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[Comic Book Review] IDW’s GODZILLA: Unnatural Disasters TPB

by Joshua Winchester May 26, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ reviews GODZILLA: Unnatural Disasters TPB from IDW Publishing. Available May 26th, the creative team for this trade paperback features writing by Jeff Prezenkowski, Jon Vankin, Mike Raicht, Chris Mowry, and Bobby Curnow, art from Matt Frank, Simon Gane, Tony Parker, E.J. Su, and Dean Haspiel, colors by Josh Perez, Ronda Pattison, Ian Herring, and Priscilla Tramontano, and letters from Chris Mowry.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

GODZILLA: Unnatural Disasters TPB

“The Underdog” featuring Anguirus

Story by Matt Frank & Jeff Prezenkowski
Script by Jeff Prezenkowski
Art by Matt Frank
Colors by Josh Perez
Letters by Chris Mowry

“Lifespan” featuring Rodan

Story by Jon Vankin
Art by Simon Gane
Colors by Ronda Pattison
Letters by Chris Mowry

“Secrets” featuring Titanosaurus

Story by Mike Raicht
Art by Tony Parker
Colors by Ian Herring
Letters by Chris Mowry

“Smog of War” featuring Hedorah

Script by Chris Mowry
Art by E.J. Su
Colors by Priscilla Tramontano
Letters by Chris Mowry

“From a Great Height” featuring Kumonga

Script by Bobby Curnow
Art by Dean Haspiel
Colors by Ronda Pattison
Letters by Chris Mowry

Cover Artist: James Stokoe

The King of the Monsters is back in this compendium collecting three series: Legends, In Hell, and Rage Across Time!

In a world where monsters roam freely, some stories have been lost to time… until NOW! In Legends, the kaiju of Godzilla’s fearsome rogues’ gallery get the spotlight. Featuring Anguirus, Rodan, Titanosaurus, Hedorah, and Kumonga!

Then, meet Godzilla’s greatest adversary of all time–the impossible tortures of Hell! It’s a monster battle that takes you through the depths of the underworld.

Move over dinosaurs… monsters used to rule the planet! In Rage Across Time, travel to different time periods to examine the origin of myths that fueled nightmares: Feudal Japan, ancient Greece, medieval England, and classic Rome!

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
GODZILLA: Unnatural Disasters TPB

Godzilla, mightiest of all the movie monsters, is a creature whose influence has touched the lives of many over the years. As both a source of inspiration and a means for telling new tales, it is safe to say that he will always remain a fixed idea in the hearts and minds of pop culture fans throughout the ages. Now the time has come to see what happens when the might of Godzilla reaches down through the ages. He is a force of nature nothing can stop. It is time to get ready for Godzilla: Unnatural Disasters.

Writing: One of the things that is fun about TPBs like this is that a lot of really bright creatives come together to contribute to the project. That can also be a bit of a detriment as well, because while the teams are great, their playbooks are less so. There are some really strong stories/scripts in this book. Not only do they challenge the overall concept of Godzilla as a monster, they do it in a way that puts the beast out of its usual setting into different times and places. Sadly, some of said stories/scripts, while terrific initially, don’t pan out the way one expects them.

Art: That same creative joining which brings the different groups together to work on a book like Godzilla: Unnatural Disasters, brings in lots of different artists. Each of them clearly talented individuals. However, some of the art, like some of the scripts, just doesn’t fit within the wheelhouse of telling Godzilla stories. Readers, art lovers, and Godzilla fans will for sure appreciate one thing – the different takes on the King of the Monsters and some of the crazy stuff the big guy gets up to thrashing his way across the printed page.

Colors: Color choices for the various stories were intriguing. Lots of different hues for the hide, spines, and atomic breath that are associated with giant monster movies. And especially the color palettes utilized for other major monsters that show up along the way. Plus some really terrific scenery and fights. Full-on, epically-realized, giant monster mayhem, rendered in gorgeous colors carefully chosen to fit the tales within.

Letters: Lettering can be a challenging task. Whether it’s a single issue, a whole series or, in this case, a trade paperback full of stories, art, and colors by different teams. But one thing is certain, the individual who took on the task to letter this book did one heck of a job. And clearly got to have some fun as well. After all, it takes a certain kind of talent to letter Godzilla bellowing out that mighty cry as he trashes major metropolitan areas. Top-notch job to a top-notch letterer.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

While there are things about this book that don’t line up 100%, it has a lot of heart to it. The groups that contributed stories to it put a lot of effort into their parts. Everyone worked hard and gave it the full-on, good ol’ college try to bring these different Godzilla stories to life. And in spite of the fact that some of the scripts and art missed the mark for this reviewer, let it be known that it was still a very enjoyable read.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

PopCultHQ Rating – 4 Stars

4 out of 5 Stars

Purchase GODZILLA: Unnatural Disasters TPB online:

About IDW Publishing:

IDW Publishing stands proudly at the forefront of printed visual entertainment, cultivating a formidable library of world-renowned licensed brands and creator-owned original IP. Its diverse array of comic books, graphic novels, and art books deliver reading enjoyment to fans of all ages. Its award-winning imprints The Library of American Comics, Yoe! Books, and Artist Editions preserve the valuable cultural history of the sequential art medium, while titles under the critically acclaimed Top Shelf and Black Crown banners celebrate fiercely independent voices. IDW Publishing is a division of IDW Media Holdings, Inc. (OTCQX: IDWM), a fully integrated media company with robust offerings in publishing, tabletop gaming, multimedia entertainment, and art exhibition via the San Diego Comic Art Gallery.

