Batsgiving

This one won't be considered a NewsFlash since Deanpool is kind of late to this party but he's come across it again recently and thought it would be fun to show it again now that it's 2014. And also it ties in a lot to Deanpool's "Who's the next Robin?" post.

So basically the picture below was released around Thanksgiving 2013 and has been heavily analyzed ever since for spoilers/teasers for the upcoming Batman Eternal comic series. We see Batman surrounded by friends and foes, but a keen eye can catch on to the more subtle hints that this picture has to offer.

Take a good look at the picture above, and compare it to the one below.

Let's start with the group in the back left corner:

-Carmine "The Roman" Falcone looks a bit shady, but it looks like he'll be making his New 52 debut.

-The fellow in the back with the glasses looks like an older Alberto Falcone, the accused Holiday killer from The Long Halloween. But more people have compared him to Roadrunner, a newer face to Gotham's world of organized crime and introduced in the "Black Mirror" story arc from Scott Snyder. Either one make sense.

-The third person in this small group with the red mask is likely Tiger Shark, who Deanpool recalls vaguely in Batman #12 when Batman chased Tiger Shark down and brutally interrogated him to learn how he let the Talon into Wayne Towers. It's also worth mentioning that this was one of the few Batman issues where Harper Row played a large role. Tiger Shark was also featured in the "Black Mirror" story arc.

-Speaking of Talons, notice the owl on the tree branch? Return of the Court of Owls to a Batman series?!

-Move down to Batwoman who seems to stick out like a sore thumb in that corner, while the other Bat-related characters closer to the table. Shows how separated her comic series is from the other Bat titles. And check the bling on her ring finger. Note that it's on her right hand, which is traditionally wear the ring is worn on the bride.

-Then there's Maggie Sawyer right next to Batwoman... the two did have a relationship in the Batwoman series and Kathy Kane (Batwoman) has proposed twice as far as Deanpool knows, but maybe it's a sign that DC will finally allow the two to have some type of committed relationship. If you examine very, very closely she looks like she has a ring as well, but on her left hand. Not as blinged out, but still there. You could be even more symbolic and notice her pose appears to invite Batwoman to be apart of the rest of the Bat-family, which she typically is not considered. This could be hinting at a change in that as well.

Shift toward the "center"

-Jim Gordon. It has been debated whether he's handcuffed or not. But for the most part, if you compare the two pictures, most of the characters match their respective counterpart's poses down to the last detail practically. But Jim's counterpart's arms are not crossed as if to be cuffed. Looks like bad news for Jim Gordon in upcoming stories.

- Detective Harvey Bullock with the gun. Not much to speculate about here, he may be corrupt and tie-in to why Gordon may be handcuffed.

-That thing way out in the water is the floating Iceberg casino, while others think that it also has a reference to Mr. Freeze.

-Alfred serving the turkey, but not wearing his traditional butler outfit. It looks more like a straightjacket. That can't be good. So far, it's not looking like a good future for the "non-hero" Batman allies.


-Luke Fox aka Batwing is seen behind Alfred. Deanpool is eager to see more of this character.

-Batgirl aka Barbara Gordon is next to Batwing

-Red Hood aka Jason Todd is being is usual distant self and rounds off this small group of three Bat characters that are known to work more independently as opposed to a sidekick role.

Now the bottom left
This area probably attracts the most attention, obviously since the Caped Crusader himself is in this section of the image.

-Batman, but it's who sits behind him that makes things interesting. The following 4 are perhaps the lead contenders for becoming the next Robin.

-The one that's most recognizable is Red Robin aka Tim Drake. His previous experience as Robin is the main hint that this group behind Batman may be looked at as possible sidekicks under Batman's wing. And with the role of Robin still vacant since Damian's death, the analysis of this group has been looked at with much scrutiny.

-The one in the purple hoodie has reminded many Stephanie Brown fans of her original guise as Spoiler. As of today, we know that Spoiler will actually be making her New 52 debut in Batman: Eternal #3. Will she stay in the New 52 as Spoiler? She's also an ex-Robin and an ex-Batgirl, but only one of those roles currently unoccupied.

-From purple hoodie we go to the girl with the purple hair next to her. Batman readers will recognize her as Harper Row right away. The female character has been making infrequent, but meaningful appeaerances throughout the Batman series that has many believing that she is due to make a big impact in the New 52 in the near future. Her appearance and position in this image enforce this idea. But it also seems like everyone in this group have their attention drawn to what's in her hands. If it is bird seeds, it could be symbolic of them competing for the spot... though Harper has a more reluctant look upon her face. Wouldn't it be cool to see a "Battle For the Cowl" type story but for the Robin mantle?

