Forever Evil #5 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: David Finch

Can Batman and Lex Luthor get along for the greater good? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC Comics:

With everything to lose, Lex Luthor and his Injustice League raid the stronghold of the Crime Syndicate with consequences so devastating, the DC Universe will never be the same!

I feel very much like a broken record when it comes to talking about Forever Evil, as despite it always being good it has yet to transcend into the category of greatness. This however isn't a bad thing and the fact that the series remains strong is what really matters.

Geoff Johns has really started to give some great developments over the last couple of issues, and the series is definitely starting to show promise for further progression. What I loved most about Johns' writing in this particular issue was how he handled the interaction between Lex Luthor and Batman, with the attempted coexistence being extremely entertaining. There is also some amazing action and suspenseful build-up throughout, all of which adds to the overall quality. Added to that the defining notion that even on the side of good, evil still rules and the series' concept just becomes better and better.

David Finch's artwork throughout this series has been nothing short of wonderful, and it continues to amaze me yet again. The terrific layouts along with the dynamic action make this a breathtaking issue, which is both exhilarating and intense. Finch also adds a lot of depth and tone through the facial expressions, with his art helping to increase the tension during the Batman/Luthor interaction. Added to this the brilliant inks by Richard Friend and outstanding colours from Sonia Oback and the final finish to this issue is simply astonishing.

Forever Evil continues to be a success and with the dramatic dialogue and explosive action this is a series that everyone will enjoy. Highly recommended.

Rating: 8/10

Forever Evil #4 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: David Finch

Will Forever Evil continue to be a strong event for DC? Read on to find out.

The official description from DC Comics:

It’s all-out chaos as the DC Universe continues its march through darkness! War erupts across the Earth between the villains! Allegiances are formed! Rivals are murdered! And at center stage it’s Lex Luthor versus Batman—and their fight couldn’t come at a worse time as Deathstroke’s Hunting Party closes in on the world’s only hope against the Crime Syndicate!

So far Forever Evil has been moving a little slowly in my opinion, as even though the series has consistently been brilliant, there hasn't been a huge lot of progression so far.

This would start to change slightly in this issue, as Geoff Johns starts to implement more interesting developments, utilising previous Justice League material perfectly. Johns would also continue to add a lot of suspense and drama in this issue, and with it still lacking ever so slightly in the development region this would be a much needed addition. Johns would also start to bring more of the big time players together in this issue, cultivating in some fantastic character interactions. On top of that Johns would continue to develop the Crime Syndicate perfectly and it should only be a matter of time before the series pays off big time.

David Finch would also do a fantastic job of the artwork in this issue, with his work in this issue possibly being his best yet. The detail in Finch’s artwork was simply outstanding, as despite the usual minor imperfection it would be very impactful. The best part of Finch’s art however had to be the layout, and especially during the sequence with Batman confronting Luthor, as the shadowy nature of Batman would add a lot of intensity to the sequence. The only main negativity I have with Finch’s art is with the cover, as though it was very good it felt slightly awkward.

Forever Evil is slowly starting to get closer to the quality of Trinity War and whether it tops Trinity War or not, it is looking to be yet another terrific event from DC.

Rating: 8/10

Forever Evil #3 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: David Finch

Although it hasn't been as astonishing as Trinity War was, Forever Evil has been a very exciting and entertaining series, being the perfect continuation to Trinity War, as well as being a brilliant event in itself, re-introducing the Crime Syndicate in a big way.

Plot

As Batman and Catwoman take Cyborg to get help, Lex Luthor with Bizarro's help finds the location of Ultraman and sees his fight with Black Adam.

Review

This was yet another fantastic issue, and although the series has been progressing slowly, it continues to be very exciting. Geoff Johns once again did a terrific job of developing this story involving the Crime Syndicate, as although I'd have hoped for a little more development by now, he is still doing an amazing job of keeping the story entertaining, and the set-up in this issue has me excited for the next. I also loved how Johns managed to have most of the developments within this issue flow into each other, as it makes the development in the event so far feel more connected. The character interaction and action in this issue would also be fantastic, adding a lot of drama and excitement to the issue, as well as more depth.

The artwork on this issue would also yet again be brilliant, as although there was a couple of things that annoyed me, overall David Finch produced some fantastic art. The detail throughout would be mostly consistent, as although there were minor imperfections, there weren't many, though a couple of them were rather jarring to look at. The layout on the other hand would be perfect throughout, adding a lot of depth and tone to the issue, as well as making it a bit more intense at times. The action sequences would also be amazing, though the Ultraman/Black Adam sequence would have couple of awkward panel that let it down a bit.

