beastfire Comic Reviews

30 Days of Night: Falling Sun #2 helps cement this title as a worthy addition to the line. It's a long issue, but it's loaded with enough tension that it doesn't feel all that long and it moves along at a great pace.

The 60s aesthetics of this comic are a highlight, and the story is designed to keep you guessing. The visual aspects are strong, and the story itself looks like it'll have some fun mind-screw elements. A great start to this series.

Absolute Martian Manhunter #2 is a visual masterpiece, mixed with teases of the story's antagonist and what they're capable of. Things can only get crazier from here, and I, for one, am ready.

This story is definitely heating up with Absolute Martian Manhunter #3, and the visuals continue to be a wonderful mind-screw. If you want to feel something, be it empathy or maybe a bit high, this may be right up your alley.

Things get quite explosive in Absolute Martian Manhunter #4, both emotionally and in the most literal way possible.We got some great escalation of drama, with the visuals as stunning as ever.

Absolute Martian Manhunter #5 brings darkness and madness, all with some striking artwork and dread for what's to come. It ramps up the intensity and sets the stage for a dramatic conclusion.

Absolute Martian Manhunter #6 is a brain-melting (and possibly thought-provoking) conclusion to the current storyline, but it kicks the door for the next chapter wide open. If it's an absolute trip you're looking for, this is it. It's sheer madness, but it wears that madness well.

Absolute Martian Manhunter #8 is great in both the visual and story departments. As brilliant and eye-catching as ever, I can't recommend Absolute Martian Manhunter enough.

Well-written, excellently-drawn, and weird as hell. And that’s what makes Absolute Martian Manhunter such a delight. Absolute Martian Manhunter #9 leaves off on a cliffhanger that makes me eager for what’s next, and is, as always, a mind-screwy delight to read.

If you thought this title was a trip before, join in for this leg of the Absolute Martian Munhunter journey. Because it’s just getting crazier with Absolute Martian Manhunter #10. The visuals are stunning, the action scenes are gloriously chaotic, and the stage is set for quite the family drama.

Second to last chapter of Absolute Martian Manhunter, and things are more tense and trippy than ever, and I love this story for that. It’s the penultimate issue of this run, and this one brings one hell of an eleventh-hour drama bomb. How will it all end? I have no idea, but I’m pumped.

Absolute Martian Manhunter #12 brings this wonderful mind-screw of a series to a fitting conclusion: life’s about taking the good and the bad together, and second chances are possible.

Someone's found a way to make the mythical Book Boyfriend a reality with Artificial #1. If you're into steamy stories with a semi-futuristic (if slightly dystopian) bent, this one's for you.

Romance isn't easy, but the real thing has its charms. And Artificial #3 is a great look at the difference between the two.

This twisted (yet aesthetically comforting) tale continues with Beneath The Trees Where Nobody Sees: Rite Of Spring #2 , giving us a look into Sam's perspective. If you enjoyed the first installment, it'll be like catching up with old friends. If you hadn't read the first one, this is still a pretty good starting point. Either way, it's a good time.

Samantha Strong keeps proving that she's one of the most chilling murderers in comics, toying with a former victim's family just for her own curiosity, all with that same serene smile.

Black Lightning #1 is a decent jumping-on point for the uninitiated, though if you've read Absolute Power already, that's even better. I feel like things would have been enhanced a bit more had I read the event before it.

Things are picking up a bit more in this issue, with some hints of family drama and a bit more insight as to the fallout of prior events.

A wonderfully-rendered blend of action, family drama, and societal issues. Black Lightning #3 is a solid installment overall, with the art in particular pulling the reader's attention.

Between retrieving Isaac and his mother and the prospect of de-powering the Metahumans, the stakes have certainly increased with Black Lightning #4. This creative team keeps on delivering!

Black Lightning #5 is a solid conclusion to the current arc, with some pretty big reveals and a promise for the future.

Maybe not the greatest jumping-on point for newcomers, but Blade Runner Black Lotus: Las Vegas #1 is interesting enough to make one curious about playing catch-up.

