REVIEW: Aaron’s Tale Finds Redemption In Conan #12

Archive for the ‘Reviews’ Category

January 30th, 2020

By Bob Freeman, Conan (2019), Reviews

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REVIEW: Aaron’s Tale Finds Redemption In Conan #12

“THE EPIC CONCLUSION OF “THE LIFE & DEATH OF CONAN”! RAZAZEL has risen! CONAN has fallen! CROM may not care, but you CANNOT miss this issue!”

By BOB FREEMAN – Paint Monk’s Library Writer

Anyone who has been following along knows that I have not been a fan of Jason Aaron and Mahmud Asrar’s take on Conan. I am a Jason Aaron fan and thought he would be a perfect fit. He wasn’t, at least, not from my perspective. Let’s cover that a bit before moving on to my thoughts on the conclusion to “The Life and Death of Conan”.

I was raised poor on a struggling horse farm in rural Indiana and I loved books more than anything else in the world. I would prowl the creek behind our house, stalking through the woods with a pretend sword, holing up in one of my makeshift forts reading comics and tattered paperbacks. My favorite was Conan.

Roy Thomas led me to Robert E. Howard and I devoured the Ace paperbacks back in 1977. I was 11 years old. Conan and the Hyborian Age have been a huge part of my life ever since and Howard was (and is) my favorite author. I read everything I could afford and borrowed what I couldn’t. I have obsessed over Howard and his most famous creation for more than forty years.

Years well spent, if you ask me.

I can be, admittedly, very opinionated when it comes to Conan. While I have enjoyed Thomas’ adaptations, there are few other writers who have been able to capture the essence of the character. Even brilliant authors such as Karl Wagner struggled. The purity of Howard’s words were and are magic that few men or women can live up to. The only pastiche writer that has even come close as far as I’m concerned is Scott Oden.

**The stories by Roy Thomas remain for many “the bar” for good Conan comic books.**

I did not care for any of the movies, save for The Whole Wide World, though I thought Jason Momoa was a perfect Conan stuck in a wretchedly scripted film. The cartoon and tv series were embarrassing.

The video games have been less than stellar though Conan: Exiles has its moments. More successful have been the RPGs and board games, with the current products from Modiphius and Monolith being exceptional.

Which brings us back ’round to the comics.

I have enjoyed many of the comics that have come out of Marvel and Dark Horse over the years, though, admittedly, some have been pretty painful as well. All of Glénat ‘s comics have been great so far. They are far better than what Marvel has been able to do with the character since reacquiring the license from Cabinet Entertainment.

Not that there haven’t been bright spots from Marvel’s current tenure. Jim Zub has had some shining moments, and there have been individual scenes by other creators that have stood out. But all-in-all, a pretty lackluster and discouraging relaunch from the so-called House of Ideas.

Conan the Barbarian, the flagship of Marvel Conan, has, by and large, been a disappointment. The 12-part epic from Aaron and (mostly) Asrar has not lived up to the hype. While individual panels have spotlighted some classic Conan ferocity, overall the art has been muddy and incapable of living up to artists who brought Conan and the Hyborian Age to life in years past. Aaron himself has written a tale in twelve parts that would have been a two-parter in Thomas’ day. It just feels drug out. But the worst offenses have been the characterization of Conan. Rarely did this feel like a Conan story…

All of that being said, I was pleasantly surprised by the conclusion to “The Life and Death of Conan”. It was easily my favorite of the run, by leaps and bounds. The appearance of Prince Conn, alongside the Aquilonian Black Dragons, coming to his father’s aid was a high point for me, and the sheer brutality of the final fight with and the defeat of Razazel was a lot of fun.

It started, of course, with another great cover from Esad Ribic, who has been a bright spot throughout the twelve-issue run. As always, the production values are top-notch, with Wilson’s colors and Lanham’s lettering complimenting (and sometimes carrying) the weight of the story.