This issue would start with Batman and Catwoman taking the remains of Cyborg to his father Silas Stone in the hopes that he can once again save his son. This however wouldn't be the part of the sequence that would interest me the most, as that would go to Batman learning that the Crime Syndicate have revealed Nightwing's (Dick Grayson) identity, having me excited for the future development of this. I also enjoyed the interaction that Catwoman would have in this sequence as it would lighten the tone slightly.

Lex Luthor would also continue with his plans against the Crime Syndicate getting Bizarro to help him get one of his satellites back in working order. Now this sequence didn't do a lot for the story besides set-up the next sequence brilliantly, as well as the last part of Luthor's appearance setting up the next issue. I did however enjoyed the interaction between Luthor and Bizarro and how Luthor's tone would change every now and then to get Bizarro to do what he wanted. This interaction would also add a lot of entertainment as fin to the issue as well.

We'd also get to see the continuation of the Ultraman/Black Adam fight that started in Justice League #24. Now I thought the fight in that issue was amazing, and was looking forward to it continuing in this issue. I will however say that it would have been bettwer if the full fight was shown in one issue or the other, as although both were exciting, they'd have felt much more so if in the same issue, as much like the part of the fight from Justice League #24 this didn't feel long enough. I did however find it to be very exciting and enterating, and Ultraman's attitude throughout added a lot of depth as well.

Final Verdict

Although the series is progressing slowly it still manages to be very entertaining and exciting, with this being no different. This issue would also have some interesting character interactions, and the way the story would develop would be extremely interesting. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue and the event so far, and can't wait for the next issue.

Rating: 8/10

Forever Evil #2 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: David Finch

This crossover event kicked off brilliantly with it's opening issue last month, teasing the future of the DC Universe. Now that Villains Month is finally over I personally look forward to seeing the affects that Forever Evil has on the DC Universe, and what better way of starting that than with another issue of the main event, Forever Evil itself.

Plot

With the Justice League dead the Crime Syndicate make preparations to keep this world for themselves. As this is happening both Lex Luthor and the Teen Titans make their own plans to stop the Crime Syndicate.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and a fantastic continuation to this even. Geoff Johns did a great job of showing how bad the world has went now that the Crime Syndicate have taken over, also setting up other branches of this crossover brilliantly. Another thing that I loved about Johns' writing was that although most of this was set-up work, he managed to keep it very exciting and entertaining, also adding plenty of suspense. Johns also did a fantastic job with the dialogue, as it was simply amazing, being humorous at times, overall making some slower sequences much more exciting. Johns also set a brilliant tone in this issue, with some mystery in the background, and overall I can't wait to see what he does next.

The artwork in this issue was also spectacular, and David Finch did a fantastic job. The detail throughout this issue was simply brilliant, as although there was the odd rough patch here and there, the majority of the issue was to a very high standard. The facial expressions on the other hand were a little awkward at times, something that tends to happen in Finch's art a lot. It doesn't however take much always as there are plenty of great things that overshadow the minor flaws. Finch also once again had some brilliant layouts in this issue, that added a lot of depth to the issue. There was also one character in particular that Finch did a good job of, but I won't spoil the surprise appearance of this character by naming them.

This issue would kick off with Luthor continuing his plans to fight back against the Crime Syndicate, going down to sublevel 13 of Lexcorp Headquarters to attend to a project that he's been working on. Now this was a brilliant development, and it was nice to see Otis again as well, as even though he was in a different role it was nice to see him and Luthor interact with each other again. It was however Luthor's project that interested me the most, as although I won't reveal who it was (it's easy to work out) I was very happy when it was revealed, and it has me very excited for the future of this story.

The Crime Syndicate were also making there own plans, with a hooded man tied up in the Justice League Watchtower with them. I really enjoyed this sequence, as it showed a bit of dysfunction between the members of the Crime Syndicate, something that was bound to happen sooner or later. I did however also like some of the mysterious background developments, and how it continued one development in particular that was brought to our attention in Justice League #23.4 Secret Society. I am also now looking forward to see what the Crime Syndicate has in store next, and if they'll manage to continue working a team.

The Teen Titans would also make an appearance in this issue with Red Robin (Tim Drake) saying that now the Justice League are gone that it's up to them to take the Crime Syndicate down. The Teen Titans would then get into a fight with Johnny Quick and Atomica. I personally liked seeing the Teen Titans in this issue, though I would have loved their appearance to have been a bit more meaningful, as it basically seemed to be a way of setting up their part of this crossover. I did however enjoye seeing Red Robin act as the leader he is, as well as their encounter with Johnny Quick and Atomica, but it could have been better.