Blade Runner: Black Lotus Las Vegas #2is a solid follow-up to issue 1, this time we get to dive into the end of humanity's Las Vegas and the beginning of the Replicants' Paradise. The exposition was plentiful (but both interesting and necessary), but it might have been even better if there was a little more time with the Doll Squad to sort of flesh a few of them out more. But other than that, a good read.

Solid characterization, some well-done expressions, and some interesting plot developments comprise Blade Runner: Black Lotus - Las Vegas #3.

Bleeding Hearts #1 is an entertaining (and possibly even thought-provoking) perspective flip on the ever-classic zombie apocalypse, Bleeding Hearts #1 is already looking to be a fun story with a lot of heart.

Last time, we saw the zombie side of the apocalypse. Bleeding Hearts #2 brings the human perspective into things. And that setup is what makes Bleeding Hearts such a great read so far. Elements of this one do feel a bit familiar when looking at zombie apocalypse tales overall, but it’s all presented extremely well, and the artwork is still great.

Bleeding Hearts #3 continues to breathe a bit of new life into the zombie genre, with its focus on both the human side and zombie society.

Bleeding Hearts #4” gives us a nice glimpse at the struggle between staying true to zombie culture and reconnecting to humanity, proving why this title is such a standout in the world of zombie media.

Bleeding Hearts continues to be a standout in the zombie genre, providing us with a lot of heart, excellent world-building, while still having a beautifully dark humor to it.

The world of Corpse Knight brings more danger into an already dangerous world with Corpse Knight #2, and leaves one wondering if there is, in fact, a cure to undeath. It’s an engaging continuation of the journey.

Creepshow brings us two more eerie tales to close out volume 4, and I enjoyed every second of it. One's more overt about its horror, one's more subtle, and both excellent.

If you're looking for a good spooky time, the good crew at Creepshowhave got you covered with Creepshow #1.Both stories are wonderfully creepy in their own ways, as befitting a title like Creepshow.

Looking for some prime Halloween-season reading? Creepshow #2's two bite-sized stories can scratch that itch. We've got an excellent pair of stories for this installment, with a pair of timeless lessons.

I loved both stories, though the first one felt just a smidge stronger. If you're a Creepshow fan (or even just a fan of horror in general), feast your eyes on these delightful little morsels of twistedness with Creepshow #3.

Creepshow #4 delivers another pair of horrific tales, featuring such nightmares as the lengths one might go to for their job and the importance of watching one's step.

Round three of the DC K.O. event is here, and it's an entertaining one. It may not be as steeped in dramatic tension as some others, but it's still an entertaining experience.

Feeling like a blend of “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” with a dash of the “Happy Death Day” movies, Dead Teenagers #1 is definitely entertaining. It sets up an intriguing scenario, all while bringing the sort of wit that was a hallmark of the late 90s.

Definitely pick up Dead Teenagers #2 if you’re up for some alternate reality fun, a bit of queer rep, and a splash of existential horror. I’d say Dead Teenagers has a bit of something for everyone. The expressions are spot-on for this installment, we’ve got some interesting queer representation going on, and the story’s just getting more and more intriguing.

In its third installment, Dead Teenagers continues to be smart, funny, and a worthwhile read.

Blood Type #1 is a slight break from the traditional EC Comics format, but still packed with the blood, chills, and gallows humor that can be expected from the line. If you're a fan of vampires, sink your teeth into this one.

There's a juicy mystery afoot in Blood Type #2, and Ada's backstory definitely has some bite. A worthy read for anyone that's a fan of vampires (hold the romance). The story progresses nicely, while giving an interestingly-presented backstory (full of backstabbing).

I can't think of a more fitting end to this story of betrayal and the search for immortality than what we get in Blood Type #4. Was the story overall a bit short? Perhaps. But that doesn't take away any of its bite.

We've got a solid introduction here, and I think anyone with a taste for space horror might find a lovely case of the creeps in this title. Bring on issue 2! It did take me a little bit to really focus, but once I did, I greatly enjoyed it and look forward to seeing things get worse.

Things in Event Horizon: Dark Descent #2 quickly escalate from tense to freaky, and I'm definitely here for it. If you're in the mood for demons in space, this may be a book for you.

Fear with a side of tears await on this leg of the Event Horizon: Dark Descent journey. The terror this time around comes with an added layer of humanity and emotional resonance, and I look forward to seeing how it ends.

