http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/ http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/images/stories/Outer_Realm_Comics55.png http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/ 835-620 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/835-the-incredible-hulk-14-review Recommendation: Sigh, I guess, but be warned... It does feel like Jason Aaron is not taking this book seriously. The characterization of the Doom Bots seemed WAY off. If they are all replicas of Doom, how could they possibly work together in this cult-ish way? And where is Doom? Is this in continuity with the FF/Fantastic Four run where he "sacrificed himself to give the team their much needed 28 minutes? Who knows. Either way, this series is being treated as a joke. There is only one issue left. There is not a lot that can be salvaged from this 3-issue arc if this charade keeps up. I mean what happened? Issue 13 was great! And then we get this. It is filled with all the weird stuff that made Stay Angry! arc undesirable (gross sexual undertones from Amanda von Doom, misrepresented characterization, juvenile jokes...) - and hey, I all for juvenile jokes when it fits the tone of the book, but this just seemed out of place. One of the most strange turn of events is the way Doom is represented. In my last review I stated, "My favorite part of the issue was Banner in Latveria. I do not want to spoil what happens, but it was perfectly written. I love Doom, and this was a perfect reflection on his character in this circumstance." - this is not the case for this issue. Most of the Doom stuff was my least favorite aspect to this issue. Again, sigh. There were some redeeming factors for this book - the art was better than it has been. In fact, is places, it was fantastic (flying Doom Bot at the beginning). Though I do not like how Amanda and the Mad Squad was represented. It fits with the style of this artist, but not with the book (and previous great issues). The other thing - did anyone notice that at the end of the last issue, the Mad Squad was Hulked out? I figured they took some "Make me a hulk magic potion", but at the start of this issue, they were just their normal selves. No mention at all to their appearance in the last issue. Did I miss something? Is this something that will be brought up later? Too many questions. Sigh. Okay, back to the redeeming characteristics... the new villain that is introduced to help Doom kill Hulk - interesting premise, poor execution - right down to his name. So what is redeeming? Well, the premise. Just like the Stay Angry! arc - the idea is awesome, but the execution leaves you wanting. Either way, the "internal battle scenes were somewhat more interesting than the rest, so I will give it that - even if the art changed drastically (I am hoping this was on purpose to illustrate being inside the mind of the Hulk). The final redeeming characteristic of this issue - the way Hulk handles the Mad Squad during their first confrontation. I am glad that it went down the way it did - even Amanda's attitude was spot on for her character (cocky and ill-informed). Overall, I rated this book based on its juxtaposition to prior great issues by Aaron. Issue #14 has fallen 1.5 points from Issue #13. It does rate on par with the Stay Angry! arc, though. So there you have it. The only real reasons to pick this up would be for collection completion aspects, and to see if I am as nuts as Jason Aaron. I would love to know the truth about this series - why is it a joke? Why does it go from great to cheesy in a blink of an eye? Sigh. ]]> Sat, 29 Sep 2012 22:11:24 +0100 824-609 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/824-the-incredible-hulk-13-review Recommendation: Yes! (Yeah, really, wow, I am surprised too!) Enough lingering in the past. Let's talk about this issue, Part 1 of 3, the start of this new and final arc... First, the art. Meh. It is not my favorite, but I have gotten used to this ""style"" over the last several issues. The one thing I am having trouble adjusting to is the lack of hair for the guys... I understand that it was blown off by the Gamma Bomb, but still, it still hasn't grown back? Stubble at least? Healing Factor? Meh. It is okay, it doesn't distract from the story for me any more anyway... Now, for the story. Okay, now we are talking. Jason Aaron has my attention now. THIS is what I wanted to see in the last issue... I wanted to see the ""Tyler Durden"" POV. And that is what we get here... It was very well done - it didn't go into great detail of each and every turn Banner made, but it was enough to jog the memory and make for a much more cohesive story. My favorite part of the issue was Banner in Latveria. I do not want to spoil what happens, but it was perfectly written. I love Doom, and this was a perfect reflection on his character in this circumstance. Finally, I have to say that I quite enjoyed the ""twist"" at the end. I was not expecting it. I was also not expecting the mental state of Banner throughout this entire part of the story - really surprising, given how this entire series started out. ]]> Thu, 13 Sep 2012 19:54:38 +0100 703-492 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/703-the-incredible-hulk-7-1-review His lifestyle eventually catches up to him and leads to an epic cross-town battle with Betty Ross - the Red She Hulk. She wants to know what happened to Banner. Hulk wants to be alone. Both of them want to beat the crap out of something. In the end, their meeting was exactly what they needed. The Mad Squad and Dr. Doom make brief appearances, but this issue is all about the Hulk - well, Hulk, and eventually Hulk and Betty... oh and a silly crime spree story with the Orb. Needless to say, the Orb gets what he deserves and an eye-full in the process. The art style for this issue's interior isn't exactly how I like to see the Hulk portrayed. All the other characters seem to be drawn just fine, but when it comes to the Hulk, the illustrations just remind me of Shrek. In fact, if you isolated some panels, you would have a hard time discerning between the Hulk from Shrek. This slight visual distraction doesn't take away what this issue has to offer, though. It provides a nice post-mortem and a more