Without a doubt, short-time X-Men member X-Stacy has got to be the worst cast member of that team yet. Completely unredeemable and unremorseful, Stacy first met the X-Men when they went undercover in the mutant brothel she was employed at. Not a great start, right?
It doesn't get much better in that Stacy is as abrasive as it comes. Full of herself, and obsessed with using her power of touch, Stacy alienates her team members almost immediately. The ironic thing is that for a couple of issues, she is the only woman with Angel, Iceman, Wolverine, Nightcrawler, and Chamber. Once she gets back to the X-Mansion, she immediately messes with Paige Guthrie AKA Husk. She is unusually cruel, letting the whole room know that Paige wants to nail Angel in the worst way. From that minute on, she couldn't leave fast enough for me. Luckily for me, X-Stacy's creator Joe Casey left the book and Chuck Austen stepped in and got rid of this pest before she got any worse.
To this day when I read those back issues of Uncanny X-Men, I just shake my head and remember that she goes away quickly.
I almost hated to feature X-Stacy in this list because she is such an easy mark, but I just couldn't ignore the horror that followed her everywhere during her brief tenure. Can you believe that there are Five characters ahead of her? The ride just gets bumpier, folks!
Friday, September 30, 2005
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Harsh! Hated Female Characters #7: Scarlet Witch
For years the Scarlet Witch was my favorite Avenger. I couldn't imagine the team without her, even though I tended to be put off a tad by her relationship and subsequent marriage with the Vision. Wanda still intrigued me with her chaos powers and awkward family bonds with brother Quicksilver and father Magneto. Despite it all, Wanda remained a fighter and a hero.
Then Avengers Dissembled happened.
Wanda Maximoff is totally ruined for me. She has been turned into the ultimate villain and I can't stomach it. For that reason, the Scarlet Witch is number 7 on my list.
Then Avengers Dissembled happened.
Wanda Maximoff is totally ruined for me. She has been turned into the ultimate villain and I can't stomach it. For that reason, the Scarlet Witch is number 7 on my list.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Harsh! Hated Female Characters #8:Emma Frost
Emma Frost might be the darling of the X-Men these days, but I am not buying a minute of it. To me, she will always be the evil witch who tried on many occasions to defeat them. I agree with Kitty in Astonishing X-Men. She may have to work with her for the time being, but that doesn't mean she has to like it.
Emma first showed up in the same debut issue as Kitty Pryde, of all people. It was Uncanny X-Men #129, and Emma was the White Queen of the Hellfire Club. Back then she was bent on the X-Men's destruction, and showed no mercy to them at all. Things didn't improve when Emma formed her own group, The Hellions.
Through the Hellions, and with the Hellfire Club, Emma over and over tried to defeat the good guys. She was shallow, materialistic, and bitchy. Even when Emma supposedly became a good guy and mentored the kids in Generation X, there was still an unforgivable mean streak.
That is why Marvel cannot pull the wool over my eyes. Emma hasn't redeemed herself anymore then my 8 year old nephew has gotten tired of video games. To add insult to injury, Emma is now dating Scott Summers, a man she started a mental affair with during Grant Morrison's New X-Men tenure. I could forgive a lot of things, but dating Jean Grey's beloved Slim is more then I can take.
It has been alluded to in Astonishing X-Men #12 that Emma may not be on the up and up, and I hope that is the case. She isn't a heroine to me, but a villain I love to hate. Bring me back the Emma we deserve to read about, not this sugar coated, watered down version that has become so familiar.
Emma first showed up in the same debut issue as Kitty Pryde, of all people. It was Uncanny X-Men #129, and Emma was the White Queen of the Hellfire Club. Back then she was bent on the X-Men's destruction, and showed no mercy to them at all. Things didn't improve when Emma formed her own group, The Hellions.
Through the Hellions, and with the Hellfire Club, Emma over and over tried to defeat the good guys. She was shallow, materialistic, and bitchy. Even when Emma supposedly became a good guy and mentored the kids in Generation X, there was still an unforgivable mean streak.
That is why Marvel cannot pull the wool over my eyes. Emma hasn't redeemed herself anymore then my 8 year old nephew has gotten tired of video games. To add insult to injury, Emma is now dating Scott Summers, a man she started a mental affair with during Grant Morrison's New X-Men tenure. I could forgive a lot of things, but dating Jean Grey's beloved Slim is more then I can take.
It has been alluded to in Astonishing X-Men #12 that Emma may not be on the up and up, and I hope that is the case. She isn't a heroine to me, but a villain I love to hate. Bring me back the Emma we deserve to read about, not this sugar coated, watered down version that has become so familiar.
Monday, September 26, 2005
New Comics for September 28
Hey there! I hope you all are having a good week so far- we made it through Monday! Here is a list of comics I am picking up this week.