May 26, 2021 0 comment

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[Comic Book Review] IDW’s TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: Urban Legends Vol. 2 TPB

by Joshua Winchester May 5, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: Urban Legends Vol. 2 TPB from IDW Publishing. Available May 5th, the creative team for this book features writing by Gary Carlson, art from Frank Fosco, inks by Mark Heike & Frank Fosco, colors by Adam Guzowski, and letters from Pat Brosseau & Shawn Lee.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: Urban Legends Vol. 2 TPB

Writer: Gary Carlson
Artist: Frank Fosco
Inks: Mark Heike & Frank Fosco
Colorist: Adam Guzowski
Letterers: Pat Brosseau & Shawn Lee

Cover Artists: Kevin Eastman w/ Tomi Varga

FC • 296 pages • $29.99 (SRP)

Collects the final 13 issues, #14–26, of the series.

This is it, fans! You demanded it–the entire Image Comics TMNT run (a.k.a. TMNT Volume 3) reproduced for the first time ever in full, four-color glory, capped with three all-new issues to complete the unfinished series!

Join creators Gary Carlson and Frank Fosco as they take the Heroes in a Half-Shell on some of their most amazing, dangerous, and bizarre adventures ever… culminating in three brand-new issues by Carlson and Fosco to properly close out this long-beloved storyline at last! Long out of print and incomplete, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Volume 3 is one of comics’ lost treasures, now uncovered at last and completed by the original creators.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: Urban Legends Vol. 2 TPB

Heroes in a half-shell, turtle power! But what happens when time marches on? Within the volume set before us is some wicked stuff that takes four familiar faces and sends them all over the crazy map. Be prepared for a finale that will send four brothers to the very edge of it all…and if they make it back, they will never be the same.

Writing: Gary Carlson has been telling great stories for years. As one of the founders of Big Bang Comics, he has plied his trade as a teller of tales all over the comics world. Now fans of both TMNT and Gary’s writing will get a real treat with this TPB. He pulls out all the stops when it comes to taking the guys and sending them into all sorts of crazy adventures. Non-stop action, surprises, and, most of all, butt-kicking as only the Turtles can dish it out, courtesy of Gary, his imagination, and the power of the written word.

Art: Frank Fosco utterly crushed it on the art for this TPB. Just as he had done for the entire series, taking it all the way to the end. There are admittedly some strange artistic choices in this book, but that is keeping well to the themes of the overall series. Strange stories call for strange artwork. One of the things this reviewer found to be very enjoyable about Frank’s work was how far he was willing to go to alter the Turtles, but not totally change them. After all, once a Turtle, always a Turtle.

Inks: Slick ink-work by the terrific twosome of Mark and Frank. There is heavy usage of inks for the shadows, which is right up the alley of TMNT in general. Heroes that fight in the shadows need shadows that feel like liquid darkness. Not to mention inks that help their forms stand out whenever they choose to be in the light. Job well done by these two, stellar job well done.

Colors: Adam went all-out for the color choices in this last leg of the series (TPB). A lot of them are more muted, which keeps with the overall pace and feel of the stories and artwork. Bright, flashy colors don’t have a place in a TMNT book that takes readers down strange/dark paths. Hats off to Adam for keeping the pace with his work as colorist and for bringing it home in meshing the artwork and colors together in a glorious, crazy symphony.

Letters: The level of intensity in the whole book and the series has been high. Naturally, that means the lettering needs to reflect that. Pain, loss, anger. Emotions that run the gamut throughout. Pat and Shawn deliver on lettering that channels those three particular feelings beautifully, especially with the dialogue from the Turtles. Readers will be able to feel the hurt, the betrayal, everything. This takes wicked skill and these two gentlemen have got it in spades.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

Cowabunga! Just an absolutely spectacular book. Weird, crazy, but stacked with stories, art, inks, colors, and lettering that give the entire thing such a great vibe. Whoever picks up this book, whether as a long-time TMNT fan or a newcomer, are in for a treat. Terrific job from the creative team and their efforts here.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: Urban Legends Vol. 2 TPB online:

About IDW Publishing:

May 5, 2021 0 comment

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[Comic Book Review] IDW’s JUDGE DREDD: False Witness TPB

by Joshua Winchester May 5, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of JUDGE DREDD: False Witness TPB from IDW Publishing. Available May 5th, the creative team for this book features writing by Brandon Easton, art from Kei Zama & Silvia Califano, colors by Eva de la Cruz, and letters from Shawn Lee.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

JUDGE DREDD: False Witness TPB

Writer: Brandon Easton
Artists: Kei Zama & Silvia Califano
Colorist: Eva de la Cruz
Letterer: Shawn Lee

Cover Artists: Kei Zama w/ Eva de la Cruz

FC • 96 pages • $15.99 (SRP)

Collects JUDGE DREDD: False Witness #1-4

Justice Academy drop-out Mathias Lincoln always survived by sub-legal means, but after uncovering a vast conspiracy, he finds himself pursued by legendary lawman Judge Dredd!

