What an amazing week: Comic Book Reviews for April 14, 2010!

Hello everyone and welcome back to another week of comic book reviews from "The Clover Comics Gazette!" Thank you so much for reading and I have four amazing books to review for Wednesday, April 14, 2010, so let's get to it!

"Brightest Day: Flash #1"

The Flash aka Barry Allen is out of witness protection and back on the police force in Star City! Things have changed in the police force since Barry's departure and return; and results are the only things that matter now. Trickster and the Rogues are back in town to go along with a mysterious dead body and a visit from "the law" of the future. The Flash is back and in a whole heap of trouble!

To learn more about Geoff Johns you can follow him on twitter by clicking the "Flash Ring" picture above! Visit his unofficial fan page HERE! Or his website HERE!

Obviously I'm not a huge fan of the Flash or of any super hero with powers. However I decided to give this one a shot and it was nice to receive a free Flash Ring to go with my purchase. Needless to say I was pleasantly suprised by the book and amazingly shocked to be looking forward to #2. Obviously you have industry legend Geoff Johns penning a story that is gripping, gritty, and real in a fictional environment. For someone like myself who enjoys more vigilante style stories, Flash #1 isn't too far above my liking! Cover by Tony Harris is in your face and keeps the main character in the forefront along with story art by Francis Manapul fits perfectly with Johns writing style. Manapul has amazing full page art that reminds me of Freddie Williams II's work on Flash in 2008 and 2009.

I would say definitely pick this one up, even if your not a fan of the Flash.

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it:

4 out of 5!

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"Batgirl #9"

Follow cover artist Stanley Lau on Twitter by clicking the cover art above!
Batgirl aka Stephanie Brown is tasked with saving a train full of passengers from an unknown villain who has a bomb strapped to his chest! Luckily Batgirl has the help of Barbara Gordon aka Oracle to swing the advantage in Batgirl's favor. "The Calcultor" is back and is using some kind of mind control to take over the citizens of Gotham. "The Calculator" has plans to "log off" Oracle for good, can Batgirl save the day, and what do the Calculator's son and daughter have to do with it?

Both in the first nine issues of "Batgirl" and the change to "Batwoman: Detective Comics" DC has done a great job of filling the DCU with lots of strong female characters to take away from the countdown til the "Return of Bruce Wayne". In this next volume of Batgirl played by Stephanie Brown it's such a great progression from her being "The Spoiler" to now being "Batgirl" add in the fan favorite of the Oracle and you have  yourself a winner.

The story written by Bryan Q. Miller is the first part in a four part story arc and he does a great job with entering tons of new information while staying true to the lore of "Batgirl". The Cover art by Stanley Lau is amazingly beautiful and looks more like a photograph rather than a drawing. The story art by Lee Garbett, Jonathan Glapion, and Richard Friend; does a great job of including a vast amount of art detail, while craming as many panes of story as possible on each page. Great story, great art, definitely pick this one up! First of a four part story arc, so it's a great time to jump on in!

"The Clover Comics Gazette"
gives it:

4 out of 5!

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"Batman #698"
Please follow story art artist Guillem March's blog by clicking the cover art above!


The weight and stress of wearing the cowl is wearing thin for our Batman step-in Dick Grayson. To go along with that a copy cat killer is loose in Gotham and while Batman seems baffled he is being out done by none other than "The Riddler" going by Edward Nigma now. With no clue, has Batman come to a case he can't solve and has his best ally fallen victim to the copy cat killer?

Very interesting story, as someone looking in from the outside, to see the stress that comes with stepping in as "Batman". One of my new favorite comic book professionals, Tony Daniel, pens the story and drew the cover of a book that simply sits you right inside of the boots of Dick Grayson. Guillem March does the inside art which is provocative and interesting and keeps the story moving. With the addition of my favorite villain "The Riddler" this story is engrossing and compelling. The great part is; it's only the first part in the story arc. The cover art displays a "Reformed Riddler" who really doesn't seem reformed at all, his eyes tell the whole story. Great read, great author, great illustrations, definitely pick up this first part today!

"Gotham City Gazette"
gives it:

5 out of 5!

Please follow Tony Daniel's blog by clicking HERE!
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PICK OF THE WEEK


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"Rise and Fall: The Fall of: Green Arrow #32"

Green Arrow may have fought his last fight as the Emerald Archer as a murder charge takes him from hero to zero. Unmasked and alone Oliver McQueen is set to face the angered citizens and law of "Star City". Has "Star City" set it's fate in motion by imprisoning a hero that has protected them for so long, all the while just recovering from their city being completely destroyed? Only time will tell but, one thing is for sure, "Star City" will never be the same again!

