Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Bernard Chang, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher

Blargh! Absolute craziness and death! Etrigan had been hinting at something for a while, and the Zero Issue confirmed his alliance with Lucifer as an effort to gain control of Avalon through the Demon Knights. Well, it looks like the plan is in motion as Jason Blood is left with what appears to be the destroyed remains of his comrades, and without the dreaded curse Merlin put upon him. Yes, it seems as though Jason Blood is finally free of Etrigan. BUT THE COST, OH, THE COST!

It turns out that the other Demon Knights have all been transported to different stages of Hell, different torments created by Hell’s demons to cause great anguish in the individual Knights. They’re not all entirely interesting - as even Lucifer admits - but they’re all amusing, which has been established as the main reason Lucifer does things in Hell. For amusement. Because, honestly, what else is there to do?

Sir Ystin, for example - a person who has never outright admitted his/her gender - is forced to choose between a bride and a groom for a demonic wedding overseen, even, by a demon in the cloth. Vandal has the most interesting torture, in my opinion: all of the children he’s ever sired have been brought to Hell to physically torture him until he admits to all of the crimes he’s committed in his lengthy lifetime. Then they’ll be free.

Lucifer, being the crafty devil he is, reveals to Exoristos that he has his own plan in mind. He’s searching for a soul with a grudge against humanity…a grudge that will, I’m assuming, help them return to Earth and lay waste to the people for Lucifer’s enjoyment. There’s a Black Diamond involved as well. I’m not sure if that’s a reference to something preboot, because I seem to remember Starman or someone having a powerful diamond in his chest or something. I dunno, too much glue huffing.

Turns out Etrigan doesn’t seem too happy with how things are unfolding with his “master plan.” He’s never been too excellent at concocting these, after all. Looks like Xanadu was made to obey and serve his every whim, with no free will or thought of her own. Etrigan’s desires with her may just become the undoing of his mighty plan. Also, Ystin cannot be harmed by the demons because of some actions he/she has taken on his/her quest. So that will likely play into what’ll happen as well.

And Lucifer doesn’t seem to be bothered at all by everything that’s happening. Because, either he gets what he wants out of Etrigan’s plan, or he gets to enjoy punishing Etrigan again. Either way would be very intersting to him, see, and that’s the best part. Lucifer isn’t this crazy dude who desires to burn everything, he just wants to be entertained after the millennia of being trapped in Hell. I like that he’s treated this way.

Bernard Chang’s art is really great, and Maiolo’s colors give it this high-class sort of feel. It’s hard to describe. Like it looks like they should be on a less-crisp pencil and ink style (I, Vampire, for example). That’s not to say Chang’s work is bad with Maiolo’s colors, but it’s a different look to my eye, and I enjoy it - especially that panel with Ystin disintegrating the demon.

Demon Knights #13, the verdict: Overrall, a very interesting direction for the story to go. I like it, and I’m intrigued by what it’ll bring next, especially since Cornell is leaving the title in a few issues, and I know that the new writer is setting the book some years later. What will this last storyline lead up to? An epic battle against the forces of Hell? Or each other? And what can Jason Blood do from Earth to help them? I have questions that need answering, DC.

(Photo Source: DC Wikia)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Oclair Albert, Dan Green, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Alex Garner

We’re in! Inside Morgaine’s tower. Apparently, all of Camelot-that-was is crammed into the space of the tower, magically. I love how this book always manages to surprise me somehow, like that. This moment, even, really reminds me of Justice League Dark. Wow, can you imagine Paul Cornell writing JLD? I daresay it’d be better than the spectacular job Lemire’s doing currently!

Our heroes still have no clue who’s behind the tower and the strange monster light at the top, but they surmise that’s where they’ll find their foe. On their way, they find the Round Table. This was a really striking image, with some GREAT coloring by Maiolo. I had wondered if the bodies surrounding the table would be the knights of lore, but Xanadu ends up finding one of her sisters, Tui.

This is when things get really interesting. Horsewoman starts to feel her strength leaving her. She talks about, get this, a “force in animals” that she uses to connect with her horses. “The force of blood and meat.” Check it out, she’s talking about the Red…which is currently at war with the Rot in Animal Man. It’s times like this, when we see connections over the CENTURIES that make me want to stand up and scream, “I love DC Comics!” But I don’t because I get strange looks, and my wife slowly shakes her head in shame.

Exoristos and Savage feel it as well, knowing their bodies so well. Exoristos says it feels like death. So, does that mean that Morgaine has a connection to the Rot? If so, I think that’s pretty awesome. What I love about this scene, though, is how Vandal starts fleeing at the realization. I have to say…he is hilarious in this issue. He continues to be my favorite character in this title. 

After they wake up from falling into Morgaine’s trap, she explains her plan to inhabit Merlin’s body and, THANKFULLY, it’s treated as if she wasn’t expecting the Demon Knights to bring Merlin to her to begin with. It explains the light at the top of the tower, meant to draw Merlin to her. But with him dead, that didn’t happen. How excellent is that! I love that it didn’t take the route of convenience.

They get free and fight back, and Arthur ends up doing something noble, and re-knighting Sir Ystin, which was pretty awesome, at the same time. I, again, have to hand it to Neves, Albert, Green, and Maiolo for these last few pages which are drenched in a yellow-green color. It’s never assaulting or annoying to look at, and the light reflections off Arthur and Ystin are really great. Everything looks stunning.

They discover the way to Avalon is closed now, which Etrigan finds a little aggravating, to say the least. We’re left with QUITE a cliffhanger, as the book teases us that we have to wait another whole month to find out what happens, thanks to the Zero Issue. That last page, though, MAN! I can’t get over how awesome the art team on this book is. Etrigan looks fantastic in this entire issue. Very well done.