Those parental issues take center stage in Event Horizon: Dark Descent #4. And that focus makes this one of the most intense segments of the story yet.It's a disturbing look into the past of what seems to be a decent man, tainted by the touch of a demon that's having fun torturing him.

Things are certainly getting interesting in the House of Slaughter, and I, for one, can’t wait to see how it all develops. The parts with Colin and the Old Dragon add to the intrigue, and issue 3 looks like it’d promise to show Cecilia in action.

In its penultimate installment, Fall of the House of Slaughter effectively shows just how slimy Colin can be. It’s a solid issue, with a few questions still to be answered.

Gehenna: Naked Aggression #1 is a delightful throwback to the 80s and 90s action genre. Gehenna: Naked Aggression is a comic that knows what it is, and makes no apologies for it.

Gehenna: Naked Aggression #2 continues the flow of action from last time, barely letting up. And that intensity is what makes this title a delight to read.

There are a lot of ways to handle a fight scene, but Gehenna: Naked Aggression #3 is a master class in the glorious chaos that comes of a true action movie fight.

The battle may have come to an end with Gehenna: Naked Aggression #4, but there's another promised for the future. It's a wonderfully explosive ending to this storyline, with a tease for the next chapter (and I, for one, look forward to it).

I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer #1 is a twisted little delight, filled with killer style and a good amount of blood.

I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer #2 is a stylish slasher with heart. If you're a horror fan, you come for the blood, and stay for the friendship.

Some wonderfully-done character development in I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer #3. It's further driven home that the true heart of this series, behind the blood and flaying, is the friendship between Rennie and Sofie. But that friendship may prove to be tested soon.

The narrative in I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer #4 takes a definite turn here, bringing in a conspiracy of class and plenty of bloody payoff for the gorehounds out there. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing how this story wraps up. If only because so much happened, it might have benefited from being somewhat longer.

I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer #5 reaches a logical and bloody conclusion that leaves its two leads with a bright future. It's a great ending to an enjoyable story.

Expressive artwork and a classic sci-fi feel make Innards #1 an entertaining ride. It’s a strong debut, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the mines (and Boo) are hiding.

If you've ever wondered about what a Slasher Film Final Girl would be up to in her future, It Killed Everyone But Me #1 is a great example.

As It Killed Everyone But Me continues, we're seeing some fascinating questions come up, and are getting a good look at the trauma that comes from surviving one's own personal horror film scenario. The way the past is juxtaposed with the present in It Killed Everyone But Me #3 is well done, and some interesting questions have come up.

It Killed Everyone But Me #4 brings Sutton out of hiding and right back into the thick of things. Bring on the final chapter! The stage is set for an epic confrontation between two demons and a Class A Survivor.

With some entertaining reveals and some well-done character drama, JSA #9 is definitely worth the read. JSA #9 was easy enough to follow without much prior knowledge, but is enhanced considerably by the context.

There's a lot going on, and plenty to like, with some great story progressions and well-done artwork.

Everything's coming together now, and it's a joy to see. It feels like this is what we've been building to for several issues, now. JSA #11 sets the stage for an epic confrontation, and brings all of the plot points together handily.

JSA #13 provides the start to an intriguing origin story, complete with the promises of conspiracy. A great time to jump in, if you're new to it. It took a few moments for me to catch onto the swing of things, with it leaping between plot threads, but when I did, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

JSA #14 continues to provide us with a solidly-written, well-drawn puzzle. Fans of this team should find much to enjoy about this rendition of the Justice Society's origins.The mystery thickens, and it's keeping my interest effectively.

JSA #15 may not be the most dramatic installment of the current JSA tale, but it's definitely starting to bring a few pieces of the puzzle together.

Welp, we’ve finally got the team together, and with a couple of former members rejoining the fold in the present day, I’d say things with the JSA run are going well so far. Some entertaining character moments, the completed puzzle of the villain’s plan, and a cliffhanger that’s got me eager for issue 18.

JSA #18 wraps up the titular team’s origin story with a healthy dose of action. It’s a wonderfully action-packed conclusion to the formation of the JSA, and ends with a delightfully ominous teaser.

