New Beginnings - Batman/Superman #1

10 years ago Jeph Loeb launched a new DC series called Superman/Batman, which played host to a veritable who’s who of creative talent (Abnett & Lanning, Michel Turner, Joe Kelly and Cullen Bunn as quick examples) for 87 issues and five annuals, before it's cancellation prior to the New 52 in 2011. Now we have the new version of the concept from Greg Pak and Jae Lee.

In the past I have really enjoyed Pak’s work - in particular I loved Planet Hulk - so as a Batman fan I was looking forward to this title.

In true New 52 fashion, there is a reboot afoot and the story steps back to Bruce and Clark’s younger days before they met in their heroic identities. Treading lightly in Gotham, Clark encounters Bruce after what appears to be an eventful night, although at this point he is unaware of his other identity. It’s all a little overwhelming for him in the big dark city and his hometown roots do show a little.

As first meetings go it is certainly a tense one, with each of them sizing up the other. It also leaves them both with questions.

The story then moves slightly forward in time and over to Metropolis where Catwoman of all people seems to be attacking Wayne Enterprises staff members. Taking an obvious interest brings the Caped Crusader into the fray, however it also brings another youthful, almost naive, cape as well. Once again we see them assessing each other with some startling issues in the difference in their powers too.

Set against the backdrop of Catwoman stepping up her criminal activity, we see Batman trying to stop her and Superman getting most of it all wrong. All of this allows the real culprit - an ethereal being who is possessing bodies - to run rings around them both, culminating in the possession of Clark. Taking a joyride in a godlike being has enticed this individual further, although there is an emotional element that appears to take an overriding factor too. It’s only when Pa Kent is around, after a strange teleportation back to Smallville, that things once again take another turn.

There is also an extra element in the storytelling, showcasing the dichotomy of light and dark that our two protagonists portray. The first main depiction of this is in the writing, with the obvious soft and ruthless tones in their dialogue with one another. Furthermore fans of the previous Superman/Batman series will recognise the familiar touch of conflicting internal monologues from the two protagonists - each of them which is depicted in either bright blue and white text boxes or grey and black. This factor is highlighted more when the spectral being speaks both internally and externally in red lettering. It's a good touch.

Jae Lee is the primary artist on the issue and his work is great. To compliment the story and script, there is a clear and distinctive stylistic change between the set pieces, depending on whether they flow around Batman or Superman. Even the characters themselves almost exude different lights.

en Oliver created the artwork for the final six pages, and whilst I didn’t feel it was as strong, I can completely understand the shift in tone as the narrative moved to Smallville. Clark's hometown brings a  comforting brightness to the story that is juxtaposed with the two dark and shifty cities. The final aspect which is worth mentioning is the colouring. The duty is split the same way as the artwork between June Chung and also Daniel Brown and really adds to it all. The colouring helps set the tone and also the difference between the heroes of the comic.

Not being a massive Superman fan, I did fear this comic wouldn't quite live up to the sum of its other parts, however this incarnation has brought me around a little. Pak and Lee's past works are exceptional and this collaboration is a comic that DC fans, Batman fans and Superman fans alike should all be grabbing a copy of.

Matt Puddy is able to turn his hand over, which is a huge victory on the road to recovery.

The Lion's Share - Villains' Month *ALL RESERVATION SERVICE CUSTOMERS - PLEASE TAKE NOTE*

September 2011 saw the launch of the New 52. September 2012 saw DC celebrate the first anniversary of the new 52 with Zero Month. September 2013 brings another celebration, as DC unleash Villains' Month.

This September, the villains and rogues of the DC Universe are taking over the (Arkham) Asylum. 52 comics, each celebrating and showcasing a different DC villain! Each comic will feature a 3D motion lenticular cover, destined to be beautiful collectors' pieces.

Enough hype though, here's the rub. There will be multiple issues for some titles such as Justice League, Batman and Green Lantern. Other titles will be missing entirely, like Superman Unchained and Red Lanterns. For many of you, it will even out across your monthly order, but for some of you it could see your monthly comics bill QUADRUPLE!

In addition, DC have announced that the print run for these comics will be set at the Final Order Cutoff.  In a nutshell this means that there will most likely be NO RESTOCKS for these comics. We have to get this right first time.

Here's what we're going to do here at Proud Lion. All normal DC New 52 comics Reservations will be suspended for September and only September. You will still receive issue #23 (or equivalent) of your DC New 52 titles in August. Issue #24 of those titles will resume in October. All non-New 52 titles from DC such as Arrow, Batman '66 and all Vertigo titles will continue as normal throughout September and beyond too.

For September then, we ask that you look down the DC New 52 solicitations below and then contact me to place specific orders. Those orders will be binding once placed; please honour your commitments. You can download a pdf order form here, which you can print off and bring into the store, or you can email me your order at shop@proudlion.co.uk.

The deadline for these orders will be 5pm on Wednesday 17th July.

Any Reservation Service pull list that has not submitted an order by then will automatically receive their full order for this month. So if you order Justice League, you will get all four of the Justice League Villains' Month comics in September.

I appreciate that this is all a bit of a faff, but it's the best way to ensure no one feels they've missed out or been tricked into spending more than they wanted to that month. There will be some shelf stock available for some of these comics, but not everything and stocks will be limited - when they are gone, they're gone. This order form is the only way to guarantee your Villains' Month comics.

Non-Reservation Service customers can also use this form to place orders, however those orders will be subject to a deposit of the full cover price I'm afraid. 

