"Target: X-Force"
December 1995
In a Nutshell
Shaw & Holocaust ambush X-Force
Writer: Jeph Loeb
Guest Penciler: Terry Dodson
Inkers: Lanning, Morales, Russell
Letterer: Comicraft
Colorist: Marie Javins
Editor: Bob Harras
Plot
Holocaust tests out the new armor he's been given by Sebastian Shaw, but when he kills a Hellfire Club mercenary, Shaw's aide Tessa is forced to take telepathic control of him. Later, Boomer returns to her hometown & reunites with her estranged father. In New York, Caliban & Sunspot are exploring the Morlock tunnels when both are ambushed & captured by Shaw & Holocaust. Elsewhere in the city, Warpath & Siryn are out on the town, and are ambushed when Siryn stops to do some shopping. That night, Shatterstar leaves the club he once visited with Rictor and intervenes to save a young gay man from an attack, only to be attacked himself by Shaw & Holocaust. Back at Boomer's father's trailer, Boomer learns her mother is still alive, but just then, Shaw & Holocaust attack, blowing up the trailer. With all of X-Force now his captives, Shaw compliments himself on a well-executed plan.
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
X-amining X-Men (vol. 2) #47
"Big Trouble in Little Italy!"
December 1995
In a Nutshell
The X-Men help prevent the cancellation of the X-Babies
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Pencils: Andy Kubert
Inks: Cam Smith & Jesse Delperdang
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Kevin Somers
Separations: Malibu Hues
Editor: Bob Harras
Plot
As Gog & Magog chase the X-Babies through Little Italy, Gambit & Bishop pick themselves out of the wreckage of the nightclub destroyed in their fight with the bounty hunters, then set out in pursuit of them. Meeting up with the X-Babies, Gambit & Bishop engage Gog & Magog again, but are close to being overwhelmed again when Iceman & Phoenix arrive. But even their combined power isn't enough to stop Gog from trying to swallow the X-Babies whole. Just then, Dazzler arrives from the Mojoverse, and orders Gog & Magog back there, before offering to let the X-Babies live with her. With everyone pleased by the arrangement, Dazzler and the X-Babies return to the Mojoverse. Back at the X-Mansion, Professor X calls Boomer into his office; he's made a decision about Sabretooth.
December 1995
In a Nutshell
The X-Men help prevent the cancellation of the X-Babies
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Pencils: Andy Kubert
Inks: Cam Smith & Jesse Delperdang
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Kevin Somers
Separations: Malibu Hues
Editor: Bob Harras
Plot
As Gog & Magog chase the X-Babies through Little Italy, Gambit & Bishop pick themselves out of the wreckage of the nightclub destroyed in their fight with the bounty hunters, then set out in pursuit of them. Meeting up with the X-Babies, Gambit & Bishop engage Gog & Magog again, but are close to being overwhelmed again when Iceman & Phoenix arrive. But even their combined power isn't enough to stop Gog from trying to swallow the X-Babies whole. Just then, Dazzler arrives from the Mojoverse, and orders Gog & Magog back there, before offering to let the X-Babies live with her. With everyone pleased by the arrangement, Dazzler and the X-Babies return to the Mojoverse. Back at the X-Mansion, Professor X calls Boomer into his office; he's made a decision about Sabretooth.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
X-amining Champions #13 - Patreon First
"The Doom That Went On Forever!"
May 1977
In a Nutshell
Darkstar helps stave off the end of all existence.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Letterer: Irving Wantanabe
Colorists: Bruce Patterson & George Roussos
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
Returning to the Champions' HQ following his battle with Stilt-Man, Black Goliath is sucked inside the Null-Life Bomb which has consumed the building. Meanwhile, the Champions are attacked by Kamo Tharn's beast men even as Hercules reveals he'd already brought to Earth the Runestaff the Stranger sent them to retrieve! During the ensuing battle, Darkstar discovers the portal they traveled through slowly closing, and jumps through, followed closely by Iceman. Back on Earth, Black Goliath attacks the bomb, which triggers its defense mechanisms, manifesting a series of robots to fight him. Meanwhile, Iceman & Darkstar finds themselves drifting through space, while the rest of the Champions are eventually overwhelmed by Kamo Tharn's forces. However, their battle has all been an illusion, as the team remains in the hypnotic thrall of Kamo Tharn. Just then, Darkstar emerges in the null life field surrounding the bomb, and explains to the Stranger what has happened. He fetches the Runestaff from its place on Earth, and Darkstar uses it to restore the universe to its pre-Null-Life Bomb state. With existence saved, the Stranger departs, returning the Champions to Earth. They celebrate their victory, with Darkstar finally feeling as though she belongs, though Hercules finds himself wondering if he, half human, half god, can belong in either world.
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
May 1977
In a Nutshell
Darkstar helps stave off the end of all existence.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Letterer: Irving Wantanabe
Colorists: Bruce Patterson & George Roussos
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
Returning to the Champions' HQ following his battle with Stilt-Man, Black Goliath is sucked inside the Null-Life Bomb which has consumed the building. Meanwhile, the Champions are attacked by Kamo Tharn's beast men even as Hercules reveals he'd already brought to Earth the Runestaff the Stranger sent them to retrieve! During the ensuing battle, Darkstar discovers the portal they traveled through slowly closing, and jumps through, followed closely by Iceman. Back on Earth, Black Goliath attacks the bomb, which triggers its defense mechanisms, manifesting a series of robots to fight him. Meanwhile, Iceman & Darkstar finds themselves drifting through space, while the rest of the Champions are eventually overwhelmed by Kamo Tharn's forces. However, their battle has all been an illusion, as the team remains in the hypnotic thrall of Kamo Tharn. Just then, Darkstar emerges in the null life field surrounding the bomb, and explains to the Stranger what has happened. He fetches the Runestaff from its place on Earth, and Darkstar uses it to restore the universe to its pre-Null-Life Bomb state. With existence saved, the Stranger departs, returning the Champions to Earth. They celebrate their victory, with Darkstar finally feeling as though she belongs, though Hercules finds himself wondering if he, half human, half god, can belong in either world.
