The DC Comics December solicits came out last week and there are a lot of interesting things to comment on. I am surprised that a couple of these were almost stealth announcements rather than trumpeted in the usual manner.
Here is a link to Newsarama's total coverage:
https://www.newsarama.com/46928-dc-comics-december-2019-solicitations.html
One thing that I didn't see much of was some fallout from Event Leviathan. It looks like the plan is to move on. That isn't a knock. More an observation. I also suppose that with the ending unknown, any announcement might be tipping their hat.
On to some books.
SUPERGIRL #37
written by JODY HOUSER
art by RACHAEL STOTT
cover by BENGAL
card stock variant cover by DERRICK CHEW
Infected Supergirl strikes! After Supergirl protects Superman from getting infected by the Batman Who Laughs virus, she gets infected herself...and accepts this new version of herself with pride! With Batman and Superman claiming to want to “cure” her to cover up that she had to protect Superman, and the Batman Who Laughs wanting to use her in his own plans, which side will Supergirl choose? Or will she forge a whole new alliance?
All right. First stealth announcment.
A new Supergirl creative team.
Gone is Marc Andreyko and gone is Kevin Maguire.
In is Jody Houser (who co-wrote the back end of Steve Orlando's run) and Rachael Stott.
I found Marc Andreyko's run an uneven mess. I didn't quite know his take on Supergirl as her emotions swung like a pendulum. She was often too dark. And it never seemed like it was Kara's book. So I won't necessarily be grieving here.
You think DC would really be promoting an all female creative team on Supergirl in some fashion. But I guess it is classic DC to not take advantage of something positive.
I also have to say good luck to Houser who comes onto the book when Supergirl is possessed by evil. I am glad to see Bengal back on covers. I hope this isn't a one-off.
On to more books.
BATWOMAN/SUPERGIRL: WORLD’S FINEST GIANT #1
Includes new stories plus classic reprints!
ON SALE 12.04.19 | $4.99 US | FC | 96 PAGES | DC
A World's Finest Giant starring Supergirl and Batwoman?
Interesting.
I suppose it builds on the CW shows being on the same night.
You would think Batgirl/Supergirl would be an easier book to put together.
I would love to know who is doing the new story. The Kate/Kara interplay might be interesting.
ACTION COMICS #1018
written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
art and cover by JOHN ROMITA JR. and KLAUS JANSON
card stock variant cover by GABRIELE DELL’OTTO
One of the biggest Superman stories of all time continues in “Metropolis Doom” part two! War and chaos strikes the heart of Metropolis. The Invisible Mafia, Lex Luthor, and the Legion of Doom all stand their ground to take over Metropolis. Superstar writer Brian Michael Bendis reunites with comic art legends John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson to bring you a Superman story for the ages! Guest starring the Justice League, Young Justice, and more!
I have loved Action Comics for its Metropolis based action and the more street level city stories.
I suppose it was only a matter of time until the mega-events of Justice League turned its Sauron-esque eye to other books.
And it may be heresy, but I am not a fan of JRJR.
Hoping Mr. Bendis can somehow smooth this crossover out so I don't mind JLA taking over one of my favorite books.
SUPERMAN #18
written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
art and cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
variant cover by SKAN
With Superman’s family scattered across the galaxy, our hero must confront some of his greatest concerns about himself and his place in the galaxy. Legendary artist Ivan Reis joins writer Brian Michael Bendis as they introduce the biggest change in the Man of Steel’s life ever!
Now this one took me by surprise and gave me paise.
It looks like Superman is revealing his identity.
And you may remember just how awful 'The Truth' was when it ran through the Superman books within the last handful of years.
Why are we revisiting this?
Maybe this time 'The Truth' will be good?
LOIS LANE #6
written by GREG RUCKA
art and cover by MIKE PERKINS
variant cover by ELENA CASAGRANDE
Spinning out of the shocking last issues of Event Leviathan, Lois struggles to recover from a tragedy that shakes her to the core. Surrounded by her friends and family, the usually stoic reporter tries to rebound as she continues to chase a story that could alter the DC Universe forever.
At last a mention of Event Leviathan.
What could the tragedy be?
Since I have #LeviathanTheories I may as well throw one down here. My guess is Kate Spencer dies. It would mean more to Lois if Renee Montoya died but that seems like the fridging of a minority character so I don't think that will happen.
Love this cover. Lois is a super-hero!
LOIS LANE #7
written by GREG RUCKA
art and cover by MIKE PERKINS
variant cover by YASMINE PUTRI
Someone wanting to kill Lois Lane is nothing new for the famed reporter, but is it because of something she knows or something she’s about to uncover? Plus, this issue ties to the events of December’s Superman #18 and the gigantic status quo shift for both Lois and her husband, Superman, when the Man of Steel decides to reveal his identity to the world.
