Well, somehow we are already in our third month of 2018. Somehow the days feel longer but the weeks just keep flying by. With February now in the books felt it was a good time to look at last month to pick out the best comic book issues that were released. Some things before we get started.
First and foremost this is simply my list and with that comes a great deal of subjectivity. Any art form is a subjective medium and taste plays a major role. So if you feel my rankings are way off you probably have a legitimate point. My hope is to simply to highlight great books that deserve attention. We too often focus on the negative so why not take some time to celebrate the positive.
Since this is my list that also means I can only rank issues I have actually read. There may be a book that is in your top five that does not make the cut. Please let me know. I try to read as much as I could but I do not read everything. I am open though to learn about titles I am missing out on reading.
In order to be eligible for this list an issue simply needs to be a single issue that was released in the month of February. Reprints do not count. Also for series that had more than one issue that came out this past month I tried to only pick the best one for diversity purposes. With that said now onto the list
30. Incognegro: Renaissance #1
30. Incognegro: Renaissance #1Writer: Mat Johnson
Artist: Warren Pleece
Publisher: Berger Books
What I love about this art form is how many types of storytelling that no longer exist in film or television can still be found in the pages of comic books. If you are someone who enjoys the classic crime stories of the fifties that were full of Russian doll type mystery this comic will give you what you have been missing. One that depicts Harlem in the 1920’s and the larger than lifestyles of the time, but the dichotomy that existed between haves and have-nots. Although this is the start of another volume so far there is no need to go back and read the previous arc to grasp what occurred in this issue.
Warren Pleece’s black and white art tells a great story. The pages read well with great acting and figure designs that make each person feel unique and their own. It is odd to say but murder is not the exciting plot device it once was. Considering that a story that has the potential murder as the main story piece may make one think this narrative is passe’. Why it works is everything else that surrounds that story. From the social and political issues to the clear indication a much more complex mystery lies underneath.
29. Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #39
29. Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #39Writer: Robert Venditti
Artist: Rafa Sandoval, Jordi Tarragona
Publisher: DC Comics
When you look at the characters that have benefited the most since DC had their Rebirth Hal Jordan is on the top of that list. He’s gone from being apart of one of DC’s most disappointing titles to one of their most consistent. This current arc showcases how much he has grown as a character since he regained the will he once lost.
Personally, I enjoy comics when different villains battle it out with heroes outside their norm. Seeing Magento take on The Avengers or Joker try to outlast The Flash, and here we have Zod and his family fighting with the Green Lanterns. Hal has a level of swagger that has been missed, and Venditti writes a great Zod. He is not this one-note character bent on world domination. Here he has a point. Where were the Green Lanterns when Krypton was being destroyed? Creating a narrative when the protagonist has some moral high ground leads to a much better story.
28. Mata Hari #1
28. Mata Hari #1Writer: Emma Beeby
Artist: Ariela Kristantina
Publisher: Berger Books
I may be uncultured swine because I never heard of the story of Mata Hari before reading this comic. In fact, I had no idea it was even based on any form of reality until reading the ‘Behind the Veil’ letter at the end of the issue. Considering all the facets of this story I find it so surprising it is not talked about more.Sometimes you read the first issue of a comic and there is something about it that makes you feel you about to read something special.
That happened with this book and a big reason why was the narrative structure. It bounces around through a number of different time periods as the trial of Mata Hari is set to begin. With that as the centerpiece, we get to see the incredible life she has lived up to that point. Being a spy that used her sexual prowess to find the information she needs. For some, they could not decide what morally repulsed them more. Her willingness to work with the enemy or utilize her body in ways that were strictly forbidden. Overall this does very much what a first issue should. Selling you on the main character and majorly wetting the appetite for the story that is about to be told.
27. Lockjaw #1
27. Lockjaw #1Writer: Daniel Kibblesmith
Artist: Carlos Villa
Publisher: Marvel
Lockjaw is a good boy. Yes, he is, oh yes he is. …Sorry got lost in thought there for a moment. Everyone’s favorite oversized teleporting dog now has his own series and surprise, surprise it is a lot of fun. Great art can be made with limited tools. When the titular character of your series is a giant dog that doesn’t talk or play basketball one wonders how can someone make this work. Daniel Kibblesmith and Carlos Villa showed it is possible.
