.

Final Verdict

A brilliant start to this new series with Aaron showing some of his best X-Men work for a long time. The issue would do an amazing job of re-introducing Nightcrawler, with some very fun and exciting moments throughout, all of which were made even more fun and exciting due to McGuinness' fabulous artwork. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue to both new and old X-Men readers and can't wait for the next issue to come out.

Rating: 10/10

X-Men: Battle of the Atom #2 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron

Artists: Esad Ribic & Giuseppe Camuncoli

Although Battle of the Atom has lasted longer than it probably should have, having some slow moments along the way, it has overall been a very entertaining story. It does however all come down to this ending, as although it's been good so far, a bad ending could ruin the entire story.

Plot

The X-Men and the future Brotherhood go at it one last time, with S.H.I.E.L.D. inadvertently attacking the mutants as well. 

Review

This was a very good issue as a whole, but it had quite a few problems, with the ending being one of the main problems. Also unlike solicited the issue would actually be written by Jason Aaron who did a brilliant job of making the issue very exciting. He did however not didn't do a fantastic job of ending the story, as although a certain part of the outcome was already spoiled, the ending wouldn't give much clarity to the overall story, making it feel rather unnecessary. Aaron would however add a lot of suspense and drama to this issue as well, with there being some very interesting dialogues, though the poor ending still overshadows all this quite a bit.

The artwork on this issue would be the other big problem, as although there were some very talented artists with the main artwork being done by Esad Ribic and Giuseppe Camuncoli, and the epilogue artwork featuring more of Camuncoli's work, also featuring art from Chris Bachalo, Kris Anka and Stuart Immonen. The main problem with the art was that it was clearly very rushed, with it being poorly detailed. There would however be the odd phenomenal panel, and the layout overall was amazing, but the roughness of the art made it very hard to enjoy it, even with the beautiful colours from  Ive Svorcina, Andres Mossa and Guru Efx.

The issue would start straight from where Wolverine and the X-Men #37 left off with the X-Men being attacked by S.H.I.E.L.D. missiles, that were fired by the Brotherhood. Now this would be a very exciting sequence with the fight between all the X-Men and the future Brotherhood taking up most of the issue. During the fight there would be some amazing interactions, but the best would be between Wolverine, Cyclops and  the future Jean Grey.  On top of this the younger X-Men would also add some fun to the sequence with what certain members had to say about the events.

We'd also get to see some Sentinels in this issue, though what bothered the X-Men most about this was the fact that they were S.H.I.E.L.D. Sentinels. Now naturally this wouldn't make the X-Men happy, and naturally so. The addition itself was however rather hollow, as it would have been nice to have seen a bit more action involving the Sentinels, as their appearance seems to be mainly to set up the future events of Wolverine and the X-Men. Other than that S.H.I.E.L.D.'s involvement in this issue was overall very decent, as although they seemed mainly background characters, they added a different tone to the issue, and overall I look forward to seeing the aftermath of this sequence.

The main story would be followed by four epilogues, two written by Aaron, one written by Brian Wood and the last being written by Brian Michael Bendis. Now I won't go into any detail about these epilogues, but story wise they'd be the best part of the issue, and did a fantastic job of giving a little bit of closure for the characters, setting up the future of the X-Men brilliantly. The epilogue that interested me the most however had to be the final one by Bendis that would see Kitty Pryde air her feelings over the event in a very exciting fashion.

Final Verdict

This was an exciting issue, but due to a poor ending and very rushed artwork it was probably overall the poorest issue in the story, with it making the story feel irrelevant and unnecessary. There would however be some explosive moments, and some shocking developments with the epilogues doing a fantastic job of setting up the future of the X-Men titles, but unfortunately it wasn't enough to overcome the sudden and poor ending. Due to this I'd only recommend this issue to anyone who's been following the story so far, or anyone that loves explosive action, as otherwise it's only essential for the epilogues.

Rating: 6/10

Wolverine and the X-Men #37 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Giuseppe Camuncoli

Battle of the Atom has been a brilliant crossover so far, as although there have been times where I've felt that there's been too much set-up and that the story has been a little too long, it has still been very enjoyable, and has had some amazing moments. 

Plot

As both Wolverine's and Cyclops' X-Men regroup from their respective fights with the original group of future X-Men, who are revealed to actually be the future Brotherhood, the Brotherhood take the younger X-Men off in a Blackbird to instigate Plan B.

Review

This was a very good issue, as although it wasn't brilliant, being far from what I expected it to be, it had some very exciting moments and Jason Aaron set-up the final part brilliantly. It is however the fact that this series has been so much set-up that has annoyed me, as although it has still been a fabulous series, if it had less issues, it would have less set-up, which would make it even better. Aaron did however do a great job of adding a lot of excitement near the end, and the dialogue throughout was very interesting, adding a lot of depth to the issue. In saying that the first part of the issue was rather slow, with unnecessary interactions, and if it hadn't ended in the exciting fashion that it did it would have been a very poor issue.