One final special offer though, anyone who wants all 52 of these comics can order the Proud Lion Villain's Month Bundle Deal. You'll get all 52 comics for £125 (saving you almost a quarter of the normal total price) plus a free copy of Forever Evil #1! Please note that to secure your Bundle Deal order, you will need to pay a £50 deposit by Wednesday 17th July. We can invoice you via PayPal if that helps.

Download:

Proud Lion Villains' Month Order Form

Thanks for your time folks. Now without further ado, here's the solicitations (and cover images where available) for Villains' Month and Forever Evil #1.

FOREVER EVIL #1
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art and cover by DAVID FINCH and RICHARD FRIEND
On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 48 pg, 1 of 7, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
The first universe-wide event of The New 52 begins as FOREVER EVIL launches! The Justice League is DEAD! And the villains shall INHERIT the Earth! An epic tale of the world’s greatest super-villains starts here!

JUSTICE LEAGUE #23.1: DARKSEID

Written by GREG PAK

Art by PAULO SIQUERIA

3-D motion cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

For Darkseid, Lord of Apokolips, you conform or die. Now born into his realm is an anomaly who looks to challenge that. A trickster, who will go to any length to survive even if it means sacrificing worlds to do it—leading to an Earth shattering confrontation between The Man of Steel and a Dark Lord.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #23.2: LOBO

Written by MARGUERITE BENNETT

Art by BEN OLIVER

3-D motion cover by AARON KUDER

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Deep in the dark corridors of space lives a black-hearted being of unimaginable power. He’s witnessed horrors beyond description and committed unparalleled evils. In all of history, no being has ever been capable of as much chaos and terror as this lone individual. This is the story of the man called Lobo. He’s coming. And he’s bringing all of hell with him.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #23.3: DIAL E

Written by CHINA MIEVILLE

Art by MATEUS SANTOLUOCO, JEFF LEMIRE, JOCK, ALBERTO PONTICELLI, DAVID LAPHAM, RICCARDO BURCHIELLO and others

3-D motion cover by BRIAN BOLLAND

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

You can’t stop dialing! In a special VILLAINS MONTH coda to the fan-favorite DIAL H series, a lost E-dial is discovered by four young criminals on the run in Littleville. But who is chasing them? And will they figure out how to control this nefarious dial before it’s too late? Hindsight is twenty-twenty when you’re sprinting through dark alleys! This issue features 20 new villains, 20 pages of creative insanity—and 20 top artists, each drawing a page of the action!

JUSTICE LEAGUE #23.4: SECRET SOCIETY

Written by GEOFF JOHNS and STERLING GATES

Art by MANUEL GARCIA and ROB HUNTER

3-D motion cover by MIKEL JANIN

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

An army of super villains has been built throughout The New 52 during 2013—but for what purpose? Learn about the villains that have paved the way for the world of FOREVER EVIL.

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #7.1: DEADSHOT

Written by MATT KINDT

Art by PASQUAL FERRY

3-D motion cover by TONY S. DANIEL and

MATT BANNING

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Is it a death wish that makes Floyd Lawton put on the mask of Deadshot? Or is something more sinister pulling at Floyd when he becomes a relentless assassin who feels nothing for his victims? Discover the truth behind Deadshot’s secret history in this issue!

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #7.2: KILLER FROST

Written by STERLING GATES

Art by DERLIS SANTACRUZ

3-D motion cover by TONY S. DANIEL and

MATT BANNING

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Not every villain is grateful to the Secret Society for ridding the world of the Justice League. For Killer Frost, only one thing matters: feeding off Firestorm’s energy! But with Firestorm gone, a desperate Frost is forced to decide whether she should search for the missing hero or find a new source for her power fixes.

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #7.3: SHADOW THIEF

Written by TOM DeFALCO

Art by CHAD HARDIN

3-D motion cover by TONY S. DANIEL and MATT BANNING

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Where is the line between duty and villainy? For the new Shadow Thief, there is no question: Her mission to eradicate all alien life on Earth is above questions of morality. Armed with technology that allows her to become a living shadow, the Shadow Thief wages a covert war across the globe, but how long can she stay in the shadows before they consume her soul?

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #7.4: BLACK ADAM

Written by GEOFF JOHNS and STERLING GATES

Art by EDGAR SALAZAR

3-D motion cover by TONY S. DANIEL and MATT BANNING

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Where is Black Adam? And what series of events is triggered when the Secret Society attacks Kahndaq? Discover all of this and much more in this issue!

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #23.1: THE CREEPER

Written by ANN NOCENTI

Art by CHRISCROSS

3-D motion cover by MIKEL JANIN

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Freed from his mystical prison, The Creeper walks a path littered with gore and misery—and there may be no way to stop him! Many will be caught in his web, including the Justice League of America’s Katana and Jack Ryder, The Creeper’s unwitting human host. Where will The Creeper strike next?

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #23.2: ECLIPSO

Written by DAN DIDIO

Art by PHILIP TAN

3-D motion cover by MIKEL JANIN

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The powerful Black Diamond has been seen causing trouble in different corners of The New 52. Now you will learn its secrets as it lands in the hands of the host it was always meant for... and the full power of Eclipso is unleashed!

AQUAMAN #23.1: BLACK MANTA

Written by GEOFF JOHNS and TONY BEDARD

Art by CLAUDE ST. AUBIN

3-D motion cover by PAUL PELLETIER and SEAN PARSONS

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Set loose as the Secret Society’s plan unfolds, Black Manta is shocked to learn that Aquaman may be dead! Without the object of his hatred, how will Manta claim his final vengeance against the man who killed his father? Where will one of the most lethal villains alive turn his rage when he begins a new mission?

