Review: Amazing Spiderman Issue 684

With the Avengers being soundly defeated by the Sinister Six, does Spiderman still have a chance to defeat Doctor Octopus' mad plan? Who else can help the wallcrawler save the world?

Ends of The Earth Part 3

The striking variant cover by Gabrielle Dell'Otto should simply be called "Enter Sandman" instead, as we find our hero on his own, with the Avengers down and defeated in the previous issue. However, just as Doc Ock is about to celebrate the fall of Earth's Mightiest Heroes by the Sinister Six, Spiderman is hastily spirited from the battlefield by none other than Silver Sable. 

Together with the rescued Black Widow, the three stand alone to stop Doc Ock's continued to conquer the Earth.  Furthermore, Doc Ock continues with his threats against the world governments, as he demands payment for finding a solution to the common problem of global warming.

SEGA Virtua Tennis Challenge for iPhone and iPad

Another SEGA classic makes it way on the iPhone and iPad. Does Virtua Tennis Challenge deliver the court experience straight to your mobile device?

STAR WARS: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison

Here are some preview pages of the recently released STAR WARS: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison ongoing series.  Pictured above is the variant cover by Tsuneo Sanda. The tale focuses on an attack during a graduation ceremony for the first class of Imperial cadets. However, are the real targets Darth Vader and the Emperor?

Black Orchid Hardcover

The Black Orchid miniseries was a childhood favorite of mine and was probably one of the precursors for the current Vertigo Comics imprint. The original prestige format miniseries depicted the origin story of the obscure Black Orchid character as written by Neil Gaiman with striking painted artwork by Dave McKean.

The miniseries, now recently released as a hardcover, provided more background information on the character connecting her with other prominent characters with similar paths such as Poison Ivy, Swamp Thing and even Jason Woodrue, the Floronic Man.

Gaiman’s miniseries also helped launched the character’s shortlived series under Vertigo and back into the DC Universe.

You can order your copy from Amazon below:

Review: Daredevil Issue 12

"Lawyers in Love"

Despite the lack of any super villains or much action involved at all, Daredevil issue 12 is another great story that should not be missed or overlooked. Writer Mark Waid and company simply deliver once again,  a truly captivating tale. This standalone story focuses on themes based on love and friendship so don't expect any supervillains to sneak into this story.

With Daredevil issue 12, Matt Murdock and assistant Dist. Atty. Kirsten McDuffie are out on date. Of course Murdoch wants to make sure nothing happens to both of them during this special night so he enlists the aid of Spiderman to serve as a bodyguard.

While the couple are out together, Waid actually shifts the entire focus story for this issue and the main plot falls on a past incident involving Murdock and Foggy Nelson during their college days. The flashback story centers on Nelson and Murdock time in law school and how Nelson almost got expelled. Writer Mark Waid shows us a confident Murdock and his bravado at such a young age.

It's an early glimpse of the qualities that still define him now as a hero and defender of the downtrodden and weak, fighting injustice for all.  It's the irony of the story that's set in Columbia School of Law that underlies the great story from Waid.

REVIEW: Dancer #1

Dancer is an all new on-going series from Image Comics, written by Nathan Edmondson (Who is Jake Ellis?) and drawn by Nic Klein (Viking). I picked it up on a whim and can gladly say it's a great read for any comic book geek. This first issue ends with a pretty surprising cliffhanger that will definitely leave you wanting more. Unfortunately it has little to nothing to do with dancing. :P
 

Marvel Heroes MMO Trailer

Together with with Gazillion and Secret Identity Studios, Marvel is launching an MMO with "Marvel Heroes". The trailer above showcases the gameplay and don't blink or you'll miss a glimpse of the Sentinels. Available for the PC (for now) and the release date will be announced later.


Via Marvel

Dark Knight Rises: Character Posters

 

Here's a look at the recently released character-themed posters for the Dark Knight Rises movie. Two distinct sets highlight the two main protagonists Batman and Catwoman and antagonist Bane, with differing backgrounds.


Via CBR

TRON Uprising: Beck's Beginning

Disney has released a pre-season episode of the upcoming TRON Uprising animated series via YouTube. The new series depicts the adventures of a young program named Beck, who leads the revolution against Clu. Tron trains and mentors the young program to master combat and of course the lightcycle skills he will need against Clu's forces in The Grid. The series will premiere June 7 on Disney XD.

Review: Wonder Woman Issue 9

Continuing the shocking conclusion from last issue, Brian Azzarello and company showcases spectacular views of Hell itself as we find our heroine, ready to walk down the aisle with Hades.  The rollercoaster ride that Wonder Woman has been through, hasn’t stopped yet as we are about to witness her wedding to Hades.

Interestingly enough, we’re also introduced to other new deities in this issue.

Wonder Woman issue 9 is a more subdued story for readers.  Granted, there’s not a lot of action going on, but we are given glimpses of the underworld and it just so happens to be not your typical portrayal of Hell. There’s no evidence of fire and brimstone to be seen but Azzarello does give readers a world consisting of despair and just plain bleakness. I don’t who came up with the conception in the visually sense, either guest artist Tony Akins or Cliff Chiang but you can feel the coldness and lack of emotions conveyed beautifully by the striking artwork and respective colors.

