Weekly New Comic Reviews: December 27, 2023
Welcome to this week’s new comic book reviews! I’m not able to review everything that comes out each week (and this week is especially light due to the holidays), but I tried to write a quick blurb about some of the biggest titles from Marvel, DC, and more.
As always, I hope you enjoy any book you picked up for this week’s NCBD! Let me know what you read and which ones were your favorites!
MARVEL COMICS
DEADLY HANDS OF KUNG FU: GANG WAR #1
Shang-Chi, now the reluctant leader of the Five Weapons Society, finds himself caught in a web of deceit and manipulation as the Gang War engulfs New York City. He must navigate a treacherous path to protect Chinatown and prevent further bloodshed for the citizens he’s been sworn to protect, but his own followers question his decisions. Greg Pak’s story is fine enough, though there isn’t much bite in this story yet. It follows a predictable narrative and Spider-Man’s cameo paints the webslinger as someone unwilling to budge on his own beliefs. In addition, Caio Majado’s art isn’t the strongest and can verge of lifeless in some panels. His younger version of Shang-Chi was a major wtf moment — Shang-Chi is meant to be an adolescent but looks like a balding 40-year old for some reason?
This was an okay issue, but can hopefully take off in the next issue now that the story has been set up.
Rating: 6/10
IMMORTAL X-MEN #18
This final issue is a mixed bag. While it delivers on the Krakoa mystery front, it struggles to find balance between the larger narrative as it reaches its conclusion and the increasingly overbearing presence of Mother Righteous (if her presence could somehow get any worse). Her constant need for self-righteous commentary wore thing months ago and her presence in this issue disrupts Gillen’s narrative flow as we go between the more intriguing storyline following Xavier and Mister Sinister’s presence into grandstanding exposition from Mother Righteous.
The twist at the end is promising, though it feels like it should have come much earlier and replaced some of the meandering plots our various main characters were caught up in.
Rating: 7/10
MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN #14
I don’t buy Uncle Aaron’s motivations just yet, but it was nice to see Miles get more agency with Misty Knight and Colleen Wing currently taken off the board. It’s been a disappointment to see Miles’ story seem the least integral to the broader Gang War event, but Federico Vicentini’s art and Bryan Valenza’s colors make this a visually appealing book even when the story leaves you wanting more.
Rating: 7/10
SPIDER-WOMAN #2
I enjoyed the second chapter from Steve Foxe much more than the debut issue. Jessica’s personality felt a lot more consistent with her previous appearances and her missing child wasn’t the focal point of her story. While it’s an important aspect of her current motivations, the first issue made her out to be a woman who was only defning herself as a mother. Here we see her impressive espionage abilities on full display. It’s all complimented by artist Carola Borelli and colorist Arif Prianto who deliver an impressive visualization of her combat skills during a confrontation with HYDRA. I’m really excited to see where this goes!
Rating: 8/10
X-FORCE #47
So this is what an X-Force book can feel like when we’re not focusing on Colossus and Mikhail?? What a complete 180 turn! Percy’s story feels fresh and meaningful for the first time in a long, long time and each team member gets a chance to have a moment. The issue serves as a welcome change of pace, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by mutants trying to rebuild their lives outside the nation of Krakoa, though I wish this happened months ago. This team’s ability to work together would have made a difference in the fight against Orchis and its a crime we had to watch Wolverine meander with random team-ups and Sage & Co. deal with the Russian roadblock. Give me more of this any day!
Rating: 9/10
DC COMICS
ALAN SCOTT: THE GREEN LANTERN #3
The issue continues the investigation into the mysterious murders plaguing Alan’s past. It also continues to takes a step back from the standard superhero spectacle, opting for a noir-infused detective story (featuring another Golden Age hero) that delves deeper into Alan's psyche and explores the emotional weight he’s been carrying for years. Cian Tormey's depiction of the Spectre is stunning, capturing the character's imposing and ethereal presence. Throughout the issue, the art brings the city's dark corners and rain-slicked streets to life, creating a brooding backdrop for Alan's investigation. The use of shadows and muted colors emphasizes the noir influence, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the story. While Tim Sheridan’s focus on character development might leave some action-hungry readers wanting more, it rewards those seeking a deeper dive into Alan Scott's world and the psychological depths of a legendary hero.
Rating: 7/10
DETECTIVE COMICS #1080
The final chapter of the "Batman: Outlaw" arc, wraps up the thrilling story with a bittersweet blend of action, emotion, and consequences. Ram V’s writing and Jason Shawn Alexander’s art masterfully navigates the aftermath of Selina’s plan and Batman's apparent death. The issue expertly balances introspective character moments with exhilarating action sequences. The escape from Gotham is a pulse-pounding affair, packed with thrilling chase scenes and narrow escapes. However, even amidst the chaos, the focus remains on the characters' inner turmoil and the weight of their decisions. This ending to a fantastic five-part arc is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving readers eager to see how Gotham and its inhabitants adapt to a world without Batman.
Rating: 9/10
SKYBOUND
DUKE #1
You can read my full, spoiler-free advance review here.
It's not just the action and thrills that make Duke #1 shine. Williamson weaves in thoughtful themes of loyalty, duty, and the cost of war, giving the story, and Duke himself, surprising emotional heft. This isn't just a mindless, Michael Bay film expressed on pages; it's a storytelling masterpiece that stays with you long after you turn the last page. It's a love letter that simultaneously reinvents a franchise for a new generation. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer like me, this is a book you absolutely can't miss.
Rating: 10/10