Though I love comics and they are such a great escape for me I usually don't become too emotionally involved in fictional stories. However this story really gets my blood pumping. This story emphasizes every reason why I have a complete dis-taste by the genetically altered heroes and a complete love for the more vigilante side of justice. J.T. Krul has done a great job writing the stories for "Green Arrow" and this books takes the cake. The book makes you feel the shame and disappointment that comes with being a hero on the wrong side of the law. To be so alone that not only your friends and other heroes but, your wife doesn't even want to associate with you. One of the best stories I've read all year.

The cover by Mauro Cascioli is well drawn as far as Green Arrow is concerned, I however dislike the fact that a "Lantern" is on the front cover. I personally have no definition of any Lanterns that says Hero, they are a sad excuse for heroes and you might as well lump Flash and Black Canary in there as well. For them to turn your back when things get rough is something that only a super hero would do, not a vigilante.

Great story and a must read, if you can only get one comic this week this is the one!

"The Clover Comics Gazette"
easily gives it:

5 out of 5!
Please follow writer J.T.Krul on twitter @JTKrul or fan him on Facebook HERE!


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All I can say is that it has been a great week in comics and I find myself looking more and more forward to each and every Wednesday! Come on everyone go read DC books they are the real stories!

For the:

"Clover Comics Gazette"

this is:
"The Boy Wonder" - DJ Under Pressure
signing off!

Do you want to write a guest blog or debate my reviews please email me CloverComicsGazette@hotmail.com, follow me on Twitter @CCGNerdNews, or fan me on Facebook by clicking HERE!

If you would like to find a comic book shop in your area please visit: Comic Shop Locator!

New Comic Book Day Reviews for April 7, 2010

Hello everyone and thank you for reading the "Clover Comics Gazette"! I'm a little late this week on my reviews but, I have four books to review for you today and I hope you enjoy!

"Batman: Confidential #43"

If your marked to die by greater forces than yourself is there any way to cheat that fate? Can Batman save the girl while protecting everyone else? Batman's emotions may get the better of him this time, but you will have to read to find out in the conclusion of the "Ghosts" storyline.

Quite frankly I'm very relieved to see the end of this storyline and hopefully the end of this style of illustration in one of my favorite books. Though I have to say that out of all of the comics in this storyline #43 is by far the best. Though I still disliked the illustrations the story is actually gripping at the end. Interesting concept and was a nice conclusion to the story line. So Sam Kieth is able to deliver this time for me, though I hope this is the end of his run on "Batman: Confidential"

If your collecting the book I would say pick it up; just for the cover, put it down; and a jumping off point this won't take the cake. So glad it's the end, but it gets a better score than all the rest!

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it:

3 out of 5

"Red Robin #11"

Packed with all the characters you love and all the ones that you love to hate this is an action packed ride through the third part  of a four part story arc. How long before the world knows of the imposter posing as Bruce Wayne and can Red Robin, Robin, and Batman protect all of their companions from falling to the great Rhas al Ghul? Going to have to read to find out, no one is safe this time!

This story is shaping up to have a blockbuster conclusion! The amount of Gotham City notables jammed into this story arc is incredible and Christopher Yost does a great job fitting them all in to his story. The cover by To and McCarthy highlights the three heroes and definitely makes you want to pick up the book! The story though heavy with thought boxes from all the various characters does not get in the way and is actually a pleasure to see inside their heads. This book has just been stellar and this is a definite must buy!

"Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it

4 out of 5

"JSA: Allstars #5"

You can follow Freddie E. Williams on twitter by clicking the photo above!

A mysterious woman by the name of Anna Fortune arrives in time to save the day using both her fighting skills and magic. The JSA are greatful but, concerned if this help will come at a price. Star Girl and Atom Smasher are in an unknown location and no tunnel of safety is in view, however the love between the two of them is easily visible. Anna Fortune tempts fate a bit too much and it looks like the JSA will suffer. Pick this book up today to find out the details!

Quickly becoming one of my favorite books "JSA: Allstars" is filled with twists and turns but, also keeps you on track. Lots of characters with lots of locations is worded perfectly by Matthew Sturges accompanied by always incredible artistry by Freddie E. Williams II. From Freddie's enthralling cover to the amazing life sized visuals inside, he never seems to lack in greatness.

Provocative and edgy this is turning into a great story line, though I suggest if you want to start reading this you start with #1. We are only on #5 so it is a great time to catch up! Pick this book up today!

"Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it

5 out of 5

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The pick of the week is:

"Batman and Robin #11"

The story of the Wayne family tree gets increasingly full of branches in this latest book. Dick Grayson in Batman's place starts to discover more and more about the history of the Bat for the Wayne's. The lies start to unravel for this masked man who helps rescue Damian while Grayson is down in the crypt. Who is this masked man and how deep is the rabbit hole for the "Batman"? Read this book and find out more!

This book has all the things I love about Batman! The foreshadowing text on the cover that reads "The Return of Bruce Wayne Begins Here" is enough to get my heart racing. Along with the magnificent story telling of Grant Morrison who always seems leave his readers on the edge of a cliff. Just enough to keep you invested and have you building a time machine that will bring you to the release of the next chapter. The cover by Frank Quitely and Andy Clarke is simple and to the point, sometimes simple is better. Along with the inside illustrations by Andy Clarke and Scott Hanna that brings this amazing story to life.

Go get this book today and continue counting the seconds til "The Return of Bruce Wayne"!!!

"Clover Comics Gazette"

easily gives it:

5 out of 5

Another great week in the DCU and the time continues to tick away towards the "Return of Bruce Wayne", I can not wait to start reviewing those story arcs and I'm sure everyone else is just as excited. Thank you so much for reading and I will be back this Wednesday, April 14, 2010 with more comic reviews!

Do you want to guest blog, debate my reviews, or suggest a blog topic please feel free to email me at: CloverComicsGazette@hotmail.com, Twitter @CCGNerdNews, or on Facebook by clicking HERE!


Til next week this is:

"The Boy Wonder" - DJ Under Pressure

signing off!

P.S. to find a store in your area please visit: http://www.comicshoplocator.com/

Guest Blog #1: Kyle Willis writing about the life and times of Michael Turner

Hello everyone and welcome to The Clover Comics Gazette! This blog is the first in a number of guest bloggers. Kyle Willis is the guest blogger for today and a good friend of mine! Kyle Willis is an excellent artist and writer; which is not hard to believe with the article below. You can find Kyle Willis's facebook page HERE or his art fan page HERE!

The topic today is the life and times of legendary artist Michael Turner!

Read more about Michael Turner by visiting his Wikepida by clicking the picture above!


"When a great man dies, for years the light he leaves behind him, lies on the paths of men."

~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

In his youth Michael Turner had no reservations about being an artist of any kind. He appreciated art and was always doodling something or other, but his initial dream was to become a doctor in the footsteps of his stepfather. He attended the pre-med program at the University of Tennessee and while there he worked hard. Michael was a huge sports buff; adept at Tennis, Tae Kwon Do, Golf and even basketball. He often traveled the country, Skiing in Aspen, Colorado and playing volleyball throughout the Western United States. He was also known to spend time winning awards in barefoot water skiing. After an injury on the road which brought him back to his Tennessee home, Turner decided that his dream of being a doctor was misguided and not a passion that was born to him. Turner and brother Jake relocated to California to see what the state had to offer them. Waiting tables for only a short time it didn't take long before Michael had a gig as a martial arts instructor. Turner was a master of Tai Chi Chuan, a centuries-old Chinese martial art form of self-defense. After an injury subdued Michael he could no longer instruct or wait tables-where he was flat on his back, so to speak-he focussed more on his drawing. His illustrations took a turn for the serious in this time and when he submitted some sketches to some of the major companies he was interested in it was Marc Silvestri's Top Cow Productions that responded. He was charged with the task of pencilling background illustrations on Silvestri's Cyber Force before finding his feet and co-creating Witchblade which he drew for two years. When he first arrived on the scene the first thing I noted about his style is just how much it reminded me of Silvestri, how fitting that he was discovered by someone with such similar skill.

Bid on this cover and many others by Michael Turner by clicking on the link above to take you to ebay!

Once signing on at Top Cow, Turner moved from San Diego to Los Angeles, rooming with fellow Top Cow artists such as Jason Gorder, Peter Steigerwald, D-Tron and Randy Queen who lit a fire under Turner's ass and he learned as much as he could from these inspiring cats. During his comic career Turner founded his own comic book publishing company, Aspen Comics. With more than one location his studio is responsible for the likes of Aspen, Ekos, Fathom and Soulfire among other popular titles. In a very small amount of time Michael Turner built for himself a small but stable empire within the comic book world that honors him by standing strong after his departure from this Earth. It didn't take long for the foreshadowing larger companies such as Marvel and DC to come calling at his doorstep. Turner was given the task of creating covers for titles the likes of DC's The Flash and Identity Crisis and contributed to Marvel's Wolverine: Origins and Ultimate Wolverine. Turner was even given the rights to NBC's Heroes for comic adaptation.