Final Verdict

This was a fantastic issue, and a great continuation of the story. It also does a brilliant job of setting up the crossover storylines in this event, also having some brilliant developments for the main series itself. There was also brilliant dialogue, with some exciting sequences as well as a bit of mystery as well. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this issue as well as the first and can't wait for the next.

Rating: 8/10

Superman/Batman: Public Enemies Review

Writer: Jeph Loeb
Artist: Ed McGuinness

This is a series that I've been meaning to read for some time now, as with both Batman and Superman being two of my most favourite comic book characters, as well as the fact that I've loved Jeph Loeb's work on both characters it has been something that I've always wanted to try. Having also loved the animated films based on the first two volumes of this series I also wanted to see how close they were to their source material.

Plot

As Batman and Superman work together on the same case, President Lex Luthor puts a billion dollar bounty on Superman's head, blaming him for the Kryptonite asteroid that is heading for Earth.

Review

This was a fantastic story, and I'm very happy that I've finally gotten round to reading it. Jeph Loeb does a fantastic job of bringing these two characters together in a story that was both extremely exciting and entertaining. Loeb also does a great job of balancing the story between both characters, as although the plot itself is more focused towards Superman, Loeb doesn't forget about Batman, allowing him to shine just as much as Superman, making the title very appropriate, rather than just a selling point. Loeb would also do a great job of making this story diverse, as it started very with a very different tone than it ended with, as although everything knitted together perfectly, it was a constant change in pace and tone, which kept the story constantly fresh. The story also had some wonderful dialogue, and especially between Batman and Superman, as their conversations were very deep and dramatic.

The art in this story was also outstanding, though I'd have expected nothing else coming from Ed McGuinness. McGuinness drew both Superman and Batman perfectly, as as you would expect he managed to make Superman look the powerhouse that he is, but besides that he also handled the brooding dark demeanour of Batman perfectly as well. The layout of McGuinness' artwork was also very dramatic and dynamic adding a lot of depth to the story as well making the story that much more exciting. McGuinness also did a fantastic job at showing the characters emotions throughout this story, helping make the story that much more realistic, and dramatic. McGuinness also did a brilliant job with the action sequences with them being very exciting. The artwork from Tim Sale on the When Clark Met Bruce short story at the start of the book was also fantastic being very charming and emotional as usual.

Superman and Batman would come together in this story as in following Metallo to Gotham City both characters would become involved in the same case. Now I already said how good a job Loeb did of bringing these two characters together as well as balancing the two, but story wise the two characters went together perfectly, as Loeb managed to find a development point that would bring both characters realistically to the same place, giving them the same goal, then developing from that. The interaction between Superman and Batman in this story was also fantastic, and it's easy to tell that these are two characters that have been friends for many years.

The key threat in this story would be a large asteroid made out of Kryptonite that is heading towards the Earth. Now I felt that this was a brilliant way of adding excitement to this story, as although we've had plenty of Superman related stories that have involved Kryptonite, none quite as unique as this, as besides the affects of the Kryptonite itself, the fact that it's an asteroid creates a big enough threat as well. This would also land up being a brilliant catalyst, allowing one of the the most interesting developments that I've seen in a story, which would bring a lot of excitement with it.

This development would be President Luthor putting a billion dollar bounty on Superman, blaming him for the coming asteroid. Now the reason this would add a lot of excitement would be because of the amount of characters that would come with it, with a huge selection of villains, as well as some government heroes gunning for Superman. This would thus bring some amazing action that was not only exciting, but very explosive and entertaining, keeping me as a reader firmly gripped to the story. I also loved the way that Batman and Superman would work as a team through this, showing how quick both characters are at adapting to the foe in question, as well as showing just how different their fighting styles are.

Although this story had many villains in it Luthor would still firmly be the main villain, using his position of President to it's full advantage. Now it's no surprise that Luthor wants rid of Superman, and was probably just biding his time since becoming President to finding the perfect excuse for going after the Man of Steel. What I loved most about Luthor's appearance in this story was that he was very calm and collected when it came to justifying himself, whereas deep down it was obvious that this was more of a personal vendetta. I also loved the transformation that we'd see in Luthor throughout this story, and his interactions with Amanda Waller were extremely interesting, and at times also very entertaining.

Final Verdict

This was a fantastic story that balanced both title characters perfectly. It also was very dramatic and exciting, having some wonderful development points throughout. The story was also very exciting with plenty of suspense throughout, also being slightly mysterious at times. The character interaction and overall tone and atmosphere was also brilliant making this a hit on ever mark. Due to this it's very easy to recommend this, and I will certainly be reading more from this series soon.

