It’s a New Year! What new comics will come out this year to set the industry on fire? Is there another Ultimate Spider-Man on the way? Another hype-monster like Absolute Batman?
Sometimes, there isn’t enough to say for a complete review, but there is still something to be said. That’s what Quick Takes is about. It would be unbelievably time consuming to review EVERY comic I read in a week, but I’ll always have something to say. So, here’s to something new…Quick Takes for the Week of January 1, 2025.
Justice League: The Atom Project #1
Mike Perkins’ art is always good and it’s the same for this issue. Story wise, there are some interesting ideas, but the idea of Captain Atom on the run from Ray Palmer and Ryan Choi is less interesting than the three of them working together to help those who’ve acquired super powers by accident. There’s not quite enough character work to keep you on the hook if the basic premise doesn’t grab you right away. But, lack of character is an issue in almost all comics these days.
Absolute Superman #3
Jason Aaron, while utilizing familiar elements is creating a very different feel with Absolute Superman. There are moments that are compelling, but there are just as many moments in the roller coaster ride of “the message” that will elicit a cringe. It’s not always executed deftly, and sometimes it’s too “on the nose.” He may be spending too much time with the story on Krypton, but the art by Rafa Sandoval looks great and the design of this Krypton is well conceived and presented. We know what’s going to happen, but getting there is not as enjoyable as it should be. Teasing the Kent’s role is still interesting. A mixed bag leaning above average.
Batgirl #3
The art and storytelling really stand out in this comic. The full page layouts of the fight on the train at the end of the issue are excellent. There’s almost a painterly quality to the coloring that creates a unique look for the book. Additionally, the colors are reminiscent of the colors in the lamented Batgirls title that also featured Cassandra Cain. There’s a lot of apparent misdirection in the script and it mimics Cass’s own feelings towards her mother and what her mother is doing. It does a solid job of drawing the reader in. Overall, a pretty strong issue.
Shazam #19
When Mark Waid was on this title it felt like the series was trying to take Billy and The Captain to a more classic iteration. More recent months have not continued down that path. Despite having classic villains like Mr. Mind and now the Sivana’s involved one would think it would be doing the same thing. Unfortunately, Josie Campbell is not maintaining enough of that feel. Freddy/ the Commander is suffering from a truly terrible look, design and hero name, and Billy is just another screw up kid. Slightly below average, at best.
What did you read this week? What was your favorite? Least favorite? What was…bad? Leave a comment below on DC’s new comics for the week of January 1, 2025. Is it a great start to a New Year?