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
Monday, April 27, 2020
X-amination in May 2020 & August 1995 Power Rankings
May wraps up the October '95 titles as Mondo arrives in Generation X, Colossus comes to Excalibur, and we reach the final annual of 1995!
On Sale October 1995
May 6: Generation X #10
May 7: Excalibur #92
May 8: Cable #26
May 13: X-Force & Cable '95
May 20: X-Men Unlimited #9
May 27: Starjammers #1-4
August 1995 Power Rankings
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Force in Focus: The Clones Wars Season 7 Episode 10
"The Phantom Apprentice"
Plot
Confronted by Maul, who taunts her knowledge of Darth Sidious' plans, Ahsoka activates a signal on her gauntlet to alert Rex to her location. As her Clone Troopers arrive, Maul and his forces escape into the tunnels. Later, Ahsoka contacts Obi-Wan, hoping to receive more troops, but he tells her he's setting out to find General Grievous, and that Anakin has been tasked with reporting on the chancellor for the Jedi Council. Just then Rex enters: Maul has captured one one of the Clone Troopers, Jesse. After dispatching Gar Saxon to eliminated the captive Almec, Maul uses the Force to plumb Jesse's mind of knowledge about Ahsoka. At the prison complex, Bo-Katan & Ahsoka question Almec, who is killed by Saxon. Bo-Katan gives chase, but he manages to escape. Ahsoka & Bo-Katan then oversee the shepherding of the city's civilian population to safety, before returning to the throne room to find Maul waiting. As his forces engage the Mandalorians, he tells Ahsoka's he's seen a vision of the future in which they foil Sidious together, and offers Ahsoka the chance to join him. She agrees, until he reveals that he saw Anakin serving as Sidious' new apprentice. Knowing Anakin could never turn to the dark side, and that therefore Maul's vision of the future is wrong, she attacks him. They duel, eventually ending up in the beams of the canopy over the city. As the Republic forces overwhelm Gar Saxon's forces, Maul tries to escape, but Ahsoka manages to grab him with the Force long enough for Rex and a detachment of troopers to arrive and bind him, as Ahsoka looks up at the cracked canopy above her.
Plot
Confronted by Maul, who taunts her knowledge of Darth Sidious' plans, Ahsoka activates a signal on her gauntlet to alert Rex to her location. As her Clone Troopers arrive, Maul and his forces escape into the tunnels. Later, Ahsoka contacts Obi-Wan, hoping to receive more troops, but he tells her he's setting out to find General Grievous, and that Anakin has been tasked with reporting on the chancellor for the Jedi Council. Just then Rex enters: Maul has captured one one of the Clone Troopers, Jesse. After dispatching Gar Saxon to eliminated the captive Almec, Maul uses the Force to plumb Jesse's mind of knowledge about Ahsoka. At the prison complex, Bo-Katan & Ahsoka question Almec, who is killed by Saxon. Bo-Katan gives chase, but he manages to escape. Ahsoka & Bo-Katan then oversee the shepherding of the city's civilian population to safety, before returning to the throne room to find Maul waiting. As his forces engage the Mandalorians, he tells Ahsoka's he's seen a vision of the future in which they foil Sidious together, and offers Ahsoka the chance to join him. She agrees, until he reveals that he saw Anakin serving as Sidious' new apprentice. Knowing Anakin could never turn to the dark side, and that therefore Maul's vision of the future is wrong, she attacks him. They duel, eventually ending up in the beams of the canopy over the city. As the Republic forces overwhelm Gar Saxon's forces, Maul tries to escape, but Ahsoka manages to grab him with the Force long enough for Rex and a detachment of troopers to arrive and bind him, as Ahsoka looks up at the cracked canopy above her.
Friday, April 24, 2020
X-amining X-Man #10
"Confrontation"
December 1995
In a Nutshell
Nate meets Professor X!
Writer: John Ostrander
Penciler: Steve Skroce
Additional Pencils: Jan Duursema and Casey Jones
Inks: Bud LaRosa, Ian Akin and and Rob Hunter
Letters: Comicraft
Colors: Mike Thomas and Matt Webb
Separations: Malibu
Editors: Jaye Gardner and Lisa Patrick
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Nate Grey heads north, towards the X-Mansion. But he is waylaid by a hurricane and, struck by lightning, crashes onto a North Carolina beach. Meanwhile, Blaquesmith arrives at the mansion to warn Xavier about Nate. Meanwhile, Nate wakes up in a jail cell and is taken to breakfast at a nearby diner by the local sheriff who found him. At the X-Mansion, Blaquesmith tells Xavier about Nate's immense psychic power, , and they begin trying to locate the boy. At the diner, Nate learns about the Legacy Virus and prejudice against mutants, innocently announcing to everyone there that he's a mutant. Just then, Xavier & Blaquesmith locate him, and Xavier astrally projects to his location. He arrives just as Nate uses his power to put the increasingly angry crowd at the diner to sleep, and when he tries to scan Nate, he is detected, prompting Nate to pull Xavier out of the astral plane and into the real world. He then attacks Xavier, and though Xavier tries to reason with him, he quickly realizes Nate is too angry to listen, and that the only way to end their fight is to make Nate think he's killed Xavier. Returning to his physical body, Xavier tells Blaquesmith the encounter went poorly, as he fears Nate will never trust him or his X-Men now, but for the sake of the world, they must find him again.
December 1995
In a Nutshell
Nate meets Professor X!
