Weird Science DC Comics: 2017-05-28

Saturday, June 3, 2017

Spencer & Locke #2 Review

Writer: David PeposeArtist: Jorge Santiago Jr.Publisher: Action Lab ComicsRelease Date: May 31, 2017Cover Price: $3.99

The debut of David Pepose’s Spencer & Locke was a delight that’s had me ready to jump back into the series as soon as possible. With a noir style tale spawning from a Calvin & Hobbes like childhood friendship turned dark, we get a funny and twisted adventure that has me curious where it goes next. So jump below the break and see just where the series takes us next.

Written by: Neil Gaiman and P Craig Russell

Art by: P Craig Russell, Scott Hampton and Walt Simonson
Published by: Dark Horse Comics
Price: $3.99

Not having read the novel on which it’s based, I can’t say for certain just how close to the book this comic adaptation of American Gods is, but I suspect it’s pretty faithful. The first two issues were something of a slow burn and, while this continues in this issue, at least what is smouldering slowly is interesting. This issue, while we still don’t know exactly what the enigmatic Mister Wednesday is up to, we do begin to get a clearer idea of the world in which our eponymous character, Shadow, has found himself. And it is pretty weird. And just a little bit scary.

Written: Ed Brubaker
Artists: Elizabeth Breitweiser, Sean Phillips
Release Date: 5/31/17
Review by: Ryan Douglas

DO NOT F#$%!NG MOVE

Every month I get giddy when this title appears in my inbox and can’t wait to dive in. If you’ve listened to my crazy theories on the podcast, you know how much I pick apart Dylan’s action and his surroundings. Just trying to make sense of the elements Ed Brubaker provides in his story. I’m ready to get into this….

Weird Science DC Comics Podcast Spotlight: Wonder Woman Annual #1

Jim and Eric talk about Wonder Woman Annual #1 because...well, because it's Wonder Woman! If you like what you hear, check out our regular weekly podcast where we talk about all the other DC Comics that came out this week.

Welcome to another wonderful installment of Top 5 Fridays! Today is a big day for fans of comics, movies, and superheroes. Today is the release of Wonder Woman's solo movie. For 75 years, the Princess of Themyscira has fought the enemies that threaten truth and justice. She has become one of the most iconic superheroes of all time and to see her lead her own movie is something that fans of the character have been dying to see since her original conception. To honor the release, today's Top 5 will be of my Top 5 Wonder Woman stories. Keep in mind that while I have grown to love the character, I have not read every single story of her's. I haven't read the John Byrne run or the original Rucka, so if you know of any, I would love to hear some of them in the comments. This means that if you don't see a story you like, I apologize. With the formalities out of the way, hop into your invisible jets and let's fly into this list!

DC Comics Best Covers of the Week 5/31/17

Fifth Week Blues

There's a fifth Wednesday in this month of May, and that means that DC Comics has run out of things to publish. This sometimes makes my job a little difficult, because it gives me a way smaller pool of comic book covers to choose from. This week it's really easy, though, because there were five covers in total! So they all make the cut. Check out what I have to say about 'em below!

Gotta get Back in Time

Written by: Brian Buccellato and Francis Manapul

Art by: Scott Hepburn and Brian Buccellato

Cover Price: $3.99

Release Date: September 11, 2013

Who remembers Villains Month? We had just started our site a little over a month before the Event and just jumped in head first. I remember being excited to read origin stories of some of DC's biggest villains and while some reviewers were busy complaining about New 52 "changes", I was having a ball. Of course, not all of the issues were home runs, but I liked this one because it actually explained the recent reveal of Daniel West being Reverse Flash. Again, others were still up in arms about it not being Eobard Thawne, but he was still Professor Zoom so it didn't bother me much. I can't say that if I went back in a Time Machine, I wouldn't feel different now, but it's nice to look back and see a time when I wasn't so beaten down and jaded! Also, this review must have taken me five minutes to write...I really was afraid of spoiling anything! Oh, the good old days... - Jim

Not What It Seems

Written by: Brian Azzarello
Art by: Cliff Chiang
Cover Price: $2.99
Release Date: October 29, 2014

This past week, Greg Rucka started his final lap on Wonder Woman by kind of erasing most of what happened in the New 52 Wonder Woman book. As a huge fan of the Brian Azzarello/Cliff Chiang's run, I was a little bit upset. Actually, if you listen to our podcast, you will know I was very upset. So, for my Throwback Thursday entry, I'll take you back to the end of Azzarello's time on the book, Wonder Woman #35. Spoiler Alert...I loved it! -Jim