Rating: 10/10

Action Comics #23.3 Lex Luthor Review

Writer: Charles Soule
Artist: Raymund Bermudez

Villains Month has been very inconsistent so far, as although we've had some amazing stories out of it, we have also had some really horrible ones. I have however been looking forward to this one, as bar the fact that Lex Luthor is Superman's arch enemy, I wanted to see what Charles Soule could do on a Superman comic seems he'll be handling his and Wonder Woman's relationship in Superman/Wonder Woman.

Plot

Fresh out of jail, Lex Luthor goes about growing his empire, and utilising the fact that Superman is nowhere to be seen.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and although it wasn't one of the best Luthor stories ever, it was still amazing, being a great tie-in to Forever Evil. Charles Soule simply did a great job of this issue, and has shown me that he knows how to handle a Superman character, giving me even more hope that Superman/Wonder Woman will be good. Soules would show Luthor at his best in this issue, as although he didn't have Superman to fight against, he made do with what he had, making sure that his impact was felt. The issue itself was also extremely dramatic, with some brilliant dialogue that gave the issue fantastic tone. The issue was also fairly intense, with Luthor hell bent on getting what he wants, which I enjoyed.

The art on this issue was also very good, as although it's not the best artwork that I've ever seen, it is far from the worst, suiting this issue perfectly. Raymund Bermudez however isn't an artist that I'm familiar with, with this appearing to be his first major issue. The thing that I really liked about Bermudez' artwork was the layout, as although it wasn't anything spectacular, it worked perfectly with the story, adding depth, as well as helping show the tone and atmosphere that comes with a Luthor story. Bermudez also did a great job of showing the characters emotions, and especially in Luthor, who would seem emotionless in one panel, and maniacal in the next, which was simply amazing.

This issue would centre on the events of Luthor between him getting out of jail, and the start of Forever Evil #1. Now I was very happy when I heard that Luthor would be a main character in Forever Evil, so seeing some backstory in this issue was fantastic. I also enjoyed seeing how Luthor would adapt into his old life, wanting to forget his time in prison. It was also nice to see that Luthor didn't waste time before getting back into his old lifestyle, as although the issue would mention how he could control things even whilst in prison, he managed to do a lot more now that he's a free man.

One of the first things that Luthor would ask about was what Superman was up to, being very shocked to hear that there have been no sighting of him that day. I also enjoyed how Luthor reacted to this, from being initially shocked, to eventually using it to his advantage. I was however still happy that it didn't focus too much on the world not having Superman, as although it needed mention to give Luthor personal satisfaction, it could have easily taken over the issue, and I'm glad that it didn't.

This issue would also see Luthor work closely with his assistant, Casey. I felt that Casey's addition to the issue added some freshness, as although Luthor's presence is usually enough to make an issue good, it's always nice for him to have someone to work off. I also enjoyed how Casey had different views to certain things than Luthor, as although she seemed the loyal employee, it was clear that she didn't like all of Luthor's decisions. Besides this the interaction be

Final Verdict

A brilliant issue that shows that Soule is very capable of creating brilliant Superman stories. The issue itself was also a great prequel to Forever Evil, being very exciting, and suspenseful, also having plenty of drama. The tone was also brilliant with new artist Bermudez doing a brilliant job. Due to all this I'd highly recommend this, especially if you're reading Forever Evil, though don't expect it to be the best Luthor story you've ever read.

Rating: 8/10

Forever Evil #1 Review

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: David Finch

With the way Trinity War ended how could anyone not be excited for this event. With it making a massive change to the DC Universe, being the first company wide crossover since the start of the New 52 I'm expecting a lot, and I'm sure it won't disappoint.

Plot

With the Justice League presumed dead, the Crime Syndicate plan to take over this world, recruiting as many villains as they can to do so.

Review

This was a fantastic issue, and although it wasn't quite as good as I hoped it would be, it was a brilliant start to the story. Geoff Johns did a great job of continuing from where he left of at the end of Trinity War, but at the same time made this easy enough to get into, as although people that didn't read Trinity War, who also avoid comic news may be shocked, Johns quickly brings things together, and story wise this looks to be shaping into something that's simply amazing. I also loved the tone of the issue, another thing that Johns did a great job with, as it flowed smoothly, having plenty of drama, and suspense when needed. It was however slightly lacking in excitement, but I'm sure Johns will make up for that with the next issue.

The art from David Finch was also amazing, being some of the best art that he's done for a long time. The detail in Finch's art was outstanding for most of this issue, as although there was the odd imperfection, it was generally fantastically handled. I also loved the layout from Finch in this issue, as although not very unique, it did add a bit of a dynamic tone to the issue, adding more depth, and helping the story to flow smoother. I also really enjoyed the fold out artwork in the middle of this issue, as due to slightly disliking parts of the cover, feeling that it was too many characters in to short a space, he has made up for it here, with this phenomenal assembly of villains.