Asrar’s art has been consistent throughout the run, with some panels simply popping off the page, while others are less than noteworthy. He tends toward awkward poses, to me, and, again, I will use the muddy descriptor. It just doesn’t work as a whole, but there are some great moments that come through.

As for Aaron? Well, I have stated, time and time again, that despite my not enjoying this story arc, I hoped against hope that he would deliver a final issue worthy of the character and for the most part Aaron stuck the landing.

By bringing in Conn, the theme of family was hammered home, and while over the course of the previous 11 issues this was less successful, here, with father and son together, it worked on many levels.

This was not a great comic. But it was good…

The end of the letters page teased Jim Zub and Roge Antonio’s upcoming run on the title (but egads I really hate that cover art) and it promised that King Conan, from Aaron and Asrar, would debut later in the year.

I await both with much anticipation, but for now we must settle scores with Conan the Barbarian. The series as a whole, I cannot recommend. 5 skulls of my enemies at best, but the final issue I warrant has earned 7, though Crom cares not.

What did YOU think of “The Life and Death of Conan?” Share your thoughts below with a one-click login from Facebook, Twitter or Gmail.

January 29th, 2020

Classic Conan Countdown, Red Sonja, Reviews

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REVIEW: Thomas’ “Goodbye” Marks 10th Anniversary

“As Conan pines for his lost love Belit, two old adversaries are preparing for a showdown. The wizard Zukala wishes to enlist the Cimmerian’s aid to defeat his long-time foe Karanthes … and as part of the bargain, the conjurer claims that Belit will come to life once more. Will the She-Pirate live again, to one day sit next to Conan on his jeweled throne?”

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Welcome to The Classic Conan Countdown, a series of reviews focusing on the original 275 issues of Marvel Comics’ Conan the Barbarian, which were published from 1970 to 1993. This is a review of Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #115.)

By WALLY MONK – Paint Monk’s Library Editor

How I missed reading Conan the Barbarian #115 when it was on the newsstand is beyond me. It is a fantastic issue, full of references to the last 114 issues, and a fitting swan song for Roy Thomas’ departure from the title for the next 125 monthly installments.

It’s also interesting to note that Conan the Barbarian #115 marks Conan’s 10th Anniversary as a Marvel Comics licensed property. To a lesser but by no means insignificant extent, this means the scribes here at Paint Monk’s Library have reviewed a decade worth of Conan comics in less than a year and a half.

A huge shout out to librarians past and present, especially Bob Freeman and Andy Maglothin, who have stayed along for the ride and continue to make this Classic Conan Countdown event possible.

This issue is chock full of references to Thomas’ earlier stories and includes Red Sonja as a major character. The interactions between Conan and Sonja are almost as important to the development of each character as the main story itself.

In honor of Conan the Barbarian’s 10th Anniversary at Marvel – and this hallmark issue – today’s review will be longer and double-sized, just like the actual comic. It’s a bittersweet tale, and made more so by the knowledge that Thomas’ successors will struggle often trying to keep the magic of Howard’s Hyborian Age alive.

Review: Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #115

Conan is en route to Akkharia, where he hopes to enlist as a soldier in the army of the king. It has been a long time since his last “paid” adventure, and the barbarian’s purse is empty. On the road, Conan is interrupted by a ghostly vision and an adversary from his past.

Zukala, the wizard last seen in Conan the Barbarian #14-15, wants Conan to abandon his journey to Akkharia and take on a mission for him. He assures the barbarian that he will have more than he could ever dream of in reward for his assistance. Angry, and determined to never serve a wizard, Conan throws his blade at the spectre of Zukala and rides on his way, grabbing his sword from the tree in which it lodged after passing through the ghostly visage.

Approaching the walled city, Conan muses on how it reminds him of Asgalun, the home to his lost love Belit. He pines for a moment, and then enters Akkharia.

It’s late at night, and there’s no room at the inn for our barbarian. The innkeeper, awakened from his slumber, tells Conan that for a silver piece he can sleep in the stable.