Much Ado About Nothing

Written By: Scott Snyder, Brian Azzarello
Art By: Jock, Lee Loughridge
Cover Price: $3.99
Release Date: September 9, 2015

*Non Spoilers and Score At The Bottom*

The reason I came up with the Throwback Thursday reviews idea was this review by Eric. It caused such a shit storm back in September of 2015 and while some wanted to claim that Eric gave the issue a low score as "click bait", I think it actually showed that we, as a site, were not going to just follow the crowd and give a book a higher score because others were. No kowtowing here! Still, I had such a good time watching the comments pile up while Eric tried to ignore the hate being thrown his way. Hilarious!!! Besides all of that, I think it's a damn good review and while I thought it was a bit better than Eric, he presents a good argument of why it wasn't. -Jim

Injustice 2 Chapter #8 Review

Helping Hand

Written by: Tom Taylor
Art by: Daniel Sampere, Juan Albarran, Rex Lokus and Wes Abbott
Cover Price: $0.99
Release Date: May 31, 2017

I don't want to start this book off by saying how much I love it for fear of sounding like a broken record. It's okay kids, look it up! I will tell you that Tom Taylor better be put on one of DC's bigger books (Psst...Justice League) very soon. It just makes sense. The guy can write a slew of characters and make each have a unique, yet appropriate voice and knows how to tell a story. I know that sounds crazy these days...a writer who knows how to tell a story, but that sort of thing does exist. So, sit back and enjoy my review of Chapter 8, buy this book and show DC that us fans do support well written books...

I know that the concept of Throwback Thursday is nothing new and while I would love to take credit for everything under the sun, I will not. However, I wanted to let everyone know what the Weird Science Throwback Thursday will be all about. Basically, on Thursdays, we will be re-releasing some of our bigger reviews from the past. Reviews for big events and crossovers, reviews that made us laugh and cry and those that caused a ruckus. That's not all, either! We will also be posting some new reviews for DC Comics that came out before we started our site in the Summer of 2013. Basically, it's a day that will give us more work to do! Damn, maybe I should have thought this threw a little more! -Jim

Teen Titans Special #1 Review and SPOILERS

Final Clauses

Teen Titans Special #1

"The Lazarus Contract, Finale"

Story: Christopher Priest, Benjamin Percy & Dan Abnett

Script: Christopher Priest

Pencils: Paul Pelletier

Inks: Andrew Hennesy

Colors: Adriano Lucas

Letters: Willie Schubert

Cover Price: $4.99

On Sale Date: May 31, 2015

Is this an Annual or a Special? Is there a difference, and does it really matter? Probably not. All we know for sure is that we're staring down the barrel of the conclusion to the, thus far underwhelming Lazarus Contract crossover. Was it worth the wait, and the... uh, five-bucks? Will you proudly display this trade paperback on your shelf next to your copy of Judas Contract? Probably not for any of that, but let's take a look anyway.

The Tales He'd Tell...and Does!

Written by; Joshua Williamson
Art by: Carmine Di Giandomenico, Ivan Plascencia and Steve Wands
Cover Price: $2.99
Release Date: May 31, 2017

I don't know about you, but it's odd going back to Flash after the hype of the Button story. It's like heading back to work after a vacation...except hopefully it doesn't suck as much. It's just a matter of getting back into the routine of things and then...BAM! Reverse Flash shows up! What What?!?! I thought I left Eobard back in the Cayman Islands , but here he is next to me at work. He shouldn't be next to me at work! Oh well, I guess I better ask him what he's doing and see if it all makes sense. Yes, I am still talking about reviewing this book and let's get on with it...

I Must Have Taken a Wrong Turn...

Written by: Rob Williams
Art by: Guillem March, Tomeu Morey and Carlos M. Mangual
Cover Price: $4.99
Release Date: May 31, 2017

I usually go for the Annuals that feature a fun little one-shot story that I can enjoy reading as a break from the normal grind of the book's regular run. I know that some don't go with that philosophy, but that's just how I roll. Because of that philosophy, this Annual is an odd one...it's the continuation of Cullen Bunn's story from a couple month's ago, which only happened because the regular issue by Francis Manapul was deemed too controversial to release. Making things even more crazy, this follow-up Annual is written by Rob Williams. Crazy! Well, I was not a huge fan of the first part of this story so I did not go into this one with high hopes. As it turns out, maybe that was the key to my enjoyment here. Does that mean this Annual is great? Well, let's head to the review and find out...

Give Me Wonder Woman!