Get ready for a street level look at justice in Mega-City One as one person fights to expose the darkest secrets of the rich and powerful in a thrilling mystery set against a backdrop of media manipulation and social unrest. While on a job for a rich client, Justice Academy drop-out and professional fixer Mathias Lincoln makes a horrific discovery–children are disappearing, and the conspiracy stretches from the wastes of the Cursed Earth all the way to the halls of power in Mega-City One.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
JUDGE DREDD: False Witness TPB

Welcome to Mega-City One. A place of crime, anarchy, and where there is only one true form of justice anymore. The justice of the Street Judges. But what happens when that justice is tainted and the contamination has spread from the lowest levels to the highest halls of the city? Be ready to run, because this is one story where everyone is looking for answers and to trust anyone could be the end.

Writing: Whenever there’s new crime brewing in Mega-City One, the dedicated members of the Street Judges deal out law and order the only way acceptable…with extreme prejudice. But what the Judges often overlook is the people who become ground under the heels of law and crime. Brandon takes dedicated readers from the war-torn chaos of Dredd’s crusade against injustice and shows everyone the consequences of his work. The people who are left behind, forgotten, or just plain beaten down. It’s a trip down to the lower levels of Mega-City One, and nobody is going to want to miss this trip.

Art: Sleek and well-drawn, with just the right amount of nitty-gritty that one would expect from any Judge Dredd comic. These are the words that this reviewer would use to best describe Kei and Silvia’s artwork for Judge Dredd: False Witness. Oh and violent. It just wouldn’t be a good Dredd book without high levels of ‘ultra-violence’. In all seriousness, the art is fantastic. Rich, detailed, and, like the aforementioned violence, intense. Kei and Silvia work well together taking Brandon’s script and putting their names down as the latest in the long line of artistic persons who have brought the world of Dredd and Mega-City One to life.

Colors: Eva worked wonders on choosing the various colors for the book. The different hues worked well in concert with Kei and Silvia’s artwork, enhancing it and bringing it further to life. For the Judges and their uniforms, in particular Dredd’s, the color choices are very on-par with what has been done in the past. That same level of nitty-gritty that exists within the art also exists within the colors. There is a cohesive unity at play here with Eva’s work as colorist, which is both subtle and utterly fantastic.

Letters: Judge Dredd is a man of words. They are always righteous, full of dedication to the law and above all else…they could very well be the last words a person hears. To articulate that intensity, as well as the various dialects, back-talks, and chatters of Mega-City One, requires a letterer who understands the power of words. In this case, it is Shawn Lee, a person who is a master of the written word and letterer extraordinaire. Shawn’s work on other projects establishes his credentials and why he was the right choice to work on this book.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

Judge Dredd and his world of chaos, law, and insane futuristic adventures are always a treat to read. ‘False Witness’ is certainly a book that lives up to the long tradition of terrific stories told about him over the years. Thanks to the work of a terrific creative team, another story is told that adds to the myth of Dredd and adds up the body count even more.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase JUDGE DREDD: False Witness TPB online:

About IDW Publishing:

May 5, 2021 0 comment

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Comic Books Comic Reviews HC independent Comic New Comic Book Day

[Comic Book Review] BOOM! Studios’ MIGHTY MORPHIN/POWER RANGERS #1 Limited Edition HC

by Joshua Winchester April 20, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of MIGHTY MORPHIN/POWER RANGERS #1 Limited Edition HC from BOOM! Studios. Available April 21st, the creative team for this book features writing by Ryan Parrott, art from Marco Renna and Francesco Mortarino, and colors by Walter Baiamonte, Katia Ranalli, and Raúl Angulo, and letters by Ed Dukeshire.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

MIGHTY MORPHIN/POWER RANGERS #1 Limited Edition HC

Writer: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Marco Renna, Francesco Mortarino
Colorist: Walter Baiamonte, Katia Ranalli, Raúl Angulo
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
~

SRP: $24.99

Collects Mighty Morphin #1 and Power Rangers #1.

Tommy Oliver, the White Mighty Morphin Power Ranger, has formed a new team of Power Rangers including… the all-new Green Ranger! But just who is under the mask and what does that mean for the future of the team?

And the Omega Rangers embark on a new mission to save the universe from the unimaginable threat of the Empyreals. But they’ll need to bring in the last person they ever wanted — the villainous Lord Drakkon. Can their long-time enemy be trusted… or is he playing an even more dangerous game of his own?

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
MIGHTY MORPHIN/POWER RANGERS #1 Limited Edition HC

Over the years, and thanks to Boom! Studios, there has been a resurgence in Power Rangers comic books. Brilliant, new stories have been brought into the world, pitting teens with attitude against new foes and taking them on new adventures. Now it is time for another chapter in the Power Ranger saga. Old friends, familiar foes, and a strange new threat. Do you dare suit up for this latest epic? Well, get ready…it’s Morphin’ Time!

Writing: Whenever a series based around a long-standing, insanely popular team like the Power Rangers comes out, fans are no doubt going to be skeptical of the stories that are put before them. Well, Ranger fans of all ages can rejoice. The work here from Ryan is 100% mighty and most excellent! He tackles the world that has already been established and puts new/old elements into play that flows together in a fantastic, cosmic rush. The script for this HC is enough to get people interested and hold their interest, but doesn’t give everything away. It’s everything that anyone can want in a Power Rangers story and more.