This issue would start with Lex Luthor, showing him trying to take over Thomas Kord's company, then noticing the changes that the Crime Syndicate have caused. It was already established that Luthor would play a key role in this story, but it was extremely interesting the way that he was introduced into it, as following his short time in Trinity War I was really excited for this. The thing I liked most about Luthor's appearance had to be his reaction to the carnage, as considering just how far he's willing to go to get what he wants (as shown in this issue), I was shocked by his reaction to the Crime Syndicate, and this just goes to show how bad things are now that they are here.

Another character that was established to have a vital role in this storyline would be Batman original sidekick, Nightwing (Dick Grayson). To be honest he didn't have quite as bog a role in this issue as I expected, as although overall he had a huge role it wasn't for the reason that I expected. Nonetheless it was still extremely interesting, and very entertaining, and I loved seeing him step out from Batman's shadow, taking the limelight now that he's not around. I am however interested to see what role he will have in the future of this story, as so far it's been amazing.

The Crime Syndicate themselves were awe-inspiring, as although they didn't appear as a team as much as I would hope for, they certainly showed that they meant business. Their first goal would be to gather up all the villains that they could, no matter what it took, and the meeting between the Crime Syndicate, and the other villains was simply outstanding. Now I won't go into any details, as to avoid spoilers, but this is exactly what I was hoping for with this series, not disappointing, and if things keep up like this, as well as adding more excitement it has the potential to be one of the best events ever.

Final Verdict

This was an amazing start to what I hope will be a wonderful event. It had the perfect tone, setting everything up perfectly, allowing people who've missed Trinity War the perfect chance to see what changes it would cause. It also has some interesting sequences, and brilliant dialogue, and I for one can't wait for more, and would highly recommend it to anyone, even if you missed Trinity War.

Rating: 8/10

All Star Superman Review

Writer: Grant Morrison
Artist: Frank Quitely

After watching Man of Steel a few weeks ago I have been in a huge Superman mood going through some of my favourite stories of the Man of Tomorrow as well as trying some that I haven't already read. This however is probably my favourite Superman story of all time, as I always enjoy reading it.

Plot

After saving Leo Quintum and his crew whilst on a mission to explore the sun, Superman is exposed to too much radiation, giving him new powers, whilst also slowly killing him. Superman then goes on the quest to put the Earth in a position where it can survive without him.

Review

This was simply a phenomenal story, and easily one of the best Superman stories of all time, and my personal favourite. Grant Morrison has done such a great job of telling this wonderful story, that shows Superman at his most weakest point, knowing that he's going to die. This itself is risky, as to have the reader know from the first issue that the main character is going to die isn't easy to follow on from, especially when you have a further eleven issues to go, but Morrison does a good job of this. Besides this Morrison takes some of the most well known Superman tales, and concepts, making them his own by telling some fabulous mini-stories, whilst ultimately developing towards the conclusion of the main story. Morrison also handled the emotion perfectly, as well as the characters, the action, and the relationships, especially the relationship between Lois Lane, and Superman.

This story had the amazing Frank Quitely doing the artwork, which was truly outstanding. Now Quitely's art isn't for everyone, and I initially wasn't a fan, but have since grown to love his quirky, unique style. His art in this story's simply amazing, and is superbly detailed, with next to no imperfections. The layout of Quitely's art is also brilliant, adding a lot more depth to the story, as well as adding some more drama as well. What I loved most about Quitely's art however was how he drew Clark, and Superman so different, with Clark looking out of shape, as well as his usual clumsy self, which made his guise seem more believable. Quitely also did a great job of showing the character's emotions with it being easy to tell what the character's feeling, as well as explosive action, which was very exciting and dramatic. The inking, and colouring from Jamie Grant was also amazing, making the art feel whole.

This story would feature a group named P.R.O.J.E.C.T. run by it's director, Leo Quintum which experiment to find new discoveries, ultimately hoping to create a replacement for Superman. I found this an interesting addition to the story, as with a group that's goal is to find a replacement for Superman, it's appropriate for a story where he's dying. I also loved how Leo interacted with Superman, and how he wasn't afraid to go into dangerous positions. I also found his assistant Agatha to be very interesting, and the entire concept was brilliant, and worked perfectly in this story.