The artwork on this issue was also very good but not brilliant, as although overall Giuseppe Camuncoli did a fantastic job, there were a few things that bugged me. The first was the characters facial expressions and emotions, which were very awkward at times, though that is a usual problem of Camuncoli. The detail in his artwork was however very good considering the amount of characters involved, as although there were a few panels that felt a bit rushed, there were some panels that had a lot of characters that looked phenomenal. The layouts however would also help for that, adding a lot more depth and excitement to the issue, feeling more dynamic than they did in the last issue.

This issue would see the first encounter between Wolverine and Cyclops since Cyclops' team paid the Jean Grey School for Higher Learning a visit in All-New X-Men #11. It's always nice to see the tension between these two, especially since Avengers vs. X-Men, though it felt slightly unnecessary here. It was however the reaction that Wolverine's X-Men had to this new lot of future X-Men that interested me the most, as although it would slow the issue down a bit, it would show the amount of confusion that all the time travelling has caused. I also enjoyed the interaction between the two Quentin Quire's, as apart from being slightly humorous it would also add a WATX feel to the issue which was missing from the last issue.

This issue would reveal that the renegade X-Men from the future are in fact the future Brotherhood. It was nice to finally get something to differentiate the two groups from the future, as it was awkward talking about two different groups of X-Men from the future in the same sentences. I did however feel that this could have been added earlier in the story, when it was revealed that they weren't the true X-Men from the future. The actions of the Brotherhood in this issue would also be interesting, as although again it was mostly set-up it would create some exciting moments, setting up the conclusion brilliantly.

S.H.I.E.L.D. would make their second appearance of the story in this issue, and it was interesting that it came in this series as S.H.I.E.L.D. have made most of their recent X-Men appearances in Uncanny X-Men. It was however fitting that they were added to this issue, especially due to the fact that they are going to be a part of the WATX story that follows Battle of the Atom. There appearance as a whole in this issue however didn't really do a lot for this issue, yet again setting up the conclusion, though all this set-up should allow the conclusion to flow smoother.

Final Verdict

This was yet another issue that didn't quite live up to it's potential, as although it went out with a bang, setting up the story's conclusion perfectly, it was slow at the start, having some unnecessary interactions, overall feeling like a set-up issue. It did however have some very exciting moments, and has me very excited for the finale next week, but I can't help but wonder how brilliant this story would have been had it been a bit shorter. Due to this I'd highly recommend it for people who've been following the story so far, but otherwise it'd be best to wait for the trade to come out.

Rating: 7/10

Wolverine and the X-Men #36 Review

WARNING: THIS REVIEW WILL SPOIL THE EVENTS OF BATTLE OF THE ATOM SO FAR!

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Giuseppe Camuncoli

I have really been enjoying Battle of the Atom so far, as although it has dropped slightly over the last few issues it has still been a very good story, being both exciting and interesting. This series has also been good as of late as although it has been very inconsistent over the thirty five issues prior to this, it is certainly starting to get better again.

Plot

As the future Jean Grey psychically battles her younger self, Emma Frost and the Stepford Cuckoos the other X-Men battle between each other over whether the younger X-Men should stay or go back to their own time.

Review

This was a very good issue, and although it isn't one of the better issues in this storyline so far it was still a brilliant issue, being slightly better than the last instalment. Jason Aaron does a good job of continuing the story in this issue, but for the most of the issue it felt slightly laggy as although it was very exciting and dramatic it didn't seem like a lot was going to happen for most of this issue. I also didn't really feel the Wolverine and the X-Men vibe in this issue as all the other issues managed to both follow the story whilst keep the same feel, and although we got to see Broo in this issue, it still didn't feel much like an WATX issue. It did however have brilliant suspense and a bit of mystery, and overall it was a very good issue.

The art in this issue was overall very good and Giuseppe Camuncoli did an amazing job. I was actually slightly dreading how his artwork would be, as although I've enjoyed it on Spider-Man and Batman stories in the past I've never been the biggest fan of his X-Men artwork. The detail in his artwork was simply brilliant, with it being very consistent throughout. I also really enjoyed the layout of Camuncoli's artwork, though I did feel that the backgrounds were a bit plain at times. The other thing that bugged me about the art (which is something that usually annoys me about Camuncoli's art) was the facial expressions which looked a bit awkward at times, as although it suited Wolverine, it didn't suit the other characters.

One of the big things that I was looking forward to during this issue was seeing the future Jean square off against Emma in a psychic battle. Now the battle itself was very exciting and dramatic, but following the dramatic way that it was set-up at the end of the last instalment it didn't quite live to my expectations. I did however really enjoy the interaction throughout this battle, and felt that it added a lot of depth and drama to the sequence. I also liked how both Emma's group and future Jean were split by psychic colour, as although I didn't quite know why they needed to be different, it added some vibrancy to the fight, as well as helped to separate the two sides.

Whilst this was happening the rest of the X-Men would be fighting amongst themselves to a certain extent as to whether the younger X-Men should return to the past or not. Now most of this was rather dull and tedious, feeling like the same old argument that has been going on throughout the story so far. I did however find a couple of moments to be rather interesting, and enjoyed the interaction between Wolverine and the two Cyclops'. I was also happy to see the younger Beast and Iceman during this issue, and was happy to see Shogo with them.

