Showing posts with label Action Lab. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Action Lab. Show all posts

Sunday, 23 October 2016

Special: Halloween ComicFest 2016!

Here's the ranking for the comics this year which you can pick up at your local participating comic book store.

Full-Sized Comics:

19. Adventures of the Aspen Universe

Fathom’s Ernie the Seahorse has gone missing in the neighborhood, and it’s up to the Aspen Universe’s finest heroes to band together and rescue him — along with readers everywhere! Aspen Comics’ is excited to once again offer fans and readers a unique comic and coloring book package that includes a crafted, full-length story geared for kids to color, plus added puzzles, mazes and other fun-filled activities for children and readers of all ages!

18. Wraithborn

He was trained from birth to inherit a mythical power. She is the timid teenage girl to whom it was bestowed instead. Together only they can stop an ancient evil from rising and enslaving all of humankind! This exciting Halloween Comic Fest edition introduces new readers to this epic urban fantasy series from the creator of Lady Mechanika!

17. Zombie Tramp vs Dollfaced Witch Hunter

Get a glimpse of an all-new character set in the Zombie Tramp universe! What happens when a witch-hunter’s soul from 17th century Salem, MA gets infused into a life-sized, ball-jointed, 3D printed, sex-bot in the present day? Get set for this quirky adventure full of M.I.T. nerds, Necronomicons, sadistic witches, cute sidekick ghosts, and one bad-ass witch-hunting, Gothic Lolita! Jump right in with this HCF sneak-peak of the regular series!

16. Kitaro

A mysterious model airplane arrives at Kitaro’s house and he can’t resist taking it for a spin, but when it strands him on a desert island, he begins to suspect that someone intentionally trapped him there. Suspecting foul play, Nezumi Otoko investigates a similar crash-landing in the forest, only to discover the true yokai mastermind behind the kidnappings. This comic adventure is the perfect introduction to Shigeru Mizuki’s most popular series, complete with a pull-out poster and fun activities

15. My Little Pony The Haunted Dungeon

Strange things are afoot in the Crystal Empire so Shining Armor calls in his sister Twilight to help find the source of the mysterious occurrences. When the trail leads to King Sombra’s dungeon, will the siblings find the culprit — or their doom?

14. The Three Stooges Halloween Hullaballoo #1

Woob! Woob! Woob! Moe, Larry, and Curly, The Three Stooges, have been making us laugh for nearly a century, and their timeless comedy escapades are back with brand new tales told by creators paying homage to their incredible legacy! The Three Stooges Halloween Hullaballoo is the best way to ward off those spooky spirits and creepy crawlers with a family fun issue chock-full of Stoogey goodness! We’re cramming new comics, classic reprints, and silly special content into this issue!

13. DC Super Hero Girls #1

DC Super Hero Girls is an exciting new universe of superhero storytelling that builds character and confidence and empowers girls to discover their true potential. This special Halloween Comic Fest issue features two exciting, action-packed stories from the upcoming original graphic novel, DC Super Hero Girls: Hits and Myths, that readers of all ages will enjoy. Don’t miss this chance to meet the students as they find out that fun, friendship and hard work are all part of growing up!

12. Action Lab Presents

Marinette is a typical Paris teenager with a school crush, dreams of fashion design, and a big problem with being totally awkward! She also happens to be the magical crime-fighting superhero, Ladybug! When a villain arrives using mind powers to turn people bad, Ladybug teams up with fellow hero Cat Noir… who is secretly her high school crush, Adrien. Will Ladybug and Cat Noir be able to balance their double lives and keep Paris safe? Will they ever discover each other’s true identities?

11. Junji Ito Tomie

Tomie Kawakami is a femme fatale with long black hair and a beauty mark just under her left eye. She can seduce nearly any man, and drive them to murder as well, even though the victim is often Tomie herself. While one lover seeks to keep her for himself, another grows terrified of the immortal succubus. But soon they realize no matter how many times they kill her, the world will never be free of Tomie.

10. Darth Vader Doctor Aphra #1

When a Dark Lord needs help, who can he turn to? Meet Aphra, the galaxy’s foremost raider of lost weaponry! Plus: could these be the deadly droids she’s looking for?

9. Scooby Apocalypse Hanna-Barbera Sampler

Get a sneak peek at Scooby Apocalypse, Future Quest, Wacky Raceland and The Flintstones with this amazing preview book! See what happens when Scooby-Doo and the Hanna-Barbera properties you know and love are paired with the best creators in comics, taking them to fresh and unexpected places that will appeal to old and new fans alike. Expect fun, innovative twists and stories injected with current sensibilities, that are sure to excite fans of any age!

8. Haunted Mansion #1

Welcome, foolish mortals, to the Haunted Mansion! It seems that no one lives in the elegant mansion on the hill…but then where’s that creepy organ music coming from? Are the iron gates meant to keep people out…or some things in? Get ready to meet the 999 ghosts of the Haunted Mansion… but be warned, they’re looking for the 1000th!

7. Black Eyed Kids #1

When night falls on a sleepy midwestern town, an ancient unimaginable horror creeps violently and purposely through the night. That’s when the children come out to play; Children with eyes of solid back, devoid of emotion and remorse, and only asking for one thing… to come inside. But there are some who will not go quietly into the night. Some who will fight back to save their souls, and those of their children. This is their story.

6. Spidey #1

Think you know everything about Peter Parker’s early days? Think again. It’s action, adventure and a rip-roaring romp in classic Marvel style as Spidey swings onto shelves this winter! Featuring adventures from throughout the web-slinging wonder’s younger years, it’s a return to the days of overdue homework, not knowing how to talk to girls (or anybody, really) and just a plenty of danger. Witness some of Spidey’s earliest tangles with the likes of Doc Ock, Sandman, and a host of other unexpected foes.

5. Quilte #1

A horrifying new one-shot from the creative team — and taking place in the universe of — And Then Emily Was Gone! Dr. Karla Quite is a revered psychologist who uses her unique psychic gifts to treat patients afflicted with recurring nightmares. But when tasked with helping troubled young Adam Whitlock, her journey into his mind leaves her facing forces far more malevolent than bad dreams!

4. Unbeatable Squirrel Girl You Choose Story #1

This special issue, called “Be the Unbeatable Squirrel Girl,” puts you in control of The Most Powerful Character in the Marvel Universe. Will you fight crime and save the day? Or will you be a complete jerk and use her powers to tell everyone off? The choices are all yours… including your battle with Swarm, a bad guy made out of bees!

3. Evil Dead 2 Beyond Dead By Dawn #1

The Dark One returns with a goal of infecting the entire planet and raising the dead, as Dark Ones do. It’s up to Ash and Annie as they kick it up a notch in the French Quarter looking for an old Voodoo Priestess. But will she help Ash and Annie or make their problems worse? Gimme some dead sugar, baby! Don’t miss what happens in this penultimate issue in the trilogy of mini-series!

2. Harrow County #1

Emmy always knew that the deep, dark woods surrounding her home crawled with ghosts, goblins, and zombies. But on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, she learns that she is connected to these creatures — and to the land itself — in a way she never imagined. Don’t miss this first issue of smash hit from Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook! Features an all-new cover by Tyler Crook!

1. Afterlife With Archie Season Two

Kick off Halloween with the smash-horror hit! It’s been weeks since Archie and his friends left Riverdale. Now they wander the deserted highways of America, one step ahead of the relentless zombie horde. When they decide to set down roots to observe their first post-apocalypse Thanksgiving, Mr. Lodge leads a team into the forests of Pennsylvania to find dinner… but the hunters soon become the hunted, and not all of the gang will make it out of the woods alive!

Mini-Comics:

13. Little Tails Halloween

Chipper and Squizzo are a precocious puppy and squirrel who love to explore new and exciting environments, flying their cardboard box airplane to wondrous worlds full of fascinating animals and creatures. In this special Halloween mini-comic, the two will head off into the woods for a spooky Trick-or-Treating adventure through nature, encountering creepy animals of all kinds along the way! Also includes pages of fun puzzles, activities, and brain-teasers!

12. Archie’s Madhouse

It’s a Maaaaadhouse! Archie is proud to present an assortment of shenanigans from Archie’s Madhouse, a series of wild and wacky tales that are sure to leave you laughing and going crazy for more!

11. Johnny Boo

Johnny Boo and his friends celebrate Halloween by doing skateboard tricks in the pumpkin patch. But did you know that giant tigers love Halloween just as much as little ghosts do? It’s because they’re orange, like pumpkins. Watch out for tigers, Johnny Boo!

10. Pokemon Pocket Comics XY

The Pokémon of the Kalos region have all gathered in this hilarious collection starring Fennekin, Froakie, Chespin, the rest of the new X & Y Pokémon, Mega-Evolved Pokémon, and more! Quiz yourself and your friends on Pokémon vital statistics, Abilities, moves, types, Mega Evolution and more! Who will be the next Pokémon quiz champion?