-The fourth person here perhaps spark the most interest. It's no secret that Nightwing will have to go through a drastic change due to the "Forever Evil" story arc revealing his identity as Dick Grayson to the world thanks to the Crime Syndicate. Couple this idea with the fact that the Nightwing series is planned to end in April on their 30th issue, the same time "Forever Evil" will conclude. Now we see this mysterious fourth person wearing the domino mask very similar looking to Nightwing (who is also the only Bat character left to identify), but with blonde hair. Lots of theories to go off of here. A) Dick Grayson dies due to the events of Forever Evil, which would suck and Deanpool will throw a fit. But then who's behind the mask? Many have speculated it to be Calvin Rose, the main character of the Talon series as a person who was meant to be apart of the Court of Owls but has chosen to fight against them instead. Deanpool speculated a Talon to fit for a new Robin, but a new Nightwing is even more interesting considering that Dick Grayson was originally destined to be drafted by the Court of Owls as well. There's also the behind-the-scenes info that James Tynion, who has written for both Talon and also Nightwing, will be one of the writers for Batman: Eternal. Wouldn't be surprised is Tynion wanted to continue a Calvin Rose story. If this is the case, there are no other signs of Dick Grayson in this image that would show hope for his future appearances. B) Dick survives Forever Evil, but realizes his Nightwing days are done since his identity was revealed and could easily remain a target for villains. Thus he recreates a new identity for himself, maybe a new name but more importantly, dyes his hair blonde. Though if you're going to do that, shouldn't you change your hero disguise and name too? Not the best idea to just be a blonde Nightwing, don't think it would fool anybody. But this idea is better than him dying. Oh, there's also C) a completely new character. Deanpool can't really think of any other blonde characters in the Batman world.

Who's at the table?
Okay, here we go with the villains.

-Professor Pyg, who played a large role in the '09 Batman and Robin series that featured Dick and Damian. Though he's made his New 52 appearance in the "Forever Evil" tie-ins, could the return of a villain that mainly Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne fought against mean that the two will be around in the future?
-Penguin. Can't miss that hat. The Iceberg Lounge in the back also alluded to his appearance
.
-Catwoman. We can go back and forth on whether to consider a villain or not, but let's just go with the connection of who her counterpart is in the actual painting. Batman: Eternal is meant to follow the Batman supporting characters, perhaps Catwoman is more fitting for this villain table in this series. If you want to go even more symbolic, she's on the border of the table between the Bat characters and the villain's side... pretty much sums up her "ally or villain" standing. Can she be trusted?

-Can't really miss Joker's Daughter creepily under the table. Her pose/position may be representative of how she's lurking around in Gotham's sewers (under table = under Gotham). Guess she replaces the little girl from the original painting. With all the hype she had in her first appearance in the Catwoman series (which was back around Thanksgiving keep in mind), this may have been an attempt to bring more attention and hype to her character which has otherwise been a disappointment. But hey, if they can make her villainous character more terrifying in Batman: Eternal, then Deanpool can stop complaining. After all, there's no Joker in this picture either.

-The girl in the green jacket. This person and the redhead to her right have provided a lot of questions as well. Some have speculated a young Amanda Waller, who has been shown in the New 52 as Director of A.R.G.U.S. (DC's S.H.I.E.L.D.) or also Renee Montoya, who was known as The Question pre-New 52 but hasn't made an appearance yet in New 52 comics. The current New 52 Question is the male Question, but Montoya has been alluded to in the Batwoman series. However despite all that speculation, it has been confirmed that this character is in fact a completely new character.

-The redhead. Some say Carrie Kelley, who has made her New 52 appearance as a Robin teaser after the death of Damian. Or Vicki Vale, Gotham's news reporter and likely the only other redhead anyone can think of after Carrie Kelley. Deanpool is certain fans are wanting to see a lot more Carrie Kelley, but this character doesn't look like she's drawn the way Kelley has been in the New 52. It's nit-picky but it sounds more likely for this person to be a new character.

-One more thing to consider, look at the house and the stones behind everyone on the far right. A lot more plants and vines than what would be considered normal. Poison Ivy most likely. And one of these vines on the higher stones look like a question mark... expect the Riddler, who's making a splash in Batman's "Zero Year: Dark City" story.

What does the bottom of the image have to offer?
Everybody wants to see the return of Damian Wayne to comics.

-Titus, Damian's dog is the most noticeable thing at the bottom of the image. One hint to Damian's return.

-The robin on Titus' butt. Second hint to Damian's return, maybe even as Robin again.

-The cat, though next to Catwoman, looks more like Alfred, another of Damian's pets. Third hint.

Others Deanpool is unsure of
-The rose bush behind Carmine and that group seems out of place. At least there's not one in the original painting. Rose bush could mean Calvin Rose and his incorporation into Batman: Eternal, reinforcing the idea of him becoming a new Robin or Nightwing. Could also be another Poison Ivy reference. Someone even went so far as to guess Swamp Thing. Carmine is wearing a rose on his suit, it could also just hint more to the return of the mob scene to Gotham.

-The bones at the bottom. Killer Croc reference? Some guessed another Swamp Thing allusion. He has been making some trips to Gotham City, so it's not as odd as it seems.

-Deanpool wonders if the contents of the bowl next to Batman is important, since it looks it's rice in the original painting. Doesn't make sense to purposefully change it to something else unless it means something.


Well that's everything that Deanpool caught... with the help of others like this and that. Looking forward to see how many of these actually play out. Deanpool is planning on doing another one of these with the "Abandon All Hope" teaser that's been seen in a lot of this week's comics.

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this, read the "Who will be the next Robin?" post!

Will we ever get to see Dick and Damian together again?

Who will be the next Robin?