Art: From an artistic perspective, Marco and Francesco delivered absolutely gorgeous art. Rich in detail, eye-popping action, fantastic visual expression rendered in a believable fashion. A very noteworthy thing with the duo’s art for this HC is the costumes for all of the Rangers. Like in the various TV shows and movies, the costumes are as much signifiers of the individual Rangers and their abilities as they are armor/uniforms. These two fine fellows, with their skill and craft, have presented the world of the Power Rangers and all its high-flying adventure in a wonderful and amazing style.

Colors: Every page of this book is abounding in color. Not one panel, costume, or person comes across as dull or lackluster. As it was with the artwork and the down-right delightful rendering of the costumes, so too do this intrepid trio of colorists ply their skill in concert with the artists. Walter, Katia, and Raúl nailed it all the way. With the new Green Ranger, it should be mentioned that the color scheme is, of course, similar to that of the original TV series, but also different as well. Darker hues for the green, and brighter gold tones for the armor and accents on the boots and gloves. There’s a new Green Ranger in town and his colorful costume is given its due courtesy of the colorist team.

Letters: Lettering by Ed Dukeshire means that there is always an emphasis on quality. With Power Rangers, that quality shines forth like the radiant white/gold of the Saba wielded by Tommy. One of the best moments of Ed’s lettering may not seem like a lot, but it means so much to lifelong Ranger fans. It’s a page where the teens transform. All of them shout-out their Morphing creature. This reviewer could honestly hear the cast in his head and the original soundtrack as well. That is the power of great lettering. A power unleashed by Ed Dukeshire.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

This HC is downright Morphenomenal! Amazing work from a dedicated team of creatives, and tons of gorgeous covers and bonus art included. Setting the stage for new things to come for the Power Rangers, this HC is one that fans across the generations will enjoy to read over and over. Step into the world of the Power Rangers. Don’t forget your Morpher and Zord!

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase MIGHTY MORPHIN/POWER RANGERS #1 Limited Edition HC Online:

About BOOM! Studios
BOOM! Studios was founded by Ross Richie in 2005 with the singular focus of creating world-class comic book and graphic novel storytelling for all audiences. Through the development of four distinct imprints—BOOM! Studios, BOOM! Box, KaBOOM!, and Archaia—BOOM! has produced award-winning original work, including Lumberjanes, The Woods, Giant Days, Klaus, and Mouse Guard, while also breaking new ground with established licenses such as WWE, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Cartoon Network, and The Jim Henson Company properties. BOOM! will also bring their original series to life through unique first-look relationships with 20th Century Fox for film and with 20th Television for the small screen. Please visit www.boom-studios.com for more information.

April 20, 2021 0 comment

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[Comic Book Review] Image Comics’ CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 2 HC

by Joshua Winchester April 14, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 2 HC from Image Comics. Available April 14th, the creative team for this book features writing by Ed Brubaker, art from Sean Phillips, and colors by Val Staples and Dave Stewart.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 2 HC

Writer: Ed Brubaker
Artist: Sean Phillips
Colorists: Val Staples & Dave Stewart

Cover Artist: Sean Phillips

FC • 440 pages • $49.99 (SRP)

The second oversized hardback of the award-winning crime series from ED BRUBAKER and SEAN PHILLIPS is finally here! The first edition has gone through four printings, in sellout after sellout, and now the rest of BRUBAKER and PHILLIPS’ noir masterpiece is collected in the same format. Collecting “BAD NIGHT,” “THE SINNERS,” and “THE LAST OF THE INNOCENT”—along with short stories, behind-the-scenes pieces, art, and articles, all previously uncollected. Don’t miss out on this beautiful package from the bestselling team behind such hits as Incognito and FATALE.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 2 HC

Get the lead out and be ready for another literary thrill ride. CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 2 HC brings more from the brilliant minds of a great creative team to bear. If anyone thought the first HC was a great read, this second volume is just as great. Be prepared for even more intrigue, danger, and pulling back the curtain on what it takes to force someone over the edge…and becoming Criminal.

Writing: There is always something very stark and grim about Brubaker’s writing. Especially when it comes to the works inside CRIMINAL Vol. 2. The ‘heroes’ of these tales come across as ordinary folks. Yet they have dark secrets underneath. Pasts that bubble in their lives like tar coming through the cracks on a hot summer’s day. Pasts full of pain, anger, despair, you name it. A cocktail of human emotion that tastes as bitter as the day is long. No one quite does stories of this nature like Ed Brubaker.

Art: Sean’s art in Vol. 2 is the same high quality as it was from the first. Noir-tinged, with shadows to add a darkness to these already dark stories. Everything about the art is fantastic. Sean is one of the great artists of the Modern Age of Comics. These works with Ed, it is like staring at film strips of the noir films of time’s past. The sort of things one recalls with a fondness for the gripping adventures of Philip Marlowe, Sam Spade, and Miguel Vargas. Every page is chock-full of rich detail and delightful homages to past works that are firmly rooted in the minds of readers.