WARNING: SPOILER AHEAD!

Now I don't like giving away spoilers for comics, and still won't give too much away in this spoiler, but this was something that I wanted to talk about as it was the most interesting part of the issue. Now near the end of this issue it would be revealed the future X-Men haven't been totally honest with what they said. Now I won't go into any more details, but I found this extremely interesting and it was the perfect development point to keep this story going as I was starting to worry that it would drag along till the end of the storyline.

Final Verdict

This was a very good issue and the second half of this story has been set-up perfectly. The issue itself was however slightly laggy, as until the end it felt like there wasn't going to be much progression in this issue. It was however still exciting at times, also having some mystery to it. Due to this I'd recommend this issue as although it wasn't the best in the story so far it has set-up the next part perfectly.

Rating: 7/10

Thanos Rising #2 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Simone Bianchi

I'm not the biggest Thanos fan in the world, but I've always been interested in the character, especially after the post-credit scene in The Avengers movie, so when I heard about this series I was happy, looking forward to learing more about the character, and his origins. The first issue however wasn't quite what I expected, but none the less still interesting, and the series looks to be at least good, if not great.

Plot

After learning all he can from his Professor, and creatures, and continues to try different creatures with the goal of discovering the secrets of the cosmos, as well as himself.

Review

This was a good issue, but to be honest I'm not entirely sure if I'm loving this series or not. Don't get me wrong, it's been very different, and interesting, and overall very enjoyable, but it's just not quite been what I was expecting, and that's what has me torn over my overall feelings. Usually a series not being as expected doesn't bother me too much, as to be honest there's very few series that 100% live up to your expectations, but this one being an origin story, and the story that I was wanting to drive me into becoming a Thanos fan I was expecting slightly more. Jason Aaron still did a fantastic job on this issue, and although it's not been better than the start of his Thor: God of Thunder series, it has been better than most of his recent work. What I've probably liked most about the series is that it's delved into showing Thanos' character, and emotions, showing how he wasn't always the evil tyrant that we see usually. At the same time I also think that this transformation from good to bad is taking a little too long, and if it takes the whole series to do this, there's every chance that it may become a bit dull, but I hope that it doesn't, and that we get some excitement.

The art in this issue was brilliant, and Simone Bianchi has once again done a fantastic job, as although I still dislike his art at times, overall it's amazing, and at times really gory. The main thing that I'm still not 100% happy with Bianchi's art is the way he draws Thanos himself, as although I love his covers, which show the very maniacal, and sinister older Thanos, the younger Thanos sometimes looks too gruesome, which although that isn't bad, I still don't love it. The layout of Bianchi's artwork was however brilliant, giving so much more suspense, and drama to the story, also showing just the right amount of sinisterness in Thanos to show that he's changing, but at the same time showing that he's wanting to be good. I also love how this more darker, grittier look to Thanos helps Aaron's story, as it really harnesses all the tone's that a series like this needs, as he knows when to make the art darker, and when to also make it look more light heartened. The colours from Ive Svorcina also really help to show, and highlight this as well. The detail in Bianchi's art was also amazing, as although there were little things that didn't quite look right, the majority of it looked amazing, and the detail was brilliant, including both the small details, and normal details.

This issue mainly sees Thanos trying to learn the secrets of the cosmos, as well as himself. Now although this was needed to show the story, and development, I feel that this was what made the story slightly slow, and at times dull. In saying that I still found the way that Thanos would progress his learning, not seeing the need for a Professor interesting, and it really showed the intelligence, and individuality of Thanos, whilst also hinting that not everything's right with this child. The overall tone to all this was also perfect, and although it was slightly slow at times, Aaron, and Bianchi did a brilliant job, and to be honest I'm not sure it would be possible to do better without changing the entire story.

WARNING: MINOR SPOILER AHEAD!

This goal to learning the secrets of the cosmos would lead to Thanos moving up to kill people, trying to learn what he can from them. Now this was the turning point for Thanos, as although his decision to kill the lizards in the last issue showed that he'd started to become a killer, this was the final straw to be broken in showing that he enjoyed killing. What probably interested me the most was that although it became apparent that Thanos liked killing, he also still appeared to have a conscience, as he feels remorse, and regret over killing, yet still enjoys it, which I felt was perfect, as it shows the type of character he truly is, whilst also showing that there's still the hint of humanity.

Last issue saw Thanos introduced to a mysterious girl, who appears to be the bad influence that sways him into becoming evil. Now due to my knowledge on Thanos being small, and nowhere near as vast as it should be I had no idea who this girl was, and was puzzled, as long time fans of the character, as well as people who know their Thanos history did. Without looking into, or having any discussions about the character I do however think that I know who it is, as after looking up more of Thanos back history it appears to be fairly obvious, although I could be wrong. I won't spoil it for anyone that was like me and clueless, but who unlike me want to keep it a secret, but if you are interested in who I think it is PM me. Anyway, this issue would see the continuation of their relationship, and Thanos appears to want to take it to the next step, wanting the girl to love him. Something that she doesn't mutually agree on. Now this was interesting, and at the same time made me think that my guess on who this person is is right, and at the same time it also shows another reason for Thanos to become evil, as for someone to feel unloved it must be hard not to slip further down a dark path.