Writer: John Ostrander
Penciler: Steve Skroce
Additional Pencils: Jan Duursema and Casey Jones
Inks: Bud LaRosa, Ian Akin and and Rob Hunter
Letters: Comicraft
Colors: Mike Thomas and Matt Webb
Separations: Malibu
Editors: Jaye Gardner and Lisa Patrick
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Nate Grey heads north, towards the X-Mansion. But he is waylaid by a hurricane and, struck by lightning, crashes onto a North Carolina beach. Meanwhile, Blaquesmith arrives at the mansion to warn Xavier about Nate. Meanwhile, Nate wakes up in a jail cell and is taken to breakfast at a nearby diner by the local sheriff who found him. At the X-Mansion, Blaquesmith tells Xavier about Nate's immense psychic power, , and they begin trying to locate the boy. At the diner, Nate learns about the Legacy Virus and prejudice against mutants, innocently announcing to everyone there that he's a mutant. Just then, Xavier & Blaquesmith locate him, and Xavier astrally projects to his location. He arrives just as Nate uses his power to put the increasingly angry crowd at the diner to sleep, and when he tries to scan Nate, he is detected, prompting Nate to pull Xavier out of the astral plane and into the real world. He then attacks Xavier, and though Xavier tries to reason with him, he quickly realizes Nate is too angry to listen, and that the only way to end their fight is to make Nate think he's killed Xavier. Returning to his physical body, Xavier tells Blaquesmith the encounter went poorly, as he fears Nate will never trust him or his X-Men now, but for the sake of the world, they must find him again.
Thursday, April 23, 2020
X-amining X-Factor #117
"Adversaries...Old and New"
December 1995
In a Nutshell
Dark Beast lures out Havok
Writer: Howard Mackie
Penciler: Steve Epting & Stefano Raffaele
Inker: Al Milgrom
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Separations: Malibu Hues
Colorist: Glynis Oliver
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
In India, Haven struggles with the imminent birth of her child. She is confronted by Roma, and begs her help. But Roma tells her there is nothing she can do to stop the rebirth of the Adversary. Meanwhile, X-Factor is awoken by an attacking Sentinel, which turns out to be a test of their teamwork abilities overseen by Forge & Val Cooper. It ends when Havok uses his power to destroy the robot. They are watched by Random, transmitting what he sees back to Dark Beast & Fatale, but refuses to move in on Havok as ordered while the rest of the team is around. During the fight with the Sentinel, Wild Child gets knocked into Forge's lab, where he encounters the holographic Shard and is immediately smitten. Later, Mystique pulls Forge out of the team debrief and confronts him about his mood lately. He admits he's worried about the return of the Adversary, but insists he's dead, just like his mentor, Naze. However, a very much alive Naze wearily drives through the desert, knowing he must fight on. Back at Falls Edge, Havok receives a letter from someone claiming to be Scarlet, wanting to meet him at a nearby abandoned coal plant. He goes off alone, knowing full well the letter isn't from Scarlet, and finds Random waiting for him, ready to attack. Meanwhile, Roma meets Naze in the desert and notifies him that Haven has died, and the Adversary has returned!
December 1995
In a Nutshell
Dark Beast lures out Havok
Writer: Howard Mackie
Penciler: Steve Epting & Stefano Raffaele
Inker: Al Milgrom
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Separations: Malibu Hues
Colorist: Glynis Oliver
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
In India, Haven struggles with the imminent birth of her child. She is confronted by Roma, and begs her help. But Roma tells her there is nothing she can do to stop the rebirth of the Adversary. Meanwhile, X-Factor is awoken by an attacking Sentinel, which turns out to be a test of their teamwork abilities overseen by Forge & Val Cooper. It ends when Havok uses his power to destroy the robot. They are watched by Random, transmitting what he sees back to Dark Beast & Fatale, but refuses to move in on Havok as ordered while the rest of the team is around. During the fight with the Sentinel, Wild Child gets knocked into Forge's lab, where he encounters the holographic Shard and is immediately smitten. Later, Mystique pulls Forge out of the team debrief and confronts him about his mood lately. He admits he's worried about the return of the Adversary, but insists he's dead, just like his mentor, Naze. However, a very much alive Naze wearily drives through the desert, knowing he must fight on. Back at Falls Edge, Havok receives a letter from someone claiming to be Scarlet, wanting to meet him at a nearby abandoned coal plant. He goes off alone, knowing full well the letter isn't from Scarlet, and finds Random waiting for him, ready to attack. Meanwhile, Roma meets Naze in the desert and notifies him that Haven has died, and the Adversary has returned!
Wednesday, April 22, 2020
X-amining Uncanny X-Men #327
"Whispers on the Wind"
December 1995
In a Nutshell
An amnesiac Magneto stumbles across an orphanage and is given the name Joseph.
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Penciler: Roger Cruz
Inkers: Tim Townsend & Al Milgrom
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Steve Buccellato & Electric Crauon
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
A mysterious man stumbles across an orphanage, speaking German & displaying magnetic powers before falling unconscious. Later, he awakens and is tended to by Sister Maria, caretaker of the orphanage. As the man reveals he has amnesia tells him he can stay until he is well enough to travel. He is christened Joseph by one of the children. Time passes, and having grown fond of the children, he remains at the orphanage, helping work the land and look after the kids. Eventually, word of his mutant abilities reaches Colonel Ramos, who is eager to have a mutant's power at his disposal to further his criminal efforts. To that end, he has Sister Maria and the children kidnapped, to be used as leverage to coerce Joseph's cooperation. It doesn't work, however, as Joseph uses his power to force the location of the captives from Ramos. Joseph then goes to an old church where Maria and the children are being held in the basement. Sister Maria knows Joseph has come to save them, but when they emerge from the basement, they are shocked by the horror Joseph visited upon their captors. Seeing their disappointment in him, Joseph decides to leave the next morning, with Maria pointing him towards the X-Men as a potential place where he could find a home. Later, Maria recounts the tale of Joseph to Father Heclio, wondering if she has loosed the villain Magneto out into the world. Helcio responds that perhaps instead, she has given him the faith he needs to use his power to help humanity. All they can do now is pray that he finds his place in the world, and that the place is on the side of the angels.