It also helps when you bring in everyone’s favorite D list hero D-Man. Personally, I love comics that focus on those forgotten and oddball characters. Still getting over the fact that the Great Lake Avengers once again saw their title canceled. This made for an endearing read full of gigantic heart. I have no idea how long a story like this could possibly work so, for now, I am just going to enjoy it.
26. Flash #40
26. Flash #40Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist: Carmine Di Giandomenico
Publisher: DC Comics
Overall I enjoy the bi-weekly release schedule for DC and Marvel’s major titles. If there is one major downside is the lack of consistency with artists. For some series, the change is not that drastic. My enjoyment of The Flash drastically goes up when it is being penciled by Carmine Di Giandomenico. He has an energy to his designs and movement that is needed for making a character like Flash work.
That is not to diminish the scripts done by Joshua Williamson. He has found his voice with this book and has been progressively getting better and better over these last few months. With Flash Wars on the horizon, Williamson has been building momentum to make that it an event to be excited about. Bringing in Grodd is a great way to accomplish just that.
25. Luke Cage #170
25. Luke Cage #170Writer: David F. Walker
Artist: Guillermo Sanna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Over the last few years, Marvel has had a number of great series that got canceled far too soon due to lack of sales and attention. David F. Walker has had two by himself. Previously his Iron Man and Powerfist story and now Luke Cage. At least he is leaving the title on a high note with one of his best issues since joining Marvel.
As Walker indicates in his letter at the end of this issue one of the best things about Luke Cage is the fact that he is a great dad, however, we do not get to see him being a father nearly enough. To remedy that you have this issue with is Cage simply attempting to tell his daughter a story. It’s a low stakes issue that showcases was it so great about the dynamic between Cage, Jessica Jones, and their child. Not many would choose to end their run on a character with a low key story like this one. I commend Walker for making that choice and look forward to whatever his future awaits him.
24.Calexit #2
24.Calexit #2Writer: Matt Pizzolo
Artist: Amancay Nahuelpan
Publisher: Black Mask Studios
Everyone has their process for how long they stay with a new series. For some, if the first issue does not grab them enough it is an instant drop. Personally, I try to give any new series that I have interest in at least three issues. By three issues you can get a full sense of the direction of the comic and the overall quality of the characters. Sometimes that process leads to staying with a book for too long, but sometimes it leads to experiencing how much a book can improve with only a few issues. In some cases like Calexit, a couple of panels can quickly recontextualize many of my previous issues.
The first issue of Calexit provided an intriguing concept but felt the general execution left a lot to be desired. Much of that came down to one specific character that felt extremely one-note and over the top. By the end of this issue, my concern morphed into a promise for what this book can turn into. Obviously, this book is capitalizing on the fractured nature of our current society. What was at first being at risk of being exploitive is turning into something full of nuanced commentary.
23. X-O Manowar #12
23. X-O Manowar #12Writer: Matt Kindt
Artist: Ryan Bodenheim
Now a year into Matt Kindt’s relaunch of X-0 Manowar and his vision is as strong as ever. The soldier that has led the massive rebellion is tasked with controlling the chaos that has been unleashed. Showcasing how taking down the figurehead of a dictatorship does not lead immediate peace and prosperity. Aric is now finding those he once trusted now fear he has become the very thing he fought against.
There are not many writers that would be as critical of their main character as Kindt. Taking the normal actions we have come to expect from up capped super figures and showing the folly of that type of hubris. How pure action is not enough to solve real problems. Kindt has given Aric room to grow to become a better character and this issue we are seeing that growth being realized. Being placed into a deadly conflict where is armor may not be enough to save him.
22. Ice Cream Man #2
22. Writer: W. Maxwell Prince
Artist: Martin Morazzo
Publisher: Image Comics
The first issue of Ice Cream Man was an enjoyable read that showed some potential. There was a lack of clarity regarding some major plot events so one would assume the next issue would work to explain those moments. What we instead saw is that Ice Cream Man may not be that type of series. Rather bringing back more serialized storytelling like Tales from the Crypt or The Twilight Zone popularized.
