Herculian by Erik Larsen (published by Image Comics)
Wow. An oversized thing that looks on the surface like about the most generic superhero comic book imaginable, but inside is anything but. I’m a little torn, on the one hand wishing for packaging that more accurately conveys the contents, on the other thrilled by the surprise I felt when I picked it up and flipped through it… I just hope other people take the time to do so and experience a similar jolt of discovery.
It’s actually a collection of works by Erik Larsen, one large lead feature and a bunch of shorter pieces, all bizarre and twisted and mostly really funny. And though I could discuss each segment in great detail, I think the thing I like best is the unified spirit of the book: gleefully inexplicable, improvised, giddy, and not caring a bit about importance or common sense. I wouldn’t recommend it to impressionable children or the easily offended, but would heartily push it to anyone wanting a dose of pure anarchic insanity. Basically, it’s just plain flat-out fun. (And it’s great to see that though he’s best known for his superhero work, Larsen can master whatever form of funnybooks he puts his mind to.)
The Intrepids #1 by Kurtis J. Wiebe and Scott Kowalchuk (published by Image Comics)
I’m not sure how Image Comics manages to publish so many offbeat titles, but I’m sure glad they do… Judging from this first issue, The Intrepids is basically an action movie in comic form about a group of extraordinary orphans. With bionic bears and mad scientists and a bunch of other strange things thrown in for good measure. I’m not sure exactly what it’s aiming for, but it’s pretty and unique enough that I’m gonna stick around for a while.
Batman Incorporated #1, #2, #3 by Grant Morrison, Yanick Paquette, and Michel Lacombe (published by DC Comics)
While Dick Grayson (the original Robin) has taken over defending Gotham City in the guise of Batman, millionaire playboy Bruce Wayne travels the world recruiting heroes to form an international crime-fighting league of Batmen. This series follows Bruce as he goes jet-setting, enlisting, and gangbusting around the globe.
It’s a completely ridiculous idea, and it’s a blast to read. Over the last few years, Grant Morrison has redefined the character and universe of Batman to great effect, and that winning streak continues… These first three issues pack in espionage, cliffhangers, fight scenes, snappy dialogue, and mad ideas by the dozens; the art is detailed and beautiful; the story thrills and amuses, evoking both the recent blockbuster movies and the classic comics and TV show of the ’60s. It’s pretty much everything I want in a Batman comic.
Emma #1 (of 5) by Nancy Butler and Janet Lee (published by Marvel Comics)
Marvel’s newest crack at the works of Jane Austen (following their acclaimed adaptations of Pride And Prejudice and Sense And Sensibility) is a curious beast. After a few exposition-heavy introductory scenes, Nancy Butler’s writing settles into a gentle pace, Janet Lee (co-creator of the glorious Return Of The Dapper Men) delivers lovely and distinctive illustrations… But at the same time, the material itself is a peculiar choice for the comic book medium. This issue is page after page of conversations in drawing rooms, parlors, and gardens; though the design and costumes of the characters shine, there’s no action to speak of, and only so much to be done in terms of visual impact. And yet, I’m enthralled by it, by the color palate, by the angles and expressions, by the story. File under “transcending inherent limitations”, and sign me up for the rest of the series.
These selections are available from all good comic shops or online retailers.
Nice eclectic mix of genres! Also, I like that you focus on what you find to be worthwhile rather than spewing bile (yes, I know it rhymes). Keep it up!