December 1995
In a Nutshell
An amnesiac Magneto stumbles across an orphanage and is given the name Joseph.
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Penciler: Roger Cruz
Inkers: Tim Townsend & Al Milgrom
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Steve Buccellato & Electric Crauon
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
A mysterious man stumbles across an orphanage, speaking German & displaying magnetic powers before falling unconscious. Later, he awakens and is tended to by Sister Maria, caretaker of the orphanage. As the man reveals he has amnesia tells him he can stay until he is well enough to travel. He is christened Joseph by one of the children. Time passes, and having grown fond of the children, he remains at the orphanage, helping work the land and look after the kids. Eventually, word of his mutant abilities reaches Colonel Ramos, who is eager to have a mutant's power at his disposal to further his criminal efforts. To that end, he has Sister Maria and the children kidnapped, to be used as leverage to coerce Joseph's cooperation. It doesn't work, however, as Joseph uses his power to force the location of the captives from Ramos. Joseph then goes to an old church where Maria and the children are being held in the basement. Sister Maria knows Joseph has come to save them, but when they emerge from the basement, they are shocked by the horror Joseph visited upon their captors. Seeing their disappointment in him, Joseph decides to leave the next morning, with Maria pointing him towards the X-Men as a potential place where he could find a home. Later, Maria recounts the tale of Joseph to Father Heclio, wondering if she has loosed the villain Magneto out into the world. Helcio responds that perhaps instead, she has given him the faith he needs to use his power to help humanity. All they can do now is pray that he finds his place in the world, and that the place is on the side of the angels.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
X-amining Champions #12 - Patreon First
"Did Someone Say...the Stranger?"
March 1977
In a Nutshell
The Champions battle Stilt-Man, then the Stranger.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Letterer: A Kawecki
Colorist: Don Warfield
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
The Champions return to their headquarters in the midst of a battle between Black Goliath and Stilt-Man, who is seeking the strange glowing box brought inside by a young woman. The Champions help drive Stilt-Man into a retreat, and while Black Goliath pursues him further, they meet with the woman, Regina Clayborne. As she tells them how she came into possession of the box, the cosmic Stranger suddenly appears. Taking his appearance as an attack, the Champions leap into action. As they battle the Stranger, the glowing box increases in size, absorbing Regina and part of the Stranger, prompting him to end the fight. He explains that the box contains the Null-Life Bomb, a weapon which threatens the entire universe, as it is designed to absorb all existence before exploding & destroying everything. As the bomb increases in size, the Stranger, who says he came to Earth to stop the weapon, teleports the Champions away to collect the only object capable of destroying the bomb. Moments later, they find themselves in the realm of Kamo Tharn, who bears a grudge against Hercules and vows his revenge!
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
March 1977
In a Nutshell
The Champions battle Stilt-Man, then the Stranger.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Letterer: A Kawecki
Colorist: Don Warfield
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
The Champions return to their headquarters in the midst of a battle between Black Goliath and Stilt-Man, who is seeking the strange glowing box brought inside by a young woman. The Champions help drive Stilt-Man into a retreat, and while Black Goliath pursues him further, they meet with the woman, Regina Clayborne. As she tells them how she came into possession of the box, the cosmic Stranger suddenly appears. Taking his appearance as an attack, the Champions leap into action. As they battle the Stranger, the glowing box increases in size, absorbing Regina and part of the Stranger, prompting him to end the fight. He explains that the box contains the Null-Life Bomb, a weapon which threatens the entire universe, as it is designed to absorb all existence before exploding & destroying everything. As the bomb increases in size, the Stranger, who says he came to Earth to stop the weapon, teleports the Champions away to collect the only object capable of destroying the bomb. Moments later, they find themselves in the realm of Kamo Tharn, who bears a grudge against Hercules and vows his revenge!
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
Saturday, April 18, 2020
Force in Focus: The Clones Wars Season 7 Episode 09
"Old Friends Not Forgotten"
Plot
On the planet Yerbana, Anakin & Obi-Wan work together to overwhelm a droid force and win the battle, after which Anakin learns he's been contacted by an old friend: Ahsoka. Shortly thereafter, Ahsoka lands on Anakin's flagship with Bo-Katan. They have arrived looking for Anakin & Obi-Wan's help in capturing Maul & freeing Mandalore from his control, action Obi-Wan insists he must run by the Jedi Council, much to Ahsoka's dismay. As he does, Ahsoka reconnects with Anakin & Rex. Eventually, they are interrupted by a klaxon as Obi-Wan rushes in to announce that Chancellor Palpatine has been kidnapped; he and Anakin have been recalled to Coruscant to rescue him. Wanting to help Ahsoka, Anakin splits the 501st Legion and gives it to Rex to command, under Ahsoka's guidance. Newly reinforced, Ahsoka & Bo-Katan return to Mandalore and assault the capital of Sundari. As Ahsoka leads a group of troops into the undercity, Bo-Katan storms the palace & captures Prime Minister Almec, who tells them Maul always intended for her to return with the Jedi, though perhaps not the one she brought. Just then, in the sewers beneath the city, Ahsoka comes face to face with Maul, who says disappointedly that he was hoping for Kenobi as he draws his lightsaber.