AQUAMAN #23.2: OCEAN MASTER

Written by GEOFF JOHNS and STERLING GATES

Art by GERALDO BORGES

3-D motion cover by PAUL PELLETIER and SEAN PARSONS

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Ocean Master is freed from Belle Reve and wants no part of the Secret Society—he just wants to go home to Atlantis. But he has a long bloody journey across the surface world in front of him, and he might not make it back!

EARTH 2 #15.1: DESAAD

Written by PAUL LEVITZ

Art by YILDIRAY CINAR

3-D motion cover by KEN LASHLEY

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

As a member of Darkseid’s inner circle, Desaad is the Apokoliptian god of fear and pain. And since being stranded on Earth because of the events of EARTH 2 #1, Desaad has looked for a way home. He has the means, in the form of Boom Tube technology, but could not power it… until now!

EARTH 2 #15.2: SOLOMON GRUNDY

Written by MATT KINDT

Art by AARON LOPRESTI

3-D motion cover by KEN LASHLEY

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Grundy hates green. He hates life, and he hates Green Lantern most of all! So what made Grundy this way? Find out in the secret origin of Solomon Grundy!

THE FLASH #23.1: GRODD

Written by BRIAN BUCCELLATO

Art by CHRIS BATISTA

3-D motion cover by FRANCIS MANAPUL

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Grodd believed he was destined to become the bearer of light - until The Flash raced onto the scene! What will Grodd do now that The Flash has disappeared with the rest of the world’s heroes? Conquest is on the horizon as the world becomes - Forever Evil!

THE FLASH #23.2: REVERSE-FLASH

Written by FRANCIS MANAPUL and BRIAN BUCCELLATO

Art by FRANCIS MANAPUL

3-D motion cover by FRANCIS MANAPUL

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US RATED T

Discover the untold origin of Reverse-Flash! Who is he, and what is his relationship to Barry Allen? Secrets are revealed and questions answered as we race through the history of Reverse-Flash right through to Forever Evil!

THE FLASH #23.3: THE ROGUES

Written by BRIAN BUCCELLATO

Art by PATRICK ZIRCHER

3-D motion cover by FRANCIS MANAPUL

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US RATED T

The Rogues have their rules and their ways of doing business—so what do they think of the Secret Society’s claims that the Justice League is dead, and that the world’s villains need to unite? It’s a culture clash that won’t end quietly!

GREEN ARROW #23.1: COUNT VERTIGO

Written by JEFF LEMIRE

Art by ANDREA SORRENTINO

3-D motion cover by ANDREA SORRENTINO

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Get set for the twisted origin of Count Vertigo! Why is the Count in Vancouver on the hunt for Green Arrow, and what could have happened to make him such a sadistic adversary?

WONDER WOMAN #23.1: THE CHEETAH

Written by JOHN OSTRANDER

Art by VICTOR IBANEZ

3-D motion cover by VICTOR IBANEZ

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The Cheetah has clawed her way out of Belle Reve, and is hungry for blood - but before she steps up as one of the Secret Society’s most powerful generals, she has a personal score to settle! Learn the truth about the cult of Hippolyta, her vendetta against Wonder Woman, and just how far she’ll go to prove that she’s the most dangerous predator on Earth!

WONDER WOMAN #23.2: FIRST BORN

Written by BRIAN AZZARELLO

Art by ACO

3-D motion cover by VICTOR IBANEZ

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The First Born son of Zeus - Wonder Woman’s oldest brother - has returned to claim the throne of Olympus! But it’s been a long and bloody road to reach his destiny… and you won’t believe the horror when you meet the rest of Wonder Woman’s extended “family”!

ACTION COMICS #23.1: CYBORG SUPERMAN

Written by MICHAEL ALAN NELSON

Art by MIKE HAWTHORNE

3-D motion cover by AARON KUDER

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Deep in space sits a cybernetic force of evil unlike any other. What terrible connection does Cyborg Superman share with Krypton? And what alien force commands the robotic terror? Find out here!

ACTION COMICS #23.2: ZOD

Written by GREG PAK

Art by KEN LASHLEY

3-D motion cover by GENE HA

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

General Zod storms into The New 52! Witness the origin of this genocidal maniac, and learn how far he will go to destroy those who oppose him!

ACTION COMICS #23.3: LEX LUTHOR

Written by CHARLES SOULE

Art by RAYMUND BERMUDEZ

3-D motion cover by AARON KUDER

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US RATED T

Evil genius, sadistic businessman, sociopathic inmate - Lex Luthor is all this and more. Now released from prison, there is nothing to stop Luthor from getting his way... not even Superman!

ACTION COMICS #23.4: METALLO

Written by SHOLLY FISCH

Art by WILL CONRAD

3-D motion cover by AARON KUDER

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US RATED T

Before he became Metal-Zero, John Corben had two great loves: his country and Lois Lane. Awakening from a coma after the events of ACTION COMICS #8, Corben finds himself betrayed by both - and now his Kryptonite heart beats only for revenge! And when he joins up with the Secret Society, there’s no limit to the destruction he can cause!

SUPERMAN #23.1: BIZARRO

Written by SHOLLY FISCH

Art by JEFF JOHNSON and ANDY SMITH

3-D motion cover by AARON KUDER

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Lex Luthor’s sinister plan to manipulate Superman’s genetic material to create a mindless soldier under his control results in the monster known as Bizarro: opposite of Superman in every way, with no compassion, no remorse and no mercy!