I already mentioned the fact that this story showed the relationship between Lois, and Superman, showing it more developed now that Superman knows of his upcoming demise. It also would show Superman give her a fabulous birthday present in a story that would also feature both Samson, and Atlas. Now I don't know much about either of these character's besides their mythological background, but I loved seeing them both fight over Lois along with Superman. The story itself was also very fun, and interesting, with some exciting, and explosive sequences. It was also nice to see Superman involved in a bit of fun leading up to his death.

The Superman Squad, a collection of Supermen from the future who send messages to others in the past. Now this wasn't the best part of this story, but there was a issue that dealt with Clark's earlier life, and his relationship with his father, Jonathan Kent. Now I won't go into any details as to avoid spoilers, but this was a very entertaining, and emotional issue, and I loved seeing the inexperienced Clark, along with his fateful dog, Krypto stand up to these future Supermen. To be honest the addition of Krypto was enough for me to enjoy that issue, as I love that dog.

Now I come to one of my favourite parts of this entire story, the issue set in Bizarro World. This was simply an amazing mini-story, and Morrison handled it perfectly. I especially loved the fact that there was a smart Bizarro in the form of Zibarro, who showed a lot of emotion, being an outcast in this world, much like Superman felt like on Earth. The Bizarro JLA were also very amusing, and I loved seeing them in their backward form. I also felt that Morrison handled Superman's actions during this perfectly, as they were very clever, and appropriate.

Now it's hard to forget the most used villain in Superman history, Lex Luthor, and Morrison doesn't do so here. Now Luthor may be over used, but I have to give props when he's used to the advantage of a story, and that's what he was in this. The interaction between both Luthor, and Superman, as well as Luthor, and Clark was brilliant, and exactly as I'd imagine they'd be. Luthor was also very conniving, and resourceful, and the fight between him and Superman at the end of this story was phenomenal, and truly a great last fight for this fabulous story.

Final Verdict

This is considered as one of the all time greatest Superman story ever, with a lot of people classing it as the best story ever, me included. Morrison gives a very emotional, and symbolic story, that shows Superman in his final days. It also had some fun, and interesting mini-stories, which fit perfectly into the main story. The action was also perfect, being exciting, and explosive, with great art from Quitely Due to all this I'd highly recommend this story to anyone, whether you're a Superman fan or not, and if you are a Superman fan and haven't read this, then you certainly need to, as it is definitely amongst the best Superman stories ever.

Rating: 5/5

Luthor Review

Writer: Brian Azzarello
Artist: Lee Bermejo

After reading, and reviewing Batman: Broken City, I decided to buy more work from Brian Azzarello, including, Superman: For Tomorrow (which I also wanted for Jim Lee's art), which I've read, and reviewed since, Joker, which I've also read, and reviewed, and this.

Plot

Lex Luthor wants to save the world, and he feels that he must stop Superman to achieve that. With help from the likes of Mr. Orr Luthor lays his plans, and even creates a superhero of his own, named Hope.

Review

This was a fantastic book, and it showed a different side to Superman's arch enemy. Brian Azzarrello has produced a marvelous book, and it's something that was very original, and enjoyable. I've noticed through the stories that I have read from Azzarello over the last couple of weeks that no matter what character he's working on that he produces something unique, and something that the character doesn't do, or show as often otherwise. Azzarello also has a brilliant way with dialogue in his stories, as the character interaction is nothing short of brilliant. Now I will say that the story itself wasn't overall exciting, and the first half of it was a bit slow, but the emotion, throughout with the excitement near the end more than makes up for it. After reading Joker I was kind of expecting something similar in this book, but besides the fact that both stories are centered around arch enemies, and that they are both different take on the characters these books are very different.

The art in this book from Lee Bermejo is nothing short of phenomenal. Although I've seen his art on covers before I never really got the chance to appreciate it until I got the Before Watchmen: Rorschach series, and since then I've been trying to get comics, or graphic novels that have his interior artwork. I have also enjoyed his covers on such things like The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, but his covers don't compair to his interiors. Bermejo's artwork is full of amazing detail, and I can't find any panel that lacks detail. Bermejo is also able to show expressions brilliantly, as besides Azzarello's great dialogue, you can feel the emotion through the characters in Bermejo's art. I also love the way Bermejo draws the characters, as although he keeps them to their classic looks, he's added his own uniqueness. I especially liked how he drew Superman, as he looked like the demigod Luthor sees, but I did find it a bit weird that his eyes were always red. The cover from Bermejo was also fantastic, and I loved that he filled all that shadowy space with Superman. The colours from Dave Stewart were also brilliant, and they made the already phenomenal art of Bermejo look even better.