Plot
On the planet Yerbana, Anakin & Obi-Wan work together to overwhelm a droid force and win the battle, after which Anakin learns he's been contacted by an old friend: Ahsoka. Shortly thereafter, Ahsoka lands on Anakin's flagship with Bo-Katan. They have arrived looking for Anakin & Obi-Wan's help in capturing Maul & freeing Mandalore from his control, action Obi-Wan insists he must run by the Jedi Council, much to Ahsoka's dismay. As he does, Ahsoka reconnects with Anakin & Rex. Eventually, they are interrupted by a klaxon as Obi-Wan rushes in to announce that Chancellor Palpatine has been kidnapped; he and Anakin have been recalled to Coruscant to rescue him. Wanting to help Ahsoka, Anakin splits the 501st Legion and gives it to Rex to command, under Ahsoka's guidance. Newly reinforced, Ahsoka & Bo-Katan return to Mandalore and assault the capital of Sundari. As Ahsoka leads a group of troops into the undercity, Bo-Katan storms the palace & captures Prime Minister Almec, who tells them Maul always intended for her to return with the Jedi, though perhaps not the one she brought. Just then, in the sewers beneath the city, Ahsoka comes face to face with Maul, who says disappointedly that he was hoping for Kenobi as he draws his lightsaber.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Unstacking the Deck: Marvel Masterpiece Series IV
Fleer 1995
Vital Statistics
151 standard cards (including the checklist card), plus a 22 card "Canvas", 8 card "Holoflash" and two card "Mirage" insert sets and a "E-Motion Signature Series" parallel set.
The cards are almost presented entirely in portrait layout, with the card fronts featuring only the Marvel Masterpieces logo in the bottom left corner and the character's name in gold-foil writing in the other corner.
The cardbacks feature the name of the artist who painted the front image, along with a relevant quote about the character written from the perspective of a specific ally, enemy, or love interest of the character, all overlaid atop of smaller, skewed, copy of the cardfront's main image.
Firsts and Other Notables
Art for this series cards came from four artists: Dave Devries, Dimitrios Patelis, Peter Scanlan and Nelson, with each artist painting 38 characters along with two other artists, so that the first 114 cards represent 38 character who each receive three cards, each painted by one of the four artists. Each artist then contributed paintings of nine unique characters each, such that the final 36 cards represent characters receiving one card each (each of those "solo" cards features a comment on the cardback from the artist, usually explaining why they picked that character or detailing their artistic choices).
Vital Statistics
151 standard cards (including the checklist card), plus a 22 card "Canvas", 8 card "Holoflash" and two card "Mirage" insert sets and a "E-Motion Signature Series" parallel set.
The cards are almost presented entirely in portrait layout, with the card fronts featuring only the Marvel Masterpieces logo in the bottom left corner and the character's name in gold-foil writing in the other corner.
The cardbacks feature the name of the artist who painted the front image, along with a relevant quote about the character written from the perspective of a specific ally, enemy, or love interest of the character, all overlaid atop of smaller, skewed, copy of the cardfront's main image.
Firsts and Other Notables
Art for this series cards came from four artists: Dave Devries, Dimitrios Patelis, Peter Scanlan and Nelson, with each artist painting 38 characters along with two other artists, so that the first 114 cards represent 38 character who each receive three cards, each painted by one of the four artists. Each artist then contributed paintings of nine unique characters each, such that the final 36 cards represent characters receiving one card each (each of those "solo" cards features a comment on the cardback from the artist, usually explaining why they picked that character or detailing their artistic choices).
Tuesday, April 14, 2020
X-amining Champions #11 - Patreon First
"The Shadow From the Stars"
February 1977
In a Nutshell
John Byrne comes aboard as the Champions battle aliens in the desert!
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Letterer: Patterson
Colorist: Don Warfield
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
The Champions try out their new "Champscraft" vehicle, only to have it experience mechanical issues and threaten to crash. Thankfully, Black Goliath, sent over to check on the vehicle by the manufacturer, is on hand to prevent further damage. As they discuss the near-accident, Darkstar arrives and reveals that Nick Fiury has made arrangements to allow her to stay in the country. Meanwhile, Ghost Rider is traveling through Arizona and runs into some ranchers who are being helped by Hawkeye & Two-Gun Kid. Suddenly, the group sees what appears to be a flying saucer in the distance. Back at the Champions headquarters, Black Goliath helps fix the Champscraft, just as the team hears of the disturbance in Arizona. In Arizona, the superheroes have learned the ranchers are being attacked by the alien Warlord Kaa and his shadow soldiers. Working with the newly-arrived Champions, including Darkstar, the heroes are able to drive off Kaa and his forces. Just then, Black Goliath contacts the team, saying that a woman has showed up at their headquarters with a glowing box that was stolen from his lab last week, and that Stilt-Man has shown up as well, demanding the box in order to become master of the world!
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
February 1977
In a Nutshell
John Byrne comes aboard as the Champions battle aliens in the desert!
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Bob Layton
Letterer: Patterson
Colorist: Don Warfield
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
The Champions try out their new "Champscraft" vehicle, only to have it experience mechanical issues and threaten to crash. Thankfully, Black Goliath, sent over to check on the vehicle by the manufacturer, is on hand to prevent further damage. As they discuss the near-accident, Darkstar arrives and reveals that Nick Fiury has made arrangements to allow her to stay in the country. Meanwhile, Ghost Rider is traveling through Arizona and runs into some ranchers who are being helped by Hawkeye & Two-Gun Kid. Suddenly, the group sees what appears to be a flying saucer in the distance. Back at the Champions headquarters, Black Goliath helps fix the Champscraft, just as the team hears of the disturbance in Arizona. In Arizona, the superheroes have learned the ranchers are being attacked by the alien Warlord Kaa and his shadow soldiers. Working with the newly-arrived Champions, including Darkstar, the heroes are able to drive off Kaa and his forces. Just then, Black Goliath contacts the team, saying that a woman has showed up at their headquarters with a glowing box that was stolen from his lab last week, and that Stilt-Man has shown up as well, demanding the box in order to become master of the world!
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
Saturday, April 11, 2020
Force in Focus: The Clones Wars Season 7 Episode 08
"Together Again"
The Moral of the Story
You can change who you are, but you cannot run from yourself.