Written By: Greg Rucka, Vita Ayala, Michael Moreci, Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing

Art By: Nicola Scott, Romulo Fajardo Jr., Jodi Wynne, Claire Roe, Jordie Bellaire, Josh Reed, Stephanie Hans, Dave Sharpe, David Lafuente, John Rauch

Cover Price: $4.99

Release Date: May 31, 2017

*Non Spoilers and Score At The Bottom*

It's Annuals week and with that we get ourselves Wonder Woman's first Annual of the Rebirth era of DC Comics. It's always weird to try and talk about an Annual in my little opener here because besides for when writers use these over-sized books to try and tell more of current arc, it's usually a one-shot that there's really nothing to say about to begin with. Here though, we get ourselves book of many short stories that possibly fill in Wonder Woman's timeline a bit now that we know the New 52 was full of things that only happened as implanted memories from the Gods........... Yeah, I'm not sure how all of that makes sense, but hopefully this issue will do its best to make us understand or at least, give us some fun, interesting stories. Let's jump into this issue and see how Wonder Woman Annual #1 fits into our current story. Let's check it out.

PREVIEW: Teen Titans Special #1

Final Clauses

Story: Priest, Benjamin Percy & Dan Abnett

Script: Priest

Pencils: Paul Pelletier

Inks: Andrew Hennesy

Colors: Adriano Lucas

Letters: Willie Schubert

Cover: Mike McKone & Alex Sinclair

Cover Price: $4.99

On Sale Date: May 31, 2015

“THE LAZARUS CONTRACT” finale! The conclusion to our epic crossover is here, the consequences of which will be felt for years to come! What does the future hold for the Titans teams after this game-changing run-in with their greatest enemy? Find out here as we set the stage for the next era of Titans, Teen Titans and Deathstroke!

And check out some preview pages, right here!

Written by; Joshua Williamson

Art by: Carmine Di Giandomenico, Ivan Plascencia and Steve Wands
Cover Price: $2.99
Release Date: May 31, 2017

“RUNNING SCARED” prelude! Barry Allen is at a crossroads. He’s lied to the woman he loves about his life as The Flash, and a rift is growing between him and his heroic young partner. Now, his greatest enemy has threatened to strike down everyone close to him! It’s time to make a tough choice that will launch The Flash into his most incredible mission yet: a siege on the 25th century stronghold of Eobard Thawne!

Eobard Thawne?!?! Somebody has a lot of splainin' to do!

Written By: Greg Rucka, Vita Ayala, Michael Moreci, Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing

Art By: Nicola Scott, Romulo Fajardo Jr., Jodi Wynne, Claire Roe, Jordie Bellaire, Josh Reed, Stephanie Hans, Dave Sharpe, David Lafuente, John Rauch

Cover Price: $4.99

Release Date: May 31, 2017

The world of the Amazing Amazon expands in a collection of short stories that take Wonder Woman around the globe! In the days after “Year One,” Diana comes face-to-face with Superman and Batman for the first time, as illustrated by “Year One” artist Nicola Scott…and years later, Liam Sharp brings you the story of how their friendship has evolved!

Written by: Rob Williams
Art by: Guillem March, Tomeu Morey and Carlos M. Mangual
Cover Price: $4.99
Release Date: May 31, 2017

You don’t betray Ra’s al Ghul and legendary sorceress Circe and just walk away. That’s what Lex Luthor is about to learn the hard way. Now, he has to unite with his former Justice League teammates if he wants to stay alive. Meanwhile, the Trinity fear this ordeal will push Lex back to the dark side.

Hmmmm... Me thinks that's not really what this issue is about!

I am Groot #1 Review - Marvel Monday

He is Groot

Written by: Christoper Hastings
Art by: Flaviano, Marcio Menyz and Joe Caramagna
Cover Price: $3.99
Release Date: May 29, 2017

I am a huge Guardians of the Galaxy fan, but I must admit that I am not a big Groot fan. Sure, I like him as part of the team, but a solo Groot is something different. However, I will always give something one try and that's what led me to reviewing the start of this series. Did Christopher Hastings make me a fan of a book starring a little plant who only knows three words? Let's find out...

The Hulk Who Fell To Earth

Written by: Greg Pak
Art by: Robert Gill, Nolan Woodard and Cory Petit
Cover Price: $3.99
Release Date: May 24, 2017

I can't say I am a Hulk fanboy and because of that, I really can't say much about Totally Awesome Hulk. I am aware of Amadeus Cho, but mainly through crossovers and guest appearances. That being said, I am not against him like so many others seem to be. However, my love or not love for the character isn't what convinced me to read and review this issue...it's the fact that it's the beginning of the Weapons of Mutant Destruction story and that it is written by Greg Pak. I am a hug fan of Pak and since he left DC Comics, I've missed him. So, what better book to get some Pak goodness than a Hulk one, right? So, how was this issue and does it get me exited for the crossover? Let's find out...