Demon Knights #12, the verdict: What a great, fun issue. I had such a good time reading it. That’s what I love about this title, is it never fails to lift my spirits or deliver a great story that feels like some awesome amusement park ride. I can’t stop laughing and living within the pages with the characters (plague immunization shots, check). I seriously can’t wait to see what happens next ish, and I’m thankful that I waited this long to read #12, so that the time until #13 isn’t as long as it would have been! HA! I BEAT THE SYSTEM!

(Photo Source: DC Wikia)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Bernard Chang, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher

It appears as though the “team” books are all focusing on one or two characters for the Zero Issue. Earth 2 had Terry Sloan, Batman and Robin was Damian, Stormwatch was Jenny Quantum. Demon Knights, the original Stormwatch, is Etrigan.

The story focuses on the demon who came from nothing. Lucifer plays a large part, and he seems primarily focused on making sure he’s entertained during his life in Hell. I think that’s how the whole “rhyming demon” thing started. As many fans know, Etrigan is forced to speak in rhyme. After the relaunch, that was cast aside as it is now merely a hard habit to break. Apparently, in order to make sure Lucifer remained entertained, and to keep good favor with the king of Hell, he had to rhyme everything he said.

Turns out he used to suck at it. Like bad. This amuses me, seeing Etrigan like this…a pathetic failure. It helps to show what he grew from, what he’s fighting against. After being humiliated by Lucifer, Etrigan swears to the demon N’aall - yes, that N’aall from Justice League Dark! - to fight against the king in revolt.

Meanwhile, on Earth, we see the inner rage that consumes Jason of Norwich. He wants to be something, to write his own poems or whatever, instead of being forced to transcribe others’. Merlin is testing him, but Jason cannot see it. He’s kind of a prick. He gets into big trouble when he touches King Arthur.

Looks like Etrigan and Jason share flaws. They’re brash, they’re thick-headed, and they’re fueled by anger and a desire to be greater than they are now. The parallels the story draws are well done. Worried about Jason, Merlin visits Morgaine Le Fey on neutral ground, where she predicts Jason’s rage will drive him to do terrible things.

So then…both Merlin and Lucifer have a problem: an unruly follower who doesn’t want to necessarily follow anymore. Someone driven to emotional, unnecessary action on a whim. Merlin visits Lucifer - who calls Merlin his son - and proposes a solution.

And that is how Merlin got Etrigan onto Earth to be bonded to Jason. Also Stormwatch’s “The Eye” daemonite spaceship attacks Camelot. Cool, huh?

Chang’s art was impressive in his run on DC Universe Presents, and I was hoping to see more of his Vandal Savage in this issue, but that didn’t really happen. Instead, he provides a stylistic look to Etrigan, Lucifer, and Merlin that I did enjoy. I thought Hell could’ve been more “Hellish,” as there wasn’t much to the backgrounds - plenty of opportunity to show off the terrors of Hell. Maiolo provides expert coloring, as usual, when you think about how half of this book is in different shades of red and orange.

Demon Knights #0, the verdict: I did like it. I loved the reversal of seeing Etrigan, a proud and powerful character, reduced to a whining nobody. I liked seeing the first interaction between Etrigan and Jason…and how they quickly came to understood each other. It’s a good show of character for Jason to have stood up to Etrigan so quickly and assertively. I have to admit, the book didn’t feel as charming or light-hearted as it normally does…and I think that’s to do with the fact that the other Knights characters were absent, and a lot of that charm comes from their interactions. Though the inclusion of N’aall was funny, and I’m wondering if we’re going to see more of this character in the future.

(Photo Source: DC Comics)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Robson Rocha, Oclair Albert, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Philip Tan, Jeromy Cox

So the Knights have been transformed into monstrous versions of themselves. Pretty neat. Turns out, instead of attacking each other or losing their minds - like I had expected - they actually LIKE being this way. They’re completely coherent and discuss how amazing it is to be this way. That’s funny. They basically admire themselves instead of freaking out.

Xanadu, however, is unaffected. She doesn’t understand this…and actually, humorously, complains about it, too! In a “why didn’t I get any?” way. Etrigan looks GREAT in his monsterized form. Neves’ art just blows my mind, every time. I really dig his horns, and the ridges on the horns. Al Jabr’s transformation is quite amusing, and his mannerisms have changed as well. This guy’s funny.

They all end up following undead King Arthur into some cave (like you do), where a pure spring of water, the last in Camelot, cleanses them of the dark magic that changed them. It also turns Arthur back into his younger, spry self. Turns out he’s the half-brother of Xanadu, both born of the Lady Igraine, which explains Xanadu somewhat. She’s part Fey, the “untrustworthy ones,” according to Shining Knight.

So Arthur explains of a new tower built in Camelot, with magicks that Xanadu recognizes, which is spewing out a green light that transforms those who fall under it. They decide to attack the tower, but, as always, it appears to be a trap…set by Xanadu’s sister. Who’s her sister? You’ll have to read the ish to find out. Excellent, though. I’m pumped.

Demon Knights #11, the verdict: I really liked this issue for 3 reasons: how the Knights reacted to their transformations was hilarious, King Arthur’s appearance is just epic, and the surprise villain at the end is incredible. I can’t wait to see how this goes. Great job to Cornell for always making this book exciting and leaving me wanting more. And I have a feeling Neves had a really fun time designing these amped-up versions of our heroes. They all looked great (though I’m not sure exactly how Sir Ystin was changed).

