The Unforgivable #1 Experiment 11:34 Review (Comic)

Immediately the cover of The Unforgivable #1 Experiment 11:34 from Brainmachine Comix is reminiscent of a 80′s heavy metal album cover. It grabs your attention and promises a visceral, and that’s exactly what is delivered inside. Like many great albums it assaults your senses with imagery and hidden messages, but does all the noise get in the way?

The tale of The Unforgivable recounts the events that the self-described, “The father of time… the soul geist of reality and space”, Necodemis Necrowpolis kicks into motion. The writer, Paskael Tyiska, isn’t one to dream small as is evident in the nature of Necodemis’s experiment. This experiment was his last attempt to escape the prison of time and does no less than creates life. From life darkness gives birth to light, light casts unholy shadows, Angels and Demons are formed. In essence, Experiment 11:34 created existence and all the conflict that comes with it.

Among the other interpretations, Angels aren’t what you might expect.

The heavily judeo-christian plot of The Unforgivable #1 Experiment 11:34 benefits from Alan Tham’s artwork. The loose interpretation of some of these biblical scenes range from the lush forest of Eden to the Gates of Heaven themselves. There are stunning moments of great details and depth, but the majority features massive heavenly battles full of  violence. It’s unfortunate that these more dense action scenes contribute to an already confusing story. Tham’s art style flourishes among the more serene scenery, while being so packed with details during fights that a few additional readings might be required.

In the moments of clarity there is a great read to be found in The Unforgivable. Whether using one word or a soliloquy, Paskael Tyiska writes just enough to convey the moment at just the right level. It’s a testimony to the intriguing story, enough familiar with more unknowns, that draw you in for more. Enough to push through to the end and want more.

One of the less confusing scenes. Literally layers on layers.

While The Unforgivable story might be layered and meant to have depth, it ultimately comes off confusing. The biblical interpretations give a grounded understanding while bringing their own view to the story. The opening with Necrompolis was by far the most unclear point of the book with flowery words and untold back-story. It also left a lot of unanswered questions, ones that hopefully will get answered soon in future issues but they left an hole after the last page. In the end I was left with a confused satisfaction, one of not fully understanding everything but willing to read it again to help digest everything in The Unforgivable.

OZ #1 Review (Comic)

I’VE A FEELING WE’RE NOT IN KANSAS ANY MORE.

The Grimm Fairy Tales Universe has long explored, expanded and destroyed the three Realms with Earth stuck in the middle. In all this time, wedged between the Realms of Myst the realm of magic, Neverland the source of imagination, Wonderland a world of dreams, and Earth the Nexus that binds them existed a fourth, Oz “The Realm of Hope”. Finally, with the help of one of the creators of Zenescope’s Grimm Fairy Tales, Joe Brusha takes up the pen and we finally get to take a walk down the yellow brick road in Oz #1.

This is definitely not your grandmothers Wizard of Oz.. The first glimpses show a dark world plagued by witches, shadows, wolves and death. It’s certainly not Kansas, made even more evident contrasted against the bright colors and  vibrant artwork of Rolando Di Sessa and Glauber Matos. Dorothy has the Zenescope flair and independent drive just waiting to burst through her farm girl life.

Just a good ol’ Kansas girl, right?

You can take the farm girl out of the farm, but you can’t take the highborn out of the girl. Dorothy exhibits a hidden power that eludes her, entices her and flows through her – however briefly. From the dark comes Toto. He too is not what he was, but the hulking near-wolf creature quickly takes to our heroine hiding a secret that might well hold the key to why the witches of Oz continue to hunt him. The wolf is a large step up from the little yappy dog of the movies, and I want one!

There is more than just Toto that has changed. Besides the obvious change in Dorothy’s wardrobe the darker elements have also undergone a transformation. The witches have upgraded their help as well. It won’t be a skip down the lane in sunshine, but one more mature. Probably the most dynamic change takes place when Dorothy finally lands in Muchkin Land; let’s just say I don’t see them breaking out into song anytime soon.

