Comic Book Quick Reviews: Saga, JLA, Fearless Defenders, Helheim, Cable and X-Force, and Wonder Woman

SAGA #11

SYNOPSIS: It's an intergalactic family reunion, as Hazel's parents and grandparents join forces to escape a dying world.

REVIEW: It's virtually impossible not to gush about the continued excellence of Brian K. Vaughn's sci-fi epic of star-crossed lovers on the run but there's been no drop off in issue #11. Aided by the beautifully rendered artwork of Fiona Staples, Vaughn's characters show a heart and humor that is relatable to audiences and seem genuine. The opening scene is one of the most endearing and funny scenes you'll see in any medium. Marko, Alana and the rest of the family desperately try to keep the ship together while trying to escape certain doom. Not to mention the bounty hunters nearby. Another outstanding issue. 

CABLE AND X-FORCE #5

SYNOPSIS: X-FORCE is officially on the run.Cable must face his daughter Hope, the savior of AVX.The Uncanny Avengers are hot on their trail!

REVIEW: Speaking of characters on the run, Cable and company have been trying to escape capture while encountering trouble along the way. This issue is more transitional than anything but it's so well written by Dennis Hopeless you don't mind the down time among these characters. One of the few new Marvel NOW titles that I've enjoyed. 

WONDER WOMAN #18

SYNOPSIS: We’ve seen the history Wonder Woman shares with Ares — but what does the God of War have planned for her future?

REVIEW: Here's another title where the writing is so good that it overcomes its meandering plot. Brian Azzarello's gives the gods of Wonder Woman's world distinct personalities that can stand on their own. Orion's addition to the story has also fit in seamlessly. The issue begins with an epic battle between WW and Hermes and by the end we finally have a conclusion to the saga of Zola and her baby. At least I think so. In any case, I'd follow this dysfunctional family of gods anywhere. 

THE FEARLESS DEFENDERS #2

SYNOPSIS: DANI MOONSTAR joins the Defenders!Valkyrie and Misty prepare to take on the Doom Maidens.Plus: A closer look at our sadistic new villain!

REVIEW: This is one of those books I want to like more. After an exciting first issue and despite some campy dialogue, writer Cullen Bunn has some potentially great heroes in Valkyrie and Misty Knight. In issue two, Dani Moonstar is introduced and our heroes come face to face with the Doom Maidens. There are a lot of questions that remain so it's hard to judge how good this series is at this point. The art is fine and the dialogue can seem forced at times but overall it's a solid book. I'll stick with this title to see where it all leads. 

HELHEIM #1

SYNOPSIS: A NEW SERIES FROM SIXTH GUN WRITER CULLEN BUNN AND FAN FAVORITE ARTIST JOËLLE JONES! “Once the threshold of Helheim is crossed, not even gods can escape.” During the age of the Vikings, savage wild men and dark creatures beset a small settlement. A brave war party stands as guardians of the helpless villagers, but they are no match for the horrors rising up around them. One of the warriors, a young hero named Rikard, will pay the ultimate price in battle… but his fight is far from over. A gothic horror story of witchcraft, night creatures, and the undead.

REVIEW: I think the synopsis says it all: A gothic horror story of witchcraft, night creatures, and the undead. Here, Cullen Bunn, really takes his time and shows a focused approach to his storytelling that brings this exciting story to life. I can't wait to see more. 

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #2

SYNOPSIS: The new Justice League of America team continues to form, but the question remains: What do these heroes want in return for their membership? Secret motives are everywhere, and the outcome will have a huge impact on this team and the rest of The New 52! Plus, the alien MANHUNTER’s back-up series begins revealing more about J’onn’s plans for this team...and the other Justice League.

REVIEW: Geoff Johns has done a great job juggling these multiple characters while trying to present the premise of this team's existence. The focus has been mostly on Steve Trevor and in issue two Oliver Queen gets to explain the mystery of his capture and those responsible. Also some great interactions between the newly formed members. (Catwoman should probably cover up a little though) A great start to the title with a great cliffhanger.