(Photo Source: Random Ramblings of an Absent-Minded Professor)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Oclair Albert, Julio Ferreira, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Michael Choi

DEMON KNIGHTS IS AN EFFING BRILLIANT COMIC BOOK.

If this were a full-on swearin’ blog, I’da done it.

What Paul Cornell does in the first few pages of this book, some comic books I read don’t accomplish in a whole issue. A whole ARC even! It’s really sad! Great for Cornell, but sad for comics! And readers! Here is why everyone should be reading Demon Knights.

The very first lines in this issue are screamed by Vandal Savage: “Look! It’s a pirate sea serpent! That is something I have never shouted before!”

I couldn’t stop laughing. I still am now, thinking about it. Not only is that something that Vandal would say, but it’s just so damn funny! Because of the words, yes, and the situation, but it also makes you think of ALL the different things he’s shouted in his centuries - or more! - of life!

These poor pirates think they have the upper hand, but Xanadu has a plan that involves rope and magic. Well, time for Vandal to shine again as he comes in and CLOBBERS that serpent, declaring that it doesn’t need to be so complicated! I just love Vandal in this book! I’ve totally forgotten about what he did to that little boy in Little Spring (aw, but now I’m thinking about it again D’:).

The heroes land and come ashore, only to be accosted by the “Shire Reeve” of the town. ……….I took an Administration to Justice class in college. I learned there what a Shire Reeve is. And I love that not only did Cornell slip that into the story, but that I knew what it was too. What is a Shire Reeve? Why, Jason Blood explains so in the very next line: “Exactly the opposite, sheriff.” Way before there was an organized policing system, one man was elected into position over his town, his county, his “shire.” He was called the Shire Reeve. Over time the name was shortened, of course. BRILLIANT!!

Six pages in and so much to talk about, I’m tripping over myself trying to explain this issue’s genius!

Our heroes hear of trouble from Camelot in a very “side mission” style from a bloke in a tavern and decide to see what’s up. Avalon is close, so they’re not too far from their goal. I actually liked this setup. Our band of merry folk decide to look into what’s causing all these people trouble. Sure, it also works out because it may solve their sailing problem…so there’s incentive to get the task done. It’s right out of an RPG or something. And I really like that, since medieval settings are often used in those types of games and scenarios. It just fits!

They fight a giant dire wolf creature, along with some very funny dialog (Vandal complaining that it’s flesh won’t be appetizing), and Sir Ystin is able to bring it down. I like it when one character of the group gets a moment to really shine. I’m waiting for more from Al Jabr and Horsewoman, though. I’m sure they’ll get their time.

An undead King Arthur comes leaping out and transforms everyone into more animalistic forms, their true natures as Exoristos was just commenting on. And suddenly, I can’t wait for next issue.

Demon Knights #10, the verdict: Y’know, as soon as I saw the cover, I knew it’d be Arthur. I like that Cornell is helping me feel super smart with this book. I’m waiting for a real challenge…some reference or piece of knowledge from him that’ll really make my brain twist. I can’t say how much I love reading this book. It’s so much FUN, while remaining grounded in a strange sense of seriousness and duty. It’s the weirdest combination I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. Neves’ art is, as always, just so beautiful to look at. This was another issue where I spent extra time just staring at his lovely pages. That first page? The one revealing Camelot? Sir Ystin raining down death from above? Good lord there’s some gorgeous art in here. As long as this creative team doesn’t change, Demon Knights will contain GOLD each and every time, I know it.

(Photo Source: iFanBoy)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Robson Rocha, Oclair Albert, Julio Ferreira, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Michael Choi

First off, congrats to Paul Cornell for having one of the few titles who’s least changed out its staff out of the whole New 52. He’s written each issue (of the 12 out at the time of this writing), and Neves has drawn in each one. That’s hard to do with how most of these darn books are either revolving doors of creative teams, or always split between artists per issue. Consistency counts.

Speaking of consistency…Diogenes Neves. How incredible is this art?! I absolutely love the detail, the realism. Though, to be honest, sometimes a realistic Etrigan, moving, gesturing, and talking like a normal person is a little disturbing. This is one of my favorite books in terms of art. Neves and Maiolo nail it every single time. There’s just so much in every single panel, and that’s what counts, I think. The level that this book is at, the style and skill, really make it as much fun to look through as it is to read.

The gang is basically sent on another quest, involving last issue’s shocking death of Merlin. Xanadu and Al Jabr believe Merlin lives, and could be found in Avalon. I’m really liking how this book continues to tie into British myth like this. Camelot, Arthur, Merlin, Avalon. Some great stuff to draw from here. I’m really excited to see how the afterlife realm of Avalon is portrayed in this book.

There’s an interesting pair of characters in this issue, Princesses Alba and Sarum - obviously where the name of the city comes from. They’re in love. Betrothed, even. And they have written the laws of their city so that a same-sex marriage is not illegal. However, they’re saving an official marriage for when the city of Alba Sarum can officially be nicknamed “the new Camelot.”

The interesting part of this is how we never really see that. A pair of homosexual characters who are actually NOT limited or inhibited by their governments or culture. In fact, no one here seems to think their relationship is an abomination - probably a more realistic viewpoint for the medieval time the book exists within. The Princess characters are actually in charge, and able to make their laws work around them, for them. I like the change here.

Finally, when Etrigan goes back to Hell at the end of the issue, we get a pretty neat glimpse of things to come. We’ve already seen the following entities of evil in the DC New 52: Cain, the personification of and original evil of the world; and the Son of Morning, basically a fallen angel who helps Deadman figure things out. Now…finally…comes the one, the Morning Star, the Unclean One, LUCIFER! I like this representation, and it fits well with the style of the book, even though this section is pencilled by Robson Rocha. Very well done.