Revelations #2 (of 6)
Adventures of Superman #644
Batman #645
Catwoman #47
Flash #226
Jack Cross #2
JLA #119
JLA Classified #12
Legion of Super Heroes #10 (see pic at right)
Omac Project #6 (of 6)
Otherworld #7
Superman Batman #22
Invincible #26
PVP #19
The Gift #13
Amazing Spider-Man #524
Black Widow 2 #1 (of 6)
Cable Deadpool #20
Daredevil #77
Fantastic Four #531
Hulk Destruction #3 (of 4)
New Avengers #11
New X-Men #18
Nyx #7
Sentry #1 (of 8)
Spider-Man House of M #4 (of 5)
Ultimate Iron Man #4 (of 5)
Ultimate Secret #3 (of 4)
Ultimate Spider-Man #83
Wolverine #33
Young Avengers #7
MAYBE Wizard as well...
Have a great week! I will be back tomorrow with the continuation of the hated female character list.
Revelations #2 (of 6)
Adventures of Superman #644
Batman #645
Catwoman #47
Flash #226
Jack Cross #2
JLA #119
JLA Classified #12
Legion of Super Heroes #10 (see pic at right)
Omac Project #6 (of 6)
Otherworld #7
Superman Batman #22
Invincible #26
PVP #19
The Gift #13
Amazing Spider-Man #524
Black Widow 2 #1 (of 6)
Cable Deadpool #20
Daredevil #77
Fantastic Four #531
Hulk Destruction #3 (of 4)
New Avengers #11
New X-Men #18
Nyx #7
Sentry #1 (of 8)
Spider-Man House of M #4 (of 5)
Ultimate Iron Man #4 (of 5)
Ultimate Secret #3 (of 4)
Ultimate Spider-Man #83
Wolverine #33
Young Avengers #7
MAYBE Wizard as well...
Have a great week! I will be back tomorrow with the continuation of the hated female character list.
Sunday, September 25, 2005
New Review over at Kung Fu Rodeo/4 Color Review
Hey there! Happy Sunday! I just wanted to let you know that I put a new review up over at Kung Fu Rodeo/ 4 Color Review. If you get a chance, give it a look- it is a round up of short takes for the week.
Have a great week!
www.4colorreview.com
Have a great week!
www.4colorreview.com
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Harsh! Hated Female Characters #9: Starfire
I know this will make me unpopular, but I have just never cared for Titan Starfire. I like her origins and was fascinated with the battle against her sister Komand'r for Tamaran, but the more convuluted her history has become, the more I have grown to detest the whole "hey it's we need an outer space arc, let's blow up Starfire's home" scenario. I also don't like how she is portrayed as being disgustedly likable while fighting a blood lust for justice. Sure that may make her an enigma at first, but after awhile it feels played out.
I don't hate Starfire so much as I don't have the same appreciation for her as most hardcore Titan fans do. As I stated in my favorite character list, Donna Troy is my favorite from that team, and probably always will be. To me, Starfire was an attempt to make the Titans more powerful and sexy, and while it succeeded admirably, creators other then Marv Wolfman just don't know how to properly utilize her.
Starfire should be, in my eyes, more the intergalactic hero then the token space alien on an earthbound team. I would love to see her work with the Green Lantern Corps since it has started a comeback. Also, as seen currently in the Rann-Thanagar War, her sister is stirring crap again, so I would appreciate Starfire being closer and more able to police her. Another character I would like to see Starfire interact with is Adam Strange. I have a vision of a team or council comprised of Strange, Starfire, a couple of Green Lanterns, a Thanagarian, Tigorr, and Captain Comet. Maybe we could throw in Maxima for some comedy relief, as the villain Starfire easily defeats- kind of a road runner scenario.
If Starfire remains on earth, I would like to see her either have a job of sorts- modeling?- or live at a headquarters full time. I also would like to see her have a relationship with someone other then Nightwing. I was never a big fan of that romance, and would rather see her with a heavy hitter. Single, Starfire is a threat to other female characters because of her obvious charms, so a relationship would allow her more interaction with other women in the DCU.
Starfire as portrayed by Wolfman and penciler George Perez is classy and untouchable, eliciting a drool from the male characters, while they also feel a bit of fear. Other creators have let her barely-there outfit and boobies get in the way of developing more of a persona. To me, Starfire will always be considered a hottie, but I like it better when she comes off as more intelligent and strategic.
Starfire doesn't float my boat for sure, but there are still characters on my list to come that rankle me more. Tune in for more hate and more constructive criticism as I continue the countdown of disgust.
I don't hate Starfire so much as I don't have the same appreciation for her as most hardcore Titan fans do. As I stated in my favorite character list, Donna Troy is my favorite from that team, and probably always will be. To me, Starfire was an attempt to make the Titans more powerful and sexy, and while it succeeded admirably, creators other then Marv Wolfman just don't know how to properly utilize her.
Starfire should be, in my eyes, more the intergalactic hero then the token space alien on an earthbound team. I would love to see her work with the Green Lantern Corps since it has started a comeback. Also, as seen currently in the Rann-Thanagar War, her sister is stirring crap again, so I would appreciate Starfire being closer and more able to police her. Another character I would like to see Starfire interact with is Adam Strange. I have a vision of a team or council comprised of Strange, Starfire, a couple of Green Lanterns, a Thanagarian, Tigorr, and Captain Comet. Maybe we could throw in Maxima for some comedy relief, as the villain Starfire easily defeats- kind of a road runner scenario.