Between Aztor’s judging spree, and the brief reveal of part of Kid Eternity’s history, JSA continues to be a nice, strong team title. It certainly keeps my attention, but I’m also very curious for more answers that I hope will come about soon.

JSA #21 gives us Aztar’s origin story, and moves the story along at a nice pace. It was done well, gave us some handy new information, and set up a couple of intriguing cliffhangers.

With this debut of the new Kilroy Is Here series, it’s safe to say that Kilroy is back. It does an effective job at bringing an anti-hero of the early nineties into a new era, with a particular sense of sincerity.

Mister Nemo #1 brings out a few familiar tropes, seen through a modern lens, and delivers what’s sure to be a fun, conspiracy-laced adventure.

Narco, with its first two issues, is definitely worth a read. May cause rampant theorizing, but that’s half the fun (other half being the artwork). Narco #2 is an excellent continuation of the story, and I do love a nice juicy mystery.

The puzzle of Jess’s murder gains a few new pieces as of Narco #3, and it leaves me eager to get the whole picture. The mystery just gets more and more intriguing, and we’ve got a nice little dramatic twist added to the mix. Bring on the next installment!

Narco #5 brings the story to a dramatic close, and proves that there’s some amount of power in friendship. It wraps things up pretty well, even if the reveal of the killer wasn’t a huge twist with how heavily foreshadowed it was.

Definitely keep an eye on Neighborhood Watch, which is giving quite the juicy mystery. Neighborhood Watch #1 sets up an intriguing mystery and leaves me looking forward to the investigation. Plus, the artwork is really nicely-done.

Neighborhood Watch #2 gives us a few answers, while raising a few more intriguing questions that leave the reader wanting more.

Neighborhood Watch keeps getting juicier and juicier, and is definitely a title to watch. The intrigue keeps amping up, and I’m eager to see what secrets are revealed next.

Public Domain #8 keeps things moving along nicely. We get some progress with both comic companies. When bringing new talent aboard a still-not-fully-established company, there would definitely be a few conflicts, and that's shown here without it being overwrought. We also get a couple of major developments for the gambling problem subplot, as well as a bit of a cliffhanger at the end that makes me eager to see how issue 9 plays out.

By keeping things focused on the Expo and all of the goings-on with that, Zdarsky was able to keep it at a good pace without it becoming overly busy.

Public Domain #10 is another strong issue. Not a lot of forward momentum, but some necessary context keeps the story moving along well.

I've been really enjoying the story. It's told well. Each issue is concise as it unfolds. Issue #5 is that all-important climax.

All in all, it's good to see things end positively for this kid, especially after the bonkers ride leading up to it.

If you need a good laugh, definitely check out Rafael Garcia: Henchman #1. It gives an enjoyable view of the superhero world from the other side of the conflict.

Old friends reunite this time around, in the penultimate installment of Rafael Garcia: Henchman. The fun tone’s still here, with an extra dose of satire. I look forward to seeing how it wraps up.

A curious tale with some well-drawn character work, I’d check Red Roots out. It’s definitely a weird story, and I’m digging it for that so far.

Strong characterization and vivid, energetic artwork are a huge pull for Royals #1. It’s a wonderful introduction to what’s sure to be an extremely entertaining story.

WHEW, that was quite a ride. Three issues in, and Royals keeps dealing out some crazy action.

Royals continues to be one of the more delightfully unhinged crime stories out there, and I look forward to seeing how things wrap in the next 2 issues. Royals #4 is just as bonkers as ever, and I love it for that.

Need a break from reality? Shazam #20 is a bright and joyful little shot of wish-fulfillment.

Looking for a story of sisterly bonds so strong, not even death can truly stand in the way? Sisterhood: A Hyde Street Story #1 is a creepy tale may be just what you need. The setup interests me (and you can't go wrong with a good ghost story).

Looking forward to seeing Violet fully get her revenge, and seeing how Sophie deals with it all. Sisterhood: A Hyde Street Story #2 moves the plot along beautifully, with some added emotional beats and some nicely-expressive art. And read past the story for some fun bonuses!

Sisterhood: A Hyde Street Story #3 is a tale of revenge becomes a story of betrayal, making the reader wonder if this is what it'd take to sever the friendship between Sophie and Violet.This one really brought the intensity, and it doesn't feel like it's about to slow anytime soon. Issue 4 can't come soon enough.