So who is up next to take up the mantle as Robin? After this month of looking back at each of the four Robins and how their characters have changed in DC's New 52 universe, it is now time to look forward to who the next Robin may be. This will all be speculation, and it will all be for fun. Deanpool will put his detective skills to work. It should be noted that many of these theories were inspired by the Batsgiving teaser, that Deanpool decided to look at again and do a separate post with his analysis of the Batman: Eternal teaser.
Review this past mont's post on: Dick Grayson/Nightwing, Jason Todd/Red Hood, Tim Drake/Red Robin, & Damian Wayne/Robin

Like it was said in the beginning of the month in the Preview, it seems that Snyder is setting up Harper Row to be a key character in the Batman series, possibly the next Robin. She has the technical skills and an obsession with helping Batman, perhaps only lacking the physical talents. Tim Drake stepped in during Batman's emotional outbreak after Jason Todd's death and it landed him a spot as Robin (with some extra motivations as well). Did Harper follow the same path with her intervention after Damian's death? She's smart, resourceful, and motivated. However, there is such a thing as being overqualified. Harper seems too perfect for the role, again minus any physical skills or training, and with Snyder constantly showing her in more and more issues, it seems like it's alluding to a larger role. But what role could it be, if not Robin? There's also her relationship with her brother. Being a Robin is practically a full-time job, and if readers have learned anything about Harper Row, it's that she'll do anything to protect her brother. Hard to watch over her brother when she's fighting crime elsewhere. The past Robins were orphans, thus no serious connections to anyone else that might learn their secret. Deanpool believes that for this theory to come true, it would require something dramatic to happen to Harper's brother that would push her to take things into her own hands and maybe even resort to violence. Batman would then be there to suggest otherwise, stop her from doing something she'd regret blah blah blah. Then train her into a Robin by channeling her anger and emotions as a motivating force to fight crime for justice... similar to how the death of Bruce's parents motivate him. Makes sense to Deanpool, and he believes that readers are already emotionally invested enough in Harper Row for a story like this to make an impact.

Stephanie Brown as Spoiler, Robin, & Batgirl. Triple threat.

With the whispers of a return for Spoiler aka Stephanie Brown aka technically the "fourth Robin," her clean slate from the relaunch places her in a perfect position to be re-introduced into the comic universe with a bang. Though many Stephanie Brown fans admired her run as Batgirl rather than her run as Robin, a second go around as a female Robin has potential to go better than her first. If she's anything like her pre-New 52 self, she'll still bring a spunky, feisty character with obedience issues that Damian presented. While she isn't a new face to comics, she will be new to the New 52 and it's not clear how much of continuity there will be with the character. It's not as likely that Bruce accepts help from such a new face, but another fun speculation with the news that she'll be coming to the New 52 thanks to the Batsgiving teaser..

Batman Eternal teaser. The person in the purple hoodie... Spoiler?

Also what if Tim Drake comes back as a Robin? We saw Damian take the role as Robin when Dick Grayson became Batman, but if all that never happened wouldn’t we still have a Bruce Wayne-Tim Drake tandem? In the Batman and Robin series that is still continuing even in the absence of Damian Wayne as Robin, one of the first issues in the aftermath of Damian's death featured Batman and Red Robin. Deanpool is sure Tim Drake would love to work with Batman again. And with the Teen Titans series coming to an end in April after the conclusion of "Forever Evil," it's hard to picture what else Tim Drake could possibly have lined up for himself as anything other than the leader of the Teen Titans. That is, other than taking up the vacant Robin position. He wouldn't even do that much of a name change, or maybe not even do any name change at all. The biggest reasoning for disproving this theory may be explained when we learn how the events in "Forever Evil" lead to the end of the Teen Titans series. Will it make way for something new? Or will most these heroes without on-going titles get shelved to make way for new titles? It'd be pretty sad to have Tim Drake resort to cameo appearances instead of his monthly appearances.

Let's not ignore the conspiracy theory that the Damian that died in Batman, Inc. #8 may just be one of Talia’s clones and the real Damian is still floating around somewhere (very similar to Roy Harper in Young Justice). Could the real Damian still be out there? If so, then why would the League of Assassins recover the dead body if it was just a clone? Unless they don't have the original anymore as well and that particular clone was the closest match to the original. But with the new animated DC film being Son of Batman and Damian reappearing in Batman: Li'l Gotham, the Damian: Son of Batman mini-series, and even in the anniversary Detective Comics #27 issue (all after his death), there's a sense that publishers recognize that Damian was such a fan favorite and may want to find some way to bring him back to the New 52 comics. There's also the possibility that if he really died, could Batman train a clone of Damian instead (since it is evident that Talia has multiple clones of Damian Wayne)?

Though it would be weird to think about how Carrie Kelley could somehow play into this universe (since The Dark Knight Returns is not in canon), Deanpool is sure there could be someway to work it in with all the popularity that the book and the animated movie have received.
There was a bit of a tease in the issues of Batman and Robin after Damian's death that made it look like Carrie Kelley would be making an appearance as Robin. But that's all it was, a tease. While she does make her debut in the New 52 universe, it's not the same impact that she made in TDKR (at least for the moment). She's a bit older and in college, but her personality is very much the same. Can't really theorize much more than that on this one. Her introduction and supposed connection to Damian that is talked about in the issue can hint to some type of future for her in the comics, but it's unclear as to what that future holds.

