ACTION COMICS #419 FACSIMILE EDITION DC COMICS
While the original cover was centered much better, This recreation still highlights two of the best things happening on DC covers in the 1970’s … photo backrounds and Neal Adam’s art. Editor extra-ordinaraire, Julius “Ah, Bean Soup!” Schwartz also understood that while Superman was the reason behind the sales, it was also still an anthology magazine. Reintroducing the backup stories featuring the likes of the Human Target and Metamorpho. He also let writers like Cary Bates run with nonscensical storylines as long as they were exciting and run for the readers. The story might be called ‘The Most Dangerous Man On Earth’ but the concept of how would Superman/Clark Kent do if they were unable to stand on the Earth is one of those silly little thought experiments that found their way into comics back then. Just a good old time here. 9 out of 10 Grahams.
THE AVENGERS #36 MARVEL COMICS
And so another Avengers’ title ceases to be. I will admit that I really didn’t read any of Jed MacKay’s epic arc. However, the one thing this issue did prove to me is that he does know how a series should be ended. As the action is over and current leader Captain Marvel is being advised as to her next move. This current crew of Avengers is honest and brutal about their ideas moving forward. Thoughtful and retrospective, I found myself getting engrossed in the discussions between team members. This ending is definitely a thinking man’s comic and a surprizingly good one at that. Watch as one version of the Avengers ends and the next is hinted at. 8 out of 10 Grahams.
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE CRIMSON JUSTICE #5
Mad Cave Studios manages to cap off the story of the Crimson Justice in amazing fashion as all the facts are revealed and the Crimson Justice lays down his life for the city. As he lies dying waiting for the moment to reveal the big suprize in store for the new Dr. Mayhem, no one cracks. John stays focused explaining the last case of the Crimson Justice. Willie never stops being a psychopath and the ghost of Reddy never stops being a smart aleck. Everyone has their moment in the big finally. Even Sally and Frankie and honestly that one is really worth it. Writer Frank Tieri justifies my faith in his writing talents that I have suspected since issue #1. 9 out of 10 Grahams.
LIMITED COLLECTORS’ EDITION C-39 DC COMICS
Another example of the beauty of the oversized comic boom of the 1970’s. Issue #C-39 followed in the love of sercet origin stories that were so popular during the time. Five starting points told through the reprint medium. With Superman’s Rogues Gallery getting a bonus with the addition of Terra-Man’s origin. And in all honesty, this bonus tale is the best of the bunch. But one interesting fun fact is found in some of the alternate names that Captain Cold went through before deciding to become a Captain. How would have Flash history changed if the writers had decided with Mr. Arctic or Human Icicle? And like all good over-sized editions, we are treated to a bunch of bonus items including a centerfold poster of the various Rogues Galleries, a table-top diorama, and mini posters of the main villains as they introduce us to their stories. A reminder of how cool comics were back in the day. 9 out of 10 Grahams.