up-beat / lighthearted look at the Hulk right after one of the most pinnacle points in his life. The monumental events aren't over, the last page of this book reveals something that you will not want to miss - especially if you plan on reading this series going forward. I am not sure why they would want to hide this information in a "Point One" issue, or why this issue would even qualify as a "Point One" issue - it is not new-reader friendly and it fits directly into the story-line. Either way, it is a nice story with significant repercussions for this series' continuity. As a side note, the cover for this issue is awesome. In fact, many of the covers for this series have been great (with some exceptions). The next cover, from the preview, "Stay Angry", with the Punisher looks fantastic too. I am definitely looking forward to where this series goes, especially with what happened and was revealed in this issue. ]]> Mon, 28 May 2012 20:50:03 +0100 656-448 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/656-the-incredible-hulk-7-review Highly Recommended! I remember as I finished reading this issue being blown away at what happened, how it happened and how it was illustrated (both by the art and the story being told). I was taken off guard at how incredibly dark and disturbing that this ending actually was. It certainly influenced my affinity for the story and almost completely made up for some of the slower issues in the series thus far. One thing is for sure - this is not your grandfather's Incredible Hulk. Looking back through the pages of this issue, the best parts were between Hulk and Dr. Doom. I have to admit, I am a sucker for a good Dr. Doom story - so this may have swayed my viewpoint on this book as well. I think his part in this issue illustrated quintessential Doom - Power, Attitude, and Wit. And the perfect display of all three were with his last words to Hulk after their brief confrontation. One of the weaker aspects of this issue was the lead-in to the next arc - Hulk vs. She-Hulk (Betty). I understand why they want to have this play out, I just am not completely on board with how it came about in this issue. I guess we will see how it goes. What I would really like to know is where and when this fits into continuity for other appearances of both Betty and Hulk (e.g. The Defenders 2012 series). In any case, I am definitely going to keep reading this series. If it stays dark and violent like this, we are surely in for a different adventure than Hulk's other appearances in the team books - which makes this a great alternative for those of us that want a more adult Hulk book. ]]> Sun, 29 Apr 2012 15:52:31 +0100 545-339 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/545-the-incredible-hulk-6-review Story: 4.5 / 5.0 This single story had a bunch of different highs and lows. There were two low points in this issue for me. The first, just seemed overly campy. It was during the panel by panel breakdown of each weapon being used against the Hulk in Banner's futile attempt to gain the upper hand. The second was the disturbing scenes with Amanda Von Doom, her "origin" and how she dealt with the hoard of Bannermen. That said, I really loved the back-story with Doom and the further explanation of how they were separated, their relationship to Doom and how everything played out. Cover Art: 4.5 / 5.0 The cover art concept is pretty decent. It gives a bit of foreshadowing for the characters you will see illustrated in the interior, without giving away what actually takes place. There could have been much cover better choices for this issue, but each would have been considered a spoiler. In any case, the cover art for this issue is on par with the previous issues in the series. Art: 4.5 / 5.0 I like the style of the art, but I am not a fan for the facial expressions or and sometimes changing depiction of the characters from page to page and panel to panel. The most distracting aspect of the art is the character depictions and their facial expressions. I guess I am just used to the Hulk looking a certain way - the style employed for this book makes him less like the hulk I have known to grow and love. The other characters look just fine with this style though - even Doom, who I like more than the Hulk looks great - I guess, in the end, it just comes down to how "odd" the Hulk is illustrated at times... Nevertheless, the panel layout, structure and incorporation of some pretty nice spash pages made this a very visually appealing issue. Overall: 4.5 / 5.0 The ending is fitting of a Hulk story and it will be interesting how they transition from the last page of the story to the teaser image portrayed for the next issue. They have a lot of ground to make up... and I certainly hope it is worth the wait/anticipation. ]]> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:49:17 +0000 544-338 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/544-the-incredible-hulk-5-review Highly Recommended! The way they went about telling the back-story was perfect. The creative team mixed it perfectly with the ongoing and current story-line. It was easy to follow and did not distract from the main story. The use of different colored dialog boxes which tie the conversations from past to present were well done and really contributed to the overall flow of the issue. Not only was it great to finally learn about the "split", the ongoing story certainly has escalated. It was very interesting to see Banner use his mind to battle his deadly enemies - though I find it hard to believe that he would be able to talk himself out of the battles he was engaged in. As the issue ends, we are left with two cliffhangers - one from the past, and one from the present. I am very much looking forward to the next installment of this series and likely the beginning of the end to this very long and drawn out arc. As far as the art, it was mostly good. There were times that the characters looked very different than I remember from other issues (Mister Gor looked very young in comparison to the first issue he was in), but overall, it felt consistent enough not to distract from the story. ]]> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:43:29 +0000 543-337 