How about Talon? With all the Court of Owls hype still buzzing since 2011, imagine the possibility of Batman running with Talon (the one with his own New 52 series). Already a trained assassin, he seems like the perfect shape for a new Robin (and maybe even a way to bring up a new story with the Court of Owls for Batman?!). OR pick out another younger kid who was destined to be a Talon and save the kid from going down a path with the Court of Owls. Dick was meant to be apart of the Court and Bruce did that exact thing with him. It'd be a fresh face, but a good tie-in to a popular story arc, a good way to possibly bring back another Court of Owls story, and present a similar background to Damian's with training a kid chosen and/or raised to be a killer. The Batsgiving  picture adds to this theory as we see a blonde-haired person behind Batman.

If we're going to explore past Robin's going back to being Robin, and with a bit of extreme thinking, could Dick Grayson return as Robin? Okay, the immediate reaction to this one should likely be, "Uh no Deanpool, he's Nightwing. Why would he go back to Robin, the role meant for someone under the tutelage of Batman?" Well those who have been following the "Forever Evil" story (what DC reader isn't, and even if not it gets talked about more than enough on this blog) know that Nightwing's identity has been exposed and revealed to public by the Crime Syndicate. His future, assuming he survives Forever Evil, is looking bad enough as it is. Furthermore, the Nightwing series is set to end in April when the "Forever Evil" will conclude as well. Seems appropriate since it'd be kind of hard to explain why Nightwing would still exist if everyone knew it was Dick Grayson. Yeah DC doesn't do as much of the public superhero thing like Tony Stark as Iron Man, or the Fantastic Four and things like that. But the end of Nightwing does not mean end of Dick Grayson. With the vacancy at the Robin position, it's not too weird think of the original dynamic duo to have a reunion is it? Dick can lay low at Wayne Manor/Bat-cave but still fight crime as an established hero. We get a bit nostalgic seeing this duo together again in the Batman and Robin Annual #2. This idea is explored a bit more in the Batsgiving teaser that Deanpool recently analyzed for this post too.

Or there’s always Batman being the lone wolf he always seems to be. If writers aren’t too eager to replace the Robin role, perhaps we can explore more Bruce Wayne stories or place Bruce Wayne in much more dangerous scenarios. This theory sounds bad for the Batman and Robin series because Deanpool doubts they want to continue doing a Batman and "Guest to substitute for Robin". We get enough solo Batman in Batman, Detective Comics, and Batman: Dark Knight. This was a chance for readers to see him team-up with the Boy Wonder. But it also wouldn't be the smartest move to quickly replace Robin. Two out of four Robins have died under Batman's watch, one of them being his biological son. Don't think even Batman is eager to replace the Robin mantle. Let him go through a phase of doubt in thinking he can't protect anyone other than himself. Then when he needs it the most, reintroduce the new (or old based on some of these theories) Robin. It's not easy being apart of the Bat family and Batman knows it.

So there's a couple theories on who can step into the Robin costume next. There's plenty of others to consider, but Deanpool wanted to talk about the ones that immediately come to mind. For more clues as to who will be the next Robin, read Deanpool's Batsgiving post.

Will the line get longer or will one of the old Robins retake the spot ?

A very different Wally West coming soon.

Okay this was originally just supposed to be Deanpool talking about the idea of having a Flash TV show, much less a CW television series. But nonetheless, here's a NewsFlash that actually centers around The Flash!

Now Deanpool's even learned that Wally West will be making his debut in the New 52 universe! It's kind of weird to think about Wally West being completely absent from the New 52 comics. Jay Garrick is getting a lot of spotlight in Earth 2 as the Earth-2 Flash. Bart Allen is sporting the Kid Flash costume in Teen Titans as the speedster from the future (and grandson of Barry Allen, the current Flash). And Barry Allen is the New 52 Flash. Wally West fans will remember his time as the original Kid Flash who eventually inherited the role as The Flash for a good amount of time. Even in the animated series, Justice League and Justice League Unlimited, Wally West was the one behind the Flash mask, not Barry Allen. Heck, Wally was even featured in the animated series Young Justice as Kid Flash. So it's safe to say that Wally has a pretty good fan base for himself as the nephew of Iris West, Barry's love interest pre-New 52.

Cover to Flash Annual #3

Back to the point, Wally is making his New 52 debut! The picture above is said to be the cover of The Flash Annual #3. Now Bleeding Cool does a more in-depth analysis of why Wally may be featured in this issue but not necessarily this electric blue looking fellow in the center of the cover. Even more so, they believe that Wally West might be African-American in the New 52!

In the age of comics where publishers are trying to be more open minded and show more diversity (featuring more diverse heroes like Teen Titan's Bunker being a Mexican homosexual or even Alan Scott, Earth-2's Green Lantern, is homosexual as well), Wally is going to be a case of a radically changed character who had an established identity in the DC universe before the New 52. Wally is likely to be featured in the third annual issue of The Flash and there are rumors suggesting he may be black.

In the image on the right (which is a zoomed in section from the cover's lower right), we are led to believe this may not necessarily be Wally West but perhaps just some young kid. But the article Deanpool got this from makes a point that the hands are a bit too white, as if they are actually gloves.

All this ties back in with the Flash TV pilot that will be coming out soon. It was leaked that the character description for Detective West and his daughter Iris West were both African-American. This is likely to show that Iris' nephew Wally may be African-American as well. It's possible that the comic series could be trying to reflect the upcoming television series by recreating Wally West into the New 52 universe as an African-American as well.

