What do you think about Rebirth, macOS & Suicide Squad?

Whilst it’s summertime and work is quiet, the world of comics, technology and general geekiness seems to be in full flow.

Rebirth. I’m still totally chuffed that DC and Geoff Johns did that fantastic Rebirth issue.Of course, with the Watchmen angle, three Jokers and the return of key (missed) characters, it’s all to play for.

I posted my initial thoughts here but now a good few weeks on, I think I need to post a review (which I’m in the process of drafting). Ultimately, there is some good stuff, but I want one of the three topics mentioned above, to be currently making its debut.

At the moment, it feels like, we are off on another DC adventure (some good, some bad). Example: Nightwing. Not sure how long I’ll stick with it. Similarly, that first Superwoman title was a little strange! Not sure that it worked. Batman and Detective Comics are great, as is Wonder Woman. Anyway, I think a review then cull is in order.

Flash/ Justice League. I saw an article on CBR yesterday suggested (but in no way confirming) that the movie Flash and TV flash could in some way, be seen on the same screen due to the Speedforce. I love this idea (as I’m sure most fans do).

And if legal issues weren’t … an issue … then a simple shot where we see one Flash travelling through the Speedforce and shots from the other ‘world’ whizz by. They’ve already done it on the CW with images from other shows. I’ve previously tweeted on this!!!! Make it happen. 

Apple. We’re getting closer to the release of new tech and software. I’m most excited about macOS. I love a new operating system and especially one for my laptops. Aside from the few Google apps I use (Sheets, Gmail and Maps) I’m pretty invested in the Apple ecosystem and it has definitely improved over the years so I‘m expecting the iOS and macOS closeness to really pull things together. 

Suicide Squad. Critics have to spoil it for the rest of us. My thoughts on the DC universe and the constant panning they get, is simple. I think it has nothing to do with the movies.

These critics and let’s call them, Marvel only supporters, have it in for DC and Time Warner, simply on the basis that they don’t like the company. When BvS came out, there were people on IMDB giving it one star out of ten.

Now, either these people are not comic fans, going to see a comic movie and expecting Schindler’s List. Or, they are trolls. The latter is more likely. To be the type of person that does that, you must really have a lot of anger. Now I don’t think people hate Batman as a character. Superman gets mixed responses but again, I don’t think he’s universally hated. His comic book sales tend to be pretty consistent. So, that leaves the companies and the directors (that the companies choose.)

BvS, even if considered a flop, wasn’t a bad movie. I gave it a nine! Here. But for those that felt it was a disappointment, they were still scoring it at a six or seven. So giving it a one, is ridiculous. As to Suicide Squad, I’m going to see it tomorrow and write an honest review shortly after.

And, let’s not forget, these movies are made for the fans. 

Comics due 30 September

Would you look at that! The final instalment of Sandman Overture is nearly with us. I think I’m going to have to read them all again to remind myself of what’s going on.

Also, another Batman Annual. Historically I’ve found these to be poor. I’m not sure I’m that fussed, especially if it’s still in a universe where Bruce is not Batman – struggling with that.

Captain America White #2
Batman Annual #4 (maybe)
Justice League (2011) #44
Sandman Overture #6 (Of 6)
Providence #5 (Of 12)

Long Boxes

So I managed to get to Orbital Comics in London yesterday after work. First time this year and I have to say, it’s easy to just spend hours in that place. Like any comic store that offers back issues, it’s just box after box of old comics. There is something hugely satisfying in going through comics in alphabetical, numerical order and finding one that is missing from your collection.

I bought some old New Avengers and some Justice League of America. Next stop, London Comic Mart at the end of February. Can’t wait.

DC Villians

So I read over the weekend that there is now some chat that Brainiac might be the villain in the Justice League movie. I have to say that would be very cool. Darkseid is cool and I’m sure will make an appearance at some point but for a first movie, Brainiac could prove to be both entertaining and menacing. If he does appear, I hope they take inspiration from the Geoff Johns and Gary Frank story, which was awesome. 

Cyborg 2.0

Cyborg was never a character I had previously liked but the New 52 has painted him as a slightly cooler, edgier character and he has definitely won his place in the Justice League. He’s been having a hard time of it since Grid turned up (a very cool concept) and is now attempting a comeback. Check him out in the current run of Jutice League issues. They are definitely worth a read. 

Current Reading

Some of what I’m reading currently – old and new

Zero Issues

Getting through more of them now and it is a mixed bag I have to say.

Batman #0 was disappointing which was surprising. I guess Snyder and Capullo can’t nail it every time. I hope #13 is better. Hopefully get to read that at the weekend.

Detective Comics #0 was excellent. Love Gregg Hurwitz’s writing and of course Mr Daniel. This comic is sharp, thoughtful, dark, relevant and intriguing. Good work Sirs.

NightWing #0 was also very good. Dick Grayson has always had a presence in the DC Universe which compliments Batman. The story depicted here gives a great origin take on the original Robin. It also ties the NightWing angle in nicely (as you would expect). Tom Delfalco, Kyle Higgins and Eddy Barrows all get Grayson and this is a thoroughly enjoyable and very ‘DC’ comic (that’s a good thing).

Red Hood #0. I have already blogged briefly on this. I thought it was very good. I remember reading the death of Jason when I first collected comics and anything that relates to that I find irresistible.

Green Lantern #0. I think overall the New 52 GL core title has been very enjoyable. Pitting Hal with Sinestro is always entertaining, especially when the power keeps shifting between them. For me, GL is not the same when these two aren’t around. Now #0 is taking the direction elsewhere and whilst it was a good issues, I wonder if it can continue to be as enjoyable. I hope so, but time will tell.

Earth 2 was ok. It didn’t blow me away and similarly Justice League, Phantom Stranger and Catwoman, were all a bit weak. With all that potential, I would have expected something a bit more special.

So what is going on in the world of geek?

It’s seemed pretty quiet these last few weeks – I don’t know if that’s because I have been quiet at work or whether everybody has just got up of their backside and gone on holiday. I can’t remember if I blogged about this yet, but I’m moving house next month and as such have loads to do on that front – mainly deciding geeky things like – where is my comic collection going to live? What new sound system should I buy? Should I get some new comic art for the dining room? These important things, not what sofa’s to get, what about a new kitchen, bathroom etc etc.

Anyway, stuff that’s caught my eye (in list order for a change, but not in order of priority)

1. Apple sticking it to Samsung. Interestingly, some commentators have suggested this is a great result for Samsung, on the basis that if they are deemed to be copying Apple, you should buy a Samsung device as they are half the price! The case has a long way to go and let’s not forget the counter-sue from Samsung.

2. Joss Whedon and his S.H.E.I.L.D TV show (via ABC) has got the green light. That is getting people excited especially as it seems he will be quite heavily involved (including writing duties). Same universe, smaller budget – could be cool.

3. Superman kisses Wonder Woman. I’m a bit meh about this. Frank Miller had the two of them at it years ago.

4. Justice League chat – as expected they are already talking about a new Batman movie pre- JLA. Too soon for me but always keen to see what they come up with. It has to be better than Avengers otherwise it’ll be a fail.

5. Avengers Assemble – deleted scenes and alternate endings beginnings making their way onto the Internet. Always interesting.

6. Before Watchmen – I was always going to read these but had mixed feelings about whether it should be done or not. So far I have really enjoyed them and I think they will only get better.

Justice League Movie

So apparently Ben Affleck is in line for directing a possible Justice League movie. That might be inspired! He did get a lot of stick for Daredevil (which I really liked) but he does know how to direct and he does get comics, so… Could be interesting. Will he want a part?

JLI

I’m not reading this but cool cover