SUPERMAN #23.2: BRAINIAC

Written by TONY BEDARD

Art by PASCAL ALIXE

3-D motion cover by GENE HA

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Brainiac was the first adversary Superman fought on Earth, but where did he come from? A lineage that spans the universe holds many secrets when we ask, “Who is Brainiac?”

SUPERMAN #23.3: H’EL

Written by SCOTT LOBDELL

Art by DAN JURGENS and NORM RAPMUND

3-D motion cover by GENE HA

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

After his last battle with Superman, H’el wakes up on Krypton years before it is destroyed! Can H’el manipulate the Science Counsel, soldiers and countless others including Jor-El, to save the planet? And what does it mean for the birth of Superman if he succeeds?

SUPERMAN #23.4: PARASITE

Written by AARON KUDER

Art by AARON KUDER

3-D motion cover by AARON KUDER

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Parasite: Noun.

An organism that lives in or on another organism.

Preferably Superman.

BATMAN/SUPERMAN #3.1: DOOMSDAY

Written by GREG PAK

Art by BRETT BOOTH

3-D motion cover by TONY S. DANIEL

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Long before Superman fought the unstoppable monster known as Doomsday, the beast’s reputation for death and destruction haunted The Man of Steel’s home world of Krypton.

BATMAN #23.1: THE JOKER

Written by ANDY KUBERT

Art by ANDY CLARKE

3-D motion cover by JASON FABOK

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The Joker has FOREVER been the face of EVIL in the DC Universe…but what led him on this devious path of treachery? Andy Kubert pens this early adventure showcasing the maniacal exploits of the Crown Prince of Gotham—The JOKER!

BATMAN #23.2: THE RIDDLER

Written by SCOTT SNYDER and RAY FAWKES

Art by JEREMY HAUN

3-D motion cover by GUILLEM MARCH

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

With The Dark Knight out of the picture, The Riddler engages in an epic game of wits. Learn what maddening early moments led a young Edward Nygma to evolve into Gotham City’s Prince of Mischief! And see how events of ZERO YEAR continue to affect The Riddler today!

BATMAN #23.3: THE PENGUIN

Written by FRANK TIERI

Art by CHRISTIAN DUCE

3-D motion cover by JASON FABOK

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Follow The Penguin’s latest quest for power as he prepares to undermine one of Gotham City’s most powerful politicians. What does the criminal mastermind stand to gain?

BATMAN #23.4: BANE

Written by PETER J. TOMASI

Art by GRAHAM NOLAN

3-D motion cover by GUILLEM MARCH

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Batman is gone, and the inmates of Arkham Asylum are running wild in the streets! Bane is in Gotham City with one goal… to take it over no matter who he has to break!

BATMAN AND ROBIN #23.1: TWO-FACE

Written by PETER J. TOMASI

Art by GUILLEM MARCH

3-D motion cover by CHRIS BURNHAM

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Two-Face is approached to join the Secret Society! Which side will his coin land on?

BATMAN AND ROBIN #23.2: THE COURT OF OWLS

Written by JAMES TYNION IV

Art by JORGE LUCAS

3-D motion cover by PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The Court of Owls takes stock of the new world order created in the wake of Forever Evil! What horrors will they unleash in order to maintain control!

BATMAN AND ROBIN #23.3: RA’S AL GHUL AND THE LEAGUE OF ASSASSINS

Written by JAMES TYNION IV

Art by JORGE LUCAS

3-D motion cover by PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The origin of Ra’s al Ghul in The New 52! For centuries Ra’s has had a plan for this world, and now he is faced with an offer from the Secret Society that could help him achieve what he wants… or undo everything he has worked for. Which path will the Demon’s Head choose?

BATMAN AND ROBIN #23.4: KILLER CROC

Written by TIM SEELEY

Art by FRANCIS PORTELA

3-D motion cover by PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

As the battle for Gotham City continues to build, the scales become unbalanced when the ferocious Killer Croc enters the fray!

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #23.1: THE VENTRILOQUIST

Written by GAIL SIMONE

Art by DERLIS SANTACRUZ

3-D motion cover by PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The origin of the Ventriloquist is revealed! One of them has powerful telekinesis and the other is a cold-blooded murderer—but who’s the real dummy in this act?

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #23.2: MR. FREEZE

Written by JUSTIN GRAY and JIMMY PALMIOTTI

Art by JASON MASTERS

3-D motion cover by GUILLEM MARCH

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Mr. Freeze takes his obsessions over the line when he sets his sights on his newfound family and getting revenge on Batman!

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #23.3: CLAYFACE

Written by JOHN LAYMAN

Art by CLIFF RICHARDS

3-D motion cover by GUILLEM MARCH

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

It’s the biggest audition of Clayface’s life as he attempts to impress the Secret Society and join their ranks. Desperate to prove himself more than a monster, Clayface sets a scheme into motion that quickly unravels! Will he make his mark - or dig his own grave?

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #23.4: THE JOKER’S DAUGHTER

Written by ANN NOCENTI

Art by GEORGES JEANTY

3-D motion cover by JASON FABOK

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

The Gotham Underground is quickly becoming a base of power in the DC Universe! After the destruction of Arkham Asylum, The Joker’s Daughter is gaining hordes of followers across the terrifying and brutal landscape! In a world where ugly is considered beautiful, what dark initiation rites befall this madwoman’s new recruits?