Plot
Brought before the Pykes, Ahsoka offers a deal: set the Martez sisters free to retrieve the missing spice, and Ahsoka will remain behind; if the sisters don't come back, Ahsoka will give the Pykes info on their family to use as leverage. They agree, and the Martez sisters are released. Trace believes Ahsoka is sacrificing herself for them, since they have no family to be used as leverage, but Rafa, not wanting to be one-upped, vows to return with spice and free Ahsoka. Meanwhile, Ahsoka uses the Force to escape from her cell and sets out to plant charges in the Pyke's spice processing facilities. She overhears a conversation between the Pykes & Maul, and tracing the transmission to Mandalore, she gets recaptured & exposed as a Jedi in the process. Elsewhere, Trace & Rafa arrive at a Pyke loading facility, and fight the Trandoshan manager there in order to make off with a replacement spice shipment. They return to Oba Diah and are brought before Marg Krim, who reveals Ahsoka as a Jedi. Just then, the charges she set exploded, which she and the Martez sisters use as cover to escape. As they fight their way off the planet, Ahsoka explains how she left the Jedi Order, and when the three return to Coruscant, they are on friendly terms. Just then, Bo-Katan enters Trace's workshop, having followed them from Oba Diah, and says she needs Ahsoka's help to take down Maul. Ahsoka is reluctant, but Trace says she needs to help the Mandalorians just as she helped them, and Ahsoka ultimately agrees, leaving her bike with Trace, just in case, before boarding the Mandalorians' ship.
The Moral of the Story
You can change who you are, but you cannot run from yourself.
Brought before the Pykes, Ahsoka offers a deal: set the Martez sisters free to retrieve the missing spice, and Ahsoka will remain behind; if the sisters don't come back, Ahsoka will give the Pykes info on their family to use as leverage. They agree, and the Martez sisters are released. Trace believes Ahsoka is sacrificing herself for them, since they have no family to be used as leverage, but Rafa, not wanting to be one-upped, vows to return with spice and free Ahsoka. Meanwhile, Ahsoka uses the Force to escape from her cell and sets out to plant charges in the Pyke's spice processing facilities. She overhears a conversation between the Pykes & Maul, and tracing the transmission to Mandalore, she gets recaptured & exposed as a Jedi in the process. Elsewhere, Trace & Rafa arrive at a Pyke loading facility, and fight the Trandoshan manager there in order to make off with a replacement spice shipment. They return to Oba Diah and are brought before Marg Krim, who reveals Ahsoka as a Jedi. Just then, the charges she set exploded, which she and the Martez sisters use as cover to escape. As they fight their way off the planet, Ahsoka explains how she left the Jedi Order, and when the three return to Coruscant, they are on friendly terms. Just then, Bo-Katan enters Trace's workshop, having followed them from Oba Diah, and says she needs Ahsoka's help to take down Maul. Ahsoka is reluctant, but Trace says she needs to help the Mandalorians just as she helped them, and Ahsoka ultimately agrees, leaving her bike with Trace, just in case, before boarding the Mandalorians' ship.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
X-amining Uncanny X-Men '95
"Growing Pains"
1995
In a Nutshell
Cannonball & Husk infiltrate an anti-mutant cult to rescue their sister.
Writer: Terry Kavanagh
Penciler: Bryan Hitch
Inker: Bob McLeod
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Glynis Oliver
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Cannonball arrives at the Massachusetts Academy to pick up his sister Husk. Accompanied by Storm, Bishop, and Wolverine, they return to their family home in the wake of their sister Joelle falling in with a militant anti-mutant cult called Humanity's Last Stand, thanks in large part to her boyfriend, a man known as Preacher, who paints the strange visions he experiences. Hoping to blend in, Cannonball & Husk infiltrate the group's compound, leaving the other X-Men behind. They find their sister, and Husk continues to explore the complex while Cannonball tries to talk some sense into their sister. However, the two mutants catch the attention of the group's shadowy leader, and Cannonball is attacked by armored agents of the group. Meanwhile, Husk gets deeper into the complex, and overhears a conversation with the group's leader. She is found out, however, and badly beaten. Meanwhile, Cannonball manages to escape and comes crashing into his mother's home, where he entreats the rest of the X-Men to help him rescue his sisters. He leads them back to the complex, and while Cannonball rescues Husk, Bishops finds Joelle and Preacher while Storm & Wolverine battle the group's armored operatives. During the fight, Wolverine realizes they're actually Nimrod Sentinels, and Preacher disappears. Ultimately, Bishop is able to turn the energy of the Nimrods against them, but the X-Men are forced to leave when the local authorities are called, though they leave with both Husk & Joelle, and Cannonball is pleased to have at least exposed the truth of the place, which he believes will change the minds of some of the group's members. Joelle just hopes the still-missing Preacher will remember her. Preacher, meanwhile, is painting a canvas of Joelle.
1995
In a Nutshell
Cannonball & Husk infiltrate an anti-mutant cult to rescue their sister.
Writer: Terry Kavanagh
Penciler: Bryan Hitch
Inker: Bob McLeod
Letters: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Glynis Oliver
Editor: Kelly Corvese
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Cannonball arrives at the Massachusetts Academy to pick up his sister Husk. Accompanied by Storm, Bishop, and Wolverine, they return to their family home in the wake of their sister Joelle falling in with a militant anti-mutant cult called Humanity's Last Stand, thanks in large part to her boyfriend, a man known as Preacher, who paints the strange visions he experiences. Hoping to blend in, Cannonball & Husk infiltrate the group's compound, leaving the other X-Men behind. They find their sister, and Husk continues to explore the complex while Cannonball tries to talk some sense into their sister. However, the two mutants catch the attention of the group's shadowy leader, and Cannonball is attacked by armored agents of the group. Meanwhile, Husk gets deeper into the complex, and overhears a conversation with the group's leader. She is found out, however, and badly beaten. Meanwhile, Cannonball manages to escape and comes crashing into his mother's home, where he entreats the rest of the X-Men to help him rescue his sisters. He leads them back to the complex, and while Cannonball rescues Husk, Bishops finds Joelle and Preacher while Storm & Wolverine battle the group's armored operatives. During the fight, Wolverine realizes they're actually Nimrod Sentinels, and Preacher disappears. Ultimately, Bishop is able to turn the energy of the Nimrods against them, but the X-Men are forced to leave when the local authorities are called, though they leave with both Husk & Joelle, and Cannonball is pleased to have at least exposed the truth of the place, which he believes will change the minds of some of the group's members. Joelle just hopes the still-missing Preacher will remember her. Preacher, meanwhile, is painting a canvas of Joelle.
