Thor #2

Writer – Jason Aaron
Artist – Russell Dauterman
Colours – Matthew Wilson

With this issue, we are no closer to finding out who the new Thor is as of yet, as Jason Aaron does not want to give away any real clues except perhaps the woman’s speech which shows she is obviously of Earth.  Being new to her powers, she tests them out and finds that somehow, they just come natural to her, as if inherited from Mjolnir.  Landing back on Earth, she runs into the Frost Giants who have captured various Asgardians and Avengers, and have also invaded Roxxon as Dario Agger holds a treasure they want.  The issue is jam-packed with action and excitement, due in no small part because of Russell Dauterman’s artwork which is extremely thrilling to look at.  Watching the new Thor in action is like nothing has changed with book except for the small fact that the Thunder God is now a woman.  What is also great to see from Aaron is that this volume of the book picks right up from the last one, continuing the threads started there with many of them coming together here, what with the Frost Giants, Malekith, Dario Agger and Roxxon still playing a part of this new Thor’s tenure.  Agger might be the newest villain in this cast, but he is probably the most fascinating of the bunch as there is still so little known about him, and to top it off, is perhaps even more evil than Malekith though that could simply be the air of mystery about him.  Whatever the case, this book is, simply put, quite excellent and is off to a fantastic start.

4.5 out of 5

The Phantom #1

Writer – Peter David
Artist – Sal Velluto
Colours – Eugenio Mattozzi

Coming from Hermes Press, a publisher who usually does high quality reprints of classic comics is a brand new series starring The Ghost Who Walks, The Phantom.  Written by Peter David, he gives us the classic origin before diving straight into his own story that finds our hero going up against a group of pirates looking for the lost treasure of Ophir.  This particular Phantom is married to a reporter named Diana and as they decide to take a little time to themselves to relax one night, they are interrupted with the news of the wrongdoing that is taking place which means it is time for The Phantom to intervene.  David delivers a solid and incredibly fun tale of the legendary hero, giving us a story of how the Phantom should be portrayed, less grim and gritty and more Tarzan.  This is merely the first part of the tale, but David makes you feel invested in it and the character and you find yourself enjoying this book right from the offset and knowing that you will definitely be in it for the long haul.  Veteran artist Sal Velluto lends his immeasurable skills to the book, creating some stunning visuals for the comic that remind you both of its past while looking current at the same time.  It is nice to see the classic property being treated with the respect it deserves and by creators that obviously know the history of it.  A great return from a classic hero!

4 out of 5