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/543-the-incredible-hulk-4-review THE GOOD I certainly enjoyed all the action. From the crazy Banner scenes to the Hulk and Hulk fist-to-cuffs, the issue had a lot to offer. The full page, no dialog panels were especially nice. The side/back story about Banner and the "Gamma Juice" was a nice addition - heck, it must have been nice for him to get off the island. He really is SO different than the second issue in this series where he is attempting to have a "normal" conversation with Betty. Oh, how the mighty have fallen! THE BAD The interior art looked like it was coming from 10 different directions. Seriously, from panel to panel, Hulk looked different - and not for the good. Many of the panels I was hoping that it wasn't him, rather one of Banner's freaks. Sadly, it was Hulk, in weird non-flattering poses grunting his way through the masses to Banner. As far as plot devices, I thought that Banner's "Hulk Hands" were a bit much. The physics just seemed way off. I will suspend my disbelief for this issue though, after all he is Mad Scientist - they always come up with overpowered and unbelievable gadgets. Finally, is it me, or does Banner look TOO crazy? I am starting to wonder if it is even him. THE VERDICT Recommended. It was a great addition to the series so far. Obviously we have been waiting for these two to finally battle. You had to know that Banner had something up his sleeve... I mean, if not, he wouldn't stand a chance vs. the World Breaker. Though this issue did slow things down a bit, we are promised great things for the next issue, "The Startling Secret of the Hulk/Banner Separation Revealed!". This should be interesting! ]]> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:40:23 +0000 542-336 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/542-the-incredible-hulk-3-review THE GOOD I really liked how the "brothers" were handled in this issue. Both from where the story picked up from the cliffhanger in the last issue, as well as their interaction with Hulk and each other. You almost feel bad for them, everytime you read, "Brother...?". The snippet of how Hulk's second rebirth was enough to make you feel like the creative team knows we want to know more, but not enough to give it all away. I hope they continue with that flashback... The "earth shattering" fight was great. I like how Hulk decided to handle the brothers, knowing the fight could likely go on until the earth was broken in two... The cave drawing scene was great too. It triggered just the right emotions. :) Finally, the reveal of Banner's new army was staged perfectly - I am looking forward to that fight. I guess we will see if Mister Gor, B.R.A.I.N and Amanda Von Doom are as skilled and dangerous as advertised... THE BAD Nothing. THE VERDICT Highly Recommended! This was a great issue! It had a bit of everything: back story/explanation, action, redemption, reveal, a clear path forward. It is definitely worth picking up as a solid book on its own, as well as a great part of the series. I can't wait for the next issue! ]]> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:37:36 +0000 541-335 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/541-the-incredible-hulk-2-review THE GOOD Attractive women abound. Wow. Yeah, Betty Ross has never looked so good, regardless what form she takes. And Amanda Von Doom, nice. As not to sound completely sexist, Banner and the Hulk looked good too. ;) But on a more serious note, it did feel overly charged with sexual tension, something that probably could have been avoided. Nevertheless, the story, and some of the background information was a nice addition (as the first issue really threw us right into the "NOW". I did like the introduction of some "new" characters by Amanda, we will see how many issues they tie in to - there is some potential anyway. THE BAD The issue seemed rushed. I realize it reads real fast, because it is mostly pictures, but it just seems like it was cut short. It hopped around a bit between Banner and Hulk, had a flashback, and quite a few scene changes, so I guess that is where this feeling is coming from. It was a lot of good content, just a bit too much, too fast. Also, they should have chosen something else for the cover - the Hulk vs Sharks bit was only in the story for a 1 page panel... THE VERDICT I would pick it up. It was a good read, a good continuation from Issue 1 - it even answered some questions you may have had from that issue - not the main one of "how did they split", but we do get the message driven home that it was "Hulk's choice". Oh, and OK Amanda, we get it, you are not related to Dr. Doom. :) If nothing else, you will want to read this to know understand the cover of the next issue... Anyway, I liked it, not a perfect score, but well worth a read. ]]> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:35:27 +0000 540-334 http://www.o-r-c.co.uk/component/content/article/91-hulk/540-the-incredible-hulk-1-review THE GOOD I really enjoyed everything about this issue. My favorite is probably the art, because walks the gradient from beautiful to gritty and back. I hadn't read a Hulk comic, possibly ever before I picked this issue up. It was the cover that snagged my attention. Of course, I knew the story of the Hulk, saw the movies, the TV Show, I even own a number of Hulk comics, but never got around to reading any issues. I was pleasantly surprised at this story - while the cover snagged me, the interiors kept me hooked. Even the cliffhanger and twist at the end were welcomed. As far as the story, I really enjoyed Hulk's "gruffy" look, his relationship with the Moloids and of course Amanda Von Doom. :) THE BAD Nothing really, but are we to assume that up until this issue, Hulk was actually shaving regularly? THE VERDICT If you haven'y already, pick it up. The story, art, flow, twists and turns are all worth the price. Also, as you likely know, the second one is already out (Part two of "Hulk: Asunder"), which as you would expect ties in nicely... I recommend that issue as well, and likely will recommend the entire series. :) Maybe at some point in the series Hulk will be able to sit back with his Moloid friends and relax... ]]> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 22:32:13 +0000