Colors: Val Staples teaming up with Dave Stewart on color work for the second volume is fun. Both of these gentlemen are dedicated masters of their craft. Working in concert to add even more life to Sean Phillips’ artwork. If anyone has any doubts as to what these two colorists are capable of, go check out other books where they have plied their trade, come back to this HC, and read it again. It will become crystal clear that in the vast pantheon of colorists in the industry, Val and Dave are two of the best.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

A second HC volume of more work from the creative team of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. That is like receiving birthday and Christmas presents on the same day. These two continue to knock it out of the ballpark. Stories, art, and of course, the colors. Nothing about this book is boring or dull. As the companion piece to Vol. 1, both of these are fine additions to anyone’s reading library.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

April 14, 2021 0 comment

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[Comic Book Review] Image Comics’ CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 1 HC

by Joshua Winchester April 14, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 1 HC from Image Comics. Available April 14th, the creative team for this book features writing by Ed Brubaker, art from Sean Phillips, and colors by Val Staples.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 1 HC

Writer: Ed Brubaker
Artist: Sean Phillips
Colorist: Val Staples

Cover Artist: Sean Phillips

FC • 440 pages • $49.99 (SRP)

A fantastically designed and printed book showcasing the Eisner and Harvey Award-winning crime comics from the creators of Sleeper and Incognito, this oversized, deluxe hardback edition features CRIMINAL, books 1-3: “COWARDS,” “LAWLESS,” and THE DEAD AND THE DYING. Also features many extras, including a CRIMINAL short story and the never-before-printed, five-page “movie trailer in comics form” that BRUBAKER and PHILLIPS created to announce the series online, plus illustrations, selected articles, behind-the-scenes glimpses, painted covers, and much more! Features an introduction by comics legend and Watchmen artist DAVE GIBBONS.

Collects “COWARD,” “LAWLESS,” “THE DEAD AND THE DYING,” and more!

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 1 HC

Only the good die young. But the bad do as well. Crime never pays, yet the criminals keep on trying again and again. Fans of the dynamic duo of Ed Brubaker and Sean Philips are in for a treat with the CRIMINAL Deluxe Edition Vol. 1 HC. Page after page of hair-raising stories from a team that has given the industry some of the finest crime comics to date.

Writing: Ed Brubaker. A first-class writer who has played around with so many different comic genres, one could argue he is a regular literary Renaissance man. He’s played in the worlds of both Marvel and DC, always to great success. Yet some of his most defining work as a writer has always been works like CRIMINAL. Revisiting the first three stories in the series in this first volume is a veritable walk down memory lane. Though time has passed and continues to pass, Ed’s writing still remains as fantastic as it always has been and shall continue to be.

Art: Sean Philips and Ed Brubaker. One of the many writer/artist teams that have carved out a wide swath of success with their collaborations over the years. Seeing Sean’s art from the first three CRIMINAL stories again brought such a smile to this reviewer’s face. His art style is 💯; uniquely fantastic and always so visually immersive. Sean’s art speaks volumes on its own. Combined with Ed’s stories, the artwork takes on a whole new life of its own.

Colors: Val Staples’ long association with Philips and Brubaker is the final piece of the puzzle. The work he does as colorist to add to the already grim and gritty worlds that are put forth in this HC are magnificent. It puts to mind what finished storyboards for a movie or show are/should look like. Modern crime epics or down=and-dirty tales of woe. It goes without saying, Val Staples is a master colorist, and this HC is one of his masterpieces.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

Making the return journey into the world of Brubaker/Philips/Staples was a joyous ride. Aside from the first three amazing stories from this collaboration, the rest of the HC is chock full of ‘extras’ for fans/readers. A book of this caliber not only demands to be read over and over, it needs to be placed in a spot of honor on a shelf or coffee table. Time to journey into the world of the criminal once more. Don’t forget to bring this book with you.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

April 14, 2021 0 comment

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[Comic Book Review] IDW’s G.I. JOE: World on Fire TPB

by Joshua Winchester April 14, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of G.I. JOE: World on Fire TPB from IDW Publishing. Available April 14th, the creative team for this book features writing by Paul Allor, art from Chris Evenhuis, Niko Walter, Emma Vieceli, and Ryan Kelly, colors by Brittany Peer, and letters from Neil Uyetake.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

G.I. JOE: World on Fire TPB

Writer: Paul Allor
Artists: Chris Evenhuis, Niko Walter, Emma Vieceli, Ryan Kelly
Colorist: Brittany Peer
Letterer: Neil Uyetake

Cover Artist: Chris Evenhuis

FC • 288 pages • $29.99 (SRP)

Collects G.I. JOE #1-10 & G.I. Joe: Castle Fall.

Citizen. Spy. Hero. An all-new series featuring your favorite JOEs alongside new characters in this new vision for a new generation.

Tyranny is on the rise as Cobra topples governments and spreads its ruthless power across the globe. In these trying times, desperate measures are taken. The new G.I. Joe program recruits civilian spies and saboteurs: ordinary people living in occupied territories who will put their lives on the line to strike back through clandestine but high-impact missions. Join these new recruits as they resist Cobra control, fight to make a better world for all, and find out just what they are capable of.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
G.I. JOE: World on Fire TPB

They’ll fight for freedom wherever there’s trouble. G.I. Joe is there! But what happens when the good guys are considered enemies of the state? With odds stacked so high against them, victory is all but lost. They’ll fight until there’s no one left. Time to meet G.I. Joe all over again. This time, COBRA might come out on top. And the world may never be the same again.