What that means is if you skipped the first issue this works as a great jumping on point. It is this story of two junkies and the downward spiral that type of lifestyle can lead you down. Telling a complete story in one issue is not easy. Setting up characters to be invested in, a conflict that is concise but engaging, and a resolution that is satisfying enough to make it all worth it. If future issues work as well as this one did this could end up being one of this year’s best series.
21. The Punisher #221
21. The Punisher #221Writer: Matthew Rosenberg
Artist: Guiu Vilanova
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writing great comic books is not necessarily rocket science. Sometimes it is simple as taking a born bad ass and putting him in a fully loaded metal suit and letting him roam free in a country full of people who deserve justice. That is exactly what Matthew Rosenberg has done with the character of the Punisher and it has been a tremendous success so far.
Whether it is hiding underneath a frozen lake or lurking in the shadows as his next victim carelessly walks through their door, Castle is there to bring his brand of justice. There is something darkly humorous about the extremes Castle is going to complete his mission. Anything you would think the Punisher would do in this situation he is basically been doing. He will just nonchalantly pick someone up and fly them miles into the air and let them go as if he was just conducting an elementary school science project on the dangerous of gravity.
20. Fu Jitsu #5
20. Fu Jitsu #5Writer: Jai Nitz
Artist: Wesley St. Claire
Publisher: Aftershock Comics
Fu Jitsu is the type of comic that so utterly ridiculous it can make you overlook how it is actually pretty smart. It is a comic that enjoys being a comic. There are not many other mediums that would have a story focused on a time-traveling Kung Fu Master battling against the world’s tallest man with Giant Robots and an assortment of fantastic tools. The phrase, “You do not know what to expect next!” is overused but fitting for this book.
Issue number five brings the end of this first arc and possibly the end of this comic. Comics are better with this series in it so my hope is we get to see more. This added a nice little wrinkle to everything that got into how we tend to always be the heroes of our own stories. Even if we are trying to take over the world. If fate is unkind and this is the end it is at least one hell of a way to go out.
19. Mech Cadet Yu #6
19. Mech Cadet Yu #6Writer: Greg Pak
Artist: Takeshi Miyazawa
Publisher: Boom! Studios
The world of comics is better having Mech Cadet U in it. It is this consistent light and enjoyable read that never feels empty or disposable. Sure giant robots fighting giant aliens is pretty much automatically fun. Where Mech Cadet U excels is adding a lot of heart to that idea to make all the large than life action means something. If you know anyone at any age that is looking for a new series to get into this is the ideal comic to point them towards.
It shows you can have a story with a large group of kids and you do not need a love story to drive your drama. Friendships can blossom and provide deeper intrigue than who is dating who. I feel like this is one of the few series where anyone who picks it up can feel a piece of them is being represented. For those who think this series is nothing without its robots, this arc has pushed them aside to make the kids the major focal point.
18. Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles #2
18. Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles #2Writer: Mark Russell, Brandee Stilwell
Artist: Gus Vazquez
Publisher: DC Comics
Never would I have anticipated that one of my most anticipated comic series of the year would be focused on the character of Snagglepuss. A character I do not know anything about outside of the fact that he likes to say the word ‘even’, and that it is impossible to talk about this book without trying to do a Snagglepuss impression. The reason I was looking forward to this was that it is coming from the team who gave us the outstanding Flintstones comic. Also helps that Snagglepuss is staged as a Tennessee William styles playwright during the ‘Red Scare’ period in America.
This issue sees Snagglepuss go face to pink cat face with the US government. They want to use his talent to construct some propaganda for their benefit where Snagglepuss has no desire to be used as such a tool. Two issues in an this is already separated itself from The Flintstones book. For one it is much more dramatic dealing with some truly heady material, and it is playing it much more straight with the world of Snagglepuss. Humor is more natural and never overly calls attention to itself. I could see many not nearly enjoying this as much, but when it comes to the overall craft it is pretty masterful.