Hmmm ... the gigantic status quo shift has to be that Superman reveals himself. Of course, how do you get out in front of the 'Lois is cheating on Clark with Superman' story? By revealing Clark and Superman are the same person.
But ugh ... I don't like that plot or this answer.
SUPERMAN’S PAL JIMMY OLSEN #6
written by MATT FRACTION
art and cover by STEVE LIEBER
variant cover by BEN OLIVER
Meanwhile, in Gotham City, the great Olsen/Batman prank war rages on. An old favorite returns to make heads or tails of just what the heck has been going on. Jimmy does some funny Fraction stuff. Batman is there, too, doing some Lieber stuff. Lex Luthor’s kicking around. It’s a whole thing.
A prank war with Batman?
Good luck Jimmy.
Amazing.
BATMAN/ SUPERMAN #5
written by JOSHUA WILLIAMSON
art and cover by DAVID MARQUEZ
card stock variant cover by JIM CHEUNG
The Batman Who Laughs has unleashed his Secret Six! Now these infected heroes threaten to spread their dark infection across our world, and the only thing that might stop them is the combined might of the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel. If they fail, the planet will become the seed that grows a new Dark Multiverse—heroes will fall, villains will rise, and a new era dawns for the DCU in this explosive first arc finale that leads directly into Year of the Villain: Hell Arisen #1!
Still not sure about this book and whether or not I'll be getting it long term. I suppose while Supergirl is a player (albeit as a villain) I am probably obligated to get.
LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #2
written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
art and cover by RYAN SOOK
card stock variant cover by JIM CHEUNG
It’s been one thousand years since anyone has seen the oceans of the Earth, but with Aquaman’s original trident recently discovered, a chase to control Earth’s future tears across the galaxy. All this and the reunion you’d never thought you’d see! Another DC sci-fi epic into the far-flung future like you’ve never seen before!
A Legion book on the shelf!!!
So excited for this book.
What reunion did we never think we would see?
DIAL H FOR HERO #10
written by SAM HUMPHRIES
art and cover by JOE QUINONES
Miguel and Summer’s search for the remaining H-Dials takes them into the Multiverse, where they encounter new worlds and new threats never seen before! But are they fast enough—and focused enough—to catch up to Mister Thunderbolt?
Love the Dial H for Hero book. It is a book everyone should be reading.
Love this Quinones cover with his take on the classic 70s Supergirl costume.
Seriously, if you aren't getting the book monthly, buy the trade. You won't be disappointed.
DC COVER GIRLS: SUPERGIRL BY FRANK CHO STATUE
designed by FRANK CHO
sculpted by JONATHAN MATTHEWS
Frank Cho’s next statue in the DC Cover Girls line is the epitome of hope and happiness. Supergirl soars through the air in this whimsical piece of art that features Cho’s take on the classic DC heroine. Sculpted and painted by Jonathan Matthews, this piece is expertly crafted to be a prized part of any collection.
• Limited to 5,000 pieces and individually numbered
• Statue measures approximately 12.2" tall
• Allocations may occur
• Final product may differ from image shown
Oh my, another blow to my bank account. But this Frank Cho statue is delightful. Love the classic costume. Love the look of joy and optimism. Love the pose. And love (what looks like) the old school logo on the base.
Anyways, great month! New creative team!
8 comments:
Supergirl getting a new creative team. Thank God.
Although I'm not sure that it'll help get sales up at this point in time. The Supergirl fanbase is too divided. People who love Dark Kara, people who love Sterling Gates Kara, people who hasn't gotten over Supergirl being Superman's cousin again, people who think she needs a stable supporting cast, people who think she interacting with normal people instead of other heroes is lame...
"A World's Finest Giant starring Supergirl and Batwoman? Interesting."
I guess, but I want more Kara/Babs team-ups. I'm not overly interested in Kara/Kate.
However, I think Post-Flashpoint Supergirl badly needs to bond with other heroes. Do you remember how Post-Crisis Kara was a Legionnaire, Titan and Leaguer with close ties to most of hero families? Back then Supergirl at the very least camoed in every event. We went from that to Hal Jordan wondering "Who is that new Red Lantern? A Kryptonian? Impossible?"
"And you may remember just how awful 'The Truth' was when it ran through the Superman books within the last handful of years.
Why are we revisiting this?"
Why knows. Maybe DC is going to reboot again.
The Truth came out four years ago. It's true stories were often recycled during the Weisinger Era, but back then readers quit and were replaced every five years. This hasn't been the case since the 80's. Recycling storilines don't work anymore.
The Batman Who Laughs. Yuck.
I'm sorry to say this, but I've the feeling the "Fourboot" Legion may suffer the same fate as the "Threeboot" one. Another "all new, all different" reboot spearheaded by a high-profile creator which will possibly lose steam after he leaves.