Demon Knights #9, the verdict: A pretty cool continuation of this next arc of stories. I say, “arc of stories,” and I suddenly remember how the New 52 was supposed to be more about stand-alone issues and not series of arcs that are lumped together in a trade book later, for more ease of access to new readers. I was just showing some of my DC books to a friend, but had to tell him, “You wouldn’t understand the story, it’s in the middle.” So I guess DC’s well past that idea now. Didn’t take long. Anyway, Demon Knights #9 is good fun, and it’s refreshing to see these characters in a change of clothes - for example, both Sir Ystin and Al Jabr have nothing on their heads in this issue…a new look for both. The ish definitely has me excited for what’s coming next!

(Photo Source: My Comic Shop)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Bernard Chang, Diogenes Neves, Oclair Albert, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Michael Choi

Aww, little Jason is all tuckered out. The question of the day is, “How did you two meet?” And it’s addressed to Xanadu and Jason Blood. This should be good. We go back to the place where Merlin attached Etrigan to Jason’s eternal soul, and Xanadu - then known as Nimue - was a headstrong student of his back when Bernard Chang drew the world. So now we can see the origins of Xanadu…and why she’s all sorts of crazy in the others like Justice League Dark. She meets Jason and the two hit it off pretty quickly. They make a cute couple, too. I can see why they went for it. We learn a couple things here: Jason refers to Xanadu as the Lady of the Lake - the mythical goddess who betrothed Excalibur to Arthur - and we learn that Camelot was not just one Camelot…but there have been many iterations of Camelot over the years that each of the characters came from. This is interesting, and it’s really great how Merlin is talking about building another at the end. Something else really terrible happens at the end too…and I’m really not sure what the hell kind of ramifications that’s going to have. I’m actually really worried. But…the dude’s practically all-powerful, right? So really it can’t be that bad, right? So after we hear the story of Xanadu and Jason, Etrigan comes back out and gives HIS side of the story…so, once again, we’re not sure who to believe. Seems to be the story of this book over and over again. But I kind of like that we’re just not sure. Perhaps one day, we’ll find out for certain.

Demon Knights #8, the verdict: Still a lot of fun, and I like how, every now and then, we’re treated to these origins. First was Sir Ystin, and now Blood and Xanadu. I can’t wait for Exoristos and Horsewoman. These are a lot of fun. Cornell is doing a great job of pacing and giving us exactly what we need to truly enjoy this story. The Questing Queen may be finished, for now, so I can tell it’ll come soon that these heroes will wish to part ways. I’m interested to see what’s going to keep them together. Surely the book won’t just be done after this. What new threat will force the heroes to continue to band together? Can’t wait to find out!

(Photo Source: Comic Vine)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Robson Rocha, Oclair Albert, Julio Ferreira, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Michael Choi

I really like this book. There have been times where I’ve faltered and it felt kind of contrived, but it’s really actually very fun. Part of the proof? The first location tag in this issue: “HELL.” We’ve seen this warm place a few times now in the New 52, haven’t we? I have to say I like Cornell and Neves’s interpretation. The siege of Little Spring is well underway, and we’ve already suffered the betrayal of Vandal Savage (previously my favorite character)…though it looks like he may have betrayed the heroes only to betray the Horde Queen, as Vandal leads a band of merry men to sabotage her supply train and cripple her quest. Interesting. Though I still don’t like him. Xanadu drinks the tears from an innocent in Hell and regains her youth and power, the Horsewoman gains support from Alba Sarum, while Etrigan, Shining Knight, Exoristos, and Al-Jabr do their best to kick Horde ass. Though I love how Cornell gives us the drama when the heroes start taking hits they may not be able to handle. It reminded me of Star Wars. There’s a moment where everyone, in turn, meets a really dark turn of events and is either captured by the enemy or dealt a great blow that seems unshakable. It’s a great literary and cinematic device. When the Horsewoman returns, it seems to change the tide, but Little Spring is still burning. Hardly seems like a victory. Neves’s artwork is brilliant as ever, and I’m such a fan. There’s a guest penciller helping out, Robson Rocha, on a couple of pages. You don’t notice all that much, I actually had to really look for it. The coloring on the last few pages, with the fires, is fantastic. All around, everyone’s doing a great job on this book.

Demon Knights #7, the verdict: Still really enjoying what Cornell’s delivering in this package. It’s a fun book, and it delivers on practically all fronts: humor, action, drama, magic, danger, and a good deal of darkness and flawed characters. I’m still excited about the coming issues, and that’s definitely a good sign - especially as I continue to consider titles to drop. Demon Knights doesn’t seem to be ready to lose my interest.

(Photo Source: Comic Vine)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Robson Rocha, Oclair Albert, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Michael Choi