There are very few people I can summon to the forefront of my mind that I would dare say I would have wished a moment of their time before they had passed. Michael Turner is one of these very few. In June of 2008 the comic book industry lost one of the most fantastical artists the business had ever seen as Michael Turner succombed to the effects of the Bone Cancer which haunted him at the unfinished age of 37. Many people remember Turner as a comic icon and legend, but few realize how much more he truly was. He passed on the evening of opening day at Wizard World Chicago Convention and the next day a moment of silence was recognized in his memory and soon after Wizard edited their Millenium Edition of Michael Turner Art and renamed it "Tribute Edition". Michael Turner has been honored in many forms since his passing, a constant reminder that he will not be forgotten. Megan Fox is set to portray his character Fathom in an upcoming film adaptation of the title.

To learn more about how to get involved with research for chondrosarcoma, Michael Turner's form of cancer, please click on the photo above!

Turner’s battle with cancer was an inspiration to and for many. He fought it with a graceful ettiquette that truly showed his character. The artwork of Michael Turner is some of the best ever created in the comic book world. Thank you, Michael, for making our little nerdy world a much cooler place. You are sorely and undoubtedly missed.

-Kyle Willis

Great Tribute Video for "Michael Turner"

Hope you enjoyed the first Guest Blog done by Kyle Willis! If you would like to guest blog for me please either email me CloverComicsGazette@hotmail.com, Twitter: @CCGNerdNews, or Facebook: HERE!

For

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

this is:

"The Boy Wonder" - Dustin Evans

signing off!

Comic Book Reviews for Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Hello everyone and welcome back to "The Clover Comic's Gazette". Today we will be reviewing three titles from the new comic book day of: Wednesday, March 31, 2010. Thank you so much for reading and away we GO!

"Justice League of America: Rise and Fall: #43"

If you would like to own "Justice League of America #43" find it on ebay by clicking the photo above!

Another tie-in for "Rise and Fall" a story-arc that I am thoroughly enjoying! Is Batman the only one who can understand why Green Arrow is on a killing spree? Does the rest of the JLA falter for not having that killer instinct? Prometheus seems to be unstoppable and even with new allies and the numbers on the JLA's side it does not seem to be enough. This worm hole gets deeper and deeper and with the addition of the multi-verse coming in to play, hard to tell what will happen next!

Though I am not thoroughly versed in the history of the JLA or of the multi-verse, the storyline that is being written for the "Green Arrow" right now simply pulls me in and makes me want to learn. So nice to see "Batman" and "Green Arrow" relating to one another and "Batman" seems to be the only one who understands the path that "Green Arrow" is on. The mass amount of characters are not over-bearing and the story curves but not at an angle that is un-readable. James Robinson adds his take to the "Rise and Fall" story line along with impressive visuals by Mark Bagley, Rob Hunter, and Norm Rapmund this is definitely a book to check out. The cover art by Bagley and Hunter is interesting and stunning to go along with lots of full page, busy, art work inside. Pick this one up today!

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it:

4 out of 5 Stars!
Learn more about writer James Robinson by following him on twitter @JamesDRobinson
Learn more about illustrator Mark Bagley by becoming a fan on Facebook HERE!

"Gotham City Sirens #10"

Do you need "Gotham City Sirens #10" buy it from Ebay by clicking the photo above!

"The Riddler" is stuck between a rock and a hard place and the ladies of "Gotham City" are the only ones who can get him out of trouble. The problem is, is that they are the ones who got him into trouble in the first place. Who has "The Riddler" captive, will the "Sirens" rescue their "Friend", and are the "Sirens" going to be able to prove themselves innocent? All will be answered in "Gotham City Sirens #10".

Though I am a huge fan of Paul Dini's story telling, in "Gotham City Sirens" I'm more of a fan of the great visuals of Catwoman, Poison Ivy, and Harley Quinn. This time around though Paul Dini's writing is right on point, by telling a great story in two issues, while leaving alot to be desired. The cover art by Guillem March is extraordinary and interesting. The story leaves questions like: "how evil is Catwoman, or is she?" and "how long can The Riddler stay on the straight and narrow?" I would say definitely check out #9 to start off the story and also read my review of that book featured several blogs ago to get up to speed. Then definitely go buy this book and check it out!

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it:

3 out of 5 Stars!
Find out more about cover artist Guillem March by following his blog found HERE!

Awesome look at "Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands" which you can pre-order now from "Gamestop" by clicking the photo below:

PICK OF THE WEEK!