If Starfire remains on earth, I would like to see her either have a job of sorts- modeling?- or live at a headquarters full time. I also would like to see her have a relationship with someone other then Nightwing. I was never a big fan of that romance, and would rather see her with a heavy hitter. Single, Starfire is a threat to other female characters because of her obvious charms, so a relationship would allow her more interaction with other women in the DCU.
Starfire as portrayed by Wolfman and penciler George Perez is classy and untouchable, eliciting a drool from the male characters, while they also feel a bit of fear. Other creators have let her barely-there outfit and boobies get in the way of developing more of a persona. To me, Starfire will always be considered a hottie, but I like it better when she comes off as more intelligent and strategic.
Starfire doesn't float my boat for sure, but there are still characters on my list to come that rankle me more. Tune in for more hate and more constructive criticism as I continue the countdown of disgust.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Harsh! Hated Female Characters #10: Byrne-Era Wonder Girl
When John Byrne wrote Wonder Woman from issues #101 to #136, there were several things apparent, but nothing more glaring then the fact that his control freak tendencies demanded he create a new Wonder Girl. From minute one, I cringed.
Cassie Sandsmark, the daughter of Wonder Woman's curator friend Helena Sandsmark, displayed impish qualities that were reminiscent to me of Golden Age Wonder Woman pest Susie. I never in a million years dreamed that Byrne would make her a super hero.
Originally, Cassie used Wonder Woman's winged sandals and a strength enhancing bracelet. There were some close calls, but she kept coming back to super heroing. Donning an unattractive black wig and a Wonder Woman symbol shirt, Cassie definitely did not look the part.
My big problem with Cassie is that I swear that Byrne went out of his way to make her more unattractive and boyish then she needed to be. To me, Cassie looked like a younger cookie cutter version of Julia Kapatelis, a fate I would wish on no child. I also didn't like the goofiness that Cassie displayed, and wondered why Wonder Woman would allow her to ever have access to her instruments again.
When Cassie talked Zeus into letting her have powers, I sighed resignedly. She was here to stay, and I couldn't do anything about it.
The good news is that after Byrne's tenure on the book, Cassie was able to join Young Justice and adopt a more normal teenage girl persona. Writer Peter David and penciler Todd Nauck didn't sex her up, they simply made her look like a girl. Eventually, Cassie even got a more professional outfit. She has had growing pains, but has found some lasting friendships.
Cassie is now featured in both the Wonder Woman and Teen Titans titles, and it has been divulged that Zeus is her father. I am happy with her evolution, and even more glad that her roots are further behind her now.
I hated and still despise the Byrne-era Cassie/Wonder Girl. I am glad to see her nowadays, but still think that her original persona needs to be called on the carpet. Thank Peter David and the crew on Young Justice for treating Cassie with the care she so deserved.
(Pictured is the cover of Wonder Woman #113)
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
New List Coming Soon!
Now that I have completed my list of favorite female characters in comics, it is time to venture to the dark side- my least favorite females!
I know that not everyone will agree with my list, and that at times it might be one of your favorites on the firing line, but it's is freedom of speech that makes the world go round, so let's get to it!
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I will be back tomorrow with the kick off of my least favorite chicks!
I know that not everyone will agree with my list, and that at times it might be one of your favorites on the firing line, but it's is freedom of speech that makes the world go round, so let's get to it!
Have a wonderful Wednesday! I will be back tomorrow with the kick off of my least favorite chicks!
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Favorite Female Characters #1: Wonder Woman
I know this comes as no surprise to anyone, but Wonder Woman is my favorite female character. From the first time I laid eyes on her back in 1974, I have been captivated by her. To this day, I continue to be inspired by her strength, both in conviction and physical might. Wonder Woman takes a stand and sticks by it, which is one of the hardest things in life to do.
Her relationship with other heroes is unique in a way that is both revered and ridiculed. She preaches sisterhood, and some of her fellow heroines are underwhelmed, while others will follow her lead to the end of the earth. With men it is a different story. Some fall speechless, while others overcompensate. Princess Diana is beautiful and articulate, and many men fall for her physical perfection. Other men are cautious of her and suspicious, and would like to dominate her. Wonder Woman has so many layers to her that she provokes a reaction even if she is standing still.
Since her history is so well known, let's consider her present and future. Writer Greg Rucka has brought back a focus on her Greek roots, and the Gods play a big part in her actions. Diana has a new edge to her as well. Kill or be killed seems to be the new mantra. I don't know where this new conviction will take her, but in the upcoming Infinite Crisis, I fear the worst will happen.
Rumor is it that her series is being rebooted and that the changes will be plenty. One thing I know for certain is that I will continue to follow her exploits and be fascinated for years to come. It's Wonder Woman for Hera's sake!
Her relationship with other heroes is unique in a way that is both revered and ridiculed. She preaches sisterhood, and some of her fellow heroines are underwhelmed, while others will follow her lead to the end of the earth. With men it is a different story. Some fall speechless, while others overcompensate. Princess Diana is beautiful and articulate, and many men fall for her physical perfection. Other men are cautious of her and suspicious, and would like to dominate her. Wonder Woman has so many layers to her that she provokes a reaction even if she is standing still.