Tired and in desperate need of rest, Conan accepts the humble lodgings, only to find there’s another warrior sound asleep – and snoring – when he arrives. It’s no deterrent, and soon Conan the Cimmerian is asleep himself.

Conan awakens in the morning to a familiar voice – it seems the fiery Red Sonja also plans to work for the king, and she was his snoring bunk-mate. She tells the barbarian all she’s had is “an empty purse and saddle-sores” since they last met. The Hyrkanian offers Conan one final breakfast before the duo sign their services over to the king.

The visit to the inn is where things get interesting. Red Sonja begins to prod Conan about Belit and her absence. When Conan decides not to engage Sonja in this particular conversation, the redheaded warrior pushes on, going as far as telling Conan that Belit probably left him for “a tree-ape with bigger muscles and a smaller brain” and that he’s “better off without her.”

Conan’s response is brutal.

A sword fight ensues, as Sonja continues to taunt Conan and he spars back, both verbally and with his blade. Sonja tells him to hold still, and that any other man would be dead by now – Conan responds by telling her that perhaps she would be better off putting down the sword and having children.

As Sonja seemingly loses the combat, her sword falling down to the floor, she pulls a dagger with which she plans to continue the battle. Conan turns away, saying that he won, and that she can stab him in the back if she wishes. Author Thomas notes that of this fight, “some people will say there was wine spilled on the floor where Sonja stood” and that was the reason she lost the confrontation.

Conan reminds Sonja of her vow – and soon the Cimmerian is taking her to his room. Dejected, yet honoring her promise not to love a man until he has bested her in combat, Sonja allows Conan to carry her upstairs.

As Conan gently prepares for some personal time with the fiery redhead, Sonja appears dejected. She acknowledges her vow, but also tells Conan that she’s “not required to enjoy it.” Conan rebukes Sonja, who once again brings up Belit. The barbarian then tells her he thought she was smart enough to figure out that Belit was dead.

An angry Cimmerian stalks out of the room, telling a shocked Red Sonja that he still cares about Belit and her coldness has reminded him that he’s not ready for another romantic encounter at the moment.

Conan leaves Akkharia – and Red Sonja – behind, abruptly mounting his horse and galloping away. He finds another city, another tavern and more wenches. But it’s not what he wants at the moment. Frustrated, the barbarian steps out into the rain – only to encounter the spectre of Zukala again.

Now, Zukala makes Conan an offer he cannot refuse – if the Cimmerian brings him the Stygian wizard-priest of Ibis, Karanthes (first seen in Conan the Barbarian #7), Zukala will restore Belit to life.

Conan accepts Zukala’s offer. But he will soon discover that Red Sonja is now in the employ of Karanthes – and they will meet again soon.

Will Belit walk beside Conan once more? Will Red Sonja win the next sword-duel with Conan, if one occurs? And what will happen when Karanthes meets his nemesis Zukala face to face?

CAPSULE REVIEW: There’s so much to enjoy in this issue that it’s hard to put a finger on what is best and what needs work. We see flashbacks to many aspects of Conan’s adventuring career thus far – we hear of the Living Tarim, Belit, Karanthes, and even Melnibone and Conan’s adventures with Elric. It’s almost as if Roy Thomas wants to imagine all that has been and all he’s leaving behind as he walks away from Conan the Barbarian after this issue.

This comic book is a prime example of John Buscema’s supremacy as a Conan illustrator. The facial expressions on Conan and Red Sonja’s face tell as much of a story as Thomas’ words. Sonja’s downtrodden face upon learning she will need to surrender her body to Conan is eerie – you genuinely feel for her and the mental dilemma in which she’s been placed.

Typically, I provide a complete synopsis in most of my Classic Conan Countdown reviews, but you need to read this issue yourself. I will leave you with the final image of Red Sonja from the comic, who rejects Conan’s offer to be his new adventuring companion. It appears that she does and may perhaps harbor some genuine feelings for the Cimmerian after all.