9. Mummy’s Always Right

For the kiddies, we have a Mummy’s Always Right #1/2 Mini-Comic written and drawn by Joe Mulvey and colored by Jules Rivera, featuring a The Walking Dead inspired homage cover. Enter the world of Creature Cove and meet GAWS, a mischievous little mummy who can’t decide what to be for Halloween. This mini-comic from writer/artist Joe Mulvey is perfect for comic book, horror, and pop-culture fans of all ages. If you’re looking for your own little monster’s new favorite book, you’ve found it!

8. Lunch Witch 2

Grunhilda the Witch has a weakness, a tiny soft spot on her black and crusty heart. She continues to hide the nice feelings she has when she gets a letter from former Salem Elementary student Madison. But she can’t keep up the ruse for long because her familiars are onto her — and so are her ancestors! Anything that can go wrong does when Madison accidentally mixes up a positivity potion — and it starts to affect everyone in town.

7. Carpenter Travellers Tale

Happy Halloween from Storm King Productions. No tricks, just a Halloween treat written by the Horror Master himself! Writer/Director/Composer John Carpenter brings you a short horror story that’s not short on scares from his upcoming sequel to the award-winning yearly horror anthology series Tales for a Halloween Night Volume 2.

6. Zombie Camp

Survival is tough after the apocalypse, even when you’re undead! Fortunately, the kids of Zombie Camp get to learn all the best shambling, brain-eating, and death-moaning techniques. Join Johnny, Stump, Violet, Gutsy, and the rest of the gang for the summer of their un-lives!

5. BooooOOOoom Box Halloween

It’s time to get your scare on for Halloween with this selection of spooky tales taken from several of our BOOM! Box titles, including Lumberjanes, Giant Days, and The Backstagers, perfect for any trick-or-treater!

4. Peach & Isle of Monsters

Meet Peach. How did she get her name? What’s her secret? What have the monsters taken from her village? Seeking independence, and prove she’s a warrior, Peach begins her quest to save her village from the Monsters from Monster Isle… and meets some interesting people along the way! Action! Adventure! It’s all here! Written by Franco (Itty Bitty Hellboy and Tiny Titans) and drawn by Agnes Garbowska (My Little Pony).

3. Tim Burton NBX Manga

Manga publishing pioneer Tokyopop brings this sampler mini-comic of the official manga adaptation of Tim Burton’s Holiday classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas, to Halloween Comic Fest 2016, featuring all of your favorite characters, as drawn by Jun Asuka (The Girl Who Leapt, Disney Fairies)!

2. Grumpy Cat Halloween

It's Halloween night, and children delightfully roam the streets, adorned in colorful costumes... but Grumpy Cat is unimpressed! While her brother Pokey celebrates All Hallow's Eve with his usual wide-eyed wonder, Grumpy Cat is such a grouch that she even puts the ghosts, ghouls, and goblins to shame! You'll laugh out loud with the antics of the two most adorable kitties in comics in this very special Halloween mini-comic!

1. Mickeys Inferno

Imagine if you will, a satirical retelling of Dante Aligheri’s Inferno starring Mickey Mouse. This is the very first of the world-famouse, err, famous Great Parodies featuring classic Disney stars in outrageous spoofs of the world’s greatest stories.

Sunday, 19 June 2016

Special: Halloween ComicFest 2016 Announced!

Hopefully by now you've cruised through all your pick-ups from Free Comic Book Day in May, and if you have then you'll be excited to know the time has come to get prepared for the next day to get free comics... Halloween ComicFest!

Halloween ComicFest will take place  on Saturday October 29, 2016. It's similar to Free Comic Book Day where it's an annual event where participating comic book specialty shops across North America and beyond celebrate the Halloween season by giving away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their shops. The event is always held the weekend before Halloween and is the perfect opportunity to introduce friends and family to the many reasons why comic shops are a great destination for Halloween themed comic books, products and merchandise. From zombies, vampires, monsters and aliens to costumes and more, comic shops have it all when it comes to Halloween fun!

I've attached the solicitations for the 32 books you can get this October below. Make sure to stay tuned to the blog for updates as well as my official rankings and reviews as we get closer to the date.

HALLOWEEN COMICFEST FULL-SIZED COMICS

Action Lab Entertainment

Action Lab Presents

Marinette is a typical Paris teenager with a school crush, dreams of fashion design, and a big problem with being totally awkward! She also happens to be the magical crime-fighting superhero, Ladybug! When a villain arrives using mind powers to turn people bad, Ladybug teams up with fellow hero Cat Noir… who is secretly her high school crush, Adrien. Will Ladybug and Cat Noir be able to balance their double lives and keep Paris safe? Will they ever discover each other’s true identities?

Zombie Tramp vs Dollfaced Witch Hunter
Get a glimpse of an all-new character set in the Zombie Tramp universe! What happens when a witch-hunter’s soul from 17th century Salem, MA gets infused into a life-sized, ball-jointed, 3D printed, sex-bot in the present day? Get set for this quirky adventure full of M.I.T. nerds, Necronomicons, sadistic witches, cute sidekick ghosts, and one bad-ass witch-hunting, Gothic Lolita! Jump right in with this HCF sneak-peak of the regular series!

Aftershock Comics

Black Eyed Kids #1
When night falls on a sleepy midwestern town, an ancient unimaginable horror creeps violently and purposely through the night. That’s when the children come out to play; Children with eyes of solid back, devoid of emotion and remorse, and only asking for one thing… to come inside. But there are some who will not go quietly into the night. Some who will fight back to save their souls, and those of their children. This is their story.

American Mythology

The Three Stooges Halloween Hullaballoo #1
Woob! Woob! Woob! Moe, Larry, and Curly, The Three Stooges, have been making us laugh for nearly a century, and their timeless comedy escapades are back with brand new tales told by creators paying homage to their incredible legacy! The Three Stooges Halloween Hullaballoo is the best way to ward off those spooky spirits and creepy crawlers with a family fun issue chock-full of Stoogey goodness! We’re cramming new comics, classic reprints, and silly special content into this issue!

Archie Comics

Afterlife With Archie Season Two
Kick off Halloween with the smash-horror hit! It’s been weeks since Archie and his friends left Riverdale. Now they wander the deserted highways of America, one step ahead of the relentless zombie horde. When they decide to set down roots to observe their first post-apocalypse Thanksgiving, Mr. Lodge leads a team into the forests of Pennsylvania to find dinner… but the hunters soon become the hunted, and not all of the gang will make it out of the woods alive!

Aspen Comics

Adventures of the Aspen Universe
Fathom’s Ernie the Seahorse has gone missing in the neighborhood, and it’s up to the Aspen Universe’s finest heroes to band together and rescue him — along with readers everywhere! Aspen Comics’ is excited to once again offer fans and readers a unique comic and coloring book package that includes a crafted, full-length story geared for kids to color, plus added puzzles, mazes and other fun-filled activities for children and readers of all ages!

Benitez Productions

Wraithborn

He was trained from birth to inherit a mythical power. She is the timid teenage girl to whom it was bestowed instead. Together only they can stop an ancient evil from rising and enslaving all of humankind! This exciting Halloween Comic Fest edition introduces new readers to this epic urban fantasy series from the creator of Lady Mechanika!

ComixTribe

Quilte #1
A horrifying new one-shot from the creative team — and taking place in the universe of — And Then Emily Was Gone! Dr. Karla Quite is a revered psychologist who uses her unique psychic gifts to treat patients afflicted with recurring nightmares. But when tasked with helping troubled young Adam Whitlock, her journey into his mind leaves her facing forces far more malevolent than bad dreams!

Dark Horse Comics

Harrow County #1
Emmy always knew that the deep, dark woods surrounding her home crawled with ghosts, goblins, and zombies. But on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, she learns that she is connected to these creatures — and to the land itself — in a way she never imagined. Don’t miss this first issue of smash hit from Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook! Features an all-new cover by Tyler Crook!

DC Comics

DC Super Hero Girls #1
DC Super Hero Girls is an exciting new universe of superhero storytelling that builds character and confidence and empowers girls to discover their true potential. This special Halloween Comic Fest issue features two exciting, action-packed stories from the upcoming original graphic novel, DC Super Hero Girls: Hits and Myths, that readers of all ages will enjoy. Don’t miss this chance to meet the students as they find out that fun, friendship and hard work are all part of growing up!

Scooby Apocalypse Hanna-Barbera Sampler
Get a sneak peek at Scooby Apocalypse, Future Quest, Wacky Raceland and The Flintstones with this amazing preview book! See what happens when Scooby-Doo and the Hanna-Barbera properties you know and love are paired with the best creators in comics, taking them to fresh and unexpected places that will appeal to old and new fans alike. Expect fun, innovative twists and stories injected with current sensibilities, that are sure to excite fans of any age!

Drawn & Quarterly

Kitaro
A mysterious model airplane arrives at Kitaro’s house and he can’t resist taking it for a spin, but when it strands him on a desert island, he begins to suspect that someone intentionally trapped him there. Suspecting foul play, Nezumi Otoko investigates a similar crash-landing in the forest, only to discover the true yokai mastermind behind the kidnappings. This comic adventure is the perfect introduction to Shigeru Mizuki’s most popular series, complete with a pull-out poster and fun activities

Marvel Comics

Darth Vader Doctor Aphra #1
When a Dark Lord needs help, who can he turn to? Meet Aphra, the galaxy’s foremost raider of lost weaponry! Plus: could these be the deadly droids she’s looking for?