Writing: Paul tapped right into the overall spirit of G.I. Joe with his writing. While the big twist is that many familiar Joe faces are reinvented as civilians being brought into the team for the first time, this does nothing to diminish the energy the TPB brings to the table. Hair-raising plots, great character development, and lots of surprises on every page. All the energy and adventure of the G.I. Joe world, recast from a new mold.

Art: Chris, Niko, Emma, and Ryan were great choices as the art team for G.I. Joe. Four artists working together on one series sounds like a tall order. But this group not only rose to the challenge of working together to bring Paul’s new G.I. Joe world to life, they juiced it up so much it was downright electric. The redesigns on the Joes and Cobra could appear off-putting to longtime franchise fans, however this is not a deterrent, not by a long shot. Art is supposed to be about taking what has been established and building upon it to make something better. This team did just that. They built a new world full of action, mayhem, and excitement. And it is glorious.

Colors: To say that the G.I. Joe franchise is a colorful one feels like a major understatement. Everything about it is supposed to be visually appealing and color is a main part of that. Uniforms, characters, explosions, battles, even buildings and environments. Brittany pours all her skill as a colorist into this work and oh, did she do an amazing job. Nothing felt else out of place in the slightest with the choices she made for the colors.

Letters: With a long-standing group like G.I. Joe and taking it from one visual medium to another is always a group effort. The task of lettering this fresh new tale of the legendary elite fighting force fell to Neil Uyetake. Like everyone else on the team, Neil took the parts given to him and spun strands of gold from them. There was a very haughty tone of superiority that came from the elite members of Cobra. Especially the Commander and Baroness. That takes skill. Way to go, Neil.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

G.I. Joe has been thrilling fans since the heydays of the 1980s. Everything about the world of the Joes is always full of excitement. Excitement that the creators assembled for G.I. Joe: World on Fire showcased collectively. Each person played their part in telling a new tale of the endless struggle between the Joes and Cobra. In the end, they all did a stand-up job. YO JOE!

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase G.I. JOE: World on Fire TPB online:

About IDW Publishing:

April 14, 2021 0 comment

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Comic Books Comic Previews Comic Reviews independent Comic New Comic Book Day

[Comic Book Review] Vault Comics’ SHADOW SERVICE Vol. 1 TPB

by Joshua Winchester April 7, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of SHADOW SERVICE Vol. 1 TPB from Vault Comics. Available April 7th, the creative team for this book features writing by Cavan Scott, art from Corin Howell, colors by Triona Farrell, and letters from AndWorld Design.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

SHADOW SERVICE Vol. 1 TPB

Writer: Cavan Scott
Artist: Corin Howell
Colorist: Triona Farrell
Letterer: AndWorld Design
Design: Tim Daniel

Cover Artist: Corin Howell

FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Worried your partner is cheating? Need a missing person found? Gina Meyers is the Private Investigator for you. Sure, she’s a witch who worries that her powers make her more of a monster than the crooks she’s trying to catch, but it’s not like London’s criminal underworld is literally going to hell… is it? Spy craft meets black magic in the shadowy world of MI666.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
SHADOW SERVICE Vol. 1 TPB

When there’s something strange lurking within England’s mystic underworld, you call Gina Meyers. She is dangerous, brilliant, and gets the job done. Now she has bitten off more than she can chew. What follows in this trade paperback is an adventure the likes of which has yet to be seen or read before by comics fans anywhere. Roll up those sleeves and prepare some useful spells, for the Shadow Service is coming your way.

SHADOW SERVICE #1 – preview page 1

Writing: To all who love a good mystery, horror stories, magic, mayhem, and even a bit of spycraft – this wonderful story by Cavan Scott is 100% for you. It has everything one could possibly want and more: an engaging, fleshed-out protagonist, secrets, monsters, and more. Cavan has done an amazing job of bringing this dark and mystical world of his to life. There is not a single dull moment in the plot and the unanswered questions ending will leave readers wishing for the next series to happen.

SHADOW SERVICE #1 – preview page 2

Art: It has been said that art can transport the viewer to other realms entirely. In this case, that is literally true with Corin’s artwork. Everything about it is fantastic. From the level of detail with the characters and monsters, to visually bringing the magic to life. If readers are not hooked by Cavan’s script, then they will certainly be pulled in by Corin’s art. Magical and fantastic in every way, shape, and form.

SHADOW SERVICE #1 – preview page 3

Colors: Triona went all-out for the color choices to match up with Corin’s art. The intensity of the story and artwork calls for intense colors. Ones that not only highlight the mad nature of this mystical part of London, but also give a dark edge to it as well. On top of that is all the disturbing monsters and demonic beasts that infest this TPB. Triona took these things that go bump in the night and aided in bring them to horrifying life.

SHADOW SERVICE #1 – preview page 4

Letters: The lettering from AndWorld Design was the clincher for this book. Everything about the letters helped sell the characters, both good and bad. There was a distinct voice and tone to each figure. Accents, cultural twangs, and the various magical incantations were all given a standout dialect because of AndWorld. It’s as if one could start to plot out the casting choices for a potential TV series or motion picture in one’s head. All thanks to the terrific lettering.