**Are those tears in Sonja’s eyes as she parts ways with Conan?**

On a scale of 1-10, I’d rate this issue a 9.0. It’s all down hill from here, sadly, as Conan the Barbarian #116 introduces us to the writing of J.M. DeMatteis, a talented scribe in his own right, but one who never seems to grasp the nuances of our Cimmerian hero.

As always, I am – Wally (AKA Paint Monk)

January 27th, 2020

Into the Knight Podcast, Moon Knight, Reviews

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REVIEW: Marvel Spotlight #29 – Moon Knight by Kirby?

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Paint Monk’s Library, in collaboration with the enthusiastic staff over at the Into the Knight Podcast, are tackling the Moon Knight chronology! Each week we’ll take an in-depth look at the Fist Of Khonshu in order of character appearance! These reviews will appear on Mondays until we’ve covered them all, or until the enthusiastic Moonies get too exhausted to write – whichever comes first! A link to this week’s Into the Knight Podcast can be found at the end of the review.)

By JUSTIN OSGOOD – Guest Writer

The second installment of Moon Knight’s first solo adventure is special for a number of reasons – first and foremost, it’s original Moonie creators Doug Moench (writer) and Don Perlin (penciler) telling the story. Secondly, it’s got a great cover by Jack “The King” Kirby with Al Milgrom on inks!

The cover depicts the duel between Conquer-Lord and Moon Knight on a battlefield that replicates a chessboard. This is possibly the only time we see Kirby draw Moon Knight.

Both Moench and Perlin turn in some exemplary work on this issue, keeping the story moving at a brisk pace without a single lull or chance for the reader to catch their breath.

Review: Marvel Spotlight #29

The Lunar Avenger’s first solo adventure continues in thrilling fashion as our hero prevents Conquer-Lord from assassinating the mayor – but just barely.

The villain’s shot still gravely wounded hizzoner, and to make matters worse, a deadly blunder on the part of Moon Knight allows Conquer-Lord to take Marlene hostage!

Realizing that he cannot save her right away, Moon Knight checks on the mayor, who in turn calls off the police manhunt for the Fist of Khonshu. Frenchie picks up Moon Knight with the moon copter and brings him back to Grant Mansion, where a spy is soon discovered hiding in one of the closets.

Marc pretends to let the “pansy” knock him unconscious with a single punch, and then follows him back to Conquer-Lord’s lair after “Tinkerbell” steals his Corvette.

Moon Knight easily breaks into the headquarters of the villain, and following a brief tussle with a handful of Conquer-Lord’s henchmen, our hero takes the battle directly to his foe! But Conquer-Lord had not one, but TWO trap-doors built into the floor – one leaving Marlene hanging precariously over a pit full of ravenous crocodiles, and the second leaving Moon Knight plummeting into Conquer-Lord’s most unique trap yet. The second trap door leads to a life-size chessboard rigged with explosives!

After a vicious battle, Moon Knight is able to not only overpower Conquer-Lord, but also rescue Marlene mere moments before she becomes crocodile food!

As Marc and Marlene leave in Lockley’s cab, they hear a news report on the radio proclaiming that the mayor was expected to make a full recovery from the assassination attempt.

CAPSULE REVIEW: Doug Moench’s script is excellent and there are a lot of memorable moments; one that I enjoy in particular is when Moon Knight confronts one of the henchmen and says, “I doubt it. Y’see, strapped to my left calf muscle – I have something called a TRUNCHEON. It’s for THROWING,” and then proceeds to disarm the goon with the aforementioned weapon.

On the negative side, the excessive use of insults (like “Tinkerbell”, “powder-puff pansy” and “twinkle-toes”) has not aged well.

The true highlight of this issue is Don Perlin’s masterful artwork. His art makes every page a visual thrill, and his depiction of Moon Knight remains one of my favorites. It is so much fun to see our hero in his original costume with the glider-cape wings, especially considering how quickly that aspect was altered. There is an excellent panel in which one of Conquer-Lord’s goons opens a door and sees Moon Knight standing there, with only the silver parts of his costume visible against the blackness beyond. “Omigod,” indeed!