Haunted Mansion #1
Welcome, foolish mortals, to the Haunted Mansion! It seems that no one lives in the elegant mansion on the hill…but then where’s that creepy organ music coming from? Are the iron gates meant to keep people out…or some things in? Get ready to meet the 999 ghosts of the Haunted Mansion… but be warned, they’re looking for the 1000th!

Spidey #1
Think you know everything about Peter Parker’s early days? Think again. It’s action, adventure and a rip-roaring romp in classic Marvel style as Spidey swings onto shelves this winter! Featuring adventures from throughout the web-slinging wonder’s younger years, it’s a return to the days of overdue homework, not knowing how to talk to girls (or anybody, really) and just a plenty of danger. Witness some of Spidey’s earliest tangles with the likes of Doc Ock, Sandman, and a host of other unexpected foes.

Unbeatable Squirrel Girl You Choose Story #1
This special issue, called “Be the Unbeatable Squirrel Girl,” puts you in control of The Most Powerful Character in the Marvel Universe. Will you fight crime and save the day? Or will you be a complete jerk and use her powers to tell everyone off? The choices are all yours… including your battle with Swarm, a bad guy made out of bees!

IDW Publishing

My Little Pony The Haunted Dungeon
Strange things are afoot in the Crystal Empire so Shining Armor calls in his sister Twilight to help find the source of the mysterious occurrences. When the trail leads to King Sombra’s dungeon, will the siblings find the culprit — or their doom?

Space Goat Publishing

Evil Dead 2 Beyond Dead By Dawn #1
The Dark One returns with a goal of infecting the entire planet and raising the dead, as Dark Ones do. It’s up to Ash and Annie as they kick it up a notch in the French Quarter looking for an old Voodoo Priestess. But will she help Ash and Annie or make their problems worse? Gimme some dead sugar, baby! Don’t miss what happens in this penultimate issue in the trilogy of mini-series!

Viz Media

Junji Ito Tomie
Tomie Kawakami is a femme fatale with long black hair and a beauty mark just under her left eye. She can seduce nearly any man, and drive them to murder as well, even though the victim is often Tomie herself. While one lover seeks to keep her for himself, another grows terrified of the immortal succubus. But soon they realize no matter how many times they kill her, the world will never be free of Tomie.

HALLOWEEN COMICFEST MINI-COMICS

Action Lab Entertainment

Peach & Isle of Monsters
Meet Peach. How did she get her name? What’s her secret? What have the monsters taken from her village? Seeking independence, and prove she’s a warrior, Peach begins her quest to save her village from the Monsters from Monster Isle… and meets some interesting people along the way! Action! Adventure! It’s all here! Written by Franco (Itty Bitty Hellboy and Tiny Titans) and drawn by Agnes Garbowska (My Little Pony).

Archie Comics

Archie’s Madhouse
It’s a Maaaaadhouse! Archie is proud to present an assortment of shenanigans from Archie’s Madhouse, a series of wild and wacky tales that are sure to leave you laughing and going crazy for more!

Boom! Studios

BooooOOOoom Box Halloween
It’s time to get your scare on for Halloween with this selection of spooky tales taken from several of our BOOM! Box titles, including Lumberjanes, Giant Days, and The Backstagers, perfect for any trick-or-treater!

ComixTribe

Mummy’s Always Right
For the kiddies, we have a Mummy’s Always Right #1/2 Mini-Comic written and drawn by Joe Mulvey and colored by Jules Rivera, featuring a The Walking Dead inspired homage cover.
Joe’s Mummy’s Always Right Board Book Kickstarter has less than three hours left, BTW… more on that below.

Dynamite Entertainment

Grumpy Cat Halloween
Enter the world of Creature Cove and meet GAWS, a mischievous little mummy who can’t decide what to be for Halloween. This mini-comic from writer/artist Joe Mulvey is perfect for comic book, horror, and pop-culture fans of all ages. If you’re looking for your own little monster’s new favorite book, you’ve found it!

IDW Publishing

Johnny Boo
It’s Halloween night, and children delightfully roam the streets, adorned in colorful costumes… but Grumpy Cat is unimpressed! While her brother Pokey celebrates All Hallow’s Eve with his usual wide-eyed wonder, Grumpy Cat is such a grouch that she even puts the ghosts, ghouls, and goblins to shame! You’ll laugh out loud with the antics of the two most adorable kitties in comics in this very special Halloween mini-comic!

Magnetic Press

Little Tails Halloween
Johnny Boo and his friends celebrate Halloween by doing skateboard tricks in the pumpkin patch. But did you know that giant tigers love Halloween just as much as little ghosts do? It’s because they’re orange, like pumpkins. Watch out for tigers, Johnny Boo!
Chipper and Squizzo are a precocious puppy and squirrel who love to explore new and exciting environments, flying their cardboard box airplane to wondrous worlds full of fascinating animals and creatures. In this special Halloween mini-comic, the two will head off into the woods for a spooky Trick-or-Treating adventure through nature, encountering creepy animals of all kinds along the way! Also includes pages of fun puzzles, activities, and brain-teasers!

Papercutz

Lunch Witch 2
Grunhilda the Witch has a weakness, a tiny soft spot on her black and crusty heart. She continues to hide the nice feelings she has when she gets a letter from former Salem Elementary student Madison. But she can’t keep up the ruse for long because her familiars are onto her — and so are her ancestors! Anything that can go wrong does when Madison accidentally mixes up a positivity potion — and it starts to affect everyone in town.

Mickeys Inferno
Imagine if you will, a satirical retelling of Dante Aligheri’s Inferno starring Mickey Mouse. This is the very first of the world-famouse, err, famous Great Parodies featuring classic Disney stars in outrageous spoofs of the world’s greatest stories.

Perfect Square

Pokemon Pocket Comics XY
The Pokémon of the Kalos region have all gathered in this hilarious collection starring Fennekin, Froakie, Chespin, the rest of the new X & Y Pokémon, Mega-Evolved Pokémon, and more! Quiz yourself and your friends on Pokémon vital statistics, Abilities, moves, types, Mega Evolution and more! Who will be the next Pokémon quiz champion?

Space Goat Publishing

Zombie Camp

Survival is tough after the apocalypse, even when you’re undead! Fortunately, the kids of Zombie Camp get to learn all the best shambling, brain-eating, and death-moaning techniques. Join Johnny, Stump, Violet, Gutsy, and the rest of the gang for the summer of their un-lives!

Storm King Productions

Carpenter Travellers Tale
Happy Halloween from Storm King Productions. No tricks, just a Halloween treat written by the Horror Master himself! Writer/Director/Composer John Carpenter brings you a short horror story that’s not short on scares from his upcoming sequel to the award-winning yearly horror anthology series Tales for a Halloween Night Volume 2.

TokyoPop

Tim Burton NBX Manga
Manga publishing pioneer Tokyopop brings this sampler mini-comic of the official manga adaptation of Tim Burton’s Holiday classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas, to Halloween Comic Fest 2016, featuring all of your favorite characters, as drawn by Jun Asuka (The Girl Who Leapt, Disney Fairies)!

Sunday, 15 November 2015

Special: All-New Hawkeye/Hero Cats: Midnight Over Stellar City/Howard The Duck Mini-Reviews

All-New Hawkeye #1
Publisher: Marvel Comics

Synopsis: Hawkeye and Hawkeye take aim at another season. But it's not all straight as an arrow for Clint and Kate. A deep-seated rift that stretches across time, brings old man Clint and a wiser Kate back together as they chase down mistakes from their past. The star-studded team of Jeff Lemire and Ramon Perez return, bringing you another inspired look at the world of Hawkeye.

My thoughts? This iteration of All-New Hawkeye didn't start off quite as well as the last one did, however, the first one was so universally loved, myself included it would be hard to replicate let alone surpass. This book picks up a while after the last series concluded and the rift between Clint and Kate is still very large after they came to blows deciding what to do with the mutated children eventually turning them over to S.H.I.E.L.D. This series, much like the last, also covers two timelines although this time we're going 27 years in the future rather than back into Clint's past. Turns out the kids are being used by Mandarin as a W.M.D. and levelled half of China. Grown up Hawkeyes have to put the tights back on and fix their mistake but can they beat the Mandarin let alone get to the kids?

Hero Cats: Midnight Over Stellar City #1
Publisher: Action Lab

Synopsis: Midnight is on the hunt, tracking down the mysterious Crow King.  Can the claws of justice outwit this fowl villain and uncover his grand scheme?

My thoughts? Midnight is a member of the Hero Cats of Stellar City, a group of cats that got together to protect their humans and their city... Turns out their newest threat will involve saving the entire world. If you haven't been following along in the pages of Hero Cats you may be lost, however they do give you a recap section, though strangely enough it's at the back of the book. In any event Midnight is a fearless defender that is a bit of a loner but he's always trying to dole out justice. The art style of this book is beautiful, it's more inks than art but for a Midnight book it fits perfect and is stunning to examine. Not a lot happens here as Midnight simply inches towards catching The Crow King and getting Bandit back from another dimension. Step one: Learn to defeat his minions... Check.