A Different Side to Luthor

As I said earlier this book gives a very different view of Luthor as a character. In this book Luthor appears to be this very nice, generous man, who sees Superman as a God looking over them, being nothing more than a threat. I liked this take on Luthor, as I've always seen Luthor as a character that wasn't born evil, but made evil through his jealousy towards Superman, and that is shown in this book (although it's more fear of Superman than jealousy this time). It was also nice to see that Luthor was still an obsessive character, wanting to get what he wants, and isn't willing to stop until he gets it. Overall I think that Azzarello wrote Luthor brilliantly, and it showed more depth to him as a character, whilst also showing him for what he truly is.

Luthor Speeks with Superman

Like Batman making an appearance in Joker, Superman made an appearance in this book. Although Superman had a much bigger appearance in this book than Batman had in Joker they were still very similar, as in it was obvious that they were background characters. Superman needs a longer appearance than Batman because in this story Superman is the focus of Luthor's problem, and the main reason he feels the need to create Hope, so it wouldn't be the same if he didn't appear as often. There was however something that I wasn't sure if I liked in Superman's appearance, and that was that he barely talked (I think he only said one thing in the entire book). I actually think this worked as a whole, as it lessened the attention towards Superman, and showed that he doesn't need words. I did however find it slightly awkward at times, but feel that it helped the story.

Like Azzarello's other Superman related story For Tomorrow, Mr. Orr also appears in this story. To be honest this is the character that has changed the least between this version of Superman's world, and the regular DC version. Mr. Orr is still a hired mercenary, but this time he's on Luthor's dime. Luthor uses him to help persuade people to do what he wants, and overall set-up things that will help Luthor in the long run. The function of Mr. Orr in this story doesn't just remind readers of what type of character Mr. Orr is, but it also shows some of the characteristics that we usually see from Luthor. It was also nice to see Mr. Orr again, as with him being created by Azzarello, it feels right for him to be in any Superman related story he works on, but only if his role is necessary, which it is in this book.

Luthor Meets Bruce Wayne

Batman also made an appearance in this book, as both Batman, ans Bruce Wayne. His main appearance in this book is during a dinner conversation between himself, and Luthor, but he also gets into a fight with Superman not long after. I liked Batman's appearance, but more as Bruce than Batman. I liked that we see how the rich live, and how due to being rich that Luthor, and Bruce are both friendly to one another, whether they like each other or not. I think that Azzarello showed Bruce's characteristics perfectly throughout the dinner, but not so well after his fight with Superman. I just couldn't see Bruce helping Luthor just cause he got in a fight with Superman, but there are reasons I can make for this. The main one is that Bruce also sees Superman as a threat, and shares the same goal as Luthor now, but it still doesn't feel right to me, as being a long time Batman fan I wouldn't expect him to do this. Don't get me wrong, I can believe him seeing Superman as a threat (he has in the past), but I can't see him helping Luthor. I do however understand that the story needs something like this to develop certain parts of it.

Luthor with Hope

Hope was the character that I saw most change from in this version of Superman's world than the regular DC version. I don't know a great deal about the normal version of Hope, but I do know enough to know that this version is much different. For starters the normal version is an Amazon that was hired as Luthor's bodyguard along with fellow Amazon Mercy Graves, whereas in this version she's a robot that Luthor made to be a superhero. I did however prefer this version, and found the relationship between her, and Luthor very interesting. You could say that it isn't right that someone can love as robot, or at least in the way Luthor does, but at the same time I can see why, as he created her, and was with her throughout. He also was that amazed by what she was, and due to her being exactly what he wanted it's kind of natural that he'd love her, even if it isn't necessarily right. I also liked that she believed in herself, and that although she was a robot, she still wanted to do good. It probably helped that she didn't know what she was, but all the same it was nice to see that although she believed in Luthor that she also wanted to do good.

Final Verdict

This was a brilliant book, but not quite as good as Azzarello, and Bermejo's other work. It was still a very interesting read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked how it showed a different side to Luthor, whilst showing some of the more well known characteristics. I would highly recommend this book, as it is still a cracking read.

Rating: 4/5

Superman #15 Review

Writer: Scott Lobdell
Artist: Kenneth Rocafort

Since Scott Lobdell, and Kenneth Rocafort took over as the creative team on this series it has been a lot better than it had been, and I am happy that Superman is once again a respectable series. The H'el on Earth storyline itself has also been very decent, and I love that you can enjoy any of these series' without reading the others (and not getting confused), whilst also getting a much more enjoying experience reading the entire crossover event.

Plot

This issue sees Superman, and Superboy locked out of the Fortress of Solitude by H'el. Superman and Superboy then head to a prison to visit it's sole prisoner, Lex Luthor.