IS:

"Batwoman: Detective Comics #863"

If you want to know how this tale ends purchase this book from Ebay by clicking the picture above!

Two sides of the same story, one from the Batman and one from Batwoman. The Cutter is on the loose still and who has the right formula to stop him?! The heroes need to stop The Cutter before any other girls are mutilated and only a couple of people can come out of the experience unscathed. Which formula works out and who is this the new hero on the side of good? Find out in "Detective Comics #863"

Let me say that it is extremely hard to think of Detective Comics without Bruce Wayne, however with Kathy Kane in the role of Batwoman and a new villain to fight, the stories are definitely holding their heads above water. The art style of this book from the cover by J.H. Williams III and the inside are by Jock and Scott Kollins are done perfectly. The use of the colors Blue=Batman and Red=Batwoman are extremely good tools used to tell two sides to a parrallel story. Greg Rucka's writing also helps to hold some weight with an interesting villain and tons of story curves to keep you guessing.

"Batwoman Detective Comics" just recently received the "Outstanding Comic Book Series" award from "Glaad" for portraying Batwoman, aka Kathy Kane, as a strong gay hero. The stories don't dwell on that and bring an interesting dynamic. Great series right now even without Bruce. Definitely pick this book up along with #861 and #862 to get the whole story.

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

gives it:

5 out of 5 Stars!
To learn more about the "Glaad" award that "Batwoman Detective Comics" won, just click here: BleedingCool.com

Very, very thankful that this weeks comics were so much better than last weeks. With "Brightest Day" and "The Return of Bruce Wayne" on the way I think DC is going to have a great year! With so many new series' going on since the beginning of the new year it is nice to see those new books start to stand their own ground!

For those of you who take the time to read this blog, thank you so much. I keep working hard every week to make things better. Better reviews, more content, more videos, and I've barely just got started!

If you have an idea for "The Clover Comics Gazette", I would love to hear it! Please feel free to email me at CloverComicsGazette@hotmail.com, follow me on Twitter @CCGNerdNews, or fan me on Facebook by clicking HERE!

Thanks again for reading and I will be back next Wednesday with more reviews and news!

From the desk of:

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

this is:

D.R.Evans

Signing Off!

Comic book reviews for Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Hello everyone and welcome to the first week of reviews for, the recently name changed, "Clover Comics Gazette". New name, same game, as I review the comics for the Wednesday of March 24, 2010.

"Superman/Batman #70"

If you would like to purchase "Superman/Batman #70" just click on the image above!

If cyborg Superman, energy based villains, and space travel are your idea of a great comic then this is the one for you, if not try to stay far away.

As some of you may know and all of you will know now; that I am not a fan of Superman. Nothing against him, just not my cup of tea. However, I usually appreciate the relationship between Superman and Batman; the differences between having a choice to be a hero and not having a choice. Though in this newest storyline the Superman story takes the lead and unfortunately good story telling is lost to a far-fetched story. Superman is saving the world, while the addition of Batman just feels like a page filler. The art is lack-luster at best and the cover art is just boring. If you don't make it to the comic book store for this one, you won't be missing anything.

"Clover Comics Gazette" gives it:
1 out of 5 Stars!

"Batman: Streets of Gotham #10"

If you would like to purchase "Batman: Streets of Gotham #10" find it on ebay by clicking the picture above!

With interesting back stories of not-well known villain "Zsasz" and wannabe hero "Abuse" along with "Damian" being the central protagonist of the book makes for an odd story that doesn't need to be told.

Penned by, usually, one of my favorite writers "Paul Dini" this story ,whether it be a lead up to a better story or not, just falls far short of anything close to interesting. For anyone who doesn't have a great knowledge of the "Batman" universe this is definitely a skip, even for me the story was just boring. Along with the fact that the "Second Feature: Manhunter" takes up more than half of the book feels more like a cop-out then an actual story to me. Note to the DCU: This second feature stuff, just doesn't work, for $3.99 per book I want a whole story from the title on the front, period!

On a better note the cover art by "Dustin Nguyen" is interesting, well done, and created a better story then the entire book. The visuals inside the book, though boring, are well drawn and gritty. I would say if you subscribe to this book in your pull list, then just enjoy the cover no need to read. However, if you are planning on picking up this book for the first time, just don't, pick something else!

"Clover Comics Gazette" gives it:
2 out of 5 Stars!

"Clover Comics Gazette's" Pick of the Week:

"Rise and Fall: Justice League: The Rise of Arsenal #1"

If you would like to buy "The Rise of Arsenal #1" find it on ebay by clicking the picture above!