You can’t help but wonder at that point in time how exciting it was for readers who were introduced to this character for the first time – some of whom might not have seen his debut appearance in Werewolf By Night. The costume, his weaponry, the different personalities – it is easy to see why he caught on so quickly and was embraced by comic book fans.

I liked Conquer-Lord as a villain quite a bit, especially his costume, but felt that he lacked depth as a character and could have used some more fleshing-out, which would have been ideal if he had made another appearance. Unfortunately, this is the only time we see him! This reinforces one complaint that some readers may see cropping up in my reviews from time to time. I love Moon Knight and always will – he will always be my favorite Marvel character – but I feel that his rogues gallery has been criminally underdeveloped over the years.

Rather than have villains who could be used later, or developed into more interesting characters for future stories, many villains are killed off, used once or twice, or simply never heard from again – as was the case with Conquer-Lord. I don’t know if this was a deliberate decision on the part of Doug Moench – maybe he felt that Conquer-Lord should just be a one-off. In any event, he was a good nemesis for Moon Knight’s first solo adventure, even though he had more trap doors in his floor than Dr. Evil from Austin Powers!

For new Moon Knight fans, I strongly recommend this two-part story, as is sets the foundation for all of those which followed. It is a rare time to see the character’s creators craft a story just for him, for the very first time, and that is reason enough alone to enjoy it. The original issues are running for quite a lot right now – but thankfully are available to read in the magnificent Epic Collection: Bad Moon Rising!

What did you think of Marvel Spotlight #29 and the Conquer-Lord? Let us know below with a simple one-click login from your Facebook, Twitter or Gmail account.

**CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS WEEK’S INTO THE KNIGHT! PODCAST!**

January 23rd, 2020

By Wally Monk, Comic-Watch, Reviews

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COMIC-WATCH: Dreadlands Full Of Great Art, Old Tropes

By WALLY MONK – Paint Monk’s Library Editor

Back in 2017, when I began blogging about comic books and started Paint Monk’s Library, I was an occasional feature writer and fill-in news-hound for a relatively new site called Comic-Watch.

My stint there was a remarkably short one. However, when I learned early last month that some changes had been made in editorial and ownership, I inquired about the possibility of tackling an occasional feature again.

A special thanks to John Jack and editor Cody White – my first Sunday Classics feature in over two years ran this past weekend on the Comic-Watch platform. I hope to contribute these Sunday features occasionally in addition to my primary duties here at the Library.

If you’re a fan of great dinosaur art, Epic’s Dreadlands (1992) is worth checking out.

https://comic-watch.com/comic-book-reviews/sunday-classics-from-dystopia-to-dinosaurs-the-future-meets-the-past-in-epics-dreadlands

January 22nd, 2020

Conan (2019), Reviews

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REVIEW: Serpent War Conclusion, Arc Are Both Misfires

“At last – AGNES, KANE, and MOON KNIGHT join CONAN in the Hyborian Age for the final showdown between SET, the WYRM, and…KHONSHU?!

JAMES ALLISON brought them together, but will KHONSHU tear them apart?

The thrilling conclusion to the ages-spanning saga that will have ramifications on the future of the assembled cast! A review of Conan: Serpent War #4.”

By BOB FREEMAN – Paint Monk’s Library Writer

Crom, it pains me to write this review on the 114th Anniversary of Robert E. Howard’s birth.

If I were to sum up with one word a description of Conan: Serpent War, it would be disappointment. What started out so promising with issue one has slowly and steadily devolved into an almost bigger disappointment than Aaron and Asrar’s Conan the Barbarian run. Almost.

Let’s begin with Jim Zub, who I had all but crowned as the worthy successor to Roy Thomas. Jim, I love you, but this was a convoluted mess.