WARNING: MINOR SPOILERS AHEAD!

Now there isn't huge spoilers in this next section, but I just thought I'd warn you as they are still spoilers. Now there are two character's, Sogarth, and Loktus that go missing, and Thanos' father, Mentor, and his father Kronos discuss this matter, with Kronos believing that they've been murdered, and Mentor not wanting to believe that such a thing could happen on Titan. I found this very interesting, and although it takes away from the actual development of Thanos, it does show how a things are discussed on Titan, and I am interested to see what Mentor, and Kronos have to say if/when they find out the truth.

Final Verdict

Although this series isn't perfect, it is however still interesting, and I still have hopes that it will become exciting. Although slow the developments of this younger Thanos are also very interesting, and I for one am loving learning how this evil creature wasn't always evil, and why he's became evil. I'd recommend this issue, as well as the previous issue to anyone, as although some people aren't happy that this origin, which they like to remain a mystery is being told, is being told, I personally think it's perfect for anyone whether Thanos fan or not, as it is moving at times, and shows how easily someone can change.

Rating: 4/5

Thanos Rising #1 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Simone Bianchi

Although not the biggest fan of Thanos I have been a fan of his for quite a while now, and have began to like him even more in recent years, but I still shamefully don't know as much about him as I should, and when I heard about this origin story I was happy as it'd be a good point to learn more about his background, something that I know hasn't been to far developed in the past.

Plot

Thanos is born on Titan, and is the son of Mentor, and Sui-San. He grows up wanting to be a scientist like his father Mentor, and vows not to kill any creature, so what makes him become this evil villain?

Review

This was an excellent issue, and although it wasn't exactly what I was expecting, it was still very good, and a brilliant opening issue to this mini series. Jason Aaron has done some brilliant work in the past, having had a brilliant run on Wolverine, and currently doing a marvellous job on Thor: God of Thunder, but his Incredible Hulk series was very disappointing, and his Wolverine and the X-Men series became boring real quickly, so I wasn't too sure how he'd fare on Thanos, but so far he's done a fabulous job, and I hope he keeps this level of quality throughout. What I liked most about Aaron's writing was that he portrayed a different side to Thanos than we've seen before, which was nice, but I'll talk more about that later on in my review.There was however the odd moment were this issue was slightly slow, but with this being the opening issue of an origin story it's expected, and it wasn't that bad, with the rest making up. I also felt that Aaron handled the birth of Thanos brilliantly, as there was plenty of emotion in his birth, and that was a very interesting, dramatic, and entertaining sequence.

I wasn't too sure what to make of the art, as I liked some points, but disliked others. Overall I feel that Simone Bianchi has done a very good job on the art in this issue, and although I'm in tow minds whether I like it, I do think that it's unique, and better than a lot of other artists. I've loved Bianchi's his work in the past, both interiors, and covers, and especially his work on Wolverine, but at the same time I've felt that his art hasn't always suited everything, as I didn't feel his art suited the likes of the Green Lantern issue he drew, but overall I've enjoyed his art over the years. Most of the art I loved, but the only real thing I questioned whether I liked was the way he drew Thanos, as he was awful grotesque, and much more gruesome looking than he usually is, and although this wasn't necessarily a bad thing I wasn't entirely sure if it was a good thing. I did however like how it was unique though, and overall his style suits this type of story. The detail in Bianchi's art was also brilliant, and the emotion was also fabulous, as you could really see innocents in the younger Thanos, which was nice. The colours from Simone Peruzzi were also fantastic, and really helped set the tone for this series, making it look even more beautiful.

I'll take this opportunity to talk about the credits page, and the page that preceded that, as it continues to have the same motive that all the cosmic series have had showing the vastness of space, and I liked how this time it had Saturn as the sole planet (as Titan is a moon of Saturn). Now the credit page doesn't really have anything to do with the quality of the issue, but I thought that I'd mention it due to it being the motive that the Marvel cosmic books have shown.

The birth of Thanos was probably the best thing in this issue, and I really enjoyed it, and felt that Aaron handled it perfectly. As far as I know the actual origin of Thanos hasn't been fully shown, or at least how he was born (although I may be wrong), so it was nice to see it in this series, and especially with it being an origin story. What I loved most about this sequence was how the characters involved were divided as some felt that he was a monster that should be killed, whereas his father felt that he was beautiful, and prevented anything bad from happening. I also liked how before this we saw Thanos return to his home world, and reminisce about his past, which was a brilliant way to open the issue, and the birth just continued making the opening even better.