DETECTIVE COMICS #23.1: POISON IVY

Written by DEREK FRIDOLFS

Art by JAVIER PINA

3-D motion cover by JASON FABOK

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

For too long, Poison Ivy has played with men’s hearts and been a pawn in their games too - but no more! Now that Batman is gone, she will grow into a force of nature unlike anything Gotham City has seen before!

DETECTIVE COMICS #23.2: HARLEY QUINN

Written by MATT KINDT

Art by NEIL GOOGE

3-D motion cover by CHRIS BURNHAM

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

If Dr. Harleen Quinzel wasn’t crazy when she fell for The Joker at Arkham Asylum, she sure was messed up afterwards! Find out more from Harley’s time with her beloved Mr. J. and see what got her into so much trouble that she was “recruited” for the Suicide Squad!

DETECTIVE COMICS #23.3: THE SCARECROW

Written by PETER J. TOMASI

Art by SZYMON KUDRANSKI

3-D motion cover by JASON FABOK

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

See the new Gotham City through the eyes of the Scarecrow! It’s Arkham Asylum unleashed on humanity - and it’s all the Scarecrow has ever wanted!

DETECTIVE COMICS #23.4: MAN-BAT

Written by FRANK TIERI

Art by SCOT EATON and JAIME MENDOZA

3-D motion cover by JASON FABOK

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Dr. Langstrom has given in to the Man-Bat side of his personality. Left unchecked in a world without heroes, he brutally stalks his prey in Gotham City! If Langstrom won’t stop himself… who will?

GREEN LANTERN #23.1: RELIC

Written by ROBERT VENDITTI

Art by RAGS MORALES and CAM SMITH

3-D motion cover by BILLY TAN

On sale SEPTEMBER 4 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Who is Relic, and why must he kill every being in the universe who might wield the light of the emotional spectrum? Relic’s power could be the most formidable force the Lanterns have ever seen!

This issue’s story incorporates Rags Morales’s recent variant covers from GREEN LANTERN, GREEN LANTERN CORPS, GREEN LANTERN: NEW GUARDIANS, RED LANTERNS and LARFLEEZE, now with inks, full color and script!

GREEN LANTERN #23.2: MONGUL

Written by JIM STARLIN

Art by HOWARD PORTER

3-D motion cover by BILLY TAN

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Deep in space, an unstoppable force is committing genocide on a galaxy-wide scale, and only the strongest will survive! Be warned, because nothing can prepare you for an all-new Warworld under the absolute rule of the tyrant called Mongul!

GREEN LANTERN #23.3: BLACK HAND

Written by CHARLES SOULE

Art by ALBERTO PONTICELLI

3-D motion cover by BILLY TAN

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

In a world with no heroes, death lies behind every turn! Black Hand arrives to take advantage of Forever Evil, and he may be the most dangerous player yet! And when last we saw him, Black Hand was a pile of dust in the Dead Zone! How did he manage to return?

GREEN LANTERN #23.4: SINESTRO

Written by MATT KINDT

Art by DALE EAGLESHAM

3-D motion cover by BILLY TAN

On sale SEPTEMBER 25 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

Years ago, Sinestro used his Green Lantern ring to utterly dominate his home planet of Korugar, all in the name of “protecting” his people. It’s the mistake that turned his name into a curse, and brought down the greatest Green Lantern of them all… but one never-before-seen moment from those dark days holds the key to his future!

SWAMP THING #23.1: ARCANE

Written by CHARLES SOULE

Art by JESUS SAIZ

3-D motion cover by JESUS SAIZ

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T+

Behold a being so vile and deadly that even the Parliament of Decay could not control him! Now take a journey to a place beyond hell - the personal prison of Anton Arcane! Plus: the return of The Rot’s new avatar, Abigail Arcane!

TEEN TITANS #23.1: TRIGON

Written by MARV WOLFMAN

Art by CAFU

3-D motion cover by EDDY BARROWS and EBER FERREIRA

On sale SEPTEMBER 11 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

He is the ruler of six kingdoms of pain, suffering and agony—but the one world that evades Trigon is Earth. Trigon’s influence has been spread across worlds by his sons, but it wasn’t until he conceived a daughter of Earthly origin that the monster finally had an heir who could aid his quest. Now, with all the world’s heroes missing—is this the final victory of Trigon?

TEEN TITANS #23.2: DEATHSTROKE

Written by COREY MAYS and DOOMA WENDSCHUH

Art by ANGEL UNZUETA and MORITAT

3-D motion cover by EDDY BARROWS and EBER FERREIRA

On sale SEPTEMBER 18 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T

One of the deadliest men in the world has a secret: his family. Slade Wilson lives to kill, but can even Deathstroke the Terminator balance his home life with a complicated hit?

Don’t miss this amazing issue written by Corey Mays and Dooma Wendschuh, writers of the video games Assassin’s Creed and Batman: Arkham Origins.

Download:

Proud Lion Villains' Month Order Form

Ben Fardon will either die a hero, or live long enough to see himself become the villain.

New Beginnings - The X-Files Season 10 #1

Late in 1993 TV-land was graced with Chris Carter’s new sci-fi series, The X-Files, and iconic fandom soon followed. Running until 2001, the show made a sizeable mark on society spanning nine series plus two films. 

Now almost 20 years later, The X-Files takes a leaf out of Buffy's book and returns with a tenth season in comic form through IDW.