Tuesday, April 7, 2020
X-amining Champions #10 - Patreon First
"One Man’s Son is Another Man’s Poison!"
January 1977
In a Nutshell
The Champions defeat their Russian foes.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: Bob Hall
Inker: Frank Giacola
Letterer: Ray Holloway
Colorist: Don Warfield
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
Defeated by their Russian opponents, the male members of the Champions are imprisoned in a vault inside the San Andreas fault; should they try to escape, their actions will trigger an earthquake that will level Los Angeles. The Russians, with Black Widow, Ivan & Bruskin their captives, board a jet and head for the coast, where a Russian submarine is waiting to rendezvous with them. The US Air Force intercedes, and Titanium Man flies out to fight them off. Darkstar is told to do the same, but, disturbed by Titanium Man's bloodthirstiness, she refuses, prompting Crimson Dynamo to go instead. Inside the plane, the history of Ivan & his son is revealed, including the fact that Bruskin played both sides against each other. Darkstar shares this info with Crimson Dynamo, hoping it will end his feud with his father, but he refuses to listen, prompting Darkstar to teleport the rest of the Champions out of the vault. Free, they commandeer a jet and intercept the Russians. In the ensuing fight, Black Widow takes control of the Russian jet while Griffin & Titanium Man are captured. When Crimson Dynamo targets Black Widow, Darkstar intercedes and stops him from harming her, but doesn't stop him from escaping. The immediate threat over, Darkstar returns with the Champions and their prisoners to Los Angeles.
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
January 1977
In a Nutshell
The Champions defeat their Russian foes.
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Penciler: Bob Hall
Inker: Frank Giacola
Letterer: Ray Holloway
Colorist: Don Warfield
Editor: Archie Goodwin
Plot
Defeated by their Russian opponents, the male members of the Champions are imprisoned in a vault inside the San Andreas fault; should they try to escape, their actions will trigger an earthquake that will level Los Angeles. The Russians, with Black Widow, Ivan & Bruskin their captives, board a jet and head for the coast, where a Russian submarine is waiting to rendezvous with them. The US Air Force intercedes, and Titanium Man flies out to fight them off. Darkstar is told to do the same, but, disturbed by Titanium Man's bloodthirstiness, she refuses, prompting Crimson Dynamo to go instead. Inside the plane, the history of Ivan & his son is revealed, including the fact that Bruskin played both sides against each other. Darkstar shares this info with Crimson Dynamo, hoping it will end his feud with his father, but he refuses to listen, prompting Darkstar to teleport the rest of the Champions out of the vault. Free, they commandeer a jet and intercept the Russians. In the ensuing fight, Black Widow takes control of the Russian jet while Griffin & Titanium Man are captured. When Crimson Dynamo targets Black Widow, Darkstar intercedes and stops him from harming her, but doesn't stop him from escaping. The immediate threat over, Darkstar returns with the Champions and their prisoners to Los Angeles.
What to read the rest before everyone else? Become a patron via Patreon!
Saturday, April 4, 2020
Force in Focus: The Clones Wars Season 7 Episode 07
"Dangerous Debt"
The Moral of the Story
Who you were does not have to define who you are
Plot
Held captive by the Pyke Syndicate, Ahsoka learns how Rafa & Trace were orphaned after a battle involving the Jedi & Ziro the Hutt on Coruscant, a revelation which shakes Ahsoka. Later, Rafa is taken away to be tortured for information on the whereabouts of the spice they dumped, and after her, Trace is led away as well. But Trace manages to break free, and as she leads the guards on a chase through the prison, Ahsoka uses the Force to escape her cell with Rafa. Together, the three women get out of the prison complex and into the surrounding city, as they are unknowingly watched by a trio of Mandalorians,. Eventually, Trace spots her impounded ship on a landing platform but they are spotted by their pursuers before they can get to the ship, and Rafa & Trace are recaptured. Ahsoka remains free and doubles back to free them, but is forced to act too early when the Pykes threaten to kill the sisters. This leads to Ahsoka being recaptured as well, and all three end up back in their cell where they started.
The Moral of the Story
Who you were does not have to define who you are
Plot
Held captive by the Pyke Syndicate, Ahsoka learns how Rafa & Trace were orphaned after a battle involving the Jedi & Ziro the Hutt on Coruscant, a revelation which shakes Ahsoka. Later, Rafa is taken away to be tortured for information on the whereabouts of the spice they dumped, and after her, Trace is led away as well. But Trace manages to break free, and as she leads the guards on a chase through the prison, Ahsoka uses the Force to escape her cell with Rafa. Together, the three women get out of the prison complex and into the surrounding city, as they are unknowingly watched by a trio of Mandalorians,. Eventually, Trace spots her impounded ship on a landing platform but they are spotted by their pursuers before they can get to the ship, and Rafa & Trace are recaptured. Ahsoka remains free and doubles back to free them, but is forced to act too early when the Pykes threaten to kill the sisters. This leads to Ahsoka being recaptured as well, and all three end up back in their cell where they started.