17. Jazz Maynard #1
17. Jazz Maynard #1Writer: Raule
Artist: Roger Ibanez Ugena
Publisher: Magnetic Press
Calling this issue Jazz Maynard #1 is a little misleading as it is the start of a brand new volume. A fact I was unaware of until researching this book more. Although I missed the previous volume I never felt lost or confused. If anything the world felt more lived in and alive. Where you are dropped into it and get to understand how everything works through osmosis.
If you want to build a hero and a villain in one issue this is how you do it. We see Jazz Maynard the life he lives and the many gifts endowed to him. On the other side, we see his potential new rival come into play. His actions towards his own son are ones that will haunt me for some time. After picking up this issue not only do I want to stick with this book but now I have to go back and find out what I missed. Nothing is greater than enjoying a comic and finding out so much of it already exists to enjoy.
16. James Bond: The Body #2
16. James Bond: The Body #2Writer: Ales Kot
Artist: Luca Casalanguida
Publisher: Dynamite
Dynamite has been doing a lot of great things with their James Bond line these past few years. Warren Ellis’s run on the character showed it was possible to write a great James Bond comic. Now Ales Kot has taken over and I am loving his approach to this current run. Each issue focuses on a specific element of James Bond and how he uses it to be the world’s best secret agent. The first issue he used his body and now he is using his mind.
Every panel in this book takes place in one room with Bond interrogating a suspect linked to a potential terrorist attack. This is not any normal suspect as she is one of the smartest people in the world. Bond has to rely on his own wits to see if he can convince or trick her into giving him what he needs. I love how the art was used to showcase Bond’s mental process. Focusing in on different body language tells to see if he can cut through all the lies to find the necessary truth.
15. Babyteeth #8
15. Babyteeth #8Writer: Donny Cates
Artist: Garry Brown
Publisher: Aftershock Comics
Every time I think I have this series pegged a new element is dropped to change the game. From the start, we all knew this was a story about an AntiChrist baby that would bring with it the destruction of the world. What I did not expect is to think I would be partially rooting for them to succeed. From the start what I have adored about this book was how it would set up a classic trope character only to sharply go against our expected expectations.
This issue shows us those who wish for this world to end to do for a just cause, or at least in the eyes of some. Sure they are crazy and clearly have hypocritical morals. Still, they have a point. Also, major points when your book includes a purple demon dragon cat that breathes fire. Why every book does not have one of those I do not know. Horror comics are as strong as ever and this has vaulted itself to the top of teh genre.
14. Quantum & Woody #3
14. Quantum & Woody #Writer: Daniel Kibblesmith
Artist: Francis Portela
Publisher: Valiant Comics
In order for the characters of Quantum and Woody to work you need a writer who does not take himself or herself too seriously. Based on the buildup of this relaunch and the actual book Daniel Kibblesmith is such a writer. He has great wit and a strong sense of humor that bleeds onto the pages of this series. With this issue we also get some emotional moments as well that were well earned.
When your book opens with a goat giving birth to the father of our heroes you know right away what type of story you are in for. Added to that is knowing their father has only one day to live. What we see is how each character deals with that situation differently. Francis Portela has been doing some innovative things with the panel design. Here I loved a montage sequence where panels were shaped like actual polaroids. I had high hopes for this relaunch and everything so far has proven my anticipation was warranted.
13. Slots #5
13. Slots #5Writer/Artist: Dan Panosian
Publisher: Image Comics
If you were to ask what great current series is not talked about nearly enough that answer is simple. It is Slots by Dan Panosian. An industry veteran showcasing he still has a lot to offer this medium. Every issue is a joy for the eyes to witness. Specifically in this issue was a two-page splash page showcasing a major boxing bout between two key characters. He told as much story in that one page as all the Rocky movies combined. I could see it being one of those pages that teaches other comic artists how to use the page to its fullest effect.
This a book full of shady characters who make no qualms regarding their questionable morals. Vegas is the type of town that can be tiredly glamorized. Slots is not that by any stretch of the imagination. It shows us what life looks like when those bright lights are dimmed to show the sliminess that hides in the shadows. Old school and new school go head to head inside the pages an out.
12. Grass Kings #12
12. Grass Kings #12Writer: Matt Kindt
Artist: Tyler Jenkins
Publisher: Boom! Studios
If you are looking for a comic that has genuine human drama where there are no superheroes, no supernatural elements, and nothing outside of what we can see in our actual world. Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkin’s Grass King’s is exactly that. This is a series that has found its strengths by building character and the world they are living in.