Howard The Duck #1
Publisher: Marvel Comics

Synopsis: First spectacular issue! A great jumping on point! Sure to go up in value! Don't miss out on the series everyone is calling "Howard the Duck"! The last page will shock you! Nothing will EVER be the same again! Hey! Where are you going? Come back! Waugh!

My thoughts? Like Hawkeye above, Howard The Duck was another relatively new book that got a new #1 despite having the same creative team post Secret Wars, which due to delays is actually still ongoing but anyways... See on the cover that "Plus: Gwenpool" part? Yeah. It was surprisingly really good! I might have to work the ongoing into my titles but we'll see, Howard decides he wants to go back to his own planet and Dr. Strange tells him how but he's stopped right before fully entering the portal somehow and at the end of the book we meet some bizarro versions of some favourite characters from the previous volume. I'm just going to grab some popcorn and enjoy seeing where this goes... :)

Sunday, 25 October 2015

Special: Halloween ComicFest 2015!

Hello everybody and thanks for reading the 300th post on this blog! Yay!!! Next Saturday is Halloween... It's also Halloween ComicFest, an event I detailed here but the short version is that at participating comic shops you can get free Halloween themed comics!!! Now there's a lot to read so how do you decide which to pick up? Well I'll help you there by giving you my ranking!

21. Kitaro: The Birth Of Kitaro

Publisher: DRAWN & QUARTERLY
(W/A/CA) Shigeru Mizuki
Shigeru Mizuki's The Birth of Kitaro tells the spooky origin story of the legendary mangaka's most popular character. This preview is taken from the golden era of the late 1960s, when Kitaro truly hit its stride as an all-ages supernatural series. Mizuki's Kitaro is both timelessly relevant and undeniably influential, inspiring a decades-long boom in stories about yokai, Japanese ghosts and monsters. This Halloween Special is the perfect introduction to the new all-ages Kitaro series coming in 2016 from D&Q!

20. Skylanders

Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
(W) Ron Marz, David Rodriguez (A/CA) Fico Ossio
Happy Halloween from Skylands! Enjoy this special comic treat as we introduce you to the candy villainy of Pain-Yatta! This issue reprints a special selection from the Skylanders: Light in the Dark storyline featured in Skylanders Volume 4 coming next month!

19. Grimmiss Island

Publisher: DARK HORSE COMICS
(W) Art Baltazar, Franco (A) Art Baltazar
The Volcano Goddess threatens the Mama Woogees' tiny island! What can their creation Grimmiss do to stop this terror? Between an eye exam, a tough lesson in love, and stopping the Tiki Monoliths, there are lots of things for a little guy with a skull head to do!

18. Vampblade

Publisher: ACTION LAB - DANGER ZONE
(W) Jason Martin, Dan Mendoza (A) Winston Young (CA) Winston Young, Dan Mendoza
Get a look at the latest offbeat genre heroine from Danger Zone...VAMPBLADE! After appearing in the pages of Zombie Tramp and then guest starring in a limited series with the queen of the undead, the mystical blade wielding Vampblade is all set to debut her own ongoing series in 2016! Here's your chance to see what the book is all about and also take a peek at Zombie Tramp and friends!

17. Fragments Of Horror

Publisher: VIZ MEDIA LLC
(W/A/CA) Junji Ito
An old wooden mansion that turns on its inhabitants. A dissection class with a most unusual subject. A funeral where the dead are definitely not laid to rest. Ranging from the terrifying to the comedic, from the erotic to the loathsome, these stories showcase Junji Ito's long-awaited return to the world of horror.

16. Chakra The Invincible

Publisher: GRAPHIC INDIA PTE. LTD
(W) Stan Lee & Various (A) Jeevan Kang, Various (CA) Jeevan Kang
Straight from the Free Comic Book Day release and based on the animated shorts seen on Angry Birds ToonsTV with over 30 Million views worldwide, Chakra the Invincible is the latest superhero from legendary creator, Stan Lee. Join Chakra and his friends for a very special Halloween as Dr. Singh sits you down by the campfire and tells you about some of Chakra's most sinister villains and spookiest adventures!

15. World Of Archie

Publisher: ARCHIE COMICS
(W) George Gladir (A) Rich Koslowski, Fernando Ruiz (CA) Bill Galvan, Bob Smith
Strange things are going on in Riverdale! You're invited to the best Halloween party of the year - exclusively for monsters! Is it possible that Archie and Jughead have really stumbled into a Halloween party where the guests are not in costume, but are actual, real-live monsters?! Find out for yourself if this tale is a 'trick' or a 'treat' in "For Monsters Only!"

14. The Garlicks

Publisher: ACTION LAB
(W/A/CA) Lea Hernandez
Olive, a curious butcher's apprentice, decides to crash a monster's party on Halloween Eve. Disguised as a goofy vampire alpaca, she meets an equally goofy vampire horse named Vourdain. But what is Olive going to do when it's morning and time for all monsters to unmask?

13. The Adventures Of Psycho Bonkers

Publisher: ASPEN MLT INC
(W) Vince Hernandez (A/CA) Adam Archer
A pulse-pounding Psycho Bonkers action-adventure story for fans of all ages! Join the cast of this completely brand new full throttle series along with Fathom's Ernie the Seahorse, and characters from many of Aspen's most popular titles as they team up to win a thrilling, issue-spanning race! Aspen Comics' is excited to once again offer fans and readers a unique comic and coloring book package that includes a crafted full length story geared for kids to color, plus added puzzles, mazes and other fun filled activities for children and readers of all ages! It's the perfect treat for the Halloween holiday!

12. Publisher: PERFECT SQUARE
(W/A/CA) Noriyuki Konishi
Nate Adams is just an average kid until the mysterious Whisper gives him a device that allows him to see what others cannot, Yo-kai of all shapes and forms! Now, armed with the Yo-kai Watch, Nate, Whisper and their new invisible friends embark on an all-new supernatural adventure!

11. Actionverse

Publisher: ACTION LAB ENTERTAINMENT
(W) Vito Delsante & Various (A) Ray-Anthony Height, Sean Izaakse (CA) Ray-Anthony Height & Various
ACTIONVERSE DEBUTS! Get a peek at the Creator Owned event of the year that everyone will be talking about from Action Lab...ACTIONVERSE! Action Lab ties its Creator Owned Superhero Properties together in a universe shattering event never before attempted by a comic publisher. Preview the Midnight Tiger, Molly Danger and Stray crossover, get the who's who on all the Major Heroes and Villains and a special first look at our new series, ACTION LAB: DOG OF WONDER!

10. Spook-A-Rama

Publisher: FAMOUS MONSTERS
Cory loves monsters. He dresses up in monster suits and reads monster magazines, much to the chagrin of his mother, who would rather he be working in a mailroom. But when Cory learns about his hero Wilbur Atchison's studio tours, he suddenly sees an opportunity for greatness! But he soon finds out that not all of Hollywood is make believe. An all-ages adventure in the spirit of The Goonies and Monster Squad!

9. Bitten

Publisher: MAGNETIC PRESS
(W) Cornelia Funke, Raul Garcia (A/CA) Francisco Herrera
Some Hollywood Horror stories are true! Based on best-selling YA author Cornelia Funke's "Little Werewolf", comic artist Francisco Herrera (Venom, Megamind) and Disney Animator Raúl García (Aladdin, The Lion King) bring you a fun new short story and activities set in the world of the upcoming graphic novel, Bitten!"

8. Grimm Tales Of Terror #2

Publisher: ZENESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT INC
Inspired by Tales from the Crypt and Creepshow, Zenescope goes back to its roots of horror for this special Halloween Comic Fest reprint of Grimm Tales of Terror #2! When a group of treasure hunters heads to the Amazon in search of the priceless Spider King relic, they will find that the "Web of Deceit" they've spun has put them in a horrifying predicament!

7. Boom Studios Halloween Haunt 2015

Publisher: BOOM STUDIOS
(W/A) Jones Wiedle & Various
Enjoy three, spooky tales for your reading pleasure in this BOOM! Studios Halloween Special, featuring short stories from Adventure Time, Steven Universe, and Lumberjanes. Perfect for passing out on Halloween instead of/in addition to candy!

6. Doctor Strange: The Oath #1

Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
(W) Brian K. Vaughan (A/CA) Marcos Martin
Doctor Strange embarks on the most important investigation of his career, as he sets out to solve an attempted murder - his own! And with his best friend near death, Stephen Strange turns to an unexpected corner of the Marvel Universe to recruit a new ally!

5. Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina #1

Publisher: ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS
(W) Roberto Aguirre Sacasa (A/CA) Robert Hack
Halloween ComicFest 2015: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

Script: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa  art: Robert Hack, Jack Morelli Cover: Robert Hack, Rosario "Tito" Peña

There's no better way to kick off your Halloween than with Archie Comics' newest horror series. Terror is born anew in this dark reimagining of Sabrina the Teenage Witch's origin. On the eve of her sixteenth birthday, the young sorceress finds herself at a crossroads, having to choose between an unearthly destiny and her mortal boyfriend, Harvey. But a foe from her family's past has arrived in Greendale, Madame Satan, and she has her own deadly agenda. Relive all the horror with this special black and white presentation of the critically-acclaimed first issue.

4. Harley Quinn #1

Publisher: DC
(W) Amanda Conner, Jimmy Palmiotti (A) Chad Hardin
Harley is set to begin her new life, but she needs a job first. Enter the Coney Island Roller Derby! It's game time as Harley sets out to destroy her competition - literally. This free issue is the perfect place to start reading the adventures of Harley Quinn - the Joker's on-again, off-again psychotic girlfriend, the Clown Princess of Crime!

3. Ultimate Spider-Man: Web Warriors/Avengers Assemble Season 2

Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
(W) Joe Caramagna, Jim Zub (A) Ron Lim, Mario Del (CA) Kalman Andrasofszky
When Peter Parker has a terrible day, he discovers that none other than Nightmare is behind it! But how can the Ultimate Spider-Man defeat a foe that's inside his own head? Guest-starring Doctor Strange! Then the Avengers take on their spookiest mission yet when they travel to Castle Doom to face Dracula! And if that's not enough, Dracula's brought a horde of bloodthirsty vampires with him!

2. Donald Duck's Halloween Scream!

Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
(W/A) William Van Horn (CA) Dan Noonan
Classic Disney haunts are home for the howl-iday! In "It's In the Bag" and "Public Ugly #1," trick-or-treating Donald scares up a literal ton of candy... then is forced to get rid of it by fair means or foul!

1. The Batman Adventures #1

Publisher: DC
(W) Kelly Plunkett (A) Ty Templeton
The Joker and the Penguin make a deal: in return for the theft of a small item, the Joker provides the Penguin with money to garner public acclaoim as a millionaire philanthropist! How high can the Penguin fly before Batman catches on? Don't miss your chance to read this free first issue of the comic book series that spins out of the critically-acclaimed and Emmy Award-winning Batman: The Animated Series and brings an animated approach to comics!

For more information feel free to visit www.HalloweenComicFest.com

Monday, 10 August 2015

Comic Shop Corner: August 2015

Hey folks! We had an even 30 this month but looks like a few titles (Silver Surfer, Sex Criminals, All-New Hawkeye) got delayed until September so we'll roll with 27 this month due to double shipping last month and likely this month upcoming too... Let's hit it!

27. Justice League United #12
Last ranking: 25 (out of 28)

A mission to save our world from cosmic calamity has separated Swamp Thing from the Green, threatening to destroy him forever. Only an improbable team of heroes and villains, led by Poison Ivy, can traverse conflicting realities and save Earth's plant elemental from non-existence.

26. TMNT Color Classics #8
Last ranking: 23 (out of 28)

In "City at War, Part Six," the war for New York escalates as Karai and the Rat King enter the fray! (Originally printed as Mirage TMNT #55, Volume 1.)

25. Gotham By Midnight #8
Last ranking: 22 (out of 28)

Two of Gotham City's top news anchors seem to be swaying the minds of the public with sinister supernatural intentions.

24. Past Aways #6
Last ranking: 21 (out of 28)

Across space and time, the immortal Past Aways have battled their share of monsters-but a new beast has reared its ugly head, and the team may not be able to survive the onslaught of the terrible creature known as . . . celebrity!

23. Secret Six #5
Last ranking: 15 (out of 28)

After the initial attack on Big Shot's home (and the shocking revelation of one member's true identity), the team's suburban retreat has been exposed. As the team starts to fracture, this highly dysfunctional band of outcasts prepares for the next strike from Mockingbird!

22. TMNT: Amazing Adventures #1
Last ranking: NEW!

This new series will feature crazier stories in it's own all-ages continuity that draws inspiration from the hit Nickelodeon cartoon! Featuring backups from some of the finest cartoonists in comics today!

21. Lobo #9
Last ranking: 17 (out of 28)

As Lobo hunts for Sinestro and a big payday, only one more killer stands in his way: Wyvern Cross, possibly the only alien more deadly than the last Czarnian!

20. Secret Wars #5
Last ranking: 18 (out of 28)

OWEN REECE DIED FOR OUR SINS!

19. Bat-Mite #3
Last ranking: 19 (out of 28)

Bat-Mite and Robin! It had to happen...even if Damian fights it every step of the way! Does Bat-Mite really believe that Batman's son will welcome his efforts to coach him? Sadly, yes. Say hello to crime fighting's new Dysfunctional Duo.

18. Harrow County #4
Last ranking: 16 (out of 28)

Kept prisoner by a monster of her own creation, Emmy is forced to confront the truth about the evil witch of Harrow County and the power she wields!

17. Howard The Human #1
Last ranking: NEW!

Spend a day with Howard, a private investigator and the only human living in city full of animals. But not, like, criminals and lowlifes. We're talking elephants, apes, ducks and kitty cats. Catching a case, grinding a few gears, dodging some bullets and almost getting killed by an anthropomorchic monstrosity. It's just another Monday for Howard the Human brought to you by Skottie Young (ROCKET RACCOON) and Jim Mahfood (MIAMI VICE REMIX).

16. American Vampire: The Second Cycle #9
Last ranking: 24 (out of 28)

Trapped behind the wall, Felicia and Pearl must run from the horrors they find lurking in Area 51. Whether they make it out alive or become test tube experiments may not be up to them. AMERICAN VAMPIRE: SECOND CYCLE continues here!

15. Hip-Hop Family Tree #1
Last ranking: NEW!

The New York Times bestselling book series debuts as a  monthly  comic book (!) with new covers, artwork, a "director's commentary" section that describes the motivation, process, and research involved in making this masterpiece, plus other surprises! This first issue highlights the breakdancers, graffiti artists, DJs and MCs who formed hip hop culture beginning in the tenement rec rooms of the south Bronx in the 1970s. You'll discover who invented the term "Hip Hop". You'll see names you recognize like Grandmaster Flash and Afrika Bambaataa and you'll discover where they fit into the culture as pioneers... every month!

14. We Stand On Guard
Last ranking: 20 (out of 28)

The summer blockbuster from BRIAN K. VAUGHAN and STEVE SKROCE continues, as the futuristic conflict between the Canadian freedom fighters and their American occupiers takes a shocking turn!

13. Justice League Of America
Last ranking: 13 (out of 28)

Churches of Rao are being built all over the world. A new world religion has appeared seemingly overnight. Sick people are healed. The world suddenly knows peace. So what's wrong with this picture? The Justice League is about to violently find out.

12. Deadpool's Secret Secret Wars #4
Last ranking: 8 (out of 28)

You guys understand this is NOT A SECRET WARS TIE-IN, right? It's nothing less than the TRUTH that THEY DON'T WANT YOU TO KNOW! THIS is how the ORIGINAL SECRET WARS really ended! YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE IT! Which is your right. Parental Advisory

11. Action Comics #43
Last ranking: 9 (out of 28)

"Truth" continues as Superman defies the Metropolis police and faces a new threat from the shadows!

10. Magneto #21
Last ranking: 12 (out of 28)

With the Earth on the verge of destruction, the Master of Magnetism is determined to be mutantkind's savior once more... But at what cost? Parental Advisory

9. Batman Beyond #3
Last ranking: 11 (out of 28)

The world starts to give up on its new Batman as the secret of the cyborg Justice League is revealed. Plus, Brother Eye takes both a giant leap and one small step toward bringing down the final stronghold of humanity: Neo-Gotham.

8. Hero Cats Of Stellar City #7
Last ranking: 7

A new Hero Cat named Bandit joins the battle as our team is faced with their biggest challenge yet.  An evil alliance conspires to bring Stellar City to its knees.  Can the Hero Cats stop them in time?

7. Howard The Duck #5
Last ranking: 10 (out of 28)

While the world's greatest super heroes fight to save NYC - and possibly America and parts of Canada - Howard and Tara Tam learn a lot about each other, and themselves. Communication is key in life. Be inquisitive about the people you surround yourself with. RETAILER NOTE: This issue is a HOWARD THE DUCK #4 tie-in!

6. Batman #43
Last ranking: 7 (out of 28)

In the start of a new epic, a new villain stalks Gotham City. Will Batman be able to uncover the mystery of Mr. Bloom?

5. Fight Club 2 #4
Last ranking: 6 (out of 28)

Each time Sebastian's drifted off to sleep, Tyler's emerged to run Project Mayhem. The "Human Sacrifices" who've pledged their lives to fulfilling their dreams . . . becoming doctors, accountants, lawyers-even MBAs! . . . what they're really becoming are Tyler's slaves. And the ones who fail him? They die . . .

4. Grayson #11
Last ranking: 4 (out of  28)

It's Grayson versus...Grayson? To save Agent 1, Dick must face his most dangerous enemy yet: himself.

3. Nailbiter #15
Last ranking: 3 (out of 28)

A shocking death unlocks the secrets of Buckaroo!