Since her history is so well known, let's consider her present and future. Writer Greg Rucka has brought back a focus on her Greek roots, and the Gods play a big part in her actions. Diana has a new edge to her as well. Kill or be killed seems to be the new mantra. I don't know where this new conviction will take her, but in the upcoming Infinite Crisis, I fear the worst will happen.
Rumor is it that her series is being rebooted and that the changes will be plenty. One thing I know for certain is that I will continue to follow her exploits and be fascinated for years to come. It's Wonder Woman for Hera's sake!
Monday, September 19, 2005
New Comics for September 21
What a day! At the risk of saving my number one female character until tomorrow, here is a list of the comics I am getting this week.
Conan #20
Batgirl #68
Birds of Prey #86
Day of Vengeance #6 (of 6)
Green Lantern Corps Recharge #1 (of 6)
Hellblazer #212
JSA Classified #3
Manhunter #14
Seven Soldiers Mister Miracle #1 (of 4)
Supergirl #2
Top Ten Beyond the Farthest Precinct #2 (of 5)
Wraithborn #1 (of 6) see pic at right
Girls #1
Hunter Killer #4
Black Panther #8
Captain America #10
Exiles #70
New Avengers #10
Ultimate Fantastice Four #23
Ultimate Fantastic Four Annual #1
Ultimates 2 #8
Wolverine #32
Strangers in Paradise #76
Have a great week!
Conan #20
Batgirl #68
Birds of Prey #86
Day of Vengeance #6 (of 6)
Green Lantern Corps Recharge #1 (of 6)
Hellblazer #212
JSA Classified #3
Manhunter #14
Seven Soldiers Mister Miracle #1 (of 4)
Supergirl #2
Top Ten Beyond the Farthest Precinct #2 (of 5)
Wraithborn #1 (of 6) see pic at right
Girls #1
Hunter Killer #4
Black Panther #8
Captain America #10
Exiles #70
New Avengers #10
Ultimate Fantastice Four #23
Ultimate Fantastic Four Annual #1
Ultimates 2 #8
Wolverine #32
Strangers in Paradise #76
Have a great week!
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Favorite Female Characters #2: Power Girl
Of all the characters on my list so far, the one I feel I have the most in common with is Power Girl. This may sound strange, and you might think I have lost my mind, but it is true. Here is why.
1) I grew up on a farm and did a lot of physical labor so I have always had huge biceps and muscular legs. I still work out to this day, and a lot of men are intimidated to a point by the fact that my arms are more pumped then theirs. Power Girl has the same problem.
2) Men have a hard time looking into my eyes for, well, obvious reasons. Though I don't dress like Power Girl, it has been this way for many years. I hate trying to have a conversation with a fella and he can't concentrate on it because I have large assets.
3) Sometimes I want to feel feminine, but it is hard because people have a preconceived notion about me being tough and ballsy. Power Girl gets frustrated by this from time to time, and I understand perfectly.
4) Sometimes I act tough and agressive to keep from being hurt. This is the core of the Power Girl character.
Those four reasons alone give me an empathy with Power Girl I don't have with many characters I read about. Power Girl is a woman trying to make it on her terms while attempting to disguise how vulnerable she truly is.
Unlike me, Power Girl doesn't know where she comes from. Hopefully by the end of October, she will, as Geoff Johns is writing her definitive origin in JSA Classified #1-4. I can hardly wait to see her take the spotlight when she truly knows who she is. Rumor has it she will play a huge role in Infinite Crisis, and I hope it isn't one where she gets killed because I would like to see her around for the long haul.
Kara or Karen Starr, whatever her true name is, Power Girl is an enigma among heroines. She takes a lot of crap for her cup size, but is at the core, all heart.
Recommended Reading: All Star Comics #58-74, Adventure Comics #461-466, Power Girl #1-4 mini-series, Justice League Europe series, JSA #31-current, JSA Classified #1-4.
1) I grew up on a farm and did a lot of physical labor so I have always had huge biceps and muscular legs. I still work out to this day, and a lot of men are intimidated to a point by the fact that my arms are more pumped then theirs. Power Girl has the same problem.
2) Men have a hard time looking into my eyes for, well, obvious reasons. Though I don't dress like Power Girl, it has been this way for many years. I hate trying to have a conversation with a fella and he can't concentrate on it because I have large assets.
3) Sometimes I want to feel feminine, but it is hard because people have a preconceived notion about me being tough and ballsy. Power Girl gets frustrated by this from time to time, and I understand perfectly.
4) Sometimes I act tough and agressive to keep from being hurt. This is the core of the Power Girl character.
Those four reasons alone give me an empathy with Power Girl I don't have with many characters I read about. Power Girl is a woman trying to make it on her terms while attempting to disguise how vulnerable she truly is.