I’m surprised Wonder Woman hasn’t gone completely insane during her time here so far. Hades has a final test for Diana though, so that he’s certain her emotions are in fact true.

Review: The Secret Service Issue 2

The Secret Service issue 2 doesn’t let up with more action and adventure as secret agent Jack has a one on one chat with his nephew Gary, to convince him to follow in his footsteps. Furthermore, a horrific tragedy at a Hawaiian beach continues the subplot featured in the debut issue. Readers will not be disappointed with the blood soaked cover as well and page after page of superb writing and artwork keeps us thoroughly engaged.

Jack our protagonist, tries to convince his nephew Gary to turn his life around and join the agency. During their discussion in a bar, Gary gets to see part of the life Jack leads, when Jack handily takes on some drunks, intent on harassing them. A visit to agency’s training facility and Gary is more than overjoyed to join. However, his initial trial of fire isn’t exactly what he expected it to be. Meanwhile, Jack is called upon another mission that has a connection to the Mark Hamill kidnapping and death in issue 1.

Overall, The Secret Service issue 2 is another fabulous issue from the team of writer Mark Millar, artist Dave Gibbons and Matthew Vaughn.

Final Verdict: A

PROMETHEUS: Quiet Eye Viral Video

Here's the latest Prometheus movie viral video. This one features archaeologist Elizabeth Shaw asking for assistance from the mighty Weyland Corporation. Take note of the Yutani markings as well, since Weyland Corporation eventually merges with Yutani in the original Alien Quadrilogy saga.

Fables 10 Year Anniversary

 

It's rare that comic-books such as Fables, that don't necessarily cater to the larger demographic of it's genre, last for so long.  Nevertheless, it has surpassed other popular Vertigo books such as Sandman, Preacher and Doom Patrol and joins Hellblazer as one of the longest running titles under DC Comics' imprint. The series has won over 20 Eisner awards and has recently celebrated it's 10 year run thanks to it's great storytelling, consistently good artwork and stunning covers.

Here's a look back at the debut story arc cover art, concentrating on the death of Snow White's sister, Rose Red. The variant cover for issue one is featured above. Thank you Bill Willingham and team for your amazing work!


Images copyright DC Comics

Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre Issue 1 Variants

 

 

DC Comics has unveiled the various variant covers for the upcoming Silk Spectre miniseries. Shown are Dave Johnson's and Jim Lee's covers as well as the digital combo cover by Amanda Conner.

These variant covers are also available via Amazon:

     

Images via DC Comics

Review: Secret Avengers 21.1

Captain America taps Hawkeye to be the new leader of the covert Secret Avengers team. Accompanying him on a mission, will Hawkeye pass the test? Does Captain America even realize what’s in store for both them?

It’s not easy being a superhero, especially with the world filled with many problems taking up your time. That’s the dilemma Captain America faces and turns to another Avenger to lead the covert team of the Secret Avengers. That honor lands on Clint Barton better known as Hawkeye. Of course, when you choose a candidate for a demanding role such as this, you might want to tell them first!

In Secret Avengers issue 21.1, Captain America and Hawkeye head off to the country of Bagalia to rescue an American politician. Using S.H.I.E.L.D. technology to sneak their way in, all is not what it seems when they finally locate the politician. Instead, it happens to be a trap set up by Max Fury and Captain America ends being captured by the Masters of Evil. Looks like the test for Hawkeye turned out to be more than what the duo bargained for as Max Fury eventually explains to Captain America. Who ends up rescuing the good Captain? Pick up issue 21.1 at your local stores to find out!

Review: Nike Max Uptempo

The shoe once worn by Scottie Pippen has made a recent comeback. Does the Nike Max Uptempo relive those glory days of the Bulls championship years? 

Masters of the Universe by Patricio Oliver

These awesome Masters of the Universe illustrations are by Patricio Oliver.  Only the main characters such as He-Man, Skeletor, She-Ra and the lovable Orko come to mind. Wow, we really need to brush up on this series again!


Via HeroChan

No More Avengers

Marvel Comics has been teasing the above image lately.  The upcoming event is a result of what's to come after Avengers vs. X-Men issue 5. Do the Avengers lose? Is The Phoenix Force involved? Is the Scarlet Witch involved as well? Stay Tuned!


via Marvel Comics

Review: Epic Kill Issue 1

Right off the bat, Epic Kill almost accomplishes itself as the ultimate comic book. In visual terms it has amazing artwork which is fluid and crisp at the same time.  The colors are even and complements each panel so that we are able to distinguish the action depicted in the artwork.  The mysterious storyline itself keeps you engaged as you enjoy page after page of nonstop action. While it's not done in the widescreen aspect of another image comic series America's Got Powers, writer and artist Raffaele Ienco's artwork absolutely conveys each panel with detail. His style is reminiscent of Chris Bachalo. 