The issues are penned by Joe Harris but they also have the input of Chris Carter (complete with him being credited as the Executive Producer) which should belay any concerns that fans picking the comic up may be faced with stories that are little more than non-canon nonsense, akin to the old offerings from Topps.

Staying within the mythology the plot follows on from the where the second film left off. Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are in their new lives, with cover identities away from the FBI. Their lives are apparently happy and out of the limelight, but this is all quickly shattered when Deputy Director Skinner arrives as the bearer of bad news. An unknown online assailant has managed to breach the FBI and peek at it’s secrets, including some of those that were sealed within the X-Files. With that a sinister cabal of cloaked and hooded assailants with the power to manipulate people is on the hunt for them. 

This premise leads to the cyclic nature of the issue, where we were first greeted with Scully wounded and on the run. It opens the reader to a huge amount of questions, as although it gives you something to ponder, it doesn’t give much else by way of support. There are a plethora of doors opened for the reader to step through, but at present each door simply leads to more questions. Most confusing is the revelation that whoever hacked the X-Files doesn't actually want our heroes despite seemingly hunting them down. So what does it all mean?

There was another character piece that struck me as well. Mulder and Skinner are all very easily recognised from their depictions, but Scully didn’t feel Scully enough for me. This may have been because this first issue was full of exposition at the expense of characterisation, but too often she felt more a helpless victim than the strong female front I remember from my youth. I know her trademark cynicism softened in the face of the nine series and two films' worth of revelations, but she just didn't quite act like Scully.

The artwork is provided by Michael Walsh - an artist known for his work on Image and IDW comics - and as said above is very good at recreating very memorable characters from the series, whilst still keeping a sense of his own style. He does this without using overly detailed line work or definition. It’s accomplished more by using basic shape and then focussing on key elements. In particular, the eyes and mouth identify them all very well.

Although as a teenager I loved the X-Files, I’m not sure that this is enough for me. Hardcore fans on the other hand will love it, as it has all of the mystery and uncertainty of the series. With Chris Carter as a guiding force I have no doubt that this title will live up to the franchise. Will it find a stronger following than the recent Buffy comics? Who knows. As they say, the truth is out there...

Matt Puddy couldn't resist that last line.

New Beginnings - Wild Blue Yonder #1

About a year ago, Kickstarter featured a new project for a new miniseries entitled Wild Blue Yonder. The title has been in the making for the past three to four years and only turned to crowd funding last year. Coincidentally it was also announced that it would be published by IDW at the same time which may have provoked questions as to why Kickstarter was needed in the first place. To clear up any misconception, this is a creator-owned comic and IDW are simply acting as the publisher. The series story, script and art are from a combination of Mike Raicht, Zack Howard and Austin Harrison.

So what do you get for a handsome total of $12,000 through Kickstarter?

Wild Blue Yonder is an alternative future comic where the world has almost been rendered barren by pollution. This means that for survival the upper crust of the world has headed above the clouds living on huge floating barges. whilst the remaining - less fortunate - of society are left to fend for themselves, as workers supporting them in the vague hope of being escalated to those levels too.

The other aspect is that even this way of living has its price and oil is an even more precious commodity than it already is in today’s society. So when people get wind of an airship, The Dawn, that can run on a combination of solar, magnetic and also hydrogen-based energy, it makes itself a significant target for the comic’s big bad The Judge as well as every other sky jockey and pirate there is.

The story revolves around the teenage pilot Cola (and to a small degree her dog Critter) who is a pilot protecting the Dawn. We are introduced as she looks for a new hired gun and co-pilot following the loss of her previous partner. Part rebellious, part loyal and all kick-ass she is very reminiscent of Tank Girl, albeit less scruffy. Offering the chance to get away from normal life and have a “family” again, Cola finds and pressgangs a young man called Tug, and he is immediately thrown into the world as she sees it. I almost wanted her to reach out proclaiming, “Come with me if you want to live!”

Developing further by showing the troubles that the crew face (and the aftermath seen from the raiding side as well) paints the world as quite bleak regardless of your social status. The Judge is your typical ironfisted military type complete with Nazi overtones in his demeanour and dress (with the exception of his skin) making for a strong character to play off of.

The artwork provided by Zack Howard is really nice. It has plenty of details and good line work without being too clean or over the top. The colouring (Nelson Daniel) also suits the tone of the comic and the whole feel of the ecological premise that the story is set in as well. Although it’s not part of the story for this issue, one of my favourite panels has to be the final page which advertises issue two very well with Scram jetting out of a dirty cloud bank in pose reminiscent of superheroes. It certainly left me wanting to collect them.

As something very new and very different this is a comic that achieves the quite tricky task of bringing something to the table which people will want to follow. I’m looking forward to the series and hoping it continues after the initial issues too. Nice to see Kickstarter paying off for both backers and a wider audience.

Matt Puddy had an interesting discussion on the definition of steampunk this week.

Walking Dead #111 delayed

The Walking Dead #111 is AWOL in the UK. Apparently, Image Comics and Diamond UK have lost the pallet containing the UK stock. They're looking into this and hoping to announce a new UK release date ASAP.

In the meantime, if you simply can't wait (and trust me, I understand the feeling!) you can pick that issue up from our Comixology affiliate site, www.proudliondigital.co.uk.

I'm sorry folks, it's out of my hands but it does suck nonetheless. My apologies for any disappointment.

Ben Fardon is hot and bothered.