SHADOW SERVICE #1 – preview page 5

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

Fair warning, this book is not for the faint of heart, nor is it for little children. There is so much intrigue, action, and epic violence within these pages. Questions abound constantly and the moral stance of each character will throw even more confusion to the wind for readers. There’s a little something for everyone and it will for sure have people wanting more. An outstanding read and one that is highly recommended.

SHADOW SERVICE #1 – preview page 6

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase SHADOW SERVICE Vol. 1 TPB online:

ABOUT VAULT COMICS:

Vault Comics is a private, family-owned company, publishing science fiction and fantasy comics and graphic novels. Vault encourages its creators to break the established order, defy preconceptions of society and identity, and push the boundaries of the medium with bold visions and voices that connect with readers and capture their imaginations. Follow Vault on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

April 7, 2021 0 comment

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Comic Books Comic Previews Comic Reviews independent Comic New Comic Book Day

[Comic Book Review] IDW’s MY LITTLE PONY/TRANSFORMERS: Friendship In Disguise TPB

by Joshua Winchester March 31, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of MY LITTLE PONY / TRANSFORMERS: Friendship In Disguise TPB from IDW Publishing. Available March 31st, the creative team for this book features writing by James Asmus, Ian Flynn, and Sam Maggs, art from Tony Fleecs, Jack Lawrence, Sara Pitre-Durocher, Casey W. Coller, and Priscilla Tramontano, colors by Tony Fleecs, Lauren Perry, Luis Antonio Delgado, and Joana Lafuente, and letters from Jake M. Wood & Neil Uyetake.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

MY LITTLE PONY/TRANSFORMERS: Friendship in Disguise TPB

“Transformation is Magic”

Writer: James Asmus
Artist: Tony Fleecs
Colorist: Tony Fleecs
Color Flats: Lauren Perry
Letterer: Jake M. Wood

“Shine Like a Diamond”

Writer: Ian Flynn
Artist: Jack Lawrence
Colorist: Luis Antonio Delgado
Letterer: Neil Uyetake

“Inspiring”

Writer: Ian Flynn
Artist: Sara Pitre-Durocher
Colorist: Joana Lafuente
Letterer: Jake M. Wood

“They Eat Ponies, Don’t They?”

Writer: Sam Maggs
Artist: Casey W. Coller
Colorist: Joana Lafuente
Letterer: Neil Uyetake

“Pet Sounds“

Writer: James Asmus
Artist: Jack Lawrence
Colorist: Luis Antonio Delgado
Letterer: Jake M. Wood

“The Flyin’ Fox Trot“

Writer: Sam Maggs
Artist: Priscilla Tramontano
Colorist: Luis Antonio Delgado
Letterer: Neil Uyetake

“Strength in Numbers“

Writer: Ian Flynn
Artist: Sara Pitre-Durocher
Colorist: Joana Lafuente
Letterer: Jake M. Wood

“Finale“

Writer: James Asmus
Artist: Tony Fleecs
Color Flats: Lauren Perry
Letterer: Neil Uyetake

Cover Artist: Tony Fleecs

FC • 96 pages • $15.99

When Queen Chrysalis casts a spell looking for more changelings, she accidentally interferes with a malfunctioning Spacebridge! What’s this mean for our favorite fillies? There are suddenly a bunch of Autobots and Decepticons in Equestria! And as the dust settles, Rarity and Arcee find themselves teaming up against a hostile Decepticon force. Plus Spike and Grimlock; Pinkie Pie, Gauge, and Shockwave; Fluttershy, Discord, and Soundwave; Rainbow Dash and Windblade; and Optimus Prime and Twilight Sparkle all team up for more adventures because, in the end, Ponies and Autobots are both fighting for friendship.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
MY LITTLE PONY/TRANSFORMERS: Friendship In Disguise TPB

In a world of magic and friendship, there is always adventure around every corner. Now something is coming. They are big, they are at war, they are…Transformers, robots in disguise! Get ready for a crossover unlike any other in the history of cartoons and comics. There are treats galore awaiting the curious who seek new and thrilling comics in these chaotic times. Hold on to your wings…its going to be a wild ride.

Writing: James, Ian, and Sam all take on the writing for this book with a fantastic combination of humor and semi-serious action. When combining the worlds of MLP and Transformers, it is a fine line to walk considering how opposite these two universes appear to non-fans. Nevertheless, each story within this TPB is a delightful romp through Equestria as the Autobots and Decepticons find themselves in a world that is very different from their own. Not to mention the insane culture shock for both Ponies and Transformers that occurs in each story. Fantastic job from all 3 writers, a major triumph of crossing over franchises.

Art: Artistically speaking, Friendship in Disguise is very different across every page. Yet each artist brings their talents to the table and brings the scripts to life in unique ways. Every page is visually pleasing and has lots of terrific action sequences (get ready for madcap madness, too). Something noteworthy is the renderings of the Transformers. Each Autobot and Deception is illustrated in their classic styles, which will make the book even more enjoyable for those who grew up as fans of the original series and toys.

Colors: As it was with the art, so it is with the colors for the book. Color palettes match up perfectly for the Ponies and various Transformers. As for the landscapes, magic, weapons, and other background items, the colorists all stood and delivered on making sure that nothing from a color perspective was bland or boring. Everyone knocked it out of the park big time for the TPB and in this reviewer’s mind, left me excited every time I turned the page or started the next story.