In true Zenescope fashion the art is beautiful, Dorothy is beautiful yet strong and there is big trouble brewing. The pacing is fantastic for a first issue setting crumbs of a larger mystery, introducing characters and establishing it’s own presence. There’s a promise that the events in Oz will spill over into the rest of the Grimm Fairy Tale Universe with Dorothy standing at the center of things. As a standalone title or accompanying the Grimm titles, OZ #1 is a fine addition to Zenescope’s lineup, one that I can’t wait to see where this yellow brick road takes us.

Comic Station Issue #20 – May 15th 2013

We at Comic Station try to highlight new releases and other series many might otherwise overlook. We typically don't report on long-standing series unless revolutionary. We add a little something extra in our Reviews and Recommendation section. Though, Scott is out sick this week, so there won't be a recommendation section in this Comic Station.

New Releases: The story of Carol Danvers as Captain Marvel crosses over with Avengers Assemble in Avengers: The Enemy Within #1 from Marvel Comics. Doomsday might have missed the mayan calendar, but in Doomsday .1 #1from IDW it still comes nonetheless. What could go wrong when a loser, pothead and all-around bad boyfriend steals an Aboriginal headmask? He wakes up not surrounded by dead people and blood on his hands in Dream Thief #1 from Dark Horse Comics.

Review: The Dream Merchant #1 from Image Comics continues the dream theme on this issue of Comic Station, and again it makes for an interesting read.

Thank you and please leave comments here or on YouTube as we continue to evolve our coverage. For a listing of more New Releases we couldn't get to, a list can be found below the video.

Recommendation: Scott is sick, so no recommendation this Comic Station.

Full Article: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/?p=86181

Hosts of the Comic Station:
Paul Neafsey (@PNeafsey)
Scott Kaitz (Owner of The Comic Station Store)
Video Editing: Paul Neafsey
Segment Music: Sean Weiland (Risen Phoenix Studios)

Helheim #2: Review (Comic)

The Viking Epic continues in the second issue of Helheim from Oni Press. This world of gruesome savages and nefarious witches returns in all its bloody beauty. Helheim #2 picks up a short time after the Wildmen attacked the village, killing many of the villagers including our main character Rikard.

In our first review of Helheim #1 we applauded the writing of Cullen Bunn and colors of Joelle Jones.They return in fine fashion. Again, the writing of Cullen Bunn helps deliver plenty of character to the inhabitants of this viking winterland while Joelle Jones makes even the gory action beautiful.

Full Review: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/04/24/helheim-2-comic-review/

Unleashed #1: Grimm Fairy Tales: Review (Comic)

The Grimm Fairy Tales universe has seen it's fair share of near-world-ending catastrophes and threats. With their unique take on the classic fairy tales, it's a whole new world. Each character is given a modern twist and expanded plot beyond their origins. In the latest arc, a new enemy has risen that makes the Dark One look like a boyscout. As the primary series title, Unleashed #1, officially kicks off the Unleashed arc with five other crossover titles that will add story on the side.

Not one to kick things off small, Unleashed #1 starts right off with a fight between Gods. In an attempt to avert disaster, Zeus, Neptune and the Grimm Fairy Tale's addition, Heather fight a mysterious new being who has already killed one of their own. Nothing like a fight with a being that can kill Gods to get things rolling. Besides this, he opens a portal to all of the creatures of fairy tale nightmares: vampires, werewolves and countless others.

Read the full Review: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/04/23/unleashed-1-grimm-fairy-tales-review-comic/

TenState Comic Book Kickstarter: Comic Station Interview

Kickstarter has made a home with independent artist from Movies, Games and Comic Books. TenState is one such kickstarter comic book. The premise is what initially grabbed me, an independent comic in the setting of a reality TV show where 10 members of different races and creeds are brought together to see if they can stand together, or fall divided. The next thing to stand-out were the talents behind the comic.