The child version of Thanos was also a curious thing, as he was very different than the adult version we've came to know over the years, as he is much more innocent, vowing never to kill a living creature, which is very different from the adult version of Thanos. I also found it very interesting how he all of a sudden started to make friends, and was curious as to whether they were true friends or just friendly due to who is father was. Either way it was a brilliant addition, as it continued to show the innocent side to this younger Thanos, and as I continued reading I started to ask about what sort of thing could turn something so innocent into a violent monster? But I guess that's what the series is going to focus on, and look forward to finding out.

There was another character that neither acted as friend or enemy to Thanos, but did seem to try and manipulate him, seeming to know what his destiny was. I found this woman very interesting, and although I know nothing about her, with nothing much really being explained I did find her very intriguing, and interesting. I do however look forward to seeing more of her, and learning who she is, and what she hopes to gain from manipulating Thanos (besides the obvious).

Final Verdict

Although not a perfect issue, this was a brilliant opening to this new mini series that explores the origins of one of Marvel's biggest villains, Thanos. It also makes for the perfect starting point for new readers of Thanos, as it will give brilliant insight into the character, making you understand him more, which is brilliant considering he'll play a big part in the Infinity story arc. I would highly recommend this issue, and look forward to seeing it progress, and hope it keeps this level of quality, or gets even better.

Rating: 4/5

Thor: God of Thunder #5 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Esad Ribic

This has been one of the best Thor series in a while, and it's the best series Jason Aaron has written since he left the regular Wolverine series. I really hope that Aaron can keep up this level of quality, as it would be a shame if it slipped in quality.

Plot

It is revealed why Gorr hates gods so much, and Thor finally catches up with him, but is he too late?

Review

This was a very good issue, but there were a couple of things that bothered me, meaning that this wasn't a perfect issue. In fact in my opinion this is the worst issue in the series so far, but only due to a few technicalities. Aaron does however still gives us a unique an entertaining issue, and the direction he's heading with the series I can see the series being very close to perfection, if not perfect for the foreseeable future. I also think that Aaron knows exactly when to transition between the timelines that this story lies on, as he shows some of the past but pulls it away at the right moment so as to keep the reader in suspense.

The art from Esad Ribic was fabulous, and once again he amazes me. I've really enjoyed Ribic's art throughout this series, and it's easy to see why as it's nothing else but beautiful. The only problem I've had with his artwork in the past has been the awkward expressions, but there are very few of these in this issue, but even if there were it is easily forgettable due to the shear beauty of the artwork, as well as the amount of detail in it.I also really like the suspense, and emotion in Ribic's artwork, as it gives the perfect tone that the issue needs. I also enjoy the way he lays the artwork out, as it gives a very dramatic atmosphere for the comic, which is very nice.

I've really enjoyed Gorr as a villain, and although this issue doesn't really progress him much it does delve into some of his past, and gives a better insight into his goals, and the reasoning behind them. I won't say exactly what any of this is to avoid spoilers, but I personally found it very interesting, and although I felt it slowed the issue down a bit, I'd rather it did, as it gave a lot of development for Gorr as a character.

The issue also delved deeper into how Thor caused the deaths of all these gods. Again I won't speak about what exactly happened to avoid spoilers, but will say a few things. It was stated by a god from the Diamond Moons named Shadrak (God of Wine and Waterfalls) said that Thor was behind the deaths of all the gods. Since then I have been interested to find out a little more about this, so was interested to see the final conclusion of it, and I have to say it was very interesting.

The meeting between the two Thor's (future and present). After the conclusion of the last issue I was looking forward to seeing these two versions of the same character interact, and I have to say I wasn't disappointed. The interaction was everything I'd hoped for, and more on top. It was probably the best part about this issue, and I look forward to seeing this continue.

This takes me to my final point, the main problem with this issue. This issue was meant to be the fifth part of a five part story, but the issue doesn't really end the story as it looks to be continuing into a new story. I don't mind these sort of ends to a first story but I'd prefer it was ten part story, or whatever it is instead of two lots of five (or whatever the new story is), as I was really looking forward to a fully blown epic ending in this issue, which was something that I didn't get.

Final Verdict

This was a good issue, but it was a little too slow, and when it started to get exciting the issue ended, but with a fully open ending. I would still recommend this issue as it was good, just not quite good enough. Hopefully however this leads into a new, better story, as I'd be disappointed if this type of ending was for nothing.

Rating: 4/5

Thor: God of Thunder #4 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron

Artist: Esad Ribic

This has been a fantastic series, and much better than I ever expected it would be. Jason Aaron has done a brilliant job, and I haven't enjoyed reading Thor as much since J. Michael Straczynski's run. I really hope that this level of quality continues after this storyline, and doesn't drop, like it did in Aaron's The Incredible Hulk series.

Plot

This issue starts with an old Thor battling Gorr's Black Berserker's. The story jumps over the timelines between the younger, older, and present Thor, and it is revealed that Thor has been left as the last God Gorr will kill.