The friendship may be on the rocks, but the story is only getting more intense. With one issue left in this tale, now's as good a time as any to pick it up.

Sisterhood comes to a fiery conclusion in Sisterhood: A Hyde Street Story #5, and it's definitely worth the read. It's a satisfying end to an intense story, and it really brings the whole thing together.

With a good strong setup and even stronger visual language, it's worth it not to sleep on Sleep. Sleep #1 sets up an intriguing mystery, and evokes a bit of 90s nostalgia without being too over the top about it.

Sleep #2 is a juicy mystery, combined with a creepy premise, this comic keeps on delivering with some top-notch artwork and for all of the curiosity it's raising for me.

Sleep #3 is a well-rendered illustration of sheer desperation. The whole situation's getting more and more intense, with the introduction of mob justice to the equation and Jon being pushed to his limit. The artwork is phenomenal and that cliffhanger is cruel in the best possible way.

Now that Jon has someone on his side willing to search for solutions, Sleep #4 has an added glimmer of hope for him. Will they find some answers? Maybe not right now, but there're still a few issues left to the story, and friendship can go a long way.

I've been hooked since issue one of this story, and it shows no sign of letting go just yet. Sleep #5 is an excellent progression of the story that may provide some hope (and provides some fertile ground for theorizing).

Sleep keeps on delivering on the theory-fuel and narrative juiciness with Sleep #6. Also, read past the Letters page for this one. The story is just not letting go, and as more things get answered, more questions keep popping up and I look forward to seeing those answers.

Sleep has been one of the most consistently gripping comics on my list, and Sleep #7 is no exception. It does an effective job at showing the new level of desperation Jon finds himself in, and leaves me eager to see how it all ends.

Between the curse and the fashion industry itself, Smile For The Camera #1 brings enough freakishness to bring a SMILE to any horror fan’s face.

Smile: For The Camera #2 continues this beautifully-rendered, yet horrific, tale in a spectacular way. There's plenty of creepiness to be found, both realistically and supernaturally. Plus, the Smile Entity shows up a few more times, and as a fan of this franchise in general, it’s always a joy to see them.

Smile: For The Camera #5 brings us to a beautiful, well-earned conclusion, while continuing the creep factor the series is known for. They saved the best for last with chapter five, and I don’t think I’ve ever been so happy about an ending.

Super Creepshow #1 is off to a running start. We’ve got two really well-done stories that show the darker side of superpowers, with two styles of expressive artwork. Though any arachnophobes may want to approach this one with caution.

Super Creepshow #2 brings 2 more solid tales of horror with a superhero flavor, particularly “The Creepshow Two-In-One”. This issue may not be as strong as last time’s installment, but that’s the beauty of anthologies: that sort of mixed bag means there’s something for horror fans of every ilk, and I look forward to what the Creep provides next time.

A tale of cavemen from Mars and a story about wishing going horribly wrong. What more could one ask for in another chilling installment of Super Creepshow? Both stories work quite well, both bring that blend of superheroes and horror.

Supernatural #2 is a good read, no matter if you're already a fan or if you're a newcomer. There'll be something to enjoy about this one. It was a good solid issue, with an interesting ghost story at the center.

Things are getting stranger for the Winchesters, and I'd say it's definitely worth buckling in for the ride. The story's stronger than last time, actually improves upon the previous issue, and still has room for things to be further contextualized next time.

We’ve got some sentient car answers (or rather, ghost car answers), and a bit of a cliffhanger for next time with Supernatural #6. Here’s looking forward to #7!

Supernatural #7 ramps things up a bit, and shows just how powerful of an emotion love can truly be. It clears up a few things and leaves us on one hell of a cliffhanger that leaves me ready for issue 8.

With one goal attained and the other within reach, The Autumn Kingdom: The Wraithbound Queen #3 is an excellent continuation and sets up the endgame quite well.

Break out your tin foil hats and red-string conspiracy walls for this one, because with The Department of Truth #0, we're sure to be in for a ride. If you're already a fan of this series, you may have some idea of what to expect. If you (like myself) are entirely new to this, it's definitely an intriguing jumping-on point.