Sadly this is the beginning of the end. Issue twelve is the start of the final story arc. The Grass Kingdom is still healing from it wounds as enemies begin to circulate for one final kill. Before the final battle can begin we go back to learn more about how we got here and the serial killer that got away. All this is building up to a major showdown that will leave the town changed forever.
11. Doctor Strange #385
11. Doctor Strange #385Writer: Donny Cates
Artist: Gabriel Hernandez Walta
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Doctor Strange #385 marks the end of Donny Cates first arc on this title. One thing is for certain seeing what Cates has done with Marvel so far is that he is not afraid to go for it. Within his first arc he has dethroned Doctor Strange as the Sorcerer Supreme and brought back one character that has been a lightning rod of internet hate. Yet so far he has been able to make it all work.
It is sad to know this is Gabriel Hernandez Walta’s last issue on this book and maybe for Marvel for some time. He style and the world of Doctor Strange compliment each other well. Also loved the way he drew Loki. Loki is a character of extreme emotion that can change from scene to scene. Walta made ever change work. We also know now Coates will be leaving soon as well. Knowing that he appears destined to put his stamp on the character as quickly and loudly as possible.
10. Abbott #2
10. Abbott #2Writer: Saladin Ahmed
Artist: Sami Kivela
Publisher: Boom! Studios
When I finished the first issue of Abbot I left it disappointed for one key reason. I was loving everything I was reading. This throwback story of a journalist living in Detroit in the 1970’s during a very trying time. It was unlike anything I could remember reading in some time until I got to the final page when we learned there is an element of the supernatural behind much of the stories mystery. Much initial excitement disapparated to a major concern.
My concern was that what I loved about the book so far would be pushed to the side to focus more on the more fantastical elements. If issue number two is any indication that is not the case. This book has so much amazing atmosphere. Even the colors have a natural age quality to them as if this was just unearthed from a time capsule buried in the 70’s. It’s dingy, gritty, and if you focus strongly enough you can smell the smoke that permeates each panel.
9. Kill or Be Killed #16
9. Kill or Be Killed #16Writer: Ed Brubaker
Artist: Sean Phillips
Publisher: Image Comics
Last year I named Kill or Be Killed as my favorite series of 2017 so it is no surprise an issue would make this list. I cannot think of a better creative team currently in comics than Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. They work together so well and can highlight each other’s strengths and minimize any major weakness.
This current arc Dylan has been placed in a mental hospital and been forced to deal with his demon problem straight on. Somehow this series can keep its major mystery going without ever feeling redundant. What is real and what is not is still not entirely clear. That could be frustrating if not handled correctly. Here it works in large part due to Brubaker’s use of first-person narration. It gives us just enough to hang onto when what is in front of us cannot be fully believed.
8. Thanos #16
8. Thanos #16Writer: Donny Cates
Artist: Geoff Shaw
Publisher: Marvel Comics
When Marvel announced the team behind one of 2017’s best comics God Country would be taking over Thanos I had high hopes. They were clearly capable of telling an effective story on a massive scale. Exactly what you need for a book like Thanos. Now four issues in and this is much better than I could have anticipated.
The best way to describe the ‘Thanos Wins’ arc so far would be as if you took a bunch of What If storylines from the past, blended them all together, and then painstakingly plotting out an effective story. If you are someone who has yet to start enjoying the epic crazy fun this book has consistently provided this issue works as a great jumping on point. One where we find out how exactly Thanos won and the origin of the Cosmic Ghostrider. Right when you think this story has hit its peak it end with a final image that immediately raises the stakes to another level.
7. Royal City #10
7. Royal City #10Writer/Artist: Jeff Lemire
Publisher: Image Comics
Since it first debuted Royal City has consistently been one of the best series on the shelves. Jeff Lemire is a master at telling human stories full of melancholic emotion and a meditating atmosphere. With Royal City he added a spice of the supernatural to examine the different ways we work through grief. With this current story arc, we took a trip back to the nineties to better understand how we got to where we are.