Review

This was another brilliant issue, and Aaron continues to amaze me. Aaron has continued to use Gorr to his best advantage throughout the storyline, not overusing him, and it's hard to think that this was the same writer who created Vegetable in Incredible Hulk. Aaron has also continued this by introducing a brilliant side character in the form of Shadrak. Shadrak was introduced at the end of last issue saying that Thor was responsible for the deaths of all the god's Gorr has killed, but I'll talk more about that later, without any spoilers, as usual. The main thing I've liked over this storyline has been how Aaron has handled the different timelines, knowing when to change between them, and what to use in each one. To be honest I originally thought this would be a terrible idea, but I couldn't have been more wrong, as it's what makes this story so good.

The art in this issue was also fantastic, and Esad Ribic continues producing brilliant artwork. Although there is still the odd weird facial expression, the artwork overall is outstanding, and I can't remember the last time I saw Thor drawn as good. The detail throughout Ribic's art is also phenomenal, and easily makes up for the weird facial expressions. The emotion throughout this issue was also fantastically handled, and I always appreciate when artists take time to show emotion, as it really shows the mood's of the characters. Ribic also drew the action throughout this issue brilliantly, and although Thor was mostly on the back foot, it was still clear that he was the main person to watch.

This issue started with the Thor of the future being over-driven by Gorr's Black Berserker's, leaving him in a poor state. Since the end of the first issue I've been looking forward to this moment, and although I forgot about it, due to the amazing events of the last few issues, I'm glad to see the story return to this point. It was interesting seeing Thor's reactions during this sequence, as he lacked determination, and appeared to welcome death, wanting it to come sooner rather than later. This shows how much power Gorr has, as I never thought I'd see Thor back down from a fight, even if he was losing, and I certainly never thought I'd see Thor in a position where he'd prefer death, so I'll be looking at how this turns out next issue.

A Broken God

This issue also expanded on the character who is revealed to be called Shadrak, who was introduced last issue, and is also revealed to be from the Diamond Moons, being the God of Wine and Waterfalls. I was looking forward to seeing more of this character, as he mentioned at the end of the last issue that Thor was responsible for the death of the god's. This sequence was brilliant, and although I felt sorry for Shadrak at the end, as he's been Gorr's prisoner for many years, I still think his anger towards Thor isn't fair, and although from a certain point Thor is responsible for the death of these god's he's not the person who actually killed them. I hope that Shadrak is featured in the next issue, and if not that he appears some time further on in the series, as he's quite an interesting character, and although there is many more interesting characters, I'd like to see more of his development as a character.

As I said earlier, I've loved how Aaron has handled Gorr, as he's always made him menacing, and always shown him having the upper hand, and appearing unbeatable, which builds up the final battle between himself brilliantly. Although I can think of many villains that are better than Gorr, I can't think of many as good as him, that have been created over the last few years. Although it has became clear that Gorr wants to kill every god, I'd like to know what his motives are for this, as his characteristics whilst talking don't appear to be one of a psychopath, and he does appear to be a man with a motive, even if it's not apparent what his motives are. I've also loved seeing a villain that overpowers Thor as much as this, as Gorr always appears to be one step ahead, and looks unbeatable. Don't get me wrong Thor has had ton's of major villains over the years, with some of them out-thinking, or overpowering Thor, most notably Loki, but none have appeared to be as dominant as Gorr is. I will really be looking forward to the final battle between Gorr, and Thor next issue, and I also hope that it is revealed exactly what Thor did to anger Gorr.

All Tied Up

Final Verdict

This was a phenomenal issue, and this series is easily one of the best in the Marvel NOW! relaunch. I would highlt recommend both this issue, and the entire series, and am really looking forward to the conclusion of this story.

Rating: 5/5

Thor: God of Thunder #3 Review

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Esad Ribic

I have really been enjoying this series, and it's been one of the bigger surprises out of Marvel NOW! Jason Aaron has done brilliant work in the past but the last series' I read of his, Incredible Hulk, and Wolverine and the X-Men were a bit poor, in WATX's case at least during Avengers Vs. X-Men, as I dropped it after that. I have however heard it's still inconsistent though. This series has however been very good and I have loved every issue, which was surprising as when I heard what type of story it was going to be I was put off.

Plot

This issue is mainly set in the present with Thor looking for the victims of Gorr, the God Butcher. It also jumps between past, and future (mainly past), and shows Thor trying to find Gorr's cave, as he's not been there in over 1,0000 years.

Review

This was another fantastic issue, and I'm really glad that this has stayed at the quality it is. Although this issue wasn't quite as good as the previous two it's still brilliant, and the difference is very, very small. Aaron has done a brilliant job in introducing a new villain that is a threat to all the god's, and that's saying something. I've also liked that Aaron has managed to transition between the different timelines perfectly, and I love that he uses the monologue to set up these transitions. I've also liked how he's used Gorr sparingly, as it's easy to over use a villain in a storyline, and ruin it, whereas cause Aaron's used Gorr sparingly it'd built up more tension, and drama, and when we do get to see more of Thor vs. Gorr, whether in the past, the present, or the future it should be brilliant, and the build up should help make it even better.

