Week of September 22nd, 2004
By Roger BurksOct 3, 2004 - 10:13
These rankings are compiled from the top 3 vote-getters of 21 different voters on the Internet for comics released on September 22nd, 2004. 
1. Astonishing X-Men #5, 20 pts "How great were the facial expressions on the X-men when Colossus andy Kitty popped up behind Ord? Cassady's art is one of the treats on this book (even though his backgrounds still are non-exisitant). Whedon's dialog is good, but a little too cutsey in places for my taste. Still an awesome book." Jimmy King, DC Message Boards
2. The Flash #216, 18 pts
A very good issue of characterization. Although there was little action, the other elements of the book were top notch. Geoff does many things well, but he is the best at writing crossover tie-ins. This read much like it could have been an actually issue of IC. The characterization of Iris West was especially good. My only major complaint is that the issue was a bit unsatisfying in that the contents of the letter are not revealed. Also, Elongated Man should have had a more significant appearance as a nod to his part in this series.
3. Teen Titans #16, 14 pts
Another improved issue of the series from Geoff. The characterization was excellent, and for the first time since the early Wolfman/Perez days I can read a Titans battle that highlights their strengths, and not just their weaknesses and lack of teamwork. Time-travel plots usually fail miserably, but Geoff executes this one well.
4. Sleeper Season Two #4, 9 pts
5. Ex Machina #4, 8 pts
" Interesting little plot twist this month. It seems that someone may be trying to force the Great Machine out of retirement. I'll admit that I didn't see this coming, although now it seems obvious. I like the way that Vaughan is giving us an origin story in little bits and pieces, spread throughout the main story. He also manages to do it without breaking the flow of the story. Tony Harris' art is as good as ever, but he really needs a new colorist." Jimmy King, DC Message Boards
6. Black Widow #1, 6 pts
7. The Avengers #502, 5 pts
This issue was mostly dominated by the major death that the cover hinted at. It was a major step down from the previous issues, with flawed characterization and plot. Every significant part of the book seemed seriously flawed in one way or another. The worst part was the occasional descent into a cliche plot. That said, there was some good characterization and atmosphere that helped.
(tied for 8th) Plastic Man #10, 4 pts"Just when I tell myself I'm not going to collect this title any more, I go and pick it up anyways. I'm glad I did. This was INCREDIBLY entertaining, and is quickly becoming a sleeper of the DC stable. After an initial shaky first arc, this title has really picked up. Kyle Baker is a bloody comic genius -- he just "gets" the medium, and his storytelling skills are perfect for this character. I really like the way he's slowly expanding Plas' supporting cast, and hope this title sticks around a lot longer. It's becoming that good. For anyone who hasn't tried it -- and for those of you who were put off by the first few issues -- give this one a go. It's a one issue stand alone, and it's truly a gem. Thank god DC has the backbone to support this book in the face of low sales. It truly deserves the opportunity to build an audience." ishmael1st, DC Message Boards
(tied for 8th) Manhunter #2, 4 pts
I like this series and its main character, but this issue was only slightly above average. The characterization and portrayal of Shadow Thief was a highlight (though brief). Kate's private life seems annoying, as they often are at first glance, but it makes sense given the obsessive-compulsive traits of her character. Coming back to the world of comic book cliches, I am tired of seeing the supporting-cast children used as victims for lame cliffhangers. Why not use them to strengthen the series, rather than make us groan in annoyance? That's part of why I dropped Fantastic Four, though I think I will stay with this series longer.
(tied for 10th) Uncle Scrooge #334, 3 pts
"Don Rosa's wonderful "The Quest for Kalevala" is the showcase story from Gemstone's number 1 comic. A true gem in storytelling, nearly flawless mixing comedy, action, and mythology into 22 pages of pure delight. Throw in a Scrooge by the Good Duck himself, Carl Barks, and stories of Gyro Gearloose and Grandma Duck, and its as brilliant as a comic can get. Its a thrill to see never seen before European Disney treasures to invade US soil with humor, leaving a smile on your face. Best all ages comic on the market." DubipR, DC Message Boards
(tied for 10th) HERO #20, 3 pts
Another typical issue of this story arc, again suffering from the glacial advancement of the plot. However, the characterization was good and the plot had no serious problems. This shows the potential that the series could have had if only it had gotten out of the gate faster.
(tied for 10th) Tom Strong #28, Alice 19th vol. 6, 3 pts
14. Catwoman #35, Shouldn't You Be Working? #2, Mystique #19, Nodwick #25, 2 pts 18. Ultimate Fantastic Four #11, The Witching #4, Nightcrawler #1, Noble Causes #2, Venom vs. Carnage #3, Conan #8, 1 pt
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2012 - 7:41
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