Then Deanpool read this. And if you'll consider that page as enough verification like Deanpool does, then you should expect a young, black Wally West in the near future to both the comic world and the television. The page also brings up some other interesting possibilities such as making the role even more diverse by recreating Wally as a female character too, or more humorous theories like keeping Wally a ginger even as an African-American. All fun speculation with some pretty funny images to go along with them like the one below.

In other Flash television related news, Rick Cosnett and Danielle Panabaker have been casted for the roles of Detective Eddie Thawne and Caitlin Snow, respectively. Keen DC fans will notice those are the identities of Reverse Flash and Killer Frost. Based on the article, it seems that their origins will hold true to their canonical origins as well.

Thawne's "past is a mystery and harbors a dark secret." Well it's interesting that he'll be playing a detective, especially if it's alongside Barry Allen at the police department. But in the comics, Eobard Thawne (a.k.a. Professor Zoom a.k.a. Reverse Flash) is actually from the future 25th century and was a big fan of The Flash. He wanted so desperately to meet him that he recreates the accident that gave Barry his super powers and travelled back in time to meet him. It should be noted he even had surgery to make himself look like Barry. However the time travel disoriented his mind, and his trip to the past reveals that he will one day die at the hands of his idol. As far as the television adaption, well the name change to Eddie is appropriate to blend in with the times. The mysterious past: he's from the future, how ironic. Dark secret: he may know every event that will unravel in Barry's life but who knows how he'll choose to confront it.

Caitlin Snow will be "a highly intelligent bioengineering expert who loses her fiance in a S.T.A.R. labs explosion." Caitlin Snow is the New 52's Killer Frost and has only been around since June 2013 in her first appearance in Fury of Firestorm #19. There's nothing in the comics about her having a fiance, but the highly intelligent bioengineering expert matches as much as we know about her. In her origin story from the Villains Month issue, Caitlin Snow was a bright, young scientist asked work in a S.T.A.R. lab in the Arctic. Her main assignment was a thermodynamic engine that could surpass Newton's Second Law and achieve perpetual motion. But due to H.I.V.E. influencing her colleagues, they were forced to take action when she was able to get the device to work. This led to Snow tampering with the engine's coolant system which consequently fused with her body and biological system turning her into Killer Frost. With what's given from the article, it's not easy to say that it'll go that exact path too. Caitlin might be portrayed as an appealing character or possible love-interest of Barry at first until she is eventually transformed into Killer Frost. Though Killer Frost is typically a foe of Firestorm, it's interesting to see if she'll be a key character in this television series.

A speedster and a girl that could manipulate cold and ice as the enemies for Flash. Not terrible choices. Deanpool is especially excited for the Reverse Flash story, but is still a bit reluctant about the television series.
As for the Wally West appearance, Deanpool doesn't care much for the whole race thing. It's more exciting to anticipate what role he'll play in the issue and if we'll see more of him beyond just the Annual issue.

The gang's all here.

Weekly Pick-Ups 1/22/14

We’re almost caught up! Here’s last week’s pick-ups! If you read 2 weeks ago (1/8) you’ll remember that Deanpool said he wouldn’t move forward with collecting Avengers World  and Black Widow and opt to just get the trade paperback for those when they come out. But X-Factor did get picked up along with Avengers. There are two new comers to Weekly Pick-Ups with the debut of All-New Invaders and Deanpool wanted to start the All-New X-Men series with their “Trial of Jean Grey” story arc that ties in with the Guardians of the Galaxy. On the DC side, we have new issues from the popular Batman series and Justice League.

Again, the Walking Dead #120 pictured will be in apart of larger review that Deanpool will do in the near future… likely in anticipation of the premiere of the television series’ next season.

Avengers #25- The cover itself pays homage to the original cover of Avengers #1. And the original Avengers actually does make an appearance as well! This issue is one of the biggest revelations that the Hickman Avenger titles are starting to blend and overlap. The idea of world incursions and the multiverse from the New Avengers is explored within this issue and A.I.M.’s influence and recurring appearances is going beyond just Avengers World as they tell most of the story in this issue. From the look of it, it seemed like Hickman would do something similar to All-New X-Men where the original team travels ahead to the future to meet the current team. But with the idea of world incursions and multi-verse, this may be an alternate team that has traveled into this universe.

Old Avengers and the Current Avengers.

World incursions reaching
into this Avengers series.

The issue opens up with a fallen Ant-Man that clearly resembles Hank Pym’s version of the Ant-Man costume. The rest of the issue is told through A.I.M. as they explore the borders of reality and the universe, which leads to finding a portal that leads to the old-school Avengers’ entrance into this world. It becomes a bit more humorous as the old team ventures out into the modern world and are both confused and amused by their surroundings as they learn that it is very much their own Earth, but a different time. Classic time-travel element. The older team speculates that this different Earth from theirs may be one where heroes do not exist, and eventually claim this world to be an “Avengers World.” Much like the theme of the other Avengers series, Avengers World. The old team causes a bit of trouble, Thor specifically, leading to Director Hill of S.H.I.E.L.D. to question the whereabouts and activities of the current Avengers cast, who the reader knows did not have anything to do with the commotion caused by the other group. That was actually the only Avengers appearance (at least for the cast that is regularly featured) in the whole issue. Again, the Avengers titles are beginning to blend but this series still manages to hold its own and have its own unique characteristics. Deanpool enjoyed the story of bringing the old team into the picture and it sets up where the series is headed in the next couple issues. 8/10 Ant-Man ants from Deanpool.