Letters: The letterer has a role that is as important as that of the writer, artist, or colorist. They have to give a voice to every character and ensure that the efforts of the other team members flowed in a marvelous synchronization. Jake and Neil did just that. While I can state that I was never much of a die-hard fan of My Little Pony or Transformers, over the years I have seen enough of each respective cartoon to hear the voices of the characters in my head when reading a comic such as this. Boy, oh boy, did the lettering make the voices in my head come alive. Top-notch work from these two, just top-notch.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

If anyone has ever entertained thoughts about what a crossover between My Little Pony and Transformers would be like, this book answers those questions and more. Nothing about the TPB is dull, boring, or uninteresting. Every single story is a page-turner, the art is delightful, the colors and letters pair up beautifully. Get ready to see what happens when fun meets frenzied robot fighting. This is one comic that you won’t want to miss out on.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase MY LITTLE PONY/TRANSFORMERS:
Friendship In Disguise TPB online:

Publisher – IDW Publishing
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March 31, 2021 0 comment

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Comic Books Comic Reviews independent Comic New Comic Book Day

[Comic Book Review] IDW’s TRANSFORMERS ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB

by Joshua Winchester March 3, 2021

written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received advance review copy of TRANSFORMERS ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB from IDW Publishing. Available March 3rd, the creative team for this book features writing by Simon Furman, art from Guido Guidi, colors by John-Paul Bove, and letters from Jake M. Wood & Tom B. Long.

Here is PopCultHQ’s Spoiler-Free Review of…

TRANSFORMERS ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB

Story: Simon Furman
Art: Guido Guidi
Colors: John-Paul Bove
Letters: Jake M. Wood & Tom B. Long

Cover Art: Guido Guidi

Collects the four-issue Transformers ’84: Secret and Lies series,
plus the Transformers ’84 #0 one-shot.

As the Cybertronian Civil War rages between Optimus Prime’s Autobots and Megatron’s Decepticons, Shockwave has encountered a new obstacle to the Decepticons’ victory and subjugation of the planet: Megatron himself! As Optimus and his recruits take off to stop an even deadlier threat—an asteroid belt powerful enough to destroy the metal world—Megatron leads a team of Decepticons after in hot pursuit! But what other motivations does Prime have for this mission? How does it benefit Shockwave’s goals? And what does it all have to do with a secret on Earth in the eleventh century?

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
TRANSFORMERS ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB

In 1984, the world was introduced to Transformers. Now it is time to return back to that simple time. When Ronald Reagan was in the White House, audiences were falling in love with dance and romance courtesy of Footloose, and Marvel Comics was king of the comics industry. Keep a sharp out for these beings, who are more than meets the eye. Be on the lookout and be ready for…Transformers ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB.

Writing: Every so often a comic book series comes out that falls into one of two categories. Either that of a delightful homage/love letter to a pre-existing media group, or it adds to said group in a way that has not been done before. Or it falls into both categories and is just downright awesome. Such is the case with Simon Furman’s fantastic scripts for Transformers ’84. From the very first page, readers will get the sense that Simon is a die-hard Transformers fan. Everything about the book echoes with the sound of pure, unabashed passion for this timeless group. Whomever picks up this TPB, old fans or new, they will walk away craving more from Simon and his fabulous storytelling.

Art: Guido Guidi’s artwork is nothing less than spectacular. The level of detail is immaculate and his linework bringing the Autobots and Decepticons to life is amazing. Nothing is missed when it comes to Guido’s art. As the series is a throwback to the early days of the Transformers, it lines up perfectly with Simon’s scripts. The action and splash pages look and feel like something straight out of the original comics and cartoon. Everyone’s favorite heroes and villains look exactly as they did decades ago. And that is all thanks to one person, the astounding Guido.

Colors: John-Paul has played around in a variety of creative sandboxes as a colorist. From the chaotic future of Judge Dredd, to the dark realms of Dungeons and Dragons. To see him take on the action-packed, explosive-riddled and rich world of Transformers, showcases his skill in a marvelous manner. The color palettes he has selected for everything, Autobots and Decepticons in particular, is nothing short of epic. This entire book is rendered in a color style that brings out every detail and quite honestly makes it feel like it is the mid-80s again.

Letters: Eyes are said to the window to the soul. Well it is lettering that is the window to the soul of comic book characters. Our tour guides into the minds and machinations of the Transformers are the dream team of Jake Wood and Tom Long. These two bright fellows positively pulled no punches on the lettering. There is a certain gravitas flowing in every word balloon, in particular with Optimus Prime’s words. This reviewer could quite honestly hear Peter Cullen himself reading the dialogue, it is that good. Hats off to Jake and Tom for a darn awesome job.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

Ever since the first toys, comics, and cartoons blasted into the world in 1984, the scope of entertainment has changed radically. Everywhere we look, Transformers are all over. Transformers ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB is a terrific throwback to the Golden Era of this out-of-this-world group of characters. Transform and roll out for the 80’s with a graphic novel that is a sure-fire success.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

Purchase TRANSFORMERS ’84: Secrets & Lies TPB online:

Publisher – IDW Publishing

March 3, 2021 0 comment

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4 out of 5 Stars

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5 out of 5 Stars

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5 out of 5 Stars

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5 out of 5 Stars

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