The artist behind the unique cartoonish look of TenState is the well-known artist, Len Peralta. Peralta has made a name for himself with his popular previous kickstarters, the Geek-A-Week trading card sets. His artstyle is instantly recognizable to those who know his previous works and already have a cartoon-comic mixture that makes this a logical step. The writer, Tom Merritt, is a well-known technology podcaster with a number of shows, a book published and other technology works; however, the closest previous work has been co-host of Geek and Sundry with Felicia Day. To say I was interested in what could bring these two people together would be an understatement.

Wonder where the inspiration came for some of the characters.

The plot behind TenState was something new, something a regular publisher might not have touched. It's an examination of the diversity of America, and possibility the world, born from observations of how people react in real life. With the help of Tom, TenState was made. An fake reality television show would be the setting to bring the ten people together. Each representing different segments of the population. The tensions that is inherent in the cohabitation of people so diverse is not the only driving force, there is something more behind the television program they are on as well. It's an intriquing idea, and a perfect example of the unique ideas that can be found thanks to Kickstarter.

Though their kickstater will be ending soon, on Wednesday April 10th 2013, I wanted to highlight TenState. While I hope to bring more attention to their I also encourage others to create or support independent comic book creators. To learn more about TenState, see our special Comic Station One-Shot interview with Tom and Len on their upcoming work below:

See all our other Comic Station coverage and stay tuned for when we mention this TenState Interview on Comic Station #15 this wednesday.

The Last of Us: American Dreams #1: Review (Comic)

For those who just can't wait for the upcoming Playstation title by Naughty Dogs Games - The Last of Us - the little bit of information from gameplay trailers has done little to feed an insatiable hunger for more. More of the great graphics, action adventure and story. On the contrary  the more they show the more questions arise and the more June 14th can't get here soon enough. To help quell some of this hunger Naughty Dog has teamed up with Dark Horse Comics to brings us a tantalizing glimpse into this postapocalyptic world . In The Last of Us: An American Dream #1 we are treated to the official comics-exclusive prequel to one of the most anticipated games of the year.

Set nineteen years after the fungal parasite outbreak infected the majority of the world population, resulting in humanity fighting for it's survival in camps. Ellie was born into one of these camps, located in Boston, where she's known nothing but the devastated world she was raised in. As could be expected, having been taken to the brink of extinction, the walled off city has taken to a more militaristic  society where orphans are sent to military prep school upon their thirteenth birthday. The Last of Us: American Dreams opens on the day Ellie is taken to this prep school.

Not exactly a friendly place, but pay attention to small details.

On her way to her new school we get the first glimpse into the walled city that Ellie calls home. It's not a bright or friendly place. Without even saying as word Faith Erin Hicks, the artist, conveys a myriad of emotions and reactions by Ellie that also offer us our first look into the kind of person Ellie is. There are obvious overtures as well as subtle clues at things to come that add depth to the comic as well as hint at elements to come when The Last of Us game comes out. While they hint, they don't spoil anything yet remain tantalizing.

The artwork is not a style that I typically favor, but Hicks's use of the colors and emotional conveyance elevates the style to my admiration. It might also be fitting as trying to copy the graphics of the games could be disheartening. Such a divergent art choice from the game makes sense.

Throughout The Last of Us: American Dreams the story focuses on Ellie, not just thematically, but emotionally and truly insightful. Faith Erin Hicks pulls double duty, working with Neil Druckman as co-authors of this book. There's hardly a wasted page or even scene for that matter that doesn't show Ellie, the world she lives in and how she reacts to it.

See the full Review and Score: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/?p=84032

Comic Station One-Shot: Jimmie Robinson creator of Five Weapons

For this special one-shot Comic Station video we had the opportunity to sit down with Image Comic’s own Jimmie Robinson. Robinson has been in the comics industry since self publishing Cyberzone and subsequently being picked up by Image Comics for the sequel, Amanda and Gunn. His early works found a home in the smaller independent publishers, mostly due to acceptance, but also because the subjects of the series were not the typical superhero works. Cyberzone itself featured a Amanda Shane, a cybernetically  enhanced African-American lesbian bounty hunter. While offering a bleak future, Jimmie Robinson managed to still offer a glimpse of humanity through all the grit.