Roy Harper aka "Red Arrow" loses three things that he can not live without! With "Green Arrow" already on the war path because of "Prometheus" and the destruction of "Star City"; will "Red Arrow" be next? How will he deal with his losses and will Roy's drug addiction come back to haunt him? Only time will tell but, this story is a must have!

What can I say about "Star City" right now other then as a huge fan of the "Vigilante" style of comic book characters this is the top of the mountain right now. So captivating to see a world where everything isn't solved by non-violence and that even heroes have real life struggles. Feels like this villain "Prometheus" is bound and determined to destroy all of the Justice League and reduce them all to killers instead of heroes. This is easily my top pick for the week and in my opinion the only DC book worth purchasing!

The writing of J.T. Krul coupled with the excellent cover art of legend Greg Horn and illustrated by Geraldo Borges and Marlo Alquiza makes for a flawless book. Stunning full page visuals and a story that just punches you right in the stomach from the on-set. Go to your local comic book store now and make sure you purchase all of the "Rise and Fall" series! Flawless is my word for this book!

5 out of 5 Stars!

Deserves 10 out of 5 Stars!

Want to know more about "The Red Arrow" learn more at "Wikepedia" HERE!
To learn more about the writer J.T.Krul visit his website HERE or follow him on twitter HERE!
To learn more about cover artist Greg Horn you can follow him on twitter HERE or visit his website HERE!

Thanks to everyone for reading, hope you enjoyed your new comic Wednesday, and I will see you back next week for more reviews and news!

Do you want to discuss this weeks comics or tell me about a new book I just have to read? Feel free to email me at CloverComicsGazette@hotmail.com, follow me on twitter @CCGNerdNews, or fan me on Facebook HERE!

From the desk of

"The Clover Comics Gazette"

this is:

D.R.Evans
signing off!

 

Learn More About: "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" by visiting the website HERE!

Great video provided by "Orlando: Attractions Magazine" with a construction update for "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" due to open at Universal Studios Orlando in June of 2010!

Please visit the "Orlando: Attractions Magazine" website by clicking the photo below:

New Comic Book Reviews for the Wednesday of March 17, 2010

Hello everyone and welcome back to "The Clover Comics Gazette" it's your boy, DJ Under Pressure, back to review the titles for my pull list on Wednesday, March 17, 2010. Hope everyone is having a great St. Patrick's Day and enjoys some green beer for me! So without further ado, here are my reviews!

"Azrael #6"

Please visit Ebay if you would like to own "Azrael #6", just click on the picture above!

Is the new "Azrael" doomed already? A book which chronicles the life of past "Azraels" seems to say so. A code appearing in the lines of the book will reveal the true enemy of "Azrael" and what to do to stop them. Will this armor be a curse or a gift to the new "Azrael"? Only time will tell!

This book does not cease to impress me, especially as a newer reincarnation of "Azrael". Though I knew of "Azrael" it is with open arms that I read about a character with such a rich history and back story. I think the fact that a simple civilian is chose to wear the enchanted armor of "Azrael", I'm not a huge fan of super powers or genetic mutations, however if you put the powers into an object it makes the story much better for myself! Also news to me as I looked at the credits on the book is the fact that along with Denny O'Neil, Marvel Editor-In-Chief, Joe Quesada created the character of "Azrael". I got to meet Mr. Quesada at a comic book convention a couple of years ago and he was super nice and willing to sign for everyone. He was really a class act!

The story written by Fabian Nicieza is simply brilliant. I love the way the story is made to come to life even while the new "Azrael" simply reads from a book about his armor's history. The story is definitely complimented by excellent visuals by Ramon Bachs and John Stanisci, who make the book feel more like a "Knights of the Round Table" esque cartoon, that comes to life with their art.

This is a great comic book to pick up and the story is done so well that it is easy to pick up and enjoy even in issue number 6. So go pick it up and enjoy this great story. 

4 out of 5 Stars! 

If you would like more information about writer Fabian Nicieza please visit his wikipedia page HERE! 
Also find out more about "Marvel" editor and chief Joe Quesada please follow him on twitter @JoeQuesada or on Facebook HERE!

Trailer for "DCUniverse: Online" being worked on by legend illustrator "Jim Lee", hoping to be released in 2010!

"Batman #697"

If you would like to own "Batman #697" find it on ebay by clicking the picture above!