The assault begins. Little Spring is under attack, and it’s up to our band of heroes to try and defend the small village. The Questing Queen won’t stop, though, until she’s burned through the entire valley. There’s something to be said about a villain who will stop at nothing to get what they want. Even if it means murdering babies and children. The only bummer about the Queen here is how little of her evil we really get to see throughout this series. It’s more Vandal and the Queen’s Horde that do the despicable things. Must be nice to be queen. So hopefully soon we’ll get to see some of that awfulness we know the Queen has festering inside her guiltless mind. In the meantime, we get heroes out of the unexpected Etrigan, Xanadu, and Al Jabr. They don’t seem like the types who would join forces with these villagers to fend off an army…but it’s nice to see them starting to work together. Exoristos, wracked with guilt about the little girl’s death earlier, throws herself into brutal battle without thought for her own safety. The Shining Knights gets a visit from his/her horse, Vanguard, and urges him/her to fight while the Horse-Woman seeks help from the city of Alba Sarum, just beyond Little Spring (and where the Queen is going). Xanadu contemplates sacrificing an old man to regain her youth and power. Al Jabr commands ranks of archers in the rear to destroy the attacking lizard-people. The Horse-Woman gets a really fantastic role here, and we start to see exactly what she can do. I like these “reins”-related powers she has that allow her to connect with horses everywhere. I’m interested to see where she got them from and how they work. Xanadu and Etrigan talk about taking Xanadu to Hell to speak with Jason while Etrigan’s inhabiting the body, and we get to see some crazy s*@# go down when the outer wall is destroyed. The last page had me cheering. I can’t wait to see these guys all fight together. I have to talk, again, about Neves’ art…BECAUSE IT’S AMAZING. Writer Paul Cornell is really blessed to have such amazing pencillers on his books. Neves delivers some fantastic art as the village is attacked and wood and stone is torn apart. I love the title page, where Exoristos slams her hammer into the triceratops’ face, throwing the Horde soldiers off. It gives you a real measure of her Amazonian strength. If I had only one thing to say about the art leaving something desired was with the metallic dragons in this issue. I’m not understanding the mechanical monsters in this medieval era…plus they look like something out of Yu-Gi-Oh or something, and that’s an automatic turn-off for me. It just looks so out of place. Besides that, though, it’s just a fantastic book to look at. I really do like the art, and colors. The inks are fantastic because you don’t really notice them. Everything is so perfect, and the ink style is so thread-thin, which allows the colors to really show their all.

Demon Knights #6, the verdict: So this is a really fantastic series that’s taking its time to build and give us the answers we seek. It gives us a good glimpse at a character or two each issue, but keeps its focus on the story and its plans for future issues. I’m excited to see everyone working together, and I’m excited that they’ve decided to defend Little Spring. I’m looking forward to seeing them prevail over the Horde - or regrouping in Alba Sarum. In all, this is an interesting group of people and I can’t wait to see how they start making decisions when the going gets really tough…because none of them really have any sort of responsibility to this place or these people. They’re simply of moral strength and heart…for now.

(Photo Source: Comic Vine)

Stormwatch: Paul Cornell, Miguel Sepulveda, Alex Sinclair, Pete Pantazis, Rob Leigh, Allen Passalaqua

And now we’ve come to the end of the first arc, “The Dark Side.” It’s been a crazy ride, I’ll admit. From fighting the moon, to an ancient horn full of spikes, a massive smooshy tentacle monster in Colorado, to a crippling betrayal, talking to cities, and the disappearance of Adam, this iteration of Stormwatch has seen a lot in the first six issues. This is a book I was excited about when it was announced, and I’m extremely happy I started reading it. Stormwatch has delivered some excellent content in both fields of writing and art. This issue in particular, we were treated to a couple surprises and some intense, life-threatening action. Harry Tanner’s actions in the previous issue left the HQ, The Eye, in shambles. We find the remaining members of Stormwatch scrambling for life as The Eye slips out of Hyperspace and into orbit around Earth. This was one of the parts of the issue that I loved the most. It briefly explains the existence of this other dimension alongside ours in which The Eye remains, monitoring Earth and any extra-terrestrial threats which may present themselves. Funny enough, though, most of the extra-terrestrial threats we’ve seen so far have been centered on or around Earth! There haven’t been any invading forces yet. Though we have seen J’onn make an appearance on Oa in Green Lantern Corps to warn Guy Gardner that the Corps must succeed in stopping the Keepers (read that book if you aren’t!!). More interestingly, we see J’onn make mention of the Justice League, and how he is not and has not been affiliated with that team of superheroes…mainly because, if he were, he would be forced to keep secrets from them. I think this is very admirable, and makes me like the character of the Martian Manhunter even more, that he is not willing to lie or deceive the heroes of Earth even though he doesn’t know them at all (at least as far as we’ve seen)! We get to see Jack talk to the AI of The Eye, and that explains a little bit, but also raises more questions. I have a feeling this book is going to continue to do that. But I’m happy about how The Eye’s AI is going to start smack talking the team. That’s always amusing to me. Also, my suspicions about Midnighter and Apollo were correct, it turns out. Which is okay with me, in fact I’m rather glad that there’s that bit of diversity in another DC comic. It’s funny that a few of the other DC books are gaining notoriety and recognition for their homosexual characters, and I never see Stormwatch listed on any of those lists. It’s so covert and subtle in this book that I’m not surprised other people haven’t really noticed. Miguel Sepulveda’s art is top-notch, as always, and remains one of my favorite examples of outstanding art in DC’s New 52. I love just gazing at all the panels and their incredible detail. Everything about this comic is masterfully created, and I’m so glad that DC has decided to create such a great story and choose the best team possible to tell it.

Stormwatch #6, the verdict: I’ve been a fan of this crazy, whacked-out book since I started reading it. No issue has been sub-par, and it continues to deliver great surprises and situations that are promising for some big consequences throughout the DCnU. This book could very well provide a sort of shatterpoint for the entire world and all the New 52, because the Stormwatch team is far more important than the rest of the world even knows. The good thing about this book, this team, and their purpose is that, if the team is successful, the rest of the Earth shouldn’t even know that anything had happened. So some pretty amazing things could potentially happen in this book without any major consequence at all. But that wouldn’t be very fun, would it? Bottom line is this is one influential title in the New 52, and I cannot wait to see how it shapes the future of DC.