I've really enjoyed the art throughout the series, and Esad Ribic has done a marvellous job. Although the facial expressions are a bit weird from time to time, and more so in this issue, his art is still brilliant, and very nice to look art. The detail is just outstanding, as there is detail in everything, whether it's scenery, or characters. Although his facial expressions are a bit weird from time to time, I do like that he's making the effort to show the character's emotions, and expressions, as you have some artist's that don't bother at all, and facial expressions/emotions are one of the key things in telling a story, or at least in my opinion. I also love how he puts a lot of drama into his artwork, and that it feels like you're watching a movie at certain times. I've noticed that a lot of artists are doing this now, and I personally love it, and think it adds a lot more to the story.

Forgotten God's

This issue sees Thor searching for the missing god's, and seeing if there's any connection between their disappearance, and Gorr. I liked that there's a place where all the god's throughout the universe can come and find information on other god's, whether they're living, dead, or missing. The conversation between Thor and Librarian (fitting name) was very interesting, and I liked how Librarian spoke to Thor, like he wasn't anything special. That was the thing I liked most about The Infinite Embassy, that all immortals were treated equally, and that no one got any special privileges. I also found it funny that the waiting period to speak to the Parliament was 200 years. Librarian also kind of reminded me of the chief librarian from Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, as they both had very authoritative attitudes.

Dead God

Thor's journey to find these missing god's was in it's self very interesting, and I liked that it was done with monologue, showing him finding these god's that have actually been killed by Gorr. I also liked that Thor got to face Gorr's minions, and that he was getting angry because he felt Gorr was a coward for not meeting him face to face. It was also nice to see that Thor knew some of these god's and that seeing them dead upset him.

There was also an interesting thing learned in this issue, and that was that Thor has forgotten a lot of things over his life. This isn't deliberate, it's just that cause he's lived for so long he's had to forget things to make room for more recent memories. This makes total sense, as if you had lived for thousands of years it would be hard to remember everything. Okay the argument could have been made the other way, and that cause they're god's they remember everything that happens to them, but I think that this choice was better as it makes Thor look more human, but not any less of a god. It was also nice that Thor was upset with some of the things he'd forgotten, as he knew there was bound to have been people he loved that he no longer remembers, which appeared to upset/displease him the most. I like how both these things make Thor look more human, cause at the end of the day in most myths, or religions, human's are meant to be made in the images of god's, and if god's acted nothing like human's the notion wouldn't mean as much.

God Business

There was also an appearance from Iron Man in this issue. This is the second time Iron Man has appeared in a comic that he's not usually featured in this week, with Indestructible Hulk #2 being the other, but this is also the first issue of Thor: God of Thunder to feature another regular Marvel character. I like cameo's in comics, as it remind you that despite this being a unique series, with it's own stories, and goals, that it's still in the same universe as the other Marvel series'. I also liked that Iron Man's involvement was thought out, and that he wasn't just chucked in. Iron Man is in the comic to help Thor find the cave where he last battled Gorr, as he's forgotten where it is due to it happening over 1,000 years ago. I also liked that Thor eventually put his pride and stubbornness aside, and asked for more of Iron Man's help, telling him about Gorr, and if he could warn other Earth based god's.

Final Verdict

Another brilliant issue, and I've really been enjoying this series. It's been one of the best Marvel NOW! series so far, and also one of the most consistent. I would highly recommend both this issue, as well as the entire series so far, and am looking forward to the next part of this story.

Rating: 4.5/5

Thor: God of Thunder #2

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Esad Ribic

The first issue of this series was brilliant and after Jason Aaron's disappointing run on his Incredible Hulk series I was happy to see that this series didn't follow that trend. It has also been nice to see a different take in a Thor series and I like how this series so far has been nothing like any other Thor series I've read.

Plot

This fight between Thor and the God Butcher from last issue is halted this issue as we go back to Thor's earlier years. This issue sees Thor's first encounter with the God Butcher and how a young God of Thunder dealt with a killer of Gods.

Review

This was an amazing issue and I am loving what Aaron has been doing with this series. The way Aaron has connected three different periods of Thor's life, all connected to the God Butcher. This new villain has been brilliant and Aaron has done a great job in showing that this is something that can easily kill Thor, if Thor is off guard. It was also nice to see that Aaron was able to redeem himself as the Vegetable villain he created in Incredible Hulk was a joke whereas the villain he's created in this series is a worthy foe for Thor. I've also loved how he's handled Thor over the first two issues and like how you can see the difference in his attitude throughout the different periods in his life, and how it's easy to see the overconfidence in the younger Thor as well as the serious Thor in the present.

The art from Esad Ribic over the first two issues has been brilliant and although the facial expressions on Thor are a bit unrealistic at times the overall art is fantastically beautiful to look at. The detail throughout his work is outstanding and I love how the changes in Thor's appearance is noticeable, whilst being similar. The way he draws the fight sequences in this issue is also amazing and I like how he draws the God Butcher. The atmosphere in this issue is also brilliant and I love how you can really feel the old Norse setting in this issue. Ive Svorcina's colours throughout the fist two issues have been amazing and they really make Ribic's art stand out and look very sleek. Svorcina's colour's also add a brilliant tone and felling to the series and along with Ribic's outstanding art, and Aaron's writing make this series truly astonishing.

