Off-Topic: Comic Book Reviews

DC's BATMAN BEYOND UNIVERSE #8

This was a very good conclusion to a very good set of storylines. You had two different stories told throughout the last four issues. In the main story, Brainiac has come to the BEYOND universe after seeming to have disappeared for a decade or more. He almost takes over the entire planet by plugging into the computer networks. He is able to resist his normal weakness of magic by using Hawkman's Nth metal. The team fights back by finding a way to combine technology and magic. In this final story, the entire battle turns to Paradise Island, and culminates with the return of Wonder Woman to the BEYOND universe. The second story was that of Bruce Wayne and Batman Beyond facing off against the aging Man-Bat and his mutant army. It was a powerful commentary on hope and second chances, and I thought in some ways it ended even better than the Brainiac storyline. It was better paced. The artwork is limited as it is tied to the original animated series, but on many levels this comic just works. I had a great time, and while it wasn't the deepest faire out there, it had a good lesson and was a comic that could be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, which is kind of rare.
Storyline: 4 Stars
Dialogue: 4 Stars
Pacing: 3.5 Stars
Art: 3 Stars
Overall: 4 Stars

Dynamite Comics' GRIMM #11

This comic continues to deliver, and is a wonderful addition to being able to enjoy the television show, which is now back on the air. Nick's participation in the twelve labors of Hercules continues as he faces off with a Hydra Wessen, all the while trying to outsmart the Super Lowen who has kidnapped Julia and is using him for his own ends. The pacing on this was off, and as we've come to learn about the main villain's plans they are a little rote, but the individual scenes are excellent. There are moments of pure brilliance, and the dialogue goes some good places despite some supervillain cliches that are overused here. All in all, a good read and good fun.

Storyline: 4 Stars
Dialogue: 3.5 Stars
Pacing: 3 Stars
Art: 3 Stars
Overall: 3.5 Stars

DC's BATMAN 66 #9

This comic continues to deliver, though this particular issue was not as good as some of what came before. I get that they are trying to expand the villains' motivations without removing the comic element, but the reasons given for the villain's actions were silly without being funny. Still there was some great dialogue, and some very fun scenes, especially when Batman throat sings. The art is still fun though I've thought some earlier issues were better on that score too. I am enjoying the book still, and recommend it.

Storyline: 3.5 Stars
Dialogue: 3.5 Stars
Pacing: 3.5 Stars
Art: 3.5 Stars
Overall: 3.5 Stars