I held out hope that Zub would stick the landing, but it missed the mark by the proverbial country mile. I don’t get why everyone has suddenly decided to play off Conan as an idiot? Howard’s Conan was far from it, even in his youthful years. He was impulsive and stubborn, but stupid?

I’m sorry. I want to keep this professional, but this issue, this series, a series I praised at the onset, to have fallen apart in just four issues so badly…disappointment. Yeah, there it is.

**Six different artists over four issues does not create continuity.**

Do you know what might have helped this issue and the issues preceding it? Artistic continuity. Four issues – six artists. The only common thread being the James Allison bits by Vanesa del Rey, which I liked.

This issue we have Ig Guara who I have seen do some interesting work. Not here. It’s just… not good. It’s sloppy and brutish. It is a disappointment.

I just don’t want to be that guy. I get how tough this job can be. I get that both writer and artist sweat blood and tears for this, but I expect better than what was delivered. With a strange overarching and complicated plot, inconsistent artwork and poor characterizations of the heroes and villains is not how you deliver a product.

And that’s what we got.

I was hungrily anticipating Conan the Barbarian #13, the beginning of Jim Zub’s tenure on the flagship title. Now, I am apprehensive.

I thought I would have more to say about this issue, more about the mini-series as a whole… but what can you say? We knew from the start that Allison was being influenced by Wyrm. Was it supposed to be a twist to have Wyrm be the villain all along? That Set and Khonshu would become allies was something, but come on…

I like and respect Jim Zub, and therein lies the problem. I want him to succeed. I want to love his work. Most days, I do. This was a swing and a miss. It happens.

While I have no skulls to muster for this issue and my enemies are forced to lay upon the battlefield, their heads still attached to their wretched bodies, I will not give in to despair.

I believe in you, Jim Zub. I hope and pray to Crom (who does not listen, nor does he care) that your Conan will be everything we have longed for since Marvel regained the rights to the character. But for now, I will cleanse my palate with some Thomas and Buscema and wait for better days to come.

What did you think of Serpent War and its conclusion? Do you agree, or disagree? Share your thoughts below with one-click using your Facebook, Twitter or Gmail accounts.

January 22nd, 2020

Classic Conan Countdown, Reviews

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REVIEW: A Kothian, A Mastiff & An Undying Wizard

“Conan is knocked on the back of the head during a tavern confrontation. When he awakens, the villain has escaped to an abandoned castle ruin. Within, our Cimmerian will find something far more dangerous than a bar thug – an immortal wizard who is determined to send Conan to his grave!”

By BOB FREEMAN — Paint Monk’s Library Writer

This issue marks the penultimate of Roy Thomas’ Conan the Barbarian run, adapting a Robert E. Howard horror tale, “The Shadow of the Beast,” and transposing it into the Hyborian Age.

It is a talent for which Roy was well-suited.

Aided by the consistency of Buscema and Chan, Thomas could take a Howard penned tale set in any era, with any number of characters, and he had a way of making them work as Conan tales.

“The Shadow of the Beast” is an odd one. As a set up to Roy’s final issue on the title, it’s an ill-fit, but ultimately, it works because, well, it is Roy after all, and he rarely misfires. He leans heavily at times on his artists, trusting them to maintain the artistic continuity that would provide the necessary verisimilitude for the readers.

For me, Roy Thomas is virtually synonymous with Robert E. Howard with regard to Conan. He will be sorely missed on the title, as subsequent reviews will reveal.

REVIEW: Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #114

Conan has a run of bad luck tossing dice, losing most of his coin, but he has enough left for a room and a Shemite girl on his arm. After decking a large ruffian who offended her, the Cimmerian loses the rest of his coin and his girl when the brute knocks him unconscious by striking the barbarian from behind.

After being awakened, Conan and a lynch mob follow the Kothian murderer, Kagal, far outside the city. The outlaw has taken refuge in the cursed keep of a long-dead sorcerer. The townspeople leave Conan to the task and scurry back to the city, their superstitious ways getting the better of them.