Personal gripe, but I'm not happy with Superman and Supergirl losing their connection to the Legion oncd again.
Not long ago I was explaining the history of the Legion to a friend of mine who is a Marvel fan and knew nothing about the group. He wasn't impressed with the endless rebooting and starting over again.
"What reunion did we never think we would see?"
I don't know. Jonathan Kent and Laurel Kent? Brainiac 5 and his Kingdom Come daughter XTC?
"Love this Quinones cover with his take on the classic 70s Supergirl costume."
I SO miss Earth-One Superman and Supergirl. I hope they make an appearance.
I see Jody Houser has worked with Rachael Stott quite a bit, and it's always a good sign if the writer and artist are "on the same page."
But glancing at some of the preview pages of her work at comicbookroundup, it's hard to see her drawing Supergirl unless she has some different tools in her toolbox that her work on Dr. Who didn't make use of.
T.N.
Good news Jody Houser returning to Supergirl. It's just too bad she's picking up the book in the middle of this "infected" storyline. There was an interesting exchange on her Twitter page on September 16. Someone asked about Streaky, and Houser replied:
"I would love to include as many super pets as make sense, although that could mean making (Rachael Stott) draw a horse."
"You think DC would really be promoting an all female creative team on Supergirl in some fashion. But I guess it is classic DC to not take advantage of something positive."
Like when the TV show started and there was no Supergirl comic on the stands?
As for Superman, I wouldn't worry too much about a rehash of "The Truth". Different writer, different Superman. And I have to believe that, in the end, Superman's secret will be a secret again. Maybe this time around, only those closest to Superman learn who he is, and it remains a secret to the world at large.
Knowing Frank Cho's reputation for cheesecake (and often way over the top cheesecake) I was wondering what his Supergirl statue would be like. But I want to tell you, I was surprised in a good way when I saw this. I like the Silver Age look, and I hope they'll add the yellow "S" to the back of the cape. There's a DC Collectibles video up on YouTube that shows the statue from all angles. It reminds me a little of that DC Dynamics Supergirl statue tnat came out Umpty zillion years ago. It's odd that (as far as I know) there are no figures of Supergirl in her current costume.
Oops! I missed the Lois Lane entry. Looks like the world DOES learn Superman's identity! I still don't believe it will be "The Truth" all over again. Not a second time.
"You think DC would really be promoting an all female creative team on Supergirl in some fashion. But I guess it is classic DC to not take advantage of something positive."
Give 'em time....December is still a few months away. They'll get around to it, considering that IIRC, this is the first time Supergirl's had an all female creative team on her ongoing series. Even though the character's will be in a dark place again when they arrive, this creative team news gives me a bit of optimism going in to their run.
"A World's Finest Giant starring Supergirl and Batwoman?
Interesting.
I suppose it builds on the CW shows being on the same night."
I think that's the primary selling angle for this volume, since it's going to be initially marketed to big box retailers like Walmart and Target anyway.
KET
New Creative Team, manacled to a Dark Supergirl Storyline, Classic DC Comics....make SURE the new storytellers on a struggling book are saddled with the maximum number of needless and faintly humiliating restrictions.
"Jobbed Out Again Kids" what can I tell you? Now you know why I love Kara Zor El and Hate DC Comics.
JF
DC is going all out to promote the upcoming Harley Quinn Birds of Prey film in comics.
They literally just delayed the Birds of Prey comic and converted it to Black Label, and have gotten a new cover from Ivan Reiss, to be more in line with the film's rating. And actually, there was already a lot of violence in the b&w preview pages that got released somewhere. I hope it's still going to be an ongoing title, because I'd like to see Emanuela Lupacchino do more than fill-ins or short runs.
And I've lost track, but they are going to have a lot of Harley publishing projects between now and the film debut.
So they know how to promote characters, and female characters, when they want to.
So, Houser will be saddled with the same sort of horrible storyline that Andreyko was. He got stuck with a Bendis-imposed tie-in; Houser gets stuck with the Snyderverse-imposed tie-in.
The good news is: there has to be a cure and therefore an END to the Batman who Laughs story - otherwise, what? Supergirl remains infected -- forever???? But once they cure someone isn't this horror show over?
The better news is that I still speculate - hope - that it's Not Our Supergirl who gets infected. My theory, which I stated before, is based on my belief that the Superman she is protecting on the November acetate cover is NOT OUR SUPERMAN. His belt is drawn and colored wrong and he's not wearing trunks. I take this as a clue, and with a modicum of hope, that not all is what it appears to be.
Take a look at the Superman on the cover of Supergirl #36, and compare to any drawing of current Superman.
https://previewsworld.com/Catalog/AUG190627
T.N.
"accepts this new version of herself with pride"
Yay more emodark Supergirl fantastic.
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