New Beginnings - Superman Unchained #1

A few weeks ago I mentioned in a review that one of my favourite writers at present is Scott Snyder. My admiration of his work stems from his work on Batman over the past few years and now I have the chance to see how he reinvigorates DC’s other big cape, Superman.

Before I dig into the story itself the presentation of the issue is worth noting immediately. DC have really invested in the issue (although this is also reflected in the $4.99 price). It has a fantastic glossy cover and when you open up the issue there is a surprise awaiting the reader (it’s not a gatefold cover). A couple of pages in you will find an attached insert which when carefully unfolded opens to a double-sided full colour poster page. The art on one side is simply OK, but the other makes an impressive impact that is is completely worth it.

Snyder’s story opens by stepping back in history to that horrific day at Nagasaki, giving us an alternative to what really happened. Now this was an interesting point, but one I will admit I forgot about whilst reading the rest of the issue.  I therefore got a really nice little moment of realisation when I got to the final page. Putting that aside for the moment and we spring straight back into the present where Supes is facing eight manmade orbiting objects, which have been reprogrammed and sent flying towards Earth as bombs. There is only time to stop seven of them, but when Clark’s reporting points this out and Lois takes great delight in correcting him. All eight were in fact made safe. It leaves him in an interesting position. Who or what saved the last one?

The questions open further when Superman finds the wreck on the ocean floor, complete with a handprint. Enter a shadowy military operation complete with their “real” Superman, whom they've had for almost 75 years...

For the artwork in this stellar first issue DC have brought on board Jim Lee. Lee is well known for the quality of his work and the feel of it fits perfectly with Superman as well as the story. It is light and open, but at the same time full of detail in all of the panels. It’s also got great punctuation on some of the images such as the large page pull out and the fantastic underwater picture of Superman complete with red eyes. I also loved the final page depiction of the new character (this may be someone fans will know but I’m afraid I can’t bring the name to mind if there is one). All in all the artwork has been really satisfying to cast eyes over.

Seeing Snyder work on something different was very compelling. The comparison and contrast between Batman and Superman is huge in itself; the light and dark of DC. Personally although I am really interested in who this “real” Superman is. I hope both Superman and Scott Snyder fans will pick this up and really enjoy it. You should give this issue a look though.

Matt Puddy is not going to be doing any high fives for a little while.

Big Game Hunting Live - Q3 2013

On the first Saturday of every month, Proud Lion is host to its very own game event, Big Game Hunting Live! A new game is selected every month, and players of all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned pros, are invited to play in store.

For those who like to plan ahead, or are just curious about what's coming up, here is the current schedule for the next few months:

Saturday 6th July

Last Night on Earth

Saturday 3rd August

Ticket to Ride

Saturday 7th September

Munchkin
STOP PRESS
Fluxx The Board Game

Don't forget that anyone who participates gets a voucher for 10% off the game being played on the day! No sign-ups are required, just turn up. Hope to see you there!

Rae just likes Wil Wheaton's face.

Funny Pages - Adventure Time

Now consider the armadillo. In the great metaphorical zoo of entertainment, there’s room for a wide variety of animals. For those people who enjoy their comedy to be on the black side or at least more “adult”, look no further than the bat enclosure or the anteater pen (check out that proboscis!). And of course if you’ve brought the kids along, they’ll want to make a beeline to the petting zoo of comedy, or more appropriately for this extended metaphor, they should visit the tortoises (fairly amiable with a tough shell made of innocence and censors).

But for this article, we’ll be focusing on the middle ground, the armadillos of entertainment. Armadillos still have the safety shell, the layer of innocence, but there are chinks in the armour that give us a peek of something deeper. It’s certainly not easy, being an armadillo. They walk a thin tightrope, constantly in danger of teetering towards either immaturity or adulthood. A successful example would be the output of the Pixar studio, films with a strong-enough story to hook adults and children alike, with laughs catering to both camps.

 Let me just say right now, the Adventure Time show and now the tie-in comics are utterly glorious armadillos. Adventure Time follows the 13 year-old hero Finn, his best friend Jake the magical dog, and their many exciting, zany adventures in the fantastical Land Of Ooo. Rescuing princesses, fighting evil monsters, exploring daunting mazes and forgotten caverns, on the surface it appears to be a fun, simple concept, ideal for rowdy youngsters. But look closer, watch with adult eyes, and it becomes clear that there’s a lot of hidden depth, especially emotional depth in the character interactions.

In the comic, writer Ryan North has taken all the very best ideas from the show, mixed them with his own, managed to keep the voices of the familiar characters intact, and continually churns out page after page of pure joy. What I love about North’s writing is that it’s inherently obvious that he is having the time of his life creating these comics, with this creative team. And when he’s having fun, we the readers have fun! Not only that, North uses the comic pages, the medium itself, to its fullest potential. Little jokes and commentary in the margins, playful “extra panel” asides at the bottom of certain pages, the glorious “choose your own adventure” standalone issue and it’s playful experimentation with the fourth wall… put simply, Ryan North’s armadillo does wonderful tricks!

But we mustn’t give Mr North all the glory! The regular artists Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb consistently make every page shine, successfully inhabiting the whimsical yet deceptively detailed design of the Adventure Time world. I love their artistic versatility; able to pull off a subtle style change to reference the much-simpler animated pilot episode during a bout of time travel shenanigans, and the pixel art of a recent video-game-centric issue was a joy to behold. The eye popping colour and silly facial expressions may not be what many “serious” comic readers are used to, but to me it’s like a great big chocolate pudding of fun and I’m one of too few people with a spoon.