Review

This was another decent issue in the H'el on Earth crossover, but I felt that it was a bit slow, and not as good as the previous issue. It also didn't really feel like it was fully connected to the crossover, as besides it being the center of most of the conversations it didn't really move the story forward. I still think that Lobdell did a decent job, and it is still miles better than the series was prior to him joining. Although it felt slightly forced I liked the involvement of Lex Luthor in this issue, and think that Lobdell wrote him very well, although I'll talk more about that later. Although it didn't move the story any further forward, I did like that it was still mentioned, and that it eventually set-up the next part of H'el on Earth brilliantly, whether it's this series, or the others.

The art was once again fabulous, and Rocafort did an amazing job. It's been a long time since Superman has had a mind-blowingly brilliant artist, and I'm, happy it has one, once more. It doesn't matter what Rocafort draws, it always looks beautiful, and I really think he could jump on any series, and make it look good, and he proves why in this issue, drawing all the characters brilliantly, as well as the backgrounds, and settings. I loved Rocafort's art on Red Hood and the Outlaws, but I feel that he's much more suited on this series, as despite his work on RHATO being fantastic, his art on this series makes it look average. I also loved that when he draws Superman and Superboy next to each other that Superboy actually looks like a boy. It's weird saying that this was a surprise, but due to the settings Superboy has been in so far in the New 52, as well as the characters he's interacted with it's easy to forget that he's meant to look young, but Rocafort show's it perfectly here.

Superman and Superboy Bonding

I loved the way Superman, and Superboy interacted throughout this issue, as it really shows the differences in their characteristics. Although it wasn't mentioned much, if at all, it was still noticeable that Superboy being a clone drove their feelings for each other. It was interesting to see what Superboy thought of Superman throughout this issue, as he was appreciative for Superman twice saving his life, but made it clear that he wasn't invested in Superman's affairs, or his family (Supergirl). I also liked that Superman was wary of Superboy, due to him being a clone, and that he wanted to keep him near by, for the foreseeable future. The most interesting conversation between Superman, and Superboy was when Superboy asked Superman if he wanted the help of the Teen Titans. The thing that was interesting about this was that Superman wasn't fond of the idea of a bunch of teenage superhuman's going about unsupervised. I will now be looking forward to seeing when/if Superman will confront the Teen Titans, and what series it will be in.

Visitors for Mr. Luthor

As I said earlier, I liked the involvement of Lex Luthor, and thought that Lobdell wrote him brilliantly, showing him as the brilliant, self centred, arrogant genius that he is. The thing that I liked the most about this sequence was the interest that Luthor has in Superboy. I've not read all the Superboy series, so I don't know if it's been confirmed that the human part of his DNA was from Luthor, like it was before the New 52, but this meeting shows that this is the case, and that Luthor knows it. If it is the case I will be looking forward to both Superboy's and Superman's reactions to this. The conversation about H'el was also interesting, and I found it especially interesting that despite Luthor being in jail he knew everything that was happening between H'el and Superman. I also liked that at the beginning of this issue, Luthor had built a mini replica of the Fortress of Solitude, reflecting the fact that Superman, and Superboy are locked out of it. I hope that we see Luthor in this series sometime in the future, whether it's in this storyline or not, and hope that it's sooner rather than later.

Enter the Justice League

The Justice League also made an appearance in this issue when Superman calls on them for help. They don't do much, but their appearance alone shows that the upcoming events in this storyline will be epic, whether they're brilliant, or not. I also liked that Lobdell put in a small mention about the Superman/Wonder Woman relationship, which started in Justice League #12, and that it's a secret to the Justice League, although one member knows (Batman). There was also an acknowledgement of this in the last issue, but it was nice to see it mentioned again, especially considering Wonder Woman featured in the issue. This also makes me wonder if there relationship will play any future role in this series, as although Lobdell stated that he wants to focus on Clark, and Lois Lane's relationship, it appears that Superman, and Wonder Woman's might play a role. The main thing I liked about the Justice Leage's appearance was Superboy's reaction to them, especially when he asked Flash if he was Man Flash, due to Kid Flash (who Flash doesn't know of since the events of Flashpoint, and the beginning of the New 52) being on the Teen Titans.

Final Verdict

This was a brilliant issue, and although it doesn't progress the H'el on Earth storyline much it was still a fabulous issue. I would highly recommend this issue, as well as the other issues of Superman, Lobdell's wrote, and am looking forward to the next part of H'el on Earth. Although you don't need to buy Superboy #15 to understand this issue, I'd still recommend it, as it shows why Superboy's wearing Superman's Kryptonian Armour, and was a decent comic in it's own right.

Rating: 4/5