Unlike me, Power Girl doesn't know where she comes from. Hopefully by the end of October, she will, as Geoff Johns is writing her definitive origin in JSA Classified #1-4. I can hardly wait to see her take the spotlight when she truly knows who she is. Rumor has it she will play a huge role in Infinite Crisis, and I hope it isn't one where she gets killed because I would like to see her around for the long haul.
Kara or Karen Starr, whatever her true name is, Power Girl is an enigma among heroines. She takes a lot of crap for her cup size, but is at the core, all heart.
Recommended Reading: All Star Comics #58-74, Adventure Comics #461-466, Power Girl #1-4 mini-series, Justice League Europe series, JSA #31-current, JSA Classified #1-4.
Favorite Female Characters #3: Jean Grey
Arguably the most powerful X-Men team member prior to her untimely demise, Jean Grey has been through the proverbial comic book ringer. She has died more then once, and though it seems that now it is for good, her power of the comeback cannot be underestimated.
Jean Grey has gone by Marvel Girl, Phoenix, and her own name, but each persona is backed by the heart of a hero. Her long suffering husband Scott Summers and the complexity of their relationship has made them the couple everyone roots for while knowing that it can't possibly last. Scott is currently in love with Emma Frost since Jean's death. Who knows where this will go? The most certain thing in X-Men lore is uncertainty.
Jean was a charter member of the X-Men. As the only female, Jean was on a pedestal in her teammates eyes. To this day she has a close relationship with the original members. Jean has also had a relationship with Charles Xavier, her mentor, that has raised eyebrows. Is it unrequited love? We may never know, and that is what makes it so intriguing.
As Phoenix, Jean could consume planets and entire systems. Her fight to remain true to heroism caused her first death back in Uncanny X-Men #137. When she was resurrected, it was said that the Phoenix had taken on her form rather then using her own. This, of course, led to X-Factor #1 and a whole mess of jumbled continuity.
I have been fascinated with Jean Grey since I first read The Essential X-Men #1. She is the most interesting character to me in the mutant genre. She is at times passionate but at other times completely untouchable and pure. Her red-headed temper is unbridled and adds an unpredictability. Jean is the type of character that endlessly changes.
Jean is a strong female character, and her relationships have been marred by her duties as a mutant. She is an optimist, and a fighter. I love that her power comes from within and that her telepathy and telekinesis are so strong that she has been able to be a secret weapon of sorts.
Jean's relationships with other women set an example as well. Maternal but whimsical, Jean and Ororo AKA Storm have one of the longest standing friendships in comics. I have also enjoyed watching Jean work with the next generation of mutants, and lead by example. Jean was a mother figure to Jubilee when she needed it most, but also had a knockdown-dragout with Psylocke when she thought she was after her man.
It is the complexities and the vulnerabilities that complete Jean as a character and make her one of my favorites. I have been slowly getting used to the idea of her being dead again, but know that we will see her again.
Recommended Reading: Essential X-Men Vol. 1, X-Factor #1-69, Uncanny X-Men: too many issues to count!, and New X-Men #114-154.
Jean Grey has gone by Marvel Girl, Phoenix, and her own name, but each persona is backed by the heart of a hero. Her long suffering husband Scott Summers and the complexity of their relationship has made them the couple everyone roots for while knowing that it can't possibly last. Scott is currently in love with Emma Frost since Jean's death. Who knows where this will go? The most certain thing in X-Men lore is uncertainty.
Jean was a charter member of the X-Men. As the only female, Jean was on a pedestal in her teammates eyes. To this day she has a close relationship with the original members. Jean has also had a relationship with Charles Xavier, her mentor, that has raised eyebrows. Is it unrequited love? We may never know, and that is what makes it so intriguing.
As Phoenix, Jean could consume planets and entire systems. Her fight to remain true to heroism caused her first death back in Uncanny X-Men #137. When she was resurrected, it was said that the Phoenix had taken on her form rather then using her own. This, of course, led to X-Factor #1 and a whole mess of jumbled continuity.
I have been fascinated with Jean Grey since I first read The Essential X-Men #1. She is the most interesting character to me in the mutant genre. She is at times passionate but at other times completely untouchable and pure. Her red-headed temper is unbridled and adds an unpredictability. Jean is the type of character that endlessly changes.
Jean is a strong female character, and her relationships have been marred by her duties as a mutant. She is an optimist, and a fighter. I love that her power comes from within and that her telepathy and telekinesis are so strong that she has been able to be a secret weapon of sorts.
Jean's relationships with other women set an example as well. Maternal but whimsical, Jean and Ororo AKA Storm have one of the longest standing friendships in comics. I have also enjoyed watching Jean work with the next generation of mutants, and lead by example. Jean was a mother figure to Jubilee when she needed it most, but also had a knockdown-dragout with Psylocke when she thought she was after her man.
It is the complexities and the vulnerabilities that complete Jean as a character and make her one of my favorites. I have been slowly getting used to the idea of her being dead again, but know that we will see her again.
Recommended Reading: Essential X-Men Vol. 1, X-Factor #1-69, Uncanny X-Men: too many issues to count!, and New X-Men #114-154.