In order to understand where we are we have to see what life was life for these characters before tragedy occurred. With this series so far we have seen how broken these people have become and what we are gradually learning is how those fractures that exist were there long before the untimely passing of Tommy. It’s been an emotional journey that hooks you in with Lemire’s uncanny ability to depict humanity.
6. Batman: White Knight #5
6. Batman: White Knight #5Writer:/Artist: Sean Murphy
Publisher: DC Comics
When Batman: White Knight came out I thought it was going to be this story about The Joker becoming the hero and Batman turning evil. Clearly, that is part of what is occurring here.The key word being part. What Sean Murphy is doing is taking the norms we have come to accept with the world of Batman and break them down piece by piece. Questioning the morality of a character like Batman and what we would cost on a literal and symbolic level.
Honestly, if this was just general images of Murphy drawing Batman and the city of Gotham I would be fine with it. He was born to draw this world and gives Gotham that gothic feel it has been missing. It feels like a city born in the old world. In this , ssue some intriguing bits of information were also revealed. Ones that show a secret history of the Waynes that is shocking yet uncomfortably feels right. If you are someone who love the 90’s animated series this is a must read. It is as if Murphy took that universe and matured it for a more grown up audience. When this series is all over it has the chance to be among some of the best Batman stories ever told. Considering the long history of the character that is an impressive feat.
5. The Punisher: The Platoon #6
5. The Punisher: The Platoon #6Writer: Garth Ennis
Artist: Goran Parlov
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Garth Ennis can write a great Punisher story. I know water is wet, sky blue, and the Punisher kills. All pretty obvious statements. ‘The Platoon’ mini series has barely been a Punisher story and it’s a stretch to say it is even a Frank Castle story. You could remove all of those ties and this story is relatively unchanged. If putting the Punisher moniker on it gets more people to buy it I am all for it because it’s been one incredible story.
Taking place in Vietnam a writer we never see has been interviewing members of Castle’s first Platoon along with the enemy he was fighting against. Kudos to Goran Parlov for being able to construct characters that exist in two different time periods. It is no small task to age characters we have never met before in a way where you always know who is who. This was the final issue of this run and gave a lot of insight into the war on Vietnam and the mindset of the people who fought it. Ennis showed us fully designed characters on both sides and how no one left that war innocent.
4. Judas #3
4. Judas #3Writer: Jeff Loveness
Artist: Jakub Rebelka
Publisher: Boom! Studios
When religion is tackled in comics it is typically done in a cynical or speculative manner. Often attempting to deconstruct the artifice of theology in a more practical process. That is partially what makes Judas such a unique experience. It is looking at the more human side of the bible that is respectful without being overly devout. The questions it raises are not about the reality of religion but the complications of faith and everlasting love.
Even those that never attended a church service know the story of Judas, and what this series has done is look at what happened to him after his soul was doomed to hell. What does eternity look like for history’s most famous traitor? What this series dares to ask is if Judas was simply a pawn in a much greater game he was destined to lose. Add to that what happens when he has to face the man or God he betrayed. Or was it really him that was one that was betrayed? This is delicate material that takes a fine hand to craft right and so far it’s been an amazing series that brings with it something not seen in comics or most artistic mediums for that matter.
3. The Mighty Thor #704
3. The Mighty Thor #704Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Russell Dauterman
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Jason’s Aaron’s epic run continues in an emotionally packed issue that gives Jane Foster the ultimate question. Does she risk her life to save others or allow herself to live dooming Asgard? A question that seems obvious to answer for a hero. What Aaron does it show why heroics have their downside. Jason Aaron knows how to build up a character and let them fall in epic fashion.
We see the history of tragedy Jane has suffered throughout her life. How even being friends with a god does not mean you will not suffer unexpected major loss. This could have easily been tragedy porn where you have nothing but unrelenting sadness. One way it avoids that is by placing in some well-timed humor. (Seeing a demon dog chase anything that looks like a hammer was an effective running gag). Moreso those moments were used to show the spirit of Jane and how despite having every reason to give up she persisted. It’s inspiration, its relatable, and mostly it’s just a great comic. Aaron’s run on Thor keeps being a thing of beauty.
2. Rock Candy Mountain #8