The Black Mask is back, but who has taken over as the skulls host? What do "The Reaper", "Dr. Death", and "The Black Mask" have in common with a character of the last name "Arkham"? Dick Grayson still controls the cowl, and wants to do the right thing, but is he? All of this answered in "Batman #697"

The story is just simply well done by Tony Daniel who breaks a stereotype that I have by both being the artist and the writer in the same book. To deal with Dick Grayson as "Batman" while writing a story that will keep fans faithful to "The Batman's" lore, is done perfectly. Tony Daniel's Cover art as well as the inside of the book are done excellently. The cover itself does a perfect job telling the story without a word, while picturing "Batman" with "The Black Mask" in his hands.

Being a huge "Batman" fan over everything else it makes me nervous with Dick Grayson wearing the Cowl with an artist/writer in Tony Daniel who has worked for Marvel and is now a recurring author and artist on such a long standing book. However my nerves are calmed, everything about this book, even with Dick Grayson at the helm, screams a great "Batman" story. "Batman's" inner struggle with himself vs the persona vs the villains that make him an icon, is perfectly documented in this book.

This book being part 6 of 6, I would suggest going back and reading parts 1-5 to start out with as the story is kind of heavy with lore at points. Otherwise great book and I can't wait to see what else Tony Daniel has in store for us.

5 out of 5 Stars!
If you would like to learn more about Tony Daniel please visit and subscribe to his blog by clicking the picture below!

Drum Roll PLEASE!

The Pick of the Week is...

"Rise and Fall: The Fall of Green Arrow" aka "Green Arrow #31"

Would you like to own this comic? Please find it on ebay by clicking the picture above!

The "Arrow" is spiraling out of control and the weight of the world is sitting on his shoulders at the same time. "The Green Arrow" has been berated by every friend alike for being selfish. Doesn't a hero deserve to be selfish every once in a while, for giving his life to good? Or is that just the name of the game? The last page reveals someone who believes in "Green Arrow's" motive, but who is she? Just have to read and find out!

"Green Arrow" being probably my second favorite hero, the other being "Batman", it is tough to see him have no other choice then revenge. "Green Arrow" is not so much without passion as he is determined to figure out what will work to help "Star City", cause the safe route of putting the bad guys in jail and off the streets is just not getting it done. This situation with being married to "Black Canary" and working with "The Flash" and "Green Lantern" is a perfect example of why "Batman" mostly works alone. No matter what happens in "Green Arrow's" life they will never know how it really is. When  your "Green Arrow" and your friends abandon you and your city is destroyed what other choice do you have then to rebel against being a hero and turning full fledged vigilante?

"Green Arrow" stories are always a joy for me to read and "Green Arrow #31" fits the bill nicely. With this story being spread between many books the writer of "Green Arrow", J.T. Krul along with illustrations by Federico Dallocchio rivals it's predecessors tie-ins. The cover is brilliant foreshadowing of things to come with Ollie head low in shame, with his so-called "friends" judging him from the stained glass in the church.

"Green Arrow's" story is constantly growing and now is a great time to start reading all about him! Also, according to the "DC Nation" page in the back of the comic it is going to be a busy year for the "Emerald Archer", so you better jump on the train before it leaves the station.

Quite easily a: 5 out of 5 Stars!

Learn more about the "Emerald Archer" by clicking the picture below!

Trailer for "Batman: Arkham Asylum 2" hopefully being released in 2010! 

Quite a small week when it comes to the DC books that I love, however a small week allows me to go more indepth with each book. DC always top of the tower for me and I think with "Brightest Day" coming along with "The Return of Bruce Wayne", it is going to be an amazing 2010!

Enjoyed my blog, want to read more, or want to debate my opinions with me, please feel free to email me CloverComicsGazette@hotmail.com, follow me on twitter @CCGNerdNews, or fan my page on facebook HERE!

See you next week for more great reviews!

Cool video full of fan art and speculation about "Batman 3" being directed Christopher Nolan, rumored to be out in 2011!

From the desk of

 "The Gotham City Gazette"

this is

"The Boy Wonder" - DJ Under Pressure

signing off!

SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!

Nintendo! You need to do something quick, or your gonna be in deep!

Click HERE to visit "Nintendo's" website!

Hello everyone and welcome back to "Clover Comics Gazette"! Today's post comes from a subject that is close to my heart and that would be Nintendo. Born in 1984 my gaming heart will always remember the great years of dominance had by Nintendo; NES, SNES, Nintendo 64! However, Nintendo needs to do something quickly or it will be over quicker than it started.

Here is the problem, Nintendo had the market cornered for a more realistic game experience, but they didn't do enough with it to stave off similar products that are being produced by both Sony and Microsoft. With Microsofts's "Project Natal" and Sony Playstation's "Move" on the way Nintendo is about to be in the ring with the heavyweights and they haven't even boxed one round.