The Man in Tan

Written by: Chip Zdarsky
Art by: Djibril Morissette, Mat Lopes and Cory Petit
Cover Price: $4.99
Release Date: May 24, 2017

It's an odd thing to jump into a book right at the end, but Weird Science has never been know to do anything the smart way. Jesus, just look at the length of our podcast! Besides stupidity, I have enjoyed Chip Zdarsky's run on Star-Lord and while it's a shame it is ending, at least he is getting the opportunity to go out in style. Actually, I should say "stylish" because this is not a typical end to a series. It fits because Zdarsky is not a typical writer. So, does all this add up to a proper sendoff to a book that should have been given more of a chance? Let's see...

Venom #150

Writer: Mike Costa, Robbie Thompson

Art Team: Tradd Moore, Gerardo Sandoval, Dono Sanchez-Almara

Marvel Comics

Release Date: May 24, 2017

Cover Price: $5.99

Venom Variety Showcase

Eddie Brock is back in the symbiote suit and all is right in the world again. Last issue was all about Eddie’s quest to get his old friend back, which happened towards the end of the issue, so this #150 extravaganza will showcase the renewed relationship, while filling us in on a few gaps in continuity. Let’s find out what happens and more inside.

Ben Reilly: The Scarlet Spider #2

Writer: Peter David

Art Team: Mark Bagley, John Dell, and Jason Keith

Marvel Comics

Release Date: May 24, 2017

Cover Price: $3.99

Bring back the Hoody

We’re back with issue two of the Scarlet Spider featuring Ben Reilly, with Kane also prominently running around on the hunt for his cloned brethren. With no resources Ben has taken off to Las Vegas weaseling his way into the office of one Cassandra Mercury, a singer and casino owner, who’s not too happy to run into Ben again so soon after her Clone Conspiracy experience. Let’s see how the one time beloved Scarlet Spider gets himself out of this one shall we.

Writer Margaret Stohl
Artist Michele Bandini, Michael Garland and Erick Arciniega
Cover Price: $3.99
Release Date: May 24, 2017
Reviewed by: Andrew McAvoy

The first main arc of Captain Marvel started off well, but I have to confess that by issue 4 I was bored rigid by the story-line that had developed. This issue sends us off on a distinct direction and dovetails in with the events just prior to the start of Marvel's latest cross-over event Secret Empire. So lets see how it fared.

Writer: Cullen Bunn
Artists: Julian Lopez, Jose Marzan Jr., Walden Wong, Irma Knivila
Letterer: VC’s Joe Caramagna
Cover Artists: Arthur Adams, Peter Steigerwald
Release Date: May 24, 2017
Review by: Ryan Douglas

RetconX

The X-titles are coming out faster than I can keep up track of. X-Men Blue and Jean Grey are the two series in the RessurXion line that have grabbed my attention the most to add to my pull. Where the last issue left off I wasn't left eager to see how they handle possibility of introducing a forced new team member. Since RessurXion the timeline has made no sense. I have to settle with reading these stories as their own little nugget of time. But it just makes sense to sorta try and keep things proper since the rebirth. Well....issue four is here, so let's catch up with our displaced teens.

Weird Science DC Comics Podcast Ep 125: DC Comics Rebirth, Wonder Woman and Jedidiah

Jim, Eric and the Weird Science Gang get together for another week of comics. It's been a down couple of weeks that has them asking if the books come out weekly or weakly...get it? This episode has Part 3 of the Lazarus Contract crossover, the end of Wonder Woman's Truth story and a whole lot more. Enjoy!

Jim and Eric finish their journey into one of the best New 52 stories, The Court of the Owls.

Navigation

Saturday, June 3, 2017

Friday, June 2, 2017

Thursday, June 1, 2017

Gotta get Back in Time

Written by: Brian Buccellato and Francis Manapul

Not What It Seems

Much Ado About Nothing

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Helping Hand

The Tales He'd Tell...and Does!

I Must Have Taken a Wrong Turn...

Give Me Wonder Woman!

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Monday, May 29, 2017

He is Groot

The Hulk Who Fell To Earth

The Man in Tan

Venom #150

Venom Variety Showcase

Ben Reilly: The Scarlet Spider #2

Bring back the Hoody

Sunday, May 28, 2017