Full article: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/03/04/comic-station-one-shot-jimmie-robinson-creator-of-five-weapons/

Guardians of the Galaxy #0.1: Review (Comic)

Following the massive success of the Avenger Movie it came as no surprise that Marvel hoped to continue their success. What did surprise many was when they announced their intentions to produce a Guardians of the Galaxy movie. In an effort to re-introduce the team originally created in 1969 Marvel has taken the necessary step of rebootingGuardians of the Galaxy in order to re-introduce this galactic police force to modern readers. Though there were a number of iterations in the evolution of this team, Marvel has chosen to continue with pre-existing Guardians.

Where better to start the the reintroduction of this team than its centerpiece, the leader, Star-Lord. As writer, Brian Michael Bendis has taken some of the basic background story and updated it for new readers. This new story has the same basics, but rather than the more controversial beginnings Peter Quill’s life has a more acceptable if still violent start. Guardians of the Galaxy #0.1 begins with a the crashing husk of what was a spacecraft. Through the good nature and happenstance the occupant of the craft is saved. This is where J’Son of the royal bloodline of Spartax meets the earthling Meredith Quill.

Full Review: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/03/04/guardians-of-the-galaxy-0-1-review-comic/

Comic Station One-shot: 215Ink Publisher Interview (Comics)

In the realm of comic books it’s often the small independent publishers which take the creative risks that the big companies won’t. We had the chance to sit down with one such Publisher, 215Ink, who is based in Philadelphia, PA in a special Comic Station “one-shot” video interview.

To introduce 215Ink on this Comic Station one-shot we sat down with Michael Perkins who writes Beware for this video interview:

Full Article: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/02/24/comic-station-oneshot-215ink-publisher-interview-comics/

Comic Station Issue #8 - February 20th 2013

This issue of Comic Station brings some great New Releases as well as our first day-one comic book review.

New Releases: The new Justice League of America #1 from DC Comics hit the shelves, along with all 52 variant covers featuring the States, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C. Marvel Now! has a new entry: Nova #1, which introduces The Guardians of the Galaxy to the newer Comic Station generation. IDW Comics has a new vampire comic aimed more for the teen generation, with Vitriol #1 hunting the undead. I also couldn’t help but give a shout-out to two more great comics out today, Savage Wolverine #2 and Wolverine Maxx #4.

Review: We had three shorter reviews this time, trying to offer more on this Comic Station Issue #8. DC Comic’s newKatana #1 introduces a old yet new character to The New 52. Image Comics seems to have another winner on their hands with Snapshot #1, and Dark Horse Comics rounds out the reviews with their much acclaimed Star Wars series with Star Wars #2.

Recommendation: Scott recommends my personal favorite Marvel Now! – and possibly all of Marvel – comics: Thor God of Thunder.
Thank you and please leave comments here or on YouTube as we continue to evolve our coverage. For a listing of more New Releases we couldn’t get to, a list can be found below the video.

Full Article: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/02/20/comic-station-issue-8-february-20th-2013/

Star Wars #1 Review (Comic)

The universe of Star Wars is vast and densely populated. We’re not talking about the space, worlds and empires kind of universe, but the Expanded Universe of movies, books and comics. Since first premiering Star Wars has been a beloved creation and many have added their tales to expound and flesh out the life of this work. While many begin their journey with the movies some people find their way to the bookshelves looking for more.

With a seemingly endless sea of these expanded universe books and comics that exist it’s hard to pick out the ones to read. Dark Horse Comics now brings another comic from Brian Wood, the author of The Massive, Conan the Barbarian and MARA. This new Star Wars #1 brings something that many of the countless other series lacked: the same classic characters and story-line as the movies.

Full Review: http://fronttowardsgamer.com/2013/01/09/star-wars-1-review/