(Photo Source: iFanBoy)

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Diogenes Neves, Oclair Albert, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher, Michael Choi

Hrnn. Another cliffhanger that turned out to be almost nothing at all. At least, this time, we didn’t know how it would play out already (see my frustration with Green Lantern #4). And there actually were some consequences to the Horsewoman’s action at the end of #4 here that lasted almost throughout #5. So I can look past that. We also discover that Exoristos is an Amazon, which actually explains a lot. We also also discover that the Shining Knight is actually perceived by many to be a woman, as the Questing Queen of the Horde apparently is familiar with her, and calls her a “her” several times. So okay, we’ll go with that. I’m partially sad that it’s not a male, simply because I, as a male, identify more with male heroes. Though I can definitely respect the Shining Knight in her heroism. Speaking of male heroes…there is actually only one death in this entire issue…and it made me very sad. Curses, Paul Cornell, for making me tear up. I was really liking that brave character. And I was really liking the murdering character too, before they went and did that. Now I’d like to see their head on a stick instead. They’ve suddenly lost their charm. But anyway, enough of my whining. What I like about Demon Knights is how it always tends to be funny. What I found amusing about this issue was the Questing Queen’s and Mordru’s attempt at swaying everyone in the camp via scrying glass to join their cause or at least lay down arms. Talk about January’s theme of “failure,” the Questing Queen sure did fail on that end!! The end there, when the Horsewoman fires her arrow off, and we find out exactly where it went, was hilarious. You can tell the Questing Queen is just done with these people. And we do learn something about the still-mysterious Horsewoman, which was nice - considering it’s just about the only character we know nothing about still (except Al Jabr, and I have such a hard time remembering his name). Though one thing in this issue sticks out…given the end of the book, why does the Questing Queen wonder if Vandal Savage is having doubts about the coming battle? That’s just about the only thing that’s very confusing to me. Neves’s art is phenomenal as always (again, curses for that well-drawn character death), and I really do enjoy just looking over panel by panel to admire the detail that’s paid to each page. In terms of panel layout, it’s more traditional, and I kind of like that. It, along with the setting of the book and the content of the book, give Demon Knights a positively old-school feel that I’m just lapping up hungrily. The characters, the names, the subject matter…all of it is just reminding me of the older, 70s and 80s comics that focused on medieval stuff like this. It’s really fun.

Demon Knights #5, the verdict: While not a whole lot happens in this issue (except that death, dammit), I did get a couple good laughs out of it. Though, strangely, not from Savage - who’s been my go-to guy for laughs in this book. He takes a more solemn turn here. The bit about the Horsewoman was very cool, and I’m very interested to see where she goes in this book…and to find out just what made her this way. Exoristos is becoming more and more interesting, and I like the Amazon twist. I really don’t like Jason Blood…because he’s such a whiny little toad. He’s definitely not the selfless, powerful warlock we saw in “Brightest Day,” and other past titles. But this is still somewhat early in his career, so I can forgive a lot. Basically the only character I don’t care about is Ali Jibber Jabber. He could have his head lobbed off next issue and I wouldn’t bat an eye. I don’t even understand much why he’s there with this band, other than he’s headed for that Alba Sarum city (which is so desperately desired by so many) because he’ll get freedom of religion there. That’s not really enough for me to invest in him yet. We’ll see where this goes.

(Photo Source: Comics Bulletin)

Stormwatch: Paul Cornell, Miguel Sepulveda, Allen Passalaqua, Rob Leigh
WOW. You guys, I apologize in advance…I feel like it’s going to be difficult for me to accurately review this issue without going completely geek crazy and just restating over and over how WONDERFULLY FANTASTICthis book is! I MEAN WOW. Stormwatch was good before, but this issue just takes the freaking cake. January, so far, has been a month of failure. I’ve talked about it before in the other reviews, and I’m going to talk about it again. Deal with it. To start us off with this issue, the second word of spoken dialog in this issue is “failed.” So we’re setting the tone quite plainly, it seems. Adam One has failed the Stormwatch team’s boss, The Shadow Cabinet, in the field by so characteristically freezing in the midst of all the terrible action with the giant creature. The Shadow Cabinet is not pleased…so they assist in shuffling him off his mortal coil (I really like that phrase, and I have no idea what it means…like, literally means. What is a mortal coil, anyway?), but they do this in order to bring him onto The Shadow Cabinet. So…interesting. I’m excited to see where that goes and how it develops, especially considering a theory I and a friend of mine have about the true origins of this Adam One character (see Paul Cornell’s Demon Knights for possible hints). That’s our first taste of failure in this issue. The second comes when Midnighter and Harry Tanner face off on the Eye — what?! You mean a cover depicting something that actually happens in the book!? So yes, there is a failure there, but I’ll let you read it to find out what it is. And you should, because the last page is, not only astounding, but it also says that the actions we’ve just read will have huge after-effects on the rest of the world. We’ll be seeing these effects in issues like Superman #6, and Grifter #7, and I really hope there’s more. But it is 2012. The so-called end of the world will happen this December, and it looks like DC is running wild with the idea. Anyway, aside from the failure motif (because I don’t want to seem like I’m linking that with this…), I have a question and I’m just going to ask it: are Apollo and Midnighter gay? Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think that’s a bad thing…I just want to know. I had that feeling last issue, with Midnighter touching Apollo’s face, and it’s even stronger here. They all but admit to it. I don’t know if this is a new thing, or if this was present in the previous iteration of “Stormwatch.” Anyway, just another way for Cornell to make these characters so unique and interesting. Finally, let’s take a moment to praise Sepulveda’s marvelous artwork, as I always do. This is absolutely no exception…and I practically ruined my issue by drooling all over it. As I stated before, he has a knack for destruction and making sure to include all of something’s construction in its destruction. The floating debris we see in the fight between Midnight and Harry Tanner is a great example — and Tanner’s energy swords are absolutely breathtaking. The fighting poses we see these two in are fantastic to look at as well. So clean and precise. You can really tell these two are expert fighters, and that’s important for us to believe and accept. The set pieces are better than ever here, with that beautiful cathedral and the excellently detailed foliage aboard the Eye. I also love the “Warehouse 13” room we see Apollo and Midnighter run through. I see tons of stuff here. It looks like there’s a Green Lantern ring, the ark of the covenant, and even a miniature xenomorph creature. And then there’s the wonderfully colored Shadow Cabinet character and his death pit. This book is just full of awesome.
Stormwatch #5, the verdict: I cannot stress this enough, everyone. DO. NOT. MISS. STORMWATCH. If you are not reading this book, you are depriving yourself of some of the best writing available right now. The characters are so unique and have such individuality and originality, that I’m always entertained by their actions and interactions. The story is just developing into something that will have huge reverberations on the rest of the DC universe, so there’s another reason to read it, so you’re in the know and not missing out. Finally, the universally outstanding art and coloring we see…it brings a sense of realism to the book that it so desperately needs. If you were reading this book, and its art were more cartoony or, we’ll say, less realistic…there’s no way it would fly. The outrageous and unbelievable situations we find this team in call for some kind of realism that we can relate to, and the art is where that is. Further, the action and plot…the things that are actually going on…are big enough and ambiguous enough that we as readers don’t entirely understand everything…which helps elevate the importance and magnitude that the Stormwatch team and mission has and shoulders. We can definitely feel like this is way over our heads and it’s all up to these people to save us, because there’s no way we could do it ourselves. Without Stormwatch, we are all doomed…which makes the last page of this issue that much more impactful. Every single month, this book gets better and better. It’s the series that’s setting the bar. It’s the title that other titles should be watching, learning from. It’s the comic book that stands apart from everything else available on the market right now. READ. STORMWATCH. 