Review: World's Finest Issue 1

Did the second title related to the Earth 2 parallel world saga, live up to the hype? World’s Finest issue 1 doesn’t disappoint with a great kickoff story. 

Review: SUPERCROOKS Issue 2

Despite the lack of action in SUPERCROOKS issue 2 it's still a great read. Drop by your local comic store and grab a copy of the first issue if it is still available. The dramatic story introduced by Mark Millar, in the debut issue continues on.

Review: Amazing Spiderman Issue 683

Spiderman brings some heavy hitters namely, The Avengers to help him stop Dr. Ock and his mad scheme. Will even the combined force of Earth's mightiest heroes be enough to stop the Sinister Six and Dr. Octopus from completing his goal of world destruction?

Next Generation iPhone : Our Wish List

With the next generation iPhone possibly debuting later this year, here's a few of our requests and changes when it comes to the look and feel of the revered device. Maybe the fine folks at Cupertino will listen? These are strictly hardware changes though:

Design:

Of course when it comes to design it's very subjective.  The flat side areas of the current generation is handy for those who've desired placing the phone down on a flat surface to snap pictures or take movies. We wouldn't necessarily mind a design change but retaining this flat surface would still be welcome. Third-party vendors like Hipstamatic sell their own integrated case/stand for this latest model.

STAR WARS DAY 2012

Happy Star Wars Day from all the Jedis and Padawans at Rusted Mecha! The force will be with you, always.

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Review: Earth 2 Issue 1

Writer James Robinson’s highly anticipated Earth 2 series certainly doesn’t disappoint but it does leave us wanting more of the story introduced early on in this awesome first issue.

PROMETHEUS Movie Trailer

"We were so wrong…”

We’re nearing a month until the premiere of Ridley Scott’s science fiction-horror film Prometheus.  The movie once conceived to be a prequel to Scott’s Alien and subsequent Aliens franchise, has veered into its own separate and distinct story, while still maintaining some connections to the original saga. 

AVENGERS: Hawkeye Series Cover Artwork

This August marks the collaboration between writer Matt Fraction and artist David Aja on the new Hawkeye series. Both had previously worked on the Immortal Iron Fist.  The series tackles Clint Barton's own adventures outside of the Avengers.  Here's a peek at the first and second issue cover artwork by Aja.

Images courtesy Marvel Comics

RUSTED SPOTLIGHT: Batman

The Batman.

The Caped Crusader, the Dark Knight, the World's Greatest Detective! My first memory of Batman was at my 2nd birthday party. My parents always tell me it was a grand event - a long guest list, giant cake, balloons, and food galore. But I don't remember a single detail from the day...except for the BATMAN COSTUME I got. Come to think of it, I don't even know who it was that gave it to me...

This month marks the 73rd anniversary of Batman's first appearance in Detective Comics #27. Unless you've been living under a rock (and just somehow stumbled upon this blog), you know the legend of his origin, so I'll spare the repetitive back story.

The Caped Crusader has grown into a worldwide cultural icon, and is no doubt one of the most popular and recognizable figures today. It's arguable that Batman isn't just one of the best superheroes ever, but one of the greatest fictional characters ever. But what is it that makes Batman still so popular?

Review: Amazing Spiderman Issue 682

Ends of the Earth part 1

A gift for humanity’s future or something far more sinister – what is Doctor Octopus up to? Spiderman’s nemesis Doc Ock stirs up trouble on a global scale with his latest scheme.  With the help of the Sinister Six, does Spiderman stand a chance?

The tragic origin of Dr. Otto Octavius, a nuclear physicist, is captured in the second installment of the original Spiderman movie trilogy.  As you may recall, a horrible accident during one of his experiments causes the fusion of the robotic arms/tentacles to his body.  Having brilliant minds between the both of them, it’s hard not to see the similarities between Spiderman and Doc Ock. 

What separates them of course is the use of their newfound abilities either for good or for evil. It alls boil down to the choices we make in life.  Writer Dan Slott touches upon this element briefly in this issue, as Peter Parker uses his intellect for the benefit and betterment of humanity and simply beyond just taking pictures, with his job at Horizon Labs.  You’ll see the many devices and technologies he’s developed being used which is a sharp contrast to the life and criminal activities of Doc Ock. 

Review: Avengers vs. X-Men Issue 2

Not even John Romita Jr.’s spectacular artwork could really save issue 2 of Avengers vs. X-Men. While there are some good qualities about the second issue, it has been reduced to showcasing scenes that branch off into other comic books, forcing the reader to purchase these related titles.

In effect, the focus on The Phoenix force, Hope Summers and The Scarlet Witch as main elements, has been substantially reduced. Instead, what we readers get is page after page of cut scenes and transitions so fast, that it leaves nothing enjoyable about the book itself. You’re left wondering if there’s truly anything you’re missing out by not picking the other titles.

Dark Knight Rises Trailer: Hope Is Lost

The latest trailer for the Dark Knight Rises was just released and it has plenty of footage showcasing Catwoman, Bane and Batman's spectacular vehicle. Whoops, it isn't a car! Enjoy!