Saturday, September 17, 2005
New Review at KFR: Wildcats Nemesis #1
I just posted a new review over at Kung Fu Rodeo/4 Color Review. If you get a chance, check it out!
I hope you are all having a wonderful Saturday! More on the favorite female list soon, as we make it to the top of the chart!
I hope you are all having a wonderful Saturday! More on the favorite female list soon, as we make it to the top of the chart!
Favorite Female Characters #4: Pre-Crisis Huntress
Imagine a hero that is the daughter of Batman and Catwoman. Blessed with nerves of steel and unerring cunning, this hero could potentially lead the next generation of super heroes. It would be a heady legacy to live up to, but one that could be ultimately rewarding.
Back before Crisis on Infinite Earths, there was such a hero. Her name was Helena Wayne and she was called The Huntress. Helena was this child I just described, and she played a role in the Justice Society of America and Infinity Inc., before Crisis made her origin impossible and she was killed in in that maxi-series.
From the moment she appeared in full view in All Star Comics #69 to save her father Bruce Wayne, Helena caught my attention and curiousity. She was new to the hero business, but was determined to keep her father safe from threats. With an aggressive attitude and a broken heart received from her mother's untimely death in her origin tale DC Super Stars #17, Helena had a lot to prove.
Helena soon became a full fledged member of the JSA, replacing her "kind of brother" Robin. She immediately gelled with Power Girl and the rest of her teammates, and became a favorite of many readers. When All-Star Comics ended and the stories were moved to Adventure Comics, Helena witnessed the death of her father at the hands of an insane criminal. She knew she had big shoes to fill, and swore to continue to fight crime.
When the young upstarts of Infinity Inc. came along, Helena, Power Girl, and Star Spangled Kid all joined together. Her participation was mostly limited to the first 20 issues and after that she was predominantly seen as a permanent back up story in Wonder Woman.
Those tales really swept me into Helena's world. In her secret identity, Helena was a practicing lawyer. She met a man she liked, and all seemed well with the world. Helena fought crime as The Huntress and had a full personal life as well.
Then came Crisis. Helena died along with Robin (Earth 2) trying to save the world. Though it was a neccesity to give the post-Crisis continuity cohesion, to this day it still bugs me. I like the new Huntress character, but she had never reached the dynamics to me that the original Huntress had. There was a lineage and sense of tradition that Helena lived up to, and her courage and training were unparalleled.
Raise a glass to Helena Wayne, the original Huntress. Cross your fingers that someday her back up stories may be published in a trade paperback so that we may all enjoy her once again.
Recommended Reading: DC Super Stars #17, All-Star Comics #69-74, Adventure Comics #461-466, Wonder Woman Vol 1 #275-299.
Back before Crisis on Infinite Earths, there was such a hero. Her name was Helena Wayne and she was called The Huntress. Helena was this child I just described, and she played a role in the Justice Society of America and Infinity Inc., before Crisis made her origin impossible and she was killed in in that maxi-series.
From the moment she appeared in full view in All Star Comics #69 to save her father Bruce Wayne, Helena caught my attention and curiousity. She was new to the hero business, but was determined to keep her father safe from threats. With an aggressive attitude and a broken heart received from her mother's untimely death in her origin tale DC Super Stars #17, Helena had a lot to prove.
Helena soon became a full fledged member of the JSA, replacing her "kind of brother" Robin. She immediately gelled with Power Girl and the rest of her teammates, and became a favorite of many readers. When All-Star Comics ended and the stories were moved to Adventure Comics, Helena witnessed the death of her father at the hands of an insane criminal. She knew she had big shoes to fill, and swore to continue to fight crime.
When the young upstarts of Infinity Inc. came along, Helena, Power Girl, and Star Spangled Kid all joined together. Her participation was mostly limited to the first 20 issues and after that she was predominantly seen as a permanent back up story in Wonder Woman.
Those tales really swept me into Helena's world. In her secret identity, Helena was a practicing lawyer. She met a man she liked, and all seemed well with the world. Helena fought crime as The Huntress and had a full personal life as well.
Then came Crisis. Helena died along with Robin (Earth 2) trying to save the world. Though it was a neccesity to give the post-Crisis continuity cohesion, to this day it still bugs me. I like the new Huntress character, but she had never reached the dynamics to me that the original Huntress had. There was a lineage and sense of tradition that Helena lived up to, and her courage and training were unparalleled.
Raise a glass to Helena Wayne, the original Huntress. Cross your fingers that someday her back up stories may be published in a trade paperback so that we may all enjoy her once again.
Recommended Reading: DC Super Stars #17, All-Star Comics #69-74, Adventure Comics #461-466, Wonder Woman Vol 1 #275-299.
Favorite Female Characters #5: Invisible Woman
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Thursday, September 15, 2005
Favorite Female Characters #6- Deena Pilgrim
Writer Brian Michael Bendis strikes again on this list with Deena Pilgrim from Powers. Deena is as ballsy and bad ass as it gets. She has a dynamic personality and sometimes it wins the day while other times it backfires on her. She is perfectly suited to the detective work she does in the homicide division of her metropolitan police department.