Stormwatch: Paul Cornell, Miguel Sepulveda, Allen Passalaqua, Rob Leigh, Nathan Eyring

An overdue review! I skimmed through this issue a while back, when it came out in September, but I never was able to buy it for some reason. Well, I FINALLY got a hold of it. It answers a couple of questions, but nothing major. Mainly the only questions I had were how certain people got to where they were in the 2nd issue. Also the whole thing about who Jennie Quantum is and why she’s on the team. It looks like at first glance that she was just the obligatory ’80s cartoon “youngster” on the team of adults. Much like a scrappy mascot. But she actually does have a really cool power and personality. She’s a “Century Baby,” as Adam-One calls her. She can alter and use energies according to the currently-known physics of the century. That’s awesome! I love the characters in this book! They’re so unique and original! We also get to see why Harry Tanner was on the moon talking with some kind of crazy creature that’s turning the moon against the Earth. I finally got a reason why this is happening too. Apparently this creature is preparing Earth for what’s coming, making sure it’s strong enough to face the coming threat. Speaking of “the coming threat,” Stormwatch always has one or two really good lines in it that always make me just split a seam laughing. This one had a good couple, “the moon seems to be threatening the Earth,” and “the most important thing in the world right now—and certainly the horniest.” HAHA! I freaking love this book. The art is, as usual, AWESOME. I seriously cannot get enough of Miguel Sepulveda’s work. It’s amazing. This whole team on this book is top-notch. I go into more detail about how I love these books in the other reviews, so I’m not going to just go on and on about how truly outstanding this series is. But I could, trust me. 

Stormwatch #1, the verdict: Bottom-line, guys. If you aren’t reading Stormwatch, you simply aren’t reading the right comics right now. There’s nothing else to it. You are missing. Out. On everything. You need, need, need to buy and read Stormwatch.

Demon Knights: Paul Cornell, Michael Choi, Diogenes Neves, Oclair Albert, Marcelo Maiolo, Jared K. Fletcher

This is the best issue of this series yet. The origin of the Shining Knight. For all of us wondering what the hey is going on with this chick/dude, this is the issue to read. I want to point out, though, real quick…that the whole medieval chick who’s posing as a dude warrior thing isn’t brand new - I’m not dogging on Paul Cornell, PLEASE don’t get me wrong - I just want to mention that this character makes me think of the character Valerian from the movie “Dragonslayer,” who disguised herself as a man. Just some happy memories, is all. Now, back to Demon Knights. I am in love with the story in this issue. We get to see the great Merlin! And he gives us some nice history, biography, magic, and nobility lessons. He also says that he lives backwards, starting old and growing young, just like Brad Pitt. This is actually where that supposed connection between Demon Knights and Paul Cornell’s other book, Stormwatch, comes into play. I heard someone ask Cornell if Merlin actually exists as another character on the Stormwatch team. Cornell would not confirm or deny. See if you can guess which one (it shouldn’t be hard). Merlin appears before the Shining Knight here and reminds him/her of his/her quest to find the HOLY GRAIL! I’m just really hoping we make a stop at Camelot on the way…even if it is a silly place. I’m really intrigued by this character now, and I really want to know more about his/her quest. See, the Shining Knight is so androgynous that it’s truly difficult to confirm whether its a boy or girl. Some panels make him look male, some make her look female. Merlin even states that he/she has two natures. Is this an early occurrence of a hermaphrodite? We learn that the Shining Knight was either killed or gravely wounded in battle during the fall of Camelot, and was given a drink from the Holy Grail that Merlin carried. Since then, he/she’s been granted everlasting youth/life and been yearning for more. This is why he/she seeks the grail. Cool. Jason Blood gets wind that Shining Knight is having a vision about Merlin, and probably tries to shake the poor thing to death to get answers about where Merlin is and how to free himself of his curse. Merlin, you so silly, why you go and curse so many people with crazy stuff? A demon from Hell? Eternal quests? Merlin warns Shining Knight about the dangers of the journey, but says he/she has the most chance of succeeding because of his/her true heart. We also find out the Questing Queen is also after the grail. We also also find out something deadly interesting about the horse-woman! This issue: filled with intrigue, it is.