Better tell Hulk what he needs to know.

"Avengers World".... thought this was Avengers.

Get a better look at both the covers. Pretty spot on.

All-New X-Men #22.NOW- Deanpool has been meaning to pick up an X title (other than the new X-Factor one) with all the ones that are on the shelves at comic stores. Uncanny X-Men, All-New X-Men, X-Men Legacy, X-Men, and the list goes on. All-New X-Men sounds somewhat appealing as it features the original X-Men roster of Cyclops, Beast (before he turned all blue), Jean Grey, Iceman, and Angel. This original cast (who were also joined by Kitty Pryde and newly rescued mutant X-23) travels forward in time to make sure that the mutants are still keeping to Professor Xavier’s path of co-existence between humans and mutants. Deanpool was reluctant in starting it though because it was difficult to imagine what kind of stories can this series give that can sustain it. But the “Trial of Jean Grey” sounds like a genius idea for more reasons that one. With the reappearance of Jean Grey to the world, the alien Shi’ar race is placing the “past Jean Grey” on trial for her crimes as the Dark Phoenix. Genius! Why not utilize this story arc with the return of Jean Grey? Now tie in the Guardians of the Galaxy, the cosmic protectors of Earth, and there are the makings of a very interesting and unlikely team-up story. It’s also pretty clever planning by Marvel to publish a crossover story that helps advertise two of Marvel’s blockbuster movies that are planning to release in the coming months: X-Men: Days of Future Past & Guardians of the Galaxy. But the best part is, it’s doesn’t seem forced at all. It sounds like a clever a storyline that appropriate relates to the two parties involved. Altogether, the arc will take place in three All-New X-Men issues and three Galaxy of the Guardians issues.

Awkward Angel.

The issue itself starts off with some hilarious banter and dialogue. We find Angel sitting in the kitchen having a late meal or dinner by himself, only to be interrupted by Cyclops and Jean Grey. The two place Angel in literally an awkward position as they sit on opposite sides of him but have a tense conversation with each other. Jean has recently learned of what her future self goes through: becoming the Phoenix, hurting many, and eventually dying. Cyclops is wondering how she’s coping with everything and is asking her questions to get her to talk about her feelings. Tensions rise when Jean simply wants it to left alone, but Scott (Cyclops) won’t let it go. Their added humor when Jean Grey beams thoughts into Scott’s head and the only hint to what she said is shown in Scott’s reactions. It’s fun stuff to read. It gives a feel of a classic high school lunchroom scene where you have the power couple getting into an argument and the rest of us feel like Angel as we awkwardly follow along while trying to mind our own business. All the while, the other members of the team were carrying on with their daily routines. Poor Warren (Angel), we were all there for you in spirit. Action picks up when the alien Shi’ar team arrives at the school and kidnap Jean Grey with ease. The Guardians of the Galaxy do get their cameo appearance at the very end, showing that they’ll very much be involved and helpful to this group of X-Men.

You're late to the party Peter Quill.

The art itself matched the tone well, especially in the expressive figures drawn. This X-Men team is portrayed as more childish, since it is their younger selves, and the characterization is matched with their drawing in the issue. The action still showcased the artistic talent as it differed greatly from the otherwise less active, more talking scenes. It seemed like it was too short because the whole issue was so enjoyable and it’s possible that the first Guardians of the Galaxy installment for this story may still act as an issue to set up more pieces of this plot. But still gets a good 8.5/10 awkward moments from Deanpool. Though tied with Batman #27, it was hard to choose between the two but Deanpool really enjoyed the humor from this issue and gives it Pick of the Week.

Derp.

All-New X-Factor #2- Here we go, second issue from All-New X-Factor already. Last time we saw this team they were about to start their first mission to break into A.I.M. and stop the work of Dr. Hoffman. It’s safe to say the previous issue had a good pace to it as it recruited its first three members to the cause. But this issue was over quick. It was action-filled and fast-pace, but it was quite a surprise to see this X-Factor’s first story arc done in 2 issues.

Some old X-Factor faces are seen: Fatale, Reaper, and Abyss. All three are being held in this A.I.M. facility and being used as subjects for invasive and illegal mutant experiments. The writer David did a good job of still giving enough background and context to set up these character's purpose for this title, and still keep the reader interested without being overwhelmed by the character's history. Similar to the first issue, the main focus is centered around Gambit as the voice of this story. The witty conversations between Quicksilver and Gambit keep a light tone for the issue as they carry out this seemingly dangerous mission. Quite predictably, when the evil genius Dr. Hoffman tampers with the powers extracted from the mutants, he himself becomes some multi-powered mutant. But as noted earlier, the issue ends pretty quick. Just as Hoffman becomes this powerful being, Gambit and Quicksilver make easy work of him like a boss at the end of the first level of a game. The art is still one of Deanpool’s favorite features as Di Giandomenico uses an interesting combination of bright colors (like seen in the cover) but it is not looked upon as overwhelming or a distraction to the story.

The teamwork from Gambit and Quicksilver save the day.