My personal feeling about "Nintendo" is that they spent so many years on the top of the mountain with basically no competition, that when the time came that gaming became more main stream and competition was at every corner, "Nintendo" just did not know what to do to compete and unfortunately it seems like they never will. For me the experience is totally different for "Nintendo" than I would have with either "360" or "PS3"; unfortunately for "Nintendo" gaming isn't at the point of popularity to seperate the two experiences. I think as long as they can't be seperated "Nintendo" will always be the "Red Headed Step-Child" of the group.

Click HERE to read an article about the "Playstation Move"

Great video of "Playstation's Move"!

With "Playstation's Move" it will be more of a similar experience to the "Wii" with two controllers for either hand, however "Playstation" is taking an extra step and making the controllers blue tooth, so no more annoying cords in the way, which I think already is a huge selling point for this "Wii Killer".

Click HERE  to read an article about "Microsoft's Project Natal"

Pretty cool video of "Project Natal"!

Next, with "Microsoft's: Project Natal" they take a great step away from both "Nintendo" and "Sony" in the fact that no control will be needed. So, basically will use a camera to sense all of your moves and functions and have completely hands free gaming. Now if "Microsoft" can do this and do it well without too many problems right out of the gate, it could revolutionize gaming forever!

Now, we have the big kicker for both "Sony" and "Microsoft" over "Nintendo" and that is the type of games that can be produced. "Nintendo" is known for being a kids console, nothing wrong with that, except that systems like "Playstation" and "X-Box" can make games for any age, it really doesn't matter. For "Nintendo" to have a chance in this console war that they are losing is to try to expand there "Niche" in the video game business and I have a suggestion.

"Nintendo", I want to pull for you to do well! I still remember my sisters making me leave the room so they could fight "Bowser" without me being annoying, on the original "NES". I want you to do well, but it seems that you have become o so comfortable with being third that you've lost that passion for greatness somewhere along the way.

"Super Mario Brothers Wii" video, NUFF SAID!

First, I would corner the market on games for families and children. "Microsoft" and "Playstation" make anything from kid's games to violent fighting games, now that could be an advantage for them, or you could completely flip the script and turn that against them. Make yourselves "Nintendo" the console that a kid or a family can pick up and play any game without having to scan the back for a ratings sticker. You already have the stigma of being a kid's console, don't let that hinder you, let that help you!

Trailer for "Metroid: Other M": Hell Yeah!

Next, you should remember that you are "Nintendo"! The gaming industry would be nothing today if it wasn't for you. No matter what technology comes about, you are still the building blocks of the entire gaming industry, USE THAT! Classic gaming is bigger than ever and especially with the age range for gamers constantly growing, you need to make the "Wii" the "Classic Gamer's Console". Use your library of games from the "NES", "SNES", "N64", and all "Gameboys" to fuel your business. Make your online more easily accessed and more fluent, make all of your titles available, put a decent price point for the classics, and make people remember why you="Nintendo" were the kings for so long!

Finally, and this is the big one, USE YOUR ICONS TO FIGHT BACK! Long after "Master Chief" and "Kratos" are forgotten, people will still remember "Mario", "Luigi", "Link", "Zelda", "Samus", "Metroid", "Kirby", and "Donkey Kong"! Use your characters to your advantage and forget all these third-party games that have no resonance in people's minds! Guaranteed that you will always have people's attention with a new "Mario", "Zelda" or "Metroid" game, that is what classic gamers want and if you cement yourself as the "Family Console" those will be the games that parents will expose there children to. You've seen the success of "The New Super Mario Brother's Wii" and you need to feed off that and use your other icons!

"Nintendo" please listen to me, there is still time to dig yourselves out of this hole. "Sony" and "Microsoft" are right on your tails, but all new hardware has issues and if you can turn it around before then, you may get yourselves back in the fight! These are only my opinions, but if you take what people think are your weaknesses and turn them into positives you can do great things.

Want to see how popular "Retro Gaming" has become: visit the magazine's website
HERE!

Let's Go "Nintendo"! Fight Back! If your not first your last!

Those are my opinions and I would love to hear yours, please follow me on twitter: @CloverComics or click HERE to visit my Facebook page. Also you can email me at CloverComics@hotmail.com! I hope to hear from everyone soon!

From the desk of

"Clover Comics Gazette"

this is:

"The Boy Wonder" - DJ Under Pressure

signing off!

P.S. Want a "Wii" and can't afford full price click "Amazon" HERE or "Ebay" HERE to find "Nintendo: Wii" at a cheaper price!