Demon Knights #4, the verdict: I just really like this book. It’s full of character, which is something of a signature of Paul Cornell’s books. Big casts, BIG character. This issue didn’t really move the plot forward, but it served as an outstanding opportunity to shed light on one of the more mysterious characters of the group. I hope we find out more about the horse-woman in the next issue, because she’s proving to be the one we know LEAST about…especially now! The art duties in this issue are split, with Neves covering the normal plane of reality, and the brilliant Michael Choi taking care of the vision art, which is stunningly beautiful - and frustratingly perfect. This is where we see a lot of duality in the Shining Knight…sometimes she looks definitively female, and other times strikingly male. We may never know. But in the meantime, “IT IS YOUR COMRADES! Vandal Savage! Jason Blood! That tall woman!”

Stormwatch: Paul Cornell, Miguel Sepulveda, Alex Sinclair, Rob Leigh

I think the success of this book owes credit to the simple staff. I’m looking at the credits to this book…and there’s one writer, one artist, one colorist, one letterer, the cover is done by the aforementioned artist and colorist, and there are two editors. That’s it. There’s not too many cooks in the kitchen. Everything is measured out and each task is given to one person. That’s enough. I’ve seen in some books where there’s just such a huge staff, that it’s just too many hands on the project…and the book suffers. Now, there are some exceptions in our glorious New 52, where there has been a large staff, but the book still shines. Don’t get me wrong. However, Stormwatch is a lesson in simplicity, and making each role count. I’m going to start this one with the art, because when you open to that first page…I mean, WOW. First, that panel showing us a nice mid-western countryside…and then cut to that giant monster that has absorbed all of Stormwatch, a towering colossus looming above tiny Midnighter. I almost want to say, “The graphics are so good!” because it really does make me think of some epic blockbuster movie, with top-of-the-line special effects. I don’t know much about Miguel Sepulveda, but I LOVE what he’s doing with this book. Look at where the monster smashes through that barn! The level of DETAIL is outstanding. There is a sense of “alchemy” here, I joke, because everything in the construction of the barn is accounted for in the destruction of the barn. I bet I could count every splinter of wood. Every pebble that’s disturbed. It’s all there. And let’s put out hands together for Alex Sinclair, in charge of coloring. I can only imagine, and go cross-eyed from the act, how Sepulveda’s work looks in PENCILS…let alone wrap my head around the task of coloring that mess (and I mean literal mess; just look at that barn)! The colors in this book are SHARP, and vivid. I love how the monster shot this dark energy at Midnighter, and Apollo’s sunlight powers are beautiful, as they should be. I’m loving that volcanic red lightning too. Spectacular. Now, that being said…it would be a downright crime to give all the spotlight to Miguel’s and Alex’s art when Paul Cornell is also the star of this picture. This issue was so much FUN to read! Coming from someone who was downright confused in the first two issues of this series, I am following along just fine now, and I’m loving this story!!! I’ve said it before: each character is absolutely unique and fresh…with abilities I’ve never even thought of before, let alone seen or heard of. I thought Martian Manhunter was going to be my favorite on the team (because, let’s face it, he rocks)…but, no, it’s Apollo and Jack Hawksmoor. I’d say Midnighter too, but he’s kind of coming off like a tool to me. Over-cocky and bossy. Not digging it as much, but he’s still awesome with his knowledge of how to kill anything. Oh, man, one more about the art: that splash where Midnighter declares, “ZERO!” and the sun’s energy is beamed to Apollo. I drooled. I stared for a good ten minutes, I’m not even kidding. I could sit here and stare at that page forever. If anyone wants to go Christmas shopping for me, get me that page, blown up and framed. Outrageous. That page is perfection. Look at the teeth! The glow of the sun! The detail of the wrecked wood! I just can’t. Story-wise, there’s not a whole lot going on in this issue…as it’s mainly just an issue-long fight. But it’s handled so expertly, and so cleverly, that I hardly noticed it was almost all action. Midnighter was communicating back and forth with Projectionist, and we get to see Apollo rejoin the fight. So it does a good job of utilizing the team’s various powers in a fight against this incredibly powerful and dangerous monster. Most of the “plot” writing comes in at the end after Stormwatch all rejoins in their hyperspace base (which,  yes, is as much fun as it is to say). There’s a surprise ending with the appearance of someone who has something to say about Adam-One’s leadership…and there seems to be some apparent connection between this book and Paul Cornell’s other book, Demon Knights, to which Cornell himself wouldn’t confirm or deny. Follow him on Twitter to keep your eye out for stuff like that. I love that line near the end too, “…they’ll wonder what sort of team finds a monster — and leaves a ruined city and a glass sculpture.” Stormwatch is the sleeper you NEED to be reading.

Stormwatch #4, the verdict: This is, hands down, one of my FAVORITE books of the New 52. I look forward to the beginning of the month for only a few books, and this is one. I love it, and I laugh giddily just thinking about it. I can’t wait to see where this goes, and to what extents the team is taken. There is so much potential here for so much awesomicity, especially with so many great and memorable characters. I’m thrilled with reading this title. The writing is BAR NONE, and the art is BREATHTAKING. This is the WINNING combination in terms of staff. Keep it simple, and keep it coming, guys. Exemplary work.