Deena is paired up with former power (short for super powered individual) Christian Walker. The two work well together, and despite some hairy situations, continue to team up on spotlight power homicides. They have solved the most difficult of cases, many time in great peril. Deena has been hospitalized and almost died, but isn't afraid to put herself out there again.
I love the weeks Powers comes out at my local comic shop. Each issue is cleverly written and drawn, and there is always a deeper plot going under the smaller ones. I can always expect the unexpected. Deena is the star of the book in many respects, and shares the lead with Walker. Their chemistry and the complicated cases they must deal with make them unique and compelling in comics today.
If you are looking for a wonderful female character to discover, Deena is it. She is fearless and unimpressed by the powers she deals with. Lately she is having major issues of her own that have deepened and given dimension to her character. I appreciate the dynamics of her relationships with others and enjoy the fact that she says exactly what is on her mind. Deena has my vote for most interesting new female character for sure.
Recommended Reading: Powers TPB's as follows- Who Killed Retro Girl, Roleplay, Little Deaths, Supergroup, Anarchy, Sellouts, Forever, and Legends.
Deena is paired up with former power (short for super powered individual) Christian Walker. The two work well together, and despite some hairy situations, continue to team up on spotlight power homicides. They have solved the most difficult of cases, many time in great peril. Deena has been hospitalized and almost died, but isn't afraid to put herself out there again.
I love the weeks Powers comes out at my local comic shop. Each issue is cleverly written and drawn, and there is always a deeper plot going under the smaller ones. I can always expect the unexpected. Deena is the star of the book in many respects, and shares the lead with Walker. Their chemistry and the complicated cases they must deal with make them unique and compelling in comics today.
If you are looking for a wonderful female character to discover, Deena is it. She is fearless and unimpressed by the powers she deals with. Lately she is having major issues of her own that have deepened and given dimension to her character. I appreciate the dynamics of her relationships with others and enjoy the fact that she says exactly what is on her mind. Deena has my vote for most interesting new female character for sure.
Recommended Reading: Powers TPB's as follows- Who Killed Retro Girl, Roleplay, Little Deaths, Supergroup, Anarchy, Sellouts, Forever, and Legends.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Favorite Female Characters #7: Jessica Jones
Jessica Jones is a newer character in the Marvel Universe, but one of the most compelling I have encountered in a long time. Her first series was titled Alias and it was published through the Max line. Created and written by Brian Michael Bendis, Jessica is a woman with many layers.
When we are first introduced to Jessica, her life is at a low point. She drinks and smokes way too much and finds herself looking for male companionship to ease her loneliness. As a private eye, Jessica is in a hazardous job, and there isn't a lot of gratification. Though she has super powers, she forgos them in search of normalcy.
Jessica had been a costumed hero called Jewel and later Knightress. Her career ran into a major snag and she avoided the hero lifestyle. As the Alias series unfolded, Jessica renewed friendships with Carol Danvers and Luke Cage. This has lead to some opportunities and fellowship that have had interesting results.
Jessica has found her own inner strength and become a hero in her own right through her deeds. Through her relationships and adventures, she has found a semblance of hope, and has matured as a character. I like her because she has super powers but is very human. Bendis has a gift for great characterization, and I feel that Jessica Jones is his masterpiece. She feels like someone I would be friends with, which is rare to me in a character.
After the Alias series ended, Marvel relaunched Jessica with the bi-monthly series "The Pulse". Jessica is currently expecting Luke Cage's child and is in a committed relationship with him. Issue #11 of The Pulse came out today and it is part one of two featuring the birth of said child. That should be an emotional and traumatic event is Marvel and Bendis are playing a part. I am secretly wishing for a sweet little story but am not holding my breath.
Recommended Reading: Alias #1-28, The Pulse #1-11.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Favorite Female Characters #8: Black Canary
There have been, in my mind, three incarnations of Black Canary. The original was first seen in the Golden Age as a petty thief before joining the JSA. The second is the current Black Canary's mother who was also the first incarnation under a different name. Lastly, there the current Black Canary, Dinah Drake Lance, which is the one I am going to make a case for.
First seen back in Justice League of America 76 pre-crisis (I believe that is the number, don't shoot me!), Dinah was originally thought to be the Earth 2 version, or more simply, her mother. I won't go into all the back story but suffice to say, Dinah joins the JLA, falls for Oliver Queen AKA Green Arrow, and kicks a whole lot of butt.
Currently Dinah is seen in Birds of Prey along with Barbara Gordon AKA Oracle. She is a proficient at a number of martial arts techniques and is training surreptiously with Lady Shiva. Dinah also studied fighting with Wildcat, so she knows how to lay a mean right cross.
Known for her "Canary Cry", Black Canary can also take villains out with a sonic boom of power through her throat and out her mouth. She tries to rely on her physical fighting skills, but uses the cry for the more dire of circumstances.
Dinah has also had a long, checkered relationship with Green Arrow. I won't spend a lot of time on it here, but I do know that his womanizing ways have affected her deeply, turning her into a flirt to mask her pain. Oracle has called her a "Man's Woman" and she definitely has the looks and personality to pull it off.
