Thursday, September 23, 2004

Quick DC Reviews

Plastic Man; Robin; Catwoman; Manhunter

Plastic Man #10
by Kyle Baker
Remember when comics were fun? Remember when they told a complete story in a single issue? If so, you'll enjoy this issue of Plastic Man, which features Plas and the gang facing off against vampires; and not the goth-drenched anguished vampires, but rather the kind who wait in creepy houses on the tops of hills just waiting for stranded travelers to stop by and spend the night. There are at least 5 healthy laughs in this issue, and a good snicker or two on every page. The only downside is the generic cover, but that's easy enough to overlook when the insides are so much fun.
Rating: 3.5 (of 5)


Robin #130
by Bill Willingham, Jon Proctor, Robert Campanella & Rodney Ramos
We now have official confirmation that the CCA seal means absolutely nothing. A large majority of this issue features the Black Mask brutally beating Spoiler and then torturing her with a power drill. This is one instance where we can be glad that the coloring is murky. If that wasn't enough, near the end of this issue Robin donates blood, then imemdiately goes out to continue to fight the gang war. Besides the fact that Tim is too young to donate, he should also "avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for about five hours after donation." It's right here on the Red Cross Website.
Rating: 1.5 (of 5)


Catwoman #35
by Ed Brubaker, Paul Gulacy & Jimmy Palmiotti
Since this issue barely featured Catwoman or any of her supporting cast at all, Gulacy's art didn't seem as out-of-place as it usually does. Unfortunately, the overarching plot of "War Games" continues to require just about everyone to act out of character and/or exhibit previously unknown skills (Batman is now a super-hacker?) Jim Gordon--is his two-panel cameo--is the only one talking any sense.
Rating: 2.5 (of 5)


Manhunter #2
by Marc Andreyko, Jesus Saiz & Jimmy Palmiotti
After last issue's quick start (well, quick for these days of ultra-decompression) this second issue takes a step back, giving us a better glimpse of Kate's personal life. It looks like part of the focus in this series will be how nearly impossible it would be to carry out a secret life as a vigilante. It's also good to see that Andreyko will be exploring the consequences of this new Manhunter's approach. And I've always liked the Shadow Thief as a villain, so that's enough to keep me with the title for now.
Rating: 3 (of 5)

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