I liked how this issue went back to the Thor's first encounter with the God Butcher, and how we got to see more of the younger Thor. I also liked how we get to see Thor before he is worthy of wielding Mjolnir and how it didn't matter how hard he tried to lift the hammer he couldn't due to not being serious or experienced enough to be worthy of lifting it. The way it was on a stone also reminded me of the Sword in the Stone from Arthurian Legend which was nice but not necessarily relevant for Norse mythology. I also loved seeing the younger Thor travel through Midgard during this issue and how the locations he chose including what would eventually would be called Russia, and how the cold snow regions kept the dark cold feeling that this series has given during Thor's earlier life.

It was also nice to see more of the God Butcher in this issue and actually get a proper look at him. I also liked how the God Butcher actually spoke in this issue making him slightly more menacing, although his appearance makes him menacing enough. The fight the embroiled in this issue was also brilliant and I loved how we get to see the younger less experienced Thor taking on this God killer. Although the God Butcher had the upper hand throughout the better part of this fight it was nice that Thor showed that he would not be beaten easily and that his confidence took a side step, showing a more serious Thor.

Although this issue was mostly set in the earlier years of Thor it was also nice to see at the begging, the end of the issue how it acknowledged the other time periods in this story and showing how the fight with the God Butcher that started in this issue followed Thor throughout his life. The way Aaron connected the events in this issue whilst showing the events in the rest of Thor's life was brilliantly done and I am looking forward to seeing a more in depth look at Thor's other encounters with the God Butcher, and how the God Butcher adapts to a more experienced Thor.

Final Verdict

This was a brilliant issue and the series is not only one of the best series to come out of Marvel NOW! so far, but one of the best starts ever to a Thor series. I would highly recommend this issue and am looking forward to seeing the progression of Thor's fight with the God Butcher.

Rating: 5/5

Thor: God of Thunder #1

Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Esad Ribic

I have been a fan of Thor as a character for years and longer than I've been a comic book fan. This is due to my obsession as a child for myths and mythological God's. It also helped at along with Arthurian, Egyptian and Greek mythology Norse was one of my favourites and the most interesting. I have also enjoyed the comic series' over the last few years enjoying J. Michael Straczynski and Matt Fraction's runs especially. I was however sceptical when I heard Jason Aaron would be doing the new series as I disliked most of his Incredible Hulk series, but he has however done a good job on this first issue.

Plot

This issue sees a mysterious creature eliminating God's throughout time with Thor stuck in the middle. These God slaying's affect Thor past, present and future and Thor is the only one capable of defeating this Butcher of God's, to prevent more God's from dying.

Review

This was an amazing issue and I was never expecting Aaron to do as brilliant a job as he has. I really have to give the guy credit and hope that this is him back as a great writer like he used to be. He has done a great job of writing Thor and I really enjoyed the way he writes him in the past present and future. I also liked how he developed the story in this issue as you have this mysterious creature killing of God's with Thor in the middle from time to time. I do hope that Aaron can keep up this brilliant work as he started off very good on Incredible Hulk but dropped in standard after the first couple of story lines.

Esad Ribic's art was simply amazing and some of the best art I've seen on a Thor comic in years. He really adds ton's of detail and draws Thor throughout the years very differently whilst making sure he's the same character. He also adds emotion to Thor who is usually a calm character but this time realises that this creature is no easy feet as it is anything but hard to kill a God whether it be Norse or otherwise. I also thought that Dean White's colours were fantastic and added lots of mood and feel to Ribic's art, and real made it pop out. I also liked that he god the colour setting perfect and that each sequence felt different.

The battle between Thor and the God Butcher was also epic and a nice edition to the issue. I say this because most of the issue is dialogue, set up and information that some people might find too overwhelming or confusing, whereas adding a fight scene draws away from that and adds more excitement and drama to the issue. Besides that the battle although short was very good and very exciting and I look forward to seeing Thor face this creature in future issues.

When I first heard that this series would show Thor throughout different periods of his life I expected that it wouldn't work and that I'd be very disappointed but I couldn't have been more wrong. The addition of Thor throughout the years was brilliant and I loved how we see his attitude changes with it as he was very cocky and overconfident early in his life thinking of the God Butcher as just another thing to be smited, whilst his present self takes the creature more seriously and the future self takes him very serious not caring any more and just wanting to be rid of the creature.

The God Butcher itself was a brilliant villain and it was very nice to see something different for a change. I also liked how we have something that can stand toe to toe with Thor and has a good chance of killing him. I do however have mixed feeling on whether I liked the villains lack of character as besides being a threat to Thor he doesn't really do much in this issue. I do however think the lack of character and personality adds a lot more suspense and makes you realise that this character has no conviction in what he is doing or why he's doing it. I am also interested to find out why this creature is killing off all these God's, and hope this is revealed throughout the story.

Final Verdict

An amazing first issue for the God of Thunder and a very unique one at that. I would highly recommend this to anyone whether new or old readers as it caters all and is a great jumping on point for new fans.

Rating: 5/5