What I really like about the Black Canary character is her courage and pluck. She has survived horrible tortures and been able to slowly move past the pain, both physically and mentally. Dinah has a wonderful working and personal relationship with Oracle that is shown splendidly in the Birds of Prey title. It is a book that women can read with pride, knowing that the focus is on the characters, not their T&A.
Black Canary has a rich and compelling history, starting from her first incarnation and lasting to this day. I can hardly wait to see what writers have planned for her future, and hope she is around for a long time to come.
Recommended Reading: Birds of Prey #1 to current, Justice League of America #76-200, Black Canary Archives #1.
First seen back in Justice League of America 76 pre-crisis (I believe that is the number, don't shoot me!), Dinah was originally thought to be the Earth 2 version, or more simply, her mother. I won't go into all the back story but suffice to say, Dinah joins the JLA, falls for Oliver Queen AKA Green Arrow, and kicks a whole lot of butt.
Currently Dinah is seen in Birds of Prey along with Barbara Gordon AKA Oracle. She is a proficient at a number of martial arts techniques and is training surreptiously with Lady Shiva. Dinah also studied fighting with Wildcat, so she knows how to lay a mean right cross.
Known for her "Canary Cry", Black Canary can also take villains out with a sonic boom of power through her throat and out her mouth. She tries to rely on her physical fighting skills, but uses the cry for the more dire of circumstances.
Dinah has also had a long, checkered relationship with Green Arrow. I won't spend a lot of time on it here, but I do know that his womanizing ways have affected her deeply, turning her into a flirt to mask her pain. Oracle has called her a "Man's Woman" and she definitely has the looks and personality to pull it off.
What I really like about the Black Canary character is her courage and pluck. She has survived horrible tortures and been able to slowly move past the pain, both physically and mentally. Dinah has a wonderful working and personal relationship with Oracle that is shown splendidly in the Birds of Prey title. It is a book that women can read with pride, knowing that the focus is on the characters, not their T&A.
Black Canary has a rich and compelling history, starting from her first incarnation and lasting to this day. I can hardly wait to see what writers have planned for her future, and hope she is around for a long time to come.
Recommended Reading: Birds of Prey #1 to current, Justice League of America #76-200, Black Canary Archives #1.
Monday, September 12, 2005
Celebrity Fit Club to Return for a Third Season
Great news for all you reality television fans, myself included. It was announced on MTV's TRL that Celebrity Fit Club is being renewed for a third season on VH-1.
The first cast member announced is D12's Bizarre. Large and in charge, it will be interesting how he stacks up against legendary fit clubbers Gary Busey, Willie Aames, and the lovely Tocarra (pictured at right).
As long as trainer Harvey Walden IV is back to kick some butt and whip the crew into shape, I will be there with bells on. I find Celebrity Fit Club both invigorating in the successes and supremely annoying in problem celebs like Aames and Daniel Baldwin from the first season.
If you haven't checked out Celebrity Fit Club, keep an eye out for it when it comes back this Winter or next Spring.
The first cast member announced is D12's Bizarre. Large and in charge, it will be interesting how he stacks up against legendary fit clubbers Gary Busey, Willie Aames, and the lovely Tocarra (pictured at right).
As long as trainer Harvey Walden IV is back to kick some butt and whip the crew into shape, I will be there with bells on. I find Celebrity Fit Club both invigorating in the successes and supremely annoying in problem celebs like Aames and Daniel Baldwin from the first season.
If you haven't checked out Celebrity Fit Club, keep an eye out for it when it comes back this Winter or next Spring.
New Comics for September 14
Holy Crap I have had a busy Monday! I hope you are all well and keeping the home fires burning.
Here is my list of new comics for this week.
100 Bullets #64
Action Comics #831
All Star Batman & Robin #2
Desolation Jones #3 (pic at right)
Fables #41
Green Arrow #54
JLA #118
JSA #77
Majestic #9
Mvemovore #6 (of 6)
Nightwing #112
Rann Thanagar War #5 (of 6)
Wildcats Nemesis #1 (of 9)
Darkness #23
Marvel Knights 4 #22
Marvel Knights Spider-Man #18
Mutopia #3 (of 5)
New Thunderbolts #12
Pulse #11 -Luke and Jessica's baby is here!
Thor Blood Oath #1 (of 6)
Ultimate X-Men #63
X-Men #175
That's all folks! Have a wonderful week!
Here is my list of new comics for this week.
100 Bullets #64
Action Comics #831
All Star Batman & Robin #2
Desolation Jones #3 (pic at right)
Fables #41
Green Arrow #54
JLA #118
JSA #77
Majestic #9
Mvemovore #6 (of 6)
Nightwing #112
Rann Thanagar War #5 (of 6)
Wildcats Nemesis #1 (of 9)
Darkness #23
Marvel Knights 4 #22
Marvel Knights Spider-Man #18
Mutopia #3 (of 5)
New Thunderbolts #12
Pulse #11 -Luke and Jessica's baby is here!
Thor Blood Oath #1 (of 6)
Ultimate X-Men #63
X-Men #175
That's all folks! Have a wonderful week!
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