Generously, the shorter back-up stories in each comic are often on par with or even surpass the main story, and are provided by a host of diverse creative types who want to get in on a good thing when they see it. Comic book pros such as Paul Pope, Shannon Wheeler, and Chris Houghton have all answered the call, as have the wide network of Ryan North’s webcomic buddies (who all seem to be friends with each other) like Anthony “Nedroid” Clark, Zack “Magical Game Time” Gorman, and Becky “Tiny Kitten Teeth” Dreistadt. The results are breathtakingly different in both art and story, but they all manage to stay true to the ethos of “fun” that this comic emanates like a wonderful odour.

Let me just wrap up by advising you all to pick up this comic. It’s like a tightrope-walking circus-trick-performing armadillo that tastes of chocolate pudding and smells gorgeous. But better.

Todd Marsh has doubts about his own sanity after writing this article.

The Lion's Share - Superman Unchained #1 is only a week away!

Superman Unchained #1 is out NEXT WEDNESDAY!

I was lucky enough to see a mock up of the massive four page poster page included in this issue at the MCM Expo the other weekend, courtesy of Bob Wayne from DC. Comic Book Therapy had a sneak peek at the pencils for this amazing page:

Here's a look at some of the variant covers on offer for Superman Unchained #1, courtesy of Previews World:

This is going to be a beautiful issue and a real collector's item in years to come, don't miss out! Email me now to pre-order.

Ben Fardon would love to see Man Of Steel at an IMAX, but is struggling to find the time.

The Lion's Share - The new lineup from Titan Comics

UK publisher Titan Comics have been quietly doing their thing in the comics market in recent years, producing new full colour Lenore comics from Roman Dirge and keeping the Tank Girl franchise alive with some interesting new ideas including last month's Solid State Tank Girl series.

In the coming months though, they are really ramping up their release schedule with both new titles and some great graphic novel reprints. We got to see a few of these at the Diamond UK Retailer Day at the MCM Expo last weekend, and I've picked a few of my favourites to show you.

If you'd like to pre-order any of these, please email me at shop@proudlion.co.uk

DEATH SENTENCE #1

"The best idea I've seen in years. Genuinely original."

Mark Millar, Kick-Ass

Writer(s): Monty Nero

Artist Name(s): Mike Dowling

Number of Issues/Volumes in Series: 6

Page Count: 32pp

Retail Price: £3.15

Street Date: October 9, 2013

What would you do with superpowers – and six months to live? 

That's the dilemma facing three people who've contracted the G+ Virus, through unprotected sex.

What can graphic designer Verity, failing indie guitarist Weasel and roguish media personality Monty do in the time they have left? Fade away – or go out in a blaze of glory? 

By turns funny, dark, sad and spectacular, Death Sentence is an emotional thrill ride through celebrity, loss, passion and creativity. It's the jaw-dropping next stage in superpowered storytelling! 

Packed with unforgettable shocks, quotable dialogue and the character finds of a generation, this is an unmissable debut by two striking and confident new voices!

THRUD THE BARBARIAN

The Eagle-Award-Winning Barbarian

comedy series is collected at last!

Writer(s):  Carl Critchlow
Artist Name(s): Carl Critchlow
Format: Hardcover Collection
Page Count: 144pp
Full Color, B&W, or partial color: FC
Retail Price: £14.99
Street Date: September 24, 2013

A hilarious, timeless parody of Conan The Barbarian and his musclebound ilk!

Thrud: big of muscle, tiny of head, which is fine for Thrud as you only need a big brain if you need to talk your way out of trouble. Instead, he lets his axe speak for him!

In the first collected volume of this hugely popular cult, er, hero, Thrud faces down the necromancer To-Me Ku-Pa (FWAP! THWOK!); protects his beer supplies from fierce Frost Giants (KRISH! KER-THUNK!); faces his arch-nemesis (THUNKTHUNKTHUNK!); assumes the stately role of the king he accidentally killed (GAK! POK!) and gets his pint spilled on a mission into the depths of a primeval jungle (ARRGGLE! SPLUTCH!) A hilarious, timeless parody of Conan The Barbarian and his musclebound ilk!

IT CAME! #1

Writer(s): Dan Boultwood
Artist Name(s): Dan Boultwood
Number of Issues/Volumes in Series: 4
Page Count: 32pp
Retail Price: £3.15
Street Date: August 7, 2013

Fans of Mystery Science Theater 3000 will love this hilarious B-movie romp, a knowing throwback to the heyday of low-budget SF cinema! In It Came!, Dan Boultwood has unearthed a lost classic from the forgotten Pinetree Studios. An enormous alien robot lays waste to the English countryside, annihilating bunting, villages, and diagonally-sliced sandwiches alike! Only the pipe-chomping space scientist Dr. Boy Bret and his assistant Doris Night stand a chance of stopping it from marching all the way to London!

CHRONOS COMMANDOS: DAWN PATROL #4

Writer(s): Stuart Jennett 

Artist Name(s): Stuart Jennett

Number of Issues/Volumes in Series: 5

Page Count: 32pp

Retail Price: £3.15

Street Date: July 3, 2013

When the Allies and Nazis develop time-diving technology that could see the course of World War II dertailed by creatures from the Cretaceous period, only the Sarge and his band of misfit soldiers can save the future - by saving history! Dinosaurs! Giant crocodiles! Time travel! Nazis! Albert Einstein with a machine gun!

Ben Fardon is gearing up for Galaxy Trucker!