2. Justice League #43
Last ranking: 2 (out of 28)

"The Darkseid War" event rages on as Batman takes a dark journey into the depths of Godhood and unlocks the forbidden knowledge of the DC universe! Meanwhile, arch-enemies Superman and Lex Luthor must stand together in order to survive, and Wonder Woman leads the Justice League in an offensive against the Anti-Monitor and Darkseid! But what is Grail's true mission during this war--and what is the secret she holds over Wonder Woman?

1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #49
Last ranking: 1 (out of 28)

A final battle looms as Karai decrees a "Gauntlet" battle between ancient foes Splinter and Shredderbut first the Turtles must defeat the Foot mutants- Koya, Bludgeon, Bebop & Rocksteady! With Leo making an unimaginable battle gamble, a second Turtle's life may be on the line!

Series Dropped: The New Suicide Squad

Series Finished: Edward Scissorhands, C.O.W.L.

Sunday, 21 June 2015

Special: Halloween ComicFest 2015 Announced!

Hopefully by now you've cruised through all your pick-ups from Free Comic Book Day in May, and if you have then you'll be excited to know the time has come to get prepared for the next day to get free comics... Halloween ComicFest!
Halloween ComicFest will take place on Halloween this year, that's right on Saturday October 31, 2015. It's similar to Free Comic Book Day where it's an annual event where participating comic book speciality shops across North America and beyond celebrate the Halloween season by giving away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their shops. The event is always held the weekend before Halloween and is the perfect opportunity to introduce friends and family to the many reasons why comic shops are a great destination for Halloween themed comic books, products and merchandise. From zombies, vampires, monsters and aliens to costumes and more, comic shops have it all when it comes to Halloween fun!

I've attached the solicitations for the 21 books you can get this October below as well as the official press release from Diamond Distributors below, and make sure to stay tuned to the blog for updates as well as my official rankings and reviews as we get closer to the date.

HALLOWEEN COMICFEST FULL-SIZED COMICS

ACTION LAB ENTERTAINMENT

Actionverse

(W) Vito Delsante & Various (A) Ray-Anthony Height, Sean Izaakse (CA) Ray-Anthony Height & Various

ACTIONVERSE DEBUTS! Get a peek at the Creator Owned event of the year that everyone will be talking about from Action Lab...ACTIONVERSE! Action Lab ties its Creator Owned Superhero Properties together in a universe shattering event never before attempted by a comic publisher. Preview the Midnight Tiger, Molly Danger and Stray crossover, get the who's who on all the Major Heroes and Villains and a special first look at our new series, ACTION LAB: DOG OF WONDER! Everything you need for the history

Vampblade #1 Featuring Zombie Tramp

(W) Jason Martin, Dan Mendoza (A) Winston Young (CA) Winston Young, Dan Mendoza


Get a look at the latest offbeat genre heroine from Danger Zone...VAMPBLADE! After appearing in the pages of Zombie Tramp and then guest starring in a limited series with the queen of the undead, the mystical blade wielding Vampblade is all set to debut her own ongoing series in 2016! Here's your chance to see what the book is all about and also take a peek at Zombie Tramp and friends!

ARCHIE COMICS

The Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina #1

Script: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa  art: Robert Hack, Jack Morelli Cover: Robert Hack, Rosario "Tito" Peña

There's no better way to kick off your Halloween than with Archie Comics' newest horror series. Terror is born anew in this dark reimagining of Sabrina the Teenage Witch's origin. On the eve of her sixteenth birthday, the young sorceress finds herself at a crossroads, having to choose between an unearthly destiny and her mortal boyfriend, Harvey. But a foe from her family's past has arrived in Greendale, Madame Satan, and she has her own deadly agenda. Relive all the horror with this special black and white presentation of the critically-acclaimed first issue. For TEEN+ readers.

ASPEN MLT

The Adventures Of Psycho Bonkers #1

(W) Vince Hernandez (A/CA) Adam Archer


A pulse-pounding Psycho Bonkers action-adventure story for fans of all ages! Join the cast of this completely brand new full throttle series along with Fathom's Ernie the Seahorse, and characters from many of Aspen's most popular titles as they team up to win a thrilling, issue-spanning race! Aspen Comics' is excited to once again offer fans and readers a unique comic and coloring book package that includes a crafted full length story geared for kids to color, plus added puzzles, mazes and other fun filled activities for children and readers of all ages! It's the perfect treat for the Halloween holiday!

DC COMICS

Unknown Kids Book

Unknown Teen Book

DRAWN & QUARTERLY

The Birth Of Kitaro

(W/A/CA) Shigeru Mizuki


Shigeru Mizuki's The Birth of Kitaro tells the spooky origin story of the legendary mangaka's most popular character. This preview is taken from the golden era of the late 1960s, when Kitaro truly hit its stride as an all-ages supernatural series. Mizuki's Kitaro is both timelessly relevant and undeniably influential, inspiring a decades-long boom in stories about yokai, Japanese ghosts and monsters. This Halloween Special is the perfect introduction to the new all-ages Kitaro series coming in 2016 from D&Q!

GRAPHIC INDIA

Stan Lee`s Chakra The Invincible Halloween Special

(W) Stan Lee & Various (A) Jeevan Kang, Various (CA) Jeevan Kang


Straight from the Free Comic Book Day release and based on the animated shorts seen on Angry Birds ToonsTV with over 30 Million views worldwide, Chakra the Invincible is the latest superhero from legendary creator, Stan Lee. Join Chakra and his friends for a very special Halloween as Dr. Singh sits you down by the campfire and tells you about some of Chakra's most sinister villains and spookiest adventures!

IDW PUBLISHING

Donald Duck`s Halloween Scream


(W/A) William Van Horn (CA) Dan Noonan


Classic Disney haunts are home for the howl-iday! In "It's In the Bag" and "Public Ugly #1," trick-or-treating Donald scares up a literal ton of candy... then is forced to get rid of it by fair means or foul!

MARVEL COMICS

Doctor Strange: The Oath

(W) Brian K. Vaughan (A/CA) Marcos Martin


Doctor Strange embarks on the most important investigation of his career, as he sets out to solve an attempted murder - his own! And with his best friend near death, Stephen Strange turns to an unexpected corner of the Marvel Universe to recruit a new ally!

Ultimate Spider-Man/Avengers

(W) Joe Caramagna, Jim Zub (A) Ron Lim, Mario Del (CA) Kalman Andrasofszky


When Peter Parker has a terrible day, he discovers that none other than Nightmare is behind it! But how can the Ultimate Spider-Man defeat a foe that's inside his own head? Guest-starring Doctor Strange! Then the Avengers take on their spookiest mission yet when they travel to Castle Doom to face Dracula! And if that's not enough, Dracula's brought a horde of bloodthirsty vampires with him!

VIZ MEDIA

Fragments Of Horror

(W/A/CA) Junji Ito


An old wooden mansion that turns on its inhabitants. A dissection class with a most unusual subject. A funeral where the dead are definitely not laid to rest. Ranging from the terrifying to the comedic, from the erotic to the loathsome, these stories showcase Junji Ito's long-awaited return to the world of horror.

ZENOSCOPE ENTERTAINMENT

Grimm Tales Of Terror #2

Inspired by Tales from the Crypt and Creepshow, Zenescope goes back to its roots of horror for this special Halloween Comic Fest reprint of Grimm Tales of Terror #2! When a group of treasure hunters heads to the Amazon in search of the priceless Spider King relic, they will find that the "Web of Deceit" they've spun has put them in a horrifying predicament!

HALLOWEEN COMICFEST MINI-COMICS

ACTION LAB ENTERTAINMENT

The Garlicks

(W/A/CA) Lea Hernandez


Olive, a curious butcher's apprentice, decides to crash a monster's party on Halloween Eve. Disguised as a goofy vampire alpaca, she meets an equally goofy vampire horse named Vourdain. But what is Olive going to do when it's morning and time for all monsters to unmask?

ARCHIE COMICS

World Of Archie

(W) George Gladir (A) Rich Koslowski, Fernando Ruiz (CA) Bill Galvan, Bob Smith


Strange things are going on in Riverdale! You're invited to the best Halloween party of the year - exclusively for monsters! Is it possible that Archie and Jughead have really stumbled into a Halloween party where the guests are not in costume, but are actual, real-live monsters?! Find out for yourself if this tale is a 'trick' or a 'treat' in "For Monsters Only!"

BOOM STUDIOS

Halloween Haunt 2015

(W/A) Jones Wiedle & Various


Enjoy three, spooky tales for your reading pleasure in this BOOM! Studios Halloween Special, featuring short stories from Adventure Time, Steven Universe, and Lumberjanes. Perfect for passing out on Halloween instead of/in addition to candy!

DARK HORSE COMICS

Grimmiss Island

(W) Art Baltazar, Franco (A) Art Baltazar


The Volcano Goddess threatens the Mama Woogees' tiny island! What can their creation Grimmiss do to stop this terror? Between an eye exam, a tough lesson in love, and stopping the Tiki Monoliths, there are lots of things for a little guy with a skull head to do!

