I Love Comics (Blah, Blah, Blah…)

NEW COMICS 4 THIS WEEK (11/04/26)
*All comics will be rated on a scale from 1 to 10*

Absolute Green Lantern # 20 (8/10)
Absolute Superman # 25 (8.5/10)
Archie In Hell # 1 (9/10)
Avengers # 1 (10/10)
Batman # 15 (10/10)
DNX # 4 (6.5/10)
Friendly Neighborhood Mary Jane # 1 (9/10)
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero/Tomb Raider # 2 (7.5/10)
Infernal Hulk vs Spider-Man # 1 (8/10)
Iron Man # 11 (6/10)
M.A.S.K. # 6 (6.5/10)
Miles Morales: Spider-Man # 4 (9/10)
Spider-Woman # 1 (8.5/10)
Superman: The Stranger # 3 (7/10)
Uncanny X-Men # 38 (6.5/10)
Wolverine # 29 (6/10)

Archie In Hell # 1– This new horror series follows Archie Andrews to the one place he never expected to be: Hell. The concept follows Archie as he attempts to navigate his usual teenage drama, including repairing his broken-down car and balancing back-to-back dates with Betty and Veronica. Unbeknownst to him, an ancient order of cultists has infiltrated Riverdale and chosen Archie as the final human sacrifice required to summon a demon lord. When the cult clashes with Riverdale’s actual witches, including Sabrina Spellman, the ritual triggers cosmic consequences, leaving Archie damned, unstuck in time and space, and bound by a terrible curse. What makes this concept so intriguing is the way it draws readers into the familiar world of Archie before suddenly turning everything upside down with stomach-churning occult madness and a sacrificial ritual that enhances the horror. Archie’s good nature makes him an especially compelling choice for the sacrifice. In one particularly disturbing moment, a cult member is revealed to have a creature lurking in his mouth and promptly vomits it into the hollowed-out skull of Mr. Weatherbee, emphasizing the story’s gruesome horror. To his credit, Patrick Horvath knows how to transform the world of Archie into a genuinely unsettling story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected developments, while Tyler Crook’s artwork underscores the frightening elements and may leave a lasting impression on readers encountering the series for the first time. Horror fans will feel right at home, while Sabrina Spellman’s inclusion feels natural: the magic and horror complement one another without making her seem like a guest star inserted merely for the sake of it. “Archie in Hell* continues Archie Comics’ line of horror comics, surprising readers by transforming the franchise’s more innocent and familiar elements into something chilling and unforgettable. The result is both frightening and innovative.

Avengers # 1– Chip Zdarsky and Marco Checchetto reunite for a bold new era of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. In the aftermath of “Avengers Armageddon,” the world order is completely rewritten, and public trust in superheroes is at an all-time low. Forced together by circumstance, a new and unconventional Avengers team—Spider-Man, Luke Cage, Captain Marvel, Wolverine, Daredevil, and David Colton (the new Miracleman)—must confront a sudden demonic invasion threatening Earth. Zdarsky excels in reimagining the Avengers, stripping away the traditional heroics and spectacle in favor of a polished, street-level aesthetic. This approach creates a palpable sense of danger and tension that aligns with the darker, grittier tone. Miracleman’s journey to master his powers, alongside the evolving dynamic between Captain Marvel and Daredevil, adds layers of intrigue. Notably, Spider-Man emerges as the emotional core of the team, lending gravitas and authenticity to this new lineup. The plot centers on a group of angels attacking New York City to reclaim what Mephisto stole, tying deeply into Marvel’s overarching lore. This connection, especially the reference to Spider-Man’s history (looking at you, “One More Day”), will undoubtedly heighten anticipation and excitement among fans. While the team’s chemistry is still developing, the guilt and internal conflicts carried by Captain Marvel, Daredevil, and Miracleman set the stage for complex interactions and growth. Watching this disparate group learn to trust one another is a clear highlight, marking this series as a distinct departure from typical Avengers stories. Marco Checchetto’s art brings a cinematic and dynamic flair to the book, infusing every scene with emotion and energy that perfectly complements Zdarsky’s script. The result is one of Marvel’s most visually striking titles in recent memory. In conclusion, this new Avengers series is a genuine blockbuster—an electrifying reinvention that challenges its heroes and its readers. With a fresh roster, darker themes, and lasting ramifications from events like “One More Day,” this title promises to redefine what it means to be an Avenger and to protect a world that no longer trusts its champions.

Batman # 15– A seismic shift looms as this issue launches “The Assassination of Bruce Wayne”—yes, you read that right. Following the fallout from “Bad Seeds,” six elite assassins converge on Gotham City with a single target: Bruce Wayne. The hit is set to unfold publicly at the extravagant El Grande Gala Enmáscarado, but the real twist is that Bruce Wayne himself is orchestrating his own death. Convinced that removing his civilian identity is the best way to secure Gotham’s future, Batman meticulously engineers the spectacle of Bruce Wayne’s “death” for the world to witness. What truly sets this issue apart is its “Ocean’s Eleven” style approach to Batman’s elaborate scheme. The tension, paranoia, and psychological complexity are palpable, showcasing the urgency and brilliance that Matt Fraction and Jorge Jimenez bring to the table as a creative team. While the bulk of the issue is devoted to setting up this audacious plan, the conclusion accelerates with momentum, even if it leaves readers yearning for more of the aftermath. Nevertheless, the boldness required to execute such a daring narrative arc is nothing short of masterful. This storyline propels Batman into uncharted territory, shelving Bruce Wayne for now, and promising dramatic repercussions in the months ahead. It stands as a thrilling new chapter and an exceptional entry point for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The future of Gotham—and Batman—has never been more compelling.

Friendly Neighborhood Mary Jane # 1– Mary Jane Watson steps into the spotlight, symbiote-free and determined to succeed in Hollywood as an independent producer. The story opens with the launch of her new venture, “Watson Productions,” but her plans are quickly threatened by The Chameleon, who targets her business for sabotage. Ashley Allen crafts a compelling new chapter for MJ, highlighting her intelligence and resilience—qualities that have always made her one of Spider-Man’s most fascinating characters. The lingering presence of the symbiote not only gives MJ a unique edge but also ensures she stands front and center, rather than fading into a supporting role. Allen’s understanding of MJ’s voice shines through, making her more charming and relatable than ever. Watching her take charge as a producer, instead of being portrayed as a damsel in distress, feels fresh and exciting, helping readers move past her time as Venom. Phil Toto’s vibrant art perfectly complements Allen’s grounded script, giving Mary Jane the space to dream big and fight for her ambitions—even when supervillains get in the way. Although the dialogue can be heavy at times, the story’s energy and MJ’s spirited personality make for an engaging read. Ultimately, Friendly Neighborhood Mary Jane is a promising debut that proves MJ is more than capable of leading her own story—and she does so with style and strength.

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