It’s hard to take out all that much from this issue since it seemed to end so abruptly, but it still feels like the series is off to a solid start. Gambit is a likeable character to play the lead role and it will be interesting to see if/how the three ex-X-Factor characters join this team with rough history that they have with Quicksilver. 7.5/10 Gambit playing cards says Deanpool.

Will these 6 ever get on the same page and be the new X-Factor team?

Iron Man #20.INH- Didn’t Iron Man #20 just come out? Well this differs but does tie-in to both the “Inhumanity” crossover that has been featured in various Marvel Now titles and the Mandarin/Iron Metropolitan story arc that is happening in Iron Man. Catch up with what’s been going on with Iron Man in the Weekly Pick-Up 1/08 if you’d like more background, but you kind of need background on “Inhuamity” and the past couple Iron Man issues to get a better understanding of this issue.

9 out of 10 Mandarin rings have found a host.
Waiting on Nightbringer.

In the fallout of the mad Titan Thanos’ invasion on Earth, the Inhumans released a terrigen mist onto the world. Now, anyone with the Inhuman gene in their genetic code will react to this mist by becoming apart of the Inhuman race. First they will enter a cocoon as the first step of their metamorphosis, and then they will emerge as an Inhuman. You can learn more about this by reading Deanpool’s Black Bolt post. With all this happening, Tony is hoping to save the future of the human race from becoming extinct through the use of technology and building a better city, Iron Metropolitan. But the Mandarin’s rings, which were believed to be kept under the security and protection of S.H.I.E.L.D. have become sentient and each of them (ten total) are looking for a new host with as the first phase of a larger, mysterious plan. We learn in this issue that 9 of the rings have already chosen hosts, and from earlier issues we know at least 2 of them have been revealed to Tony. From the cover of this issue, it is hinted that the tenth ring will be looking for the perfect host for its powers. We see it consider the likes of: Bruce Banner/Hulk; the Inhuman Queen, Medusa; Longshot; the Venom symbiote; and Red Skull. As the ring considers each candidate, it gives a very detailed analysis of the pros and cons of each with respect to the ring’s plans with the host. While it would be scary to see someone as powerful as Red Skull or the Venom symbiote with a Mandarin ring, the ring knows that it could also lead to potential backfire. A perfect candidate would be someone who has strong will and motivation, but can be easily manipulated. Deanpool chuckled at a couple of details that the ring gave such as how the ring would fit on Bruce Banner’s finger, but there may be some issues when he becomes a giant green-fingered Hulk. Or the awkwardness of Longshot’s hand only having three fingers. Or even the idea that the ring would look to the Venom symbiote as a host, but the symbiote itself also looks for a host. Host within a host = Host-ception.

Medusa. Longshot. Hulk. Venom symbiote. Red Skull.

Any of these would've been destructive with the Mandarin ring.

In the end, the ring chooses some nobody named Victor that gets introduced in this issue. The man chosen had issues with his family who all underwent the Inhuman process at the same time and when he didn’t, he felt that he wasn’t blood-related. He went on to believe this was the reason his family was always “so against him.” Another key element that the rings were looking for was a motivation for vengeance against Tony Stark. After the ring chooses this man, Victor (who was pretty drunk at the time), as a host, his first plan is to attack the Inhuman government facility where many of the cocoons were being held. Iron Man arrives on the scene to try to settle the situation, but the ring teleports Victor out of there before Iron Man can do anymore damage to its host. It is then revealed that Victor was in fact an Inhuman and undergoes his transformation process. His guilt kicks in as he realizes that he was apart of his family all along, and the Medusa informs him that the process varies for different people depending on their environment. Victor did not live at home with his family and thus did not receive the same amount of exposure. Regardless, he now has taken his Inhuman form with someone to blame. Cue manipulation by the Mandarin ring to point blame at Tony Stark for not being able to contain him and stop him from attacking the facility. Biggest take-away from this extra story we get in the Iron Man series is that the Mandarin rings are getting in position to move into the next phase of their dark plan against Tony Stark. Nothing big revealed as far as the Inhumans story, but it does show how far the terrigen mist influence is reaching as it affects the Iron Man series as well as many others. Not a necessary story for the current story arc, but a fun one that did not seem to force the “Inhumanity” tie-in. 8/10 Mandarin rings for this one from Deanpool.

The tenth ring has found its host. And it's an Inhuman. Will Victor now get twice the powers?

Batman #27- More Batman in this Bat-filled month. This issue is still carrying over from the “Zero Year” arc as Batman must deal with a deadly foe in Dr. Death while figuring out a way to solve the blackout caused by the Riddler. This Dr. Death character has been going around to his colleagues and injecting them with a serum that forces their bones to essentially grow like beanstalks, which essentially kills them. It isn’t until the end of this issue that Batman deduces that the Riddler is the mastermind that has been tied into all these events from its beginning. But hey, it’s year zero, let’s give Batman the benefit of the doubt that he is not a master detective just yet. At least he still figures it out eventually.

It's elementary my dear Batman.