FAMOUS MONSTERS

Spook-A-Rama

Cory loves monsters. He dresses up in monster suits and reads monster magazines, much to the chagrin of his mother, who would rather he be working in a mailroom. But when Cory learns about his hero Wilbur Atchison's studio tours, he suddenly sees an opportunity for greatness! But he soon finds out that not all of Hollywood is make believe. An all-ages adventure in the spirit of The Goonies and Monster Squad!

IDW PUBLISHING

Skylanders Halloween Special

(W) Ron Marz, David Rodriguez (A/CA) Fico Ossio


Happy Halloween from Skylands! Enjoy this special comic treat as we introduce you to the candy villainy of Pain-Yatta! This issue reprints a special selection from the Skylanders: Light in the Dark storyline featured in Skylanders Volume 4 coming next month!

MAGNETIC PRESS

Bitten

(W) Cornelia Funke, Raul Garcia (A/CA) Francisco Herrera


Some Hollywood Horror stories are true! Based on best-selling YA author Cornelia Funke's "Little Werewolf", comic artist Francisco Herrera (Venom, Megamind) and Disney Animator Raúl García (Aladdin, The Lion King) bring you a fun new short story and activities set in the world of the upcoming graphic novel, Bitten!"

PERFECT SQUARE

Yo-Kai Watch

(W/A/CA) Noriyuki Konishi


Nate Adams is just an average kid until the mysterious Whisper gives him a device that allows him to see what others cannot, Yo-kai of all shapes and forms! Now, armed with the Yo-kai Watch, Nate, Whisper and their new invisible friends embark on an all-new supernatural adventure!

Press Release: Diamond Comic Distributors announces a celebration of comics, comic shops, and pop-culture in October with the fourth annual Halloween ComicFest (HCF) store event! Communities are encouraged to check out their local comic shop and get free comics while also participating in special Halloween events such as costume contests, sales, character appearances and more on Saturday, October 31st!

During Halloween ComicFest, adults and kids can go into a local participating comic shop and get free Halloween and horror-themed comics and mini-comics published specifically for Halloween ComicFest. This year, there are 21 titles— thirteen full-sized comics and eight mini-comics—available to choose from, including Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man and Avengers #1, Doctor Strange: The Oath, Donald Duck’s Halloween Scream! #1, Sabrina #1, Skylanders, Yo-Kai Watch and other frightening fun tales.

Retailers will also be selling HCF Mini-Comic Polypacks: a pack of 25 copies for fans to purchase and pass out on Halloween to trick-or-treaters, party-goers, at school events and more. It’s a great way to give out an entertaining story to kids that will last longer than any Halloween candy they will receive! Available in stores on September 30th, the Mini-Comic Polypacks can currently be pre-ordered from comic book shops, so fans can purchase the specific titles and number of packs they want to prepare for their Halloween activities.

“This year, Halloween ComicFest gets spookier as it’s celebrated on Halloween, allowing comic shops to really bring out their ‘fun and scary’ side,” said Halloween ComicFest spokesperson, Deborah Moreland. “Comic shops are already a great destination for new comics and pop-culture related items, but now new and current customers can see the great Halloween and horror comics and merchandise that local comic shops have to offer.  With awesome Halloween ComicFest events hosted in stores, cool mini-comic polypacks available for purchase, and the return of “The Greatest Halloween Costume Contest” on the Hallweencomicfest.com website, Halloween ComicFest is the perfect Halloween celebration for kids and adults to enjoy this October!

Wednesday, 3 June 2015

Comic Shop Corner: June 2015

I'm cheating a little bit this month as I'm actually picking up 32 books but that's because a couple TMNT titles from May were moved to the first week of June but we'll ignore those so here's the top 30.

30. C.O.W.L. #11
Last ranking: 24 (out of 25)

story: KYLE HIGGINS & ALEC SIEGEL
art / cover: ROD REIS

APRIL 29 / 32 PAGES / FC / M / $3.99

Arc two comes to a close with a monster issue. All of Geoffrey's lies, secrets, and rationalizations have led to this. Plus, Radia's public stand against C.O.W.L.—will she win the independence she wants? And does Arclight have a future with C.O.W.L.? Or at all?

29. New Suicide Squad #9
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by SEAN RYAN
Art by PHILIPPE BRIONES
Cover by JUAN FERRERYA
THE JOKER Variant cover by JIM LEE
On sale JUNE 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
An unstable, violent group has broken away from the League of Assassins! Only the Suicide Squad stands a chance of stopping them – if they’re willing to get even more unstable and violent!

28. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: New Animated Adventures #24
Last ranking: 23 (out of 25)

Matthew K. Manning (w) • Dario Brizuela, Chad Thomas (a) • Brizuela (c)
"Favorite Haunt," Part 2! The sewers seem to be haunted by all manners of ghoulish ghosts and creatures... some are real, and some are not! Will Mike be able to convince his brothers of the truth?

27. American Vampire: The Second Cycle #8
Last ranking: 19 (April - Same issue as resolicited)

With Skinner and Calvin leading the space race, back on Earth it’s time to face the most guarded stronghold in the country: Area 51! Felicia and Pearl go behind the fence to expose the nation’s extraterrestrial secrets. What do they encounter floating in the test tubes? You’ll find out here!

26. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Color Classics #6
Last ranking: 19 (out of 25)

Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird (w) • Jim Lawson (a) • A.C. Farley (c)
The TMNT Color Classics line continues! In "City at War, Part Four," friends and enemies blur when the TMNT find themselves caught between warring factions of the Foot Clan!

25. Action Comics #41
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by GREG PAK and AARON KUDER
Art and cover by AARON KUDER
THE JOKER Variant cover by DARWYN COOKE
On sale JUNE 3 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for more information.
The epic new storyline “TRUTH” begins! For Superman, there’s no more holding back!

24. Edward Scissorhands #9
Last ranking: 16 (out of 25)

"Whole Again," Part Four. Megs' convictions are put to the test when Dr. Wells makes a tempting offer, and Edward is faced with a tough decision that might mean losing out on the thing he wants most.

23. Past Aways #4
Last ranking: 15 (out of 25)

Matt Kindt (W), Scott Kolins (A/Cover), and Bill Crabtree (C)
On sale June 17
FC, 40 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
The team battles a bizarre creature through a tear in space-time, but the mind behind the monster holds a secret that could change the PastAways’ future! As they face a new kind of time paradox, the crew are also forced to contend with an internal plot against one of their own!
• The next opus from Matt Kindt (MIND MGMT)!
• The new arc kicks off with a bang!
• Every issue contains bonus 2015 travelogues!

22. Secret Wars #3
Last ranking: 2 & 3

ALL THE DEVILS DANCE!

21. Secret Wars #4
Last ranking: 2 & 3

ALL THE ANGELS SING!

20. Secret Six #3
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by GAIL SIMONE
Art by KEN LASHLEY and DALE EAGLESHAM
Cover by DALE EAGLESHAM
THE JOKER Variant cover by DAN JURGENS and DANNY MIKI
1: 25 Variant cover by GARRY BROWN
On sale JUNE 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Retailers: This issue will ship with three covers. Please
see the order form for details. This issue is resolicited. All previous orders are cancelled.
Her name is Strix. What is her secret?

19. Silver Surfer #13
Last ranking: 12 (out of 25)

• THE LAST DAYS - “The Death of Everything That Ever Was or Will Be”
• Time ran out and the Marvel Universe died. From the edge of Battleworld to the outskirts of all infinity, every planet, moon, and star has been expunged. Every life force has been extinguished. There are NO survivors...
•...except the Surfer, Dawn, and Toomie. How did they pull this off? And, more importantly, can they figure out a way to bring everything BACK?
• If you care about the fate and future of the Cosmic corners of the Marvel Universe, you cannot miss this comic!

18. Justice League of America #1
Last ranking: NEW!

Written by BRYAN HITCH
Art by BRYAN HITCH and WADE VON GRAWBADGER
Cover by BRYAN HITCH
THE JOKER variant cover by HOWARD PORTER
AQUAMAN variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
BATMAN variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
CYBORG variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
THE FLASH variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
GREEN LANTERN variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
SUPERMAN variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
WONDER WOMAN variant cover by BRYAN HITCH
1: 100 seven-panel foldout cover by BRYAN HITCH
On sale JUNE 3 • 56 pg, FC, $5.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with ten covers. Please see the order form for more information.
It’s massive widescreen JUSTICE LEAGUE action and adventure from superstar writer/artist Bryan Hitch! In this extra-sized debut issue, the League comes up against an armada of aliens heading for Earth that claims to be a peaceful religious tribe. But something sinister is lurking in their ranks...something with ties to ancient Krypton!
This amazing kick-off issue is available with seven different open-to-order variant covers by Bryan Hitch, each spotlighting one of seven core members of the JLA, plus an incredible 1: 100 seven-panel foldout variant cover that presents all seven open-to-order covers together!