Friday, April 3, 2020
X-amining Cable #25
"What Was...What Is"
November 1995
In a Nutshell
Cable & Domino fight in the future to save Cable's past.
Writer: Jeph Loeb
Penciler: Ian Churchill & Joel Thomas
Inkers: Scott Hanna, Ryan Wiacek, Salvador LaRocca, Vey & Carani
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colors: Mike Thomas & Malibu’s Hues
Editor: Lisa Patrick
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Cable & Jenskot arrive in the future, on the outskirts of Stryfe's camp, and are soon joined by Domino, who was sent there by Blaquesmith. Jenskot proceeds to lead them through Stryfe's camp and into the Askani camp, where they meet with Blaquesmith and learn they are needed to help save the young Dayspring - Cable's past self - from a telepathic assault by Stryfe. Meanwhile, Stryfe tortures the captured Tetherblood for information about the strange glowing orb he's captured from the Askani, but Tetherblood remains silent. Back at the Askani camp, Domino talks with Blaquesmith, and decides his future self must have sent her here in order to do what Cable couldn't: kill Stryfe and end their cycle of violence. She steels away to Stryfe's camp, and when Cable notices she's missing, he goes after her. He stops her from killing Stryfe, but draws the attention of Stryfe's forces in the process. Jenskot leads a force of Askani to distract them, allowing Cable & Domino to get into Stryfe's tent and find Tetherblood as well as the glowing orb, which Cable recognizes as Professor. With its help, Cable is able to bodyslide the four of them back to the Askani camp, where he places Professor inside Dayspring, ensuring his survival. Later, Cable sadly bids goodbye to Jenskot, then he & Domino are sent back in time, their mission complete, as Dayspring rallies to continue his fight against Stryfe.
Thursday, April 2, 2020
X-amining Excalibur #91
"Baby, I Love You"
November 1995
In a Nutshell
Excalibur goes out for a night of drinking
Writer: Warren Ellis
Pencilers: David Williams, Mike Wieringo, Jeff Moy & Mike Miller
Inkers: Mike Miller, M. Christian & Philip Moy
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Ariane Lenshock
Separations: Malibu Hues
Editor: Suzanne Gaffney
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Kitty & Pete Wisdom round up their teammates for a night on the town, and Moira brings them to a nearby pub that was once owned by her father. As the drinks begin to flow, much is made of the blossoming relationship between Kitty & Wisdom, and Kurt ultimately agrees to let Wisdom remain with the team. Eventually, Moira, Amanda, Meggan & Rahne end up dancing a chorus line atop one of the tables, and the various couples end up making out. Later, a deeply-intoxicated Moira admits that she drank to forget her problems, and the team stumbles home. After they arrive, Kitty & Wisdom stop & embrace in the moonlight, unaware that Colossus has just arrived on Muir Island.
November 1995
In a Nutshell
Excalibur goes out for a night of drinking
Writer: Warren Ellis
Pencilers: David Williams, Mike Wieringo, Jeff Moy & Mike Miller
Inkers: Mike Miller, M. Christian & Philip Moy
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Ariane Lenshock
Separations: Malibu Hues
Editor: Suzanne Gaffney
Editor-in-Chief: Bob Harras
Plot
Kitty & Pete Wisdom round up their teammates for a night on the town, and Moira brings them to a nearby pub that was once owned by her father. As the drinks begin to flow, much is made of the blossoming relationship between Kitty & Wisdom, and Kurt ultimately agrees to let Wisdom remain with the team. Eventually, Moira, Amanda, Meggan & Rahne end up dancing a chorus line atop one of the tables, and the various couples end up making out. Later, a deeply-intoxicated Moira admits that she drank to forget her problems, and the team stumbles home. After they arrive, Kitty & Wisdom stop & embrace in the moonlight, unaware that Colossus has just arrived on Muir Island.
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
X-amining Generation X #9
"Someplace Other Than Here"
November 1995
In a Nutshell
Skin fights a dragon while the rest of Generation X works to restore the Glamour Machine.
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Penciler: Tom Grummett
Inkers: Mark Buckingham & Al Milgrom
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Steve Buccellato & Electric Crayon
Editor: Bob Harras
Plot
As Skin & Penance keep the dragon outside the gates surrounding the Glamour Machine busy, Jubilee & Husk work to repair the device. Meanwhile, Synch & Chamber burst into Cassidy Keep and are reunited with Banshee & Emma. They all make their way to the Glamour Machine, where the still-catatonic M manages to get it working. It needs a power source, however, and Chamber volunteers, drawing on his vast psionic power to recharge it. Just then, Skin & Penance return, announcing the defeat of the dragon, but everyone is too busy celebrating to notice. M returns to her senses, and as the group awaits Cassidy Keep's return to their world, Emma offers a sympathetic ear, but M demurs, saying she doesn't want anyone feeling sorry for her.
November 1995
In a Nutshell
Skin fights a dragon while the rest of Generation X works to restore the Glamour Machine.
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Penciler: Tom Grummett
Inkers: Mark Buckingham & Al Milgrom
Letterer: Richard Starkings & Comicraft
Colorist: Steve Buccellato & Electric Crayon
Editor: Bob Harras
Plot
As Skin & Penance keep the dragon outside the gates surrounding the Glamour Machine busy, Jubilee & Husk work to repair the device. Meanwhile, Synch & Chamber burst into Cassidy Keep and are reunited with Banshee & Emma. They all make their way to the Glamour Machine, where the still-catatonic M manages to get it working. It needs a power source, however, and Chamber volunteers, drawing on his vast psionic power to recharge it. Just then, Skin & Penance return, announcing the defeat of the dragon, but everyone is too busy celebrating to notice. M returns to her senses, and as the group awaits Cassidy Keep's return to their world, Emma offers a sympathetic ear, but M demurs, saying she doesn't want anyone feeling sorry for her.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)