BHOC: BRAVE AND THE BOLD #122

This issue of BRAVE AND THE BOLD was another comic that I wound up with in trade with my classroom buddy, Donald Sims. Even by 1978, those first ten issues of SWAMP THING had gained a bit of a mythical stature among those in the know, so the character still had a bit of an … Continue reading BHOC: BRAVE AND THE BOLD #122

5BC: Five More Forgotten Marvel Story Developments

With the sheer number of stories published about some of the characters, it's a wonder that there aren't more stories that feature developments that don't work, don't stick or are simply just plain weird. Here, then, are five more forgotten Marvel story developments. THE FALCON IS REALLY "SNAP" WILSON, LOWLIFE. CAPTAIN AMERICA #186 - There's … Continue reading 5BC: Five More Forgotten Marvel Story Developments

5BC: Five Best Comics of 1987

The entirety of Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli's BATMAN: YEAR ONE story was must reading, and this final installment wrapped the story up beautifully--a story more of hard-boiled cop Jim Gordon than really of Batman (who doesn't appear in costume all that much throughout it. ) Mazzucchelli channels the best attributes of Alex Toth in … Continue reading 5BC: Five Best Comics of 1987

5BC: Five Best Comics of 1984

A genuine sucker punch of an ending topped off this issue of FANTASTIC FOUR, as we learn the outcome of Sue Richards' latest pregnancy. Writer/artist John Byrne is in strong form here, at about the middle of his long run on the title. Good use of the rest of the Marvel Universe and a sympathetic … Continue reading 5BC: Five Best Comics of 1984

5BC: Five Best Comics of 1983

Another instant masterwork from the typewriter of Alan Brennert, this issue of BRAVE AND THE BOLD brings the story of the original Batman of the 1930s and 40s (i.e. the Earth-2 model) to a satisfying and emotional conclusion, as he finds his soulmate in Selina Kyle as the two battle the Scarecrow. As usual, Brennert … Continue reading 5BC: Five Best Comics of 1983

BHOC: SHOWCASE #96

I'm pretty certain that my grandmother had brought this comic for me. I had thoughtlessly begun to badger her during the week to look for specific issues that I was interested in reading in the stores out her way, and she accommodated for a short period of time, before eventually just lying and saying that … Continue reading BHOC: SHOWCASE #96

BHOC: SHOWCASE #95

The second issue of SHOWCASE featuring the All-New Doom Patrol. I have a strong feeling of having picked this issue up while at my Grandmother’s house, though I’m not 100% certain of that. It’s got a dynamic Jim Aparo cover that really grabbed me, despite the liberties taken with Robotmans new design. You can also … Continue reading BHOC: SHOWCASE #95

Great Covers – HOUSE OF SECRETS #92

An admitted classic, this Bernie Wrightson HOUSE OF SECRETS cover on the first appearance of Swamp Thing is really worth a closer look. The tonework is subtle and immaculately done, and the image is composed elegantly. All of the elements work, including the sensitive coloring. As some people will already know, Wrightson used a lot … Continue reading Great Covers – HOUSE OF SECRETS #92