But perhaps the main plot for this issue is the developing connection between Batman and Jim Gordon. From the issue before, the relationship between Bruce Wayne and Jim Gordon look more hostile than the mutual partnership we are accustomed to seeing. We learn in issue #26 that due to a memory that Bruce has of Gordon from the past, he has trouble trusting Gotham Police but Jim Gordon especially. As with the past issues, telling a Batman story set in the past requires a good amount of textual explanations. This issue isn’t any different but does a good job in developing Jim Gordon’s character. Gordon helps out Batman after Batman was ambushed by the rest of Gotham police and then reveals why he chooses to side with Batman rather than the rest of GCPD. This is the chance for Gordon to tell his side of the story to both Batman and the reading audience. He goes on to tell a lengthy story that involves evil dog-fighting rings and threats with corrupt cops and gangs. While Bruce was under the impression that Jim was apart of the corruption with Gotham police, Jim Gordon proves that he does not support this corruption but was actually blind to it the whole time. His own partner was involved with these dog-fighting rings. When Gordon confronted his partner and threatened to go the commissioner, his partner reveals that the commissioner is in on it too. Gordon’s true character is revealed when he is placed in the dog pit and has to fight his way out to stay alive. Despite his condition from the fight, he chooses to walk away from the group before starting any more trouble. Turns out this was also the same night Bruce’s parents died that night in Crime Alley. The disappointed look on young Bruce Wayne’s face from the past is embedded into Gordon’s memory and is his driving force to fight Gotham’s corruption from within, but respects Batman’s method of fighting outside the law. Though he doesn’t know the actual connection, Gordon relates Batman bringing hope back to Gotham in a similar way that Bruce Wayne’s return has done the same for Gotham citizens.

Jim Gordon vs. the dogs.

This contrast in tone is subtle but present. Gordon has more hope and a lighter view on Gotham’s future while Batman’s is much darker. In the end, Alfred reveals a very different psyche of Bruce Wayne than we are accustomed of seeing. Not the motivation for justice or the vengeance against Gotham’s evil for his parents. Alfred craftily proposes that Batman is Bruce’s form of punishment for those who left him alone in the world. No one was there for him when his parents died, not Alfred, not Jim Gordon, no one. Gordon was present at the scene, but was too late. And despite his revelation of the police’s corruption, at this point in the timeline Gordon hasn’t made any large strides in ridding Gotham of its evil. Bruce ignores this psychological analysis from Alfred to go out and continue his work as Batman. It was a bold move by Snyder but it was one that Deanpool enjoyed. It really plays into Batman’s dark nature while still keeping his character intact. A pretty heavy issue, but with Batman learning of Riddler’s involvement in everything, perhaps more action is reserved for later issues. The storytelling is well done and showed a lot of insight into two important characters. 8.5/10 Riddler riddles from Deanpool.

Batman is out to punish us all, "by making us bear witness."

Cyborg 2.0

Justice League #27- The last couple Justice League issues have been ways for publishers to tell the origins of the members of the Crime Syndicate. Finally, they have broken from this path and we see more of a story that’s moving forward with the “Forever Evil” arc. One of the Forever Evil issues concluded with a defeated Batman and Catwoman dragging the human remains of Victor Stone/Cyborg. Left with his father and Dr. Morrow who have been camped out in one S.T.A.R. labs most secure laboratories, Victor asks his father to build him another Cyborg suit so that he could rejoin the fight against the Crime Syndicate and his Cyborg counterpart. Though Dr. Stone refused to listen to his son’s commands, Dr. Morrow and Victor convinced him that if there were any hope to take down this evil group Cyborg would have to be involved. In addition, Cyborg gets a cool makeover as he gives some specifications to how he wants his new suit look like and features he’ll need from his experiences.

After watching Justice League: War, which is loosely based off the early issues of Justice League, Deanpool gets a better telling of how Victor Stone first became Cyborg and his character’s issues dealt mainly with him feeling out of place in the world as a half human, half computer organism. While he was reluctant about his transformation at first, we now see a more confident and assured Vic Stone who recognizes his role as a hero and member of the Justice League. If Cyborg hadn’t yet earned his place in the Justice League to the other members (and readers), he does in this story.

Some touching moments shared with Vic Stone and his father, Dr. Stone.

Not as much action in this issue as the main focus centers around Cyborg. In the early pages we see members of the Doom Patrol attempt to stand up against Crime Syndicate’s Johnny Quick and Atomica. It doesn’t last long and is honestly forgettable. Deanpool only remembered it when looking through the pages a second time around. There are hints toward Dr. Magnus and the Metal Men possibly making an entrance into the story, and Deanpool hasn't forgotten the Thomas Kord incident from the first Forever Evil issue. He's still awaiting Ted Kord's appearance in the "Forever Evil" arc. The Cyborg-centered story was a nice read and earns 8/10 Cyborg parts from Deanpool.

All-New Invaders #1- 7.5/10. Click for the review.

Thanks for reading! Lots of good comics this week, as seen with the lengthy reviews for almost all of them. And overall mostly good grades for all of them too! No major disappointments and plenty of surprises coming from Marvel’s All-New X-Men and All-New Invaders. But the top two comics are represented by both Marvel and DC this week with the All-New X-Men issue and Batman #27. The next Weekly Pick-Ups post should have less comics, and we’ll try to get that one out as soon as possible! Go pick up some of these issues soon!

Beast- Monkey; Iceman- Penguin
Angel- Bird/Dove; Cyclops- Dog
Jean Grey- Dog, that looks like a pig.
Prof Xavier- A turtle (Hilarious!)