The Moon Is Following Us #1 leaves me wanting to see more of these characters and I want them to succeed, but at the same time, a bit more world-building would have been nice to see. Maybe in future issues?

With The Moon Is Following Us #2 we get an emotional kick-off to the journey itself, which leaves the reader thirsty for what comes next.

The Moon Is Following Us #3 is a strong installment, with some beautiful art and excellent forward momentum.

An intense installment, showing that the gloves are officially off.

Overall, The Moon Is Following Us #7 is perfect, especially for that battle at the zoo and the awesome visuals connected to it. And the themes of dealing with grief and growing up are just as strong as ever.

With Penny found and an absolute shocker of an ending, the stage is set for an intense final battle.

Excitement, joy, tears…you'll find all of the above in The Moon Is Following Us #9. The rest of the series was already great, but this is what it's all led up to.

The Moon Is Following Us #10 is a satisfying ending to an excellent series. All of the triumphs, near misses, and losses have led to this. Some very well-executed callbacks to the prior issues of the series, and some emotional beats make this a fitting conclusion.

A story of friendship, with the dark undercurrent of madness (or possibly possession), The Thing on the Doorstep #1 serves as an excellent first chapter. It’s a beautifully written introduction to the story itself, showing the evolution of a friendship that ultimately ends in tragedy.

The Thing on the Doorstep #2 definitely answers a few questions that came up last time, revealing more pieces of Edward’s unfortunate fate. Even if the first issue didn’t quite grab you, this one makes it worth it, I think.

As unsettling as ever, The Thing On The Doorstep #3 is a good way to get your Lovecraftian horror fix. The whole story’s a bit of a slow-burn, but the buildup has been worth it so far. This issue fills in more of the gaps, and we get some answers as to what is going on with Edward, and I’m curious as to what issue 2 will bring.

Well-done, slow-burn horror that shows one man’s steady descent into Lovecraftian madness, The Thing on the Doorstep #4 is well worth the read.

Universal Monsters: The Mummy #1 is a familiar story, but with an intriguing main character that may push the tale into a different sort of direction. The art could be slightly more dynamic, but the story's already pulling me in.

With the lovers' tragic backstory revealed, and the battle for control of Helen's body begun, this penultimate chapter keeps this take on the classic tale of The Mummy riveting.

The creative team brings Universal Monsters: The Mummy #4 to an epic (and tragic) conclusion. It's a well-rendered, beautifully-paced conclusion to this take on a classic tale. And it might be even better after a binge of the first three issues.

White Sky #1 is a heart-rending story of a father and daughter after the world’s end. It is looking like an interesting story so far. It’s a good solid start to a post-apocalyptic story that holds a good amount of promise.

A fine cross between a post-apocalyptic tale and a ghost story, White Sky #2 is showing a good amount of promise so far. The story’s getting more and more intriguing, and a little bit more about the current apocalypse is revealed. Hoping to learn more soon.

An enjoyable first installment in a new run of one-shots. It may be best enjoyed in print form due to a series of spreads, though.

The art and writing combine to craft what's sure to be a fun, well-crafted story. Five stars for this thrilling first installment in the new series.

Zatanna #2 is a gripping narrative, with some slightly disturbing visuals and an ever-deepening mystery.

If you're a horror fan, you will not be left starving with Zatanna #3. With some crazy visuals and a tense psychological aspect, this title keeps on delivering.

With some gorgeous artwork and a nice emotional rally point, Zatanna #4 preps us for a climax.

With some beautiful compositions (and a well-executed meta moment), Zatanna #5 is an exercise in reclaiming one's power. Bring on the final fight!

Epic battles, twisted visuals, and some closure, Zatanna #6 wraps things up in a most fitting way. This was a lovely end to one hell of a story. There are still a few things left to answer, but overall? Satisfied with how it concluded.

The magic continues in Zatanna #2, and that’s one hell of a cliffhanger. The artwork is the strongest point of all, but the story’s no slouch, either, and I’m riveted.

If someone hasn’t been reading the current Zatanna run, this might be a good place to pick it up. It doesn’t give a recap of the story so far, but it does explain just what being the Prime Magus entails.