17. Fight Club 2 #2
Last ranking: 10 (out of 25)

Chuck Palahniuk (W), Cameron Stewart (A), Dave Stewart (C), David Mack (Cover), and Francesco Francavilla (Variant cover)
On sale June 24
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
For the past decade Tyler Durden’s been sneaking out of Sebastian’s subconscious. Sebastian has a nice wife and a nice kid. He has a nice home in the suburbs. Nice-enough neighbors. Now all that’s going up like so much potassium permanganate.
• Rize or Die!
• One of IGN and io9’s Most Anticipated Comics of 2015!

16. Gotham By Midnight #6
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by RAY FAWKES
Art by JUAN FERRERYA
Cover by BILL SIENKIEWICZ
THE JOKER Variant cover by JOHN VAN FLEET
On sale JUNE 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
The Midnight Shift is in danger from both its members and the rest of the GCPD! In a deadly new Gotham City, does the paranormal really still pose a threat? As the task force struggles to rebuild after their tragic loss, their only weapon against the supernatural and Internal Affairs both might be in the form of attorney Kate Spencer. Ray Fawkes and new series artist Juan Ferreyra are ready to take Jim Corrigan and his motley crew on the adventure of their lives – or afterlives!

15. Magneto #19
Last ranking: 11 (out of 25)

CULLEN BUNN (w) • PAUL DAVIDSON (a)
Cover by DAVID YARDIN
GWENETO VARIANT COVER BY DECLAN SHALVEY
• The Earth is on a collision course with oblivion…and Magneto has taken it upon himself to stop it!
• But acquiring the means he’ll need to do it may lead Magneto into a confrontation with one of the X-Men’s most gruesome foes…
• Enter: SUGAR MAN!
32 PGS./Parental Advisory …$3.99

14. Lobo #7
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art and cover by CLIFF RICHARDS
THE JOKER Variant cover by NEIL EDWARDS
On sale JUNE 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for more information.
Cosmic speakeasies, intergalactic drug dens and even exotic alien women can’t distract
can’t distract Lobo from his first love: hunting men for money! Once you’re on Lobo’s hit list, there are only two possible outcomes: your death or his.

13. Harrow County #2
Last ranking: 18 (out of 25)

Cullen Bunn (W) and Tyler Crook (A/Cover)
On sale June 10
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Ongoing
As Emmy learns the secrets of her world from the strange and terrifying Tattered Skin, her father’s unusual behavior becomes ever more frightening, and the townsfolk begin to assemble with a deadly intent!
• Featuring two backup stories exclusive to the single issues!
• The chilling ongoing series from Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook (The Sixth Gun) continues!

12. Bat-Mite #1
Last ranking: NEW!

Written by DAN JURGENS
Art and cover by CORIN HOWELL
1: 25 Variant cover by CORIN HOWELL
On sale JUNE 3 • 32 pg, FC, 1 of 6, $2.99 US • RATED E
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for more information.
Bat-Mite is here to fix the DC Universe – one hero at a time! Convinced that he’s the imp that put Batman on the map, he’s spreading his expertise all over the DC Universe, eager to boost the careers of heroes he thinks need his “help.” Don’t miss the start of this six-issue all-ages miniseries!

11. Deadpool's Secret Secret Wars #2
Last ranking: 9 (out of 25)

CULLEN BUNN (w) • MATTEO LOLLI (a)
Cover by TONY HARRIS
GWENPOOL VARIANT COVER BY CHRIS BACHALO
VARIANT COVER BY TBA
• If a secret war happens on a secret planet in secret space, and no one hears about it...DID IT REALLY HAPPEN?!?!
• That’s what you’ll be asking about this series for years to come!
• And the answer is YES! Deadpool really DID mess with the original Secret Wars!
32 PGS./Parental Advisory …$3.99

10. Justice League #41
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art and cover by JASON FABOK
THE JOKER Variant cover by DAVID FINCH
Blank variant cover
On sale JUNE 17 • 48 pg, FC, $4.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with three covers. Please see the order form for details.
The critically acclaimed team of Geoff Johns and Jason Fabok present the much anticipated, extra-sized first chapter of “DARKSEID WAR”! When the Justice League investigate a series of unexplained murders on Earth, it leads them to the frontlines of a war unlike any the DC Universe has ever seen – a battle between the two most powerful villains in existence: Darkseid and the Anti-Monitor! Meet Darkseid’s daughter – a mysterious force of evil with a bizarre connection to the Justice League! Plus: The horrible secret of Superwoman’s baby! The ultimate temptation of Batman! Lex Luthor vs. Superman – no holds barred! New villains! New allies! And so much more in the DC Event that has been building since JUSTICE LEAGUE #1!

9. Howard The Duck #4
Last ranking: 7 (out of 25)

CHIP ZDARSKY (w) • JOE QUINONES (a/C)
Variant cover by ED MCGUINNESS
GWEN THE DUCK VARIANT COVER BY JASON LATOUR• Looks like the “doctor is in” … this issue of HOWARD THE DUCK! Ha ha of course I’m referring to Dr. Strange, Sorcerer Supreme.
• I’m 100% positive nobody’s ever made that joke before, so I feel pretty confident doing so here.
• There will be other jokes of a similar nature in this issue.
• PLUS! A MARVEL SUPER HEROES SECRET WARS (1984) tie-in!
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99

8. Grayson #9
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by TOM KING and TIM SEELEY
Art and cover by MIKEL JANIN
THE JOKER Variant cover by DAVE JOHNSON
On sale JUNE 24 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for more information.
Everything changes as Helena takes over SPYRAL! Plus: Grayson gets a new partner!

7. Hero Cats Of Stellar City #6
Last ranking: 9 (April)

Writer(s): Kyle Puttkammer
Artist Name(s): Marcus Williams
Cover Artist(s): Tracy Yardley (reg) Marcus Williams (var)
Everything has been building to this! Secrets are revealed as the masks come off. The Hero Cats must defend the home front as Galaxy Man unwittingly returns to his observatory with an infestation of space bugs. Cover by Tracy Yardley (Sonic the Hedgehog) with a variant cover by Marcus Williams, limited to 1,500 copies.
32 pgs./FC/ Teen $3.99 (reg.) $4.99 (var.)

6. Sex Criminals #11
Last ranking: Unranked

story: MATT FRACTION
art / cover: CRIP ZNBLOODZ
JUNE 24 / 32 PAGES / FC / M / $3.50

NEW STORY! NEW ARC! SAME OLD MATT AND CHIP.
Jon and Suzie have a gift: when they have sex, they stop time. And they’re not alone. Get on board the book that’s been called “hilarious” and “arousing” — by Chip’s mommy. OH! All these issues? They’re all in a sealed bag because 1000 totally random blank covers have been “customized” by Matt and Chip. Will YOU be one of the lucky ones (thousand)? Will YOUR copy be worth a million dollars one day because it is one-of-a-kind and unique (probably not)? YES! (No.)

5. Batman Beyond #1
Last ranking: NEW!

Written by DAN JURGENS
Art and cover by BERNARD CHANG
1: 25 Variant cover by KALMAN ANDRASOFSKY
On sale JUNE 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for details.
At last, Batman Beyond gets his own ongoing series in THE definitive future of the DCU! But this isn’t the Beyond you think you know! With the Justice League missing and without Bruce to guide him, this new Batman will need to explore this bizarre world on his own while fighting to raise humanity from an opponent that’s already won.
The heroes Batman knew have failed, the world he knew has been turned on its head, and every step he takes will lead him either toward finding home – or further down the road of disaster!

4. All-New Hawkeye #4
Last ranking: 5 (out of 25)

JEFF LEMIRE (W) • RAMON PEREZ (A/C)
• In a very special issue, the past and the present collide as a young Clint and an older Hawkeye attempt to save whatever innocence they have left.
• Jeff Lemire and Ramon Perez bring you an issue unlike any other--reminding us why Hawkeye is a series unlike any other.
32 PGS./Rated T …$3.99

3. Nailbiter #13
Last ranking: 6 (out of 25)

story: JOSHUA WILLIAMSON
art / cover: MIKE HENDERSON

JUNE 3 / 32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99

“I’M IN LOVE WITH A SERIAL KILLER!”

2. Batman #41
Last ranking: Unranked

Written by SCOTT SNYDER
Art by GREG CAPULLO and DANNY MIKI
Cover by GREG CAPULLO
THE JOKER Variant cover by SEAN MURPHY
On sale JUNE 10 • 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the order form for more information.
The all-new Batman makes his debut! Who is he, and what happens next? Find out here as a new era begins in Gotham City!

1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #47
Last ranking: 1 (out of 25)

Tom Waltz, Kevin Eastman (w) • Mateus Santolouco (a) • Santolouco, Eastman (c)
The Stockman Swarm engulfs NYC searching high and low for the Turtles. The Turtles are on the run and desperate. Will they be able to find sanctuary before it's too late?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
•The race to issue #50 accelerates as two Turtle foes join forces to overrun New York!
•Variant Cover by Valerio Schiti!

Series dropped: Harley Quinn, Batman/Superman, Bucky Barnes: The Winter Soldier

Series finished: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutanimals, Powerpuff Girls: Super Smash-Up!, Return Of The Living Deadpool, Inhuman