The HomeWorld Critically kind pop culture news & more.
So here we are, my first official pull list on the new Homeworld, and I must admit its a bitter one. Last week saw the end of “Nightwing”, and this week sees the end of two more great DCU titles, “Robin” and “Birds of Prey”. Its quite the shame; these titles have had their missteps but have always been solid books with consistently good sales and fantastic stories. Mind you, these characters will be showing up next week in “Battle for the Cowl”, but that’s beyond the point. That said, let’s dive in headfirst: here’s what you need to be sure to pick up in comics this week!
DC COMICS
Birds Of Prey #127
Why You Should Read It:
Because one of the best DC books in years is coming to a close. In the wake of “RIP”, Oracle and the Birds of Prey seem to be dissolving. Is this the last we’ll see of the characters? Doubtful; there’s an Oracle mini coming, Huntress appears in Battle For The Cowl, Kate Spencer (Manhunter) debuts in “Detctive Comics” soon as Gotham’s new DA, and Misfit seems to be a lock for the new Teen Titans roster. Regardless, this is a great time to say good bye to a wonderful team…at least for a few months, until they decide to regroup.
In This Issue:
The Calculator has been infused with the Kilg%re, and nothing will stop him until he gets the answer to the ultimate question: Who is Oracle?
The Brave And The Bold #22
Why You Should Read It:
A fantastic story starting off with Green Lantern and The Phantom Stranger teaming up to help an orphanage of disabled children is culminating into an epic, galaxy spanning adventure. With beautiful art and wonderful writing, this is the best The Brave and The Bold has been since its launch.
In This Issue:
Screw galaxy spanning adventure; BatB #22 features the first Green Arrow/Green Lantern team up in a long while!
Green Lantern #36
Why You Should Read It:
“The Blackest Night” is gearing up to take over the DC Universe, and its ties are starting here. “Rage of the Red Lanterns” features the pending execution of Sinestro and the rise of the Blue and Red Lanterns.
In This Issue:
Hal Jordan, possessed by the ring of the Red Lantern! How will he overcome the power of the Red Light?
Robin #183
Why You Should Read It:
Much like “Birds of Prey”, “Robin” comes to a close with Tim Drake facing the fall out of “Batman RIP”.
In This Issue:
The final issue! The outcome of Robin is left in the air, as Gotham is left without its Batman.
Supergirl #38
Why You Should Read It:
I’m sure you all remember the Supergirl/Resurrection Man cancer boy arc. Well, the series has improved since then. With the fall out of New Krypton, Supergirl is torn between the world she’s adopted and the family she thought she lost.
In This Issue:
“Who Is Superwoman?” continues as the Girl of Steel dukes it out with the mysterious new Kryptonian.
Superman/Batman #55
Why You Should Read It:
Its the only place you’ll find Bruce Wayne in the Bat-suit these days, not to mention a damn fun read.
In This Issue:
The final part of “Super/Bat”! A powerless Superman does battle with a Super-powered Batman!
MARVEL
Amazing Spider-Man #587
Why You Should Read It:
Screw the haters: Brand New Day has rejuvenated Spider-Man and created some of the best stories to date. And now, Character Assasination is set to tie up the loose ends, as the first major Brand New Day arc winds towards its conclusion.
In This Issue:
Spider-Man stands accused of the murders of the Spider-Tracer Killer.
Dark Avengers #2
Why You Should Read It:
The fallout of Dark Reign has brought the concept of the Thunderbolts almost full circle, as a team of villains masquerade as Earth’s Greatest Heroes, The Avengers!
In This Issue:
The Dark Avengers continue to acclimate to the world of the Dark Reign, as Morgana le Faye prepares for revenge against Victor von Doom.
Punisher: Frank Castle #67
Why You Should Read It:
Frank Castle is still the best there is at…wait, that’s someone else. Regardless, this Adults Only title is still the best showcase for The Punisher at his gritty best.
In This Issue:
“Six Hours To Kill, Part 2”! Injected with a powerful poison that will kill in six hours, Punisher sets out to do what any normal vigilante would do: take as many bad guys with him as he can!
X-Factor #40
Why You Should Read It:
Adding a gritty, pulp fiction angle to the X-Universe has worked really well for this title, and its shocking twist and turns (such as Madrox the Multiple Man’s absorption of his child, revealed to be the offspring of one of his dupeS last issue), its one of the better titles on the market.
In This Issue:
Madrox tracks down the one dupe he never reabsorbed, and it can’t all be sunshine and roses.
X-Men Kingbreaker #3 (Of 4)
Why You Should Read It:
“War of the Kings” is coming, and its starting here. An excellent reintroduction to the current status of the Shi’ar Empire, just in time for them to go to war with the Inhumans.
In This Issue:
Emperor Vulcan sets his sights on the now freed Havok and Polaris.
X-Men Legacy #221
Why You Should Read It:
Professor Xavier’s quest to find himself is drawing to a close, and with it one of the darker X-titles to date. With guest stars galore and flashbacks to the past abound, X-Men Legacy has been the place to go for your dose of X-Men nostalgia.
In This Issue:
As Rogue faces certain peril at the hands of Danger, Prof. X and Gambit arrive in Australia.
Young X-Men #11
Why You Should Read It:
Cyclops guides a new generation of X-Men down the dark road of survival, as the after effects of Messiah CompleX trickle down the mutant world as a whole. With a brilliant story and wonderful art, Young X-Men is a powerful tale reminescent of the best classic X-Men titles.
In This Issue:
Ever since being turned in to glass, Young X-Man Dust is dying. But in order to save herself, will she willing seek the aid of one of their greatest foes?