Conan enters the keep, eventually finding Kagal’s corpse, then later, the skeletal remains of the sorcerer, Caldix.

Following the sounds of a woman’s halting sobs, the Cimmerian discovers his companion,Tamris, chained to a wall. A large mastiff lays beside her.

Suddenly, the dog rises up on its hind legs and speaks. A miscast spell left the sorcerer Caldix for dead. When the starving mastiff ate its master, the sorcerer’s soul took control of the beast. Now trapped in the barren wasteland surrounding the keep, Caldix is intent on keeping Tamris as his plaything, but Conan will not stand for this.

Conan hurls his sword at the dog, then leads the beast on a chase outside of the accursed keep. As the dog catches up to him, the Cimmerian kicks the beast, hurtling him outside the unnatural ring that surrounds sorcerer’s tower.

Caldix’s spirit rises out of the mastiff and attempts to assault Conan with his spectral hands, but he is a disembodied form and cannot gain purchase. Conan feels nothing but a slight chill. The sorcerer is trapped, formless, for eternity.

As the keep begins to crumble, Conan races back inside to break Tamris’ bonds and they flee together. Conan asks the girl what her name means in Khitan. She responds, “Favored by fortune.” Conan laughs.

CAPSULE REVIEW: This was a fine issue. Not great, mind you, but a fun read nonetheless. The talking dog was odd, but the story was an interesting one, with a serviceable twist. What really jumped out at me though was at the beginning of the story, Tamris was an archaic Shemite word, but when Conan asked what it meant at the end of the story, he called it Khitan.

Not a big problem, but still, something an editor should have caught. Of course, when the editor is also the writer, things sometimes slip through the cracks.

Mark Gruenwald was listed as ‘assisting editor’. One wonders if this was his gaff, and not Roy’s, beyond Roy making the initial scripting error. Regardless, it distracts less than a talking dog walking around like a man.

Buscema and Chan delivered another knock out punch…I’d rate this issue 6 out of 10 skulls of my enemies.

—Alba Gu Brath,
Bob Freeeman
(Occult Detective)

January 20th, 2020

Into the Knight Podcast, Moon Knight, Reviews

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REVIEW: Moon Knight Goes Solo in Marvel Spotlight #28

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Paint Monk’s Library, in collaboration with the enthusiastic staff over at the Into the Knight Podcast, is tackling the Moon Knight chronology! Each week we’ll take an in-depth look at the Fist Of Khonshu in a series of reviews, all in order of character appearance! These reviews will appear on Monday each week until we’ve covered them all, or until the enthusiastic Loonies get too exhausted to write. Whichever comes first!)

By RUSSELL MORAN – Guest Writer

The last time we saw Moon Knight he was tangling with the deadly fangs of the Werewolf by Night. After a change of heart, the Fist of Khonshu helped the lycanthrope and together they defeated The Committee. Now, the year is 1976 – just a year after making his debut, the lunar avenger gets his first solo adventure in the pages of Marvel Spotlight.

According to the cover, the fans “demanded” more Moon Knight. The breakout star of Werewolf by Night #32 had caught on with the Marvel faithful like wildfire and they were itching for more. Marvel Spotlight was generally a book used for “tryouts”, not only for new writers and artists but for new characters. Ghost Rider, Spider-Woman, and even Werewolf by Night made their first appearances in the pages of this series.

Doug Moench and Don Perlin brought their white avenger of the night back to print with Marvel Spotlight #28. This issue would introduce us to a plethora of characters and traits that would become staples of Moon Knight canon. Sadly, there are some aspects of Moon Knight that are, well, best left back in 1976. I’ll touch on that in my review. We’re also introduced to Moon Knight’s first official supervillain, the Conquer-Lord, although his tenure is a bit short-lived.

This issue is not the most valuable “key” Moon Knight issue, but in pristine condition, it’s high on the list. Being his first solo appearance, as well as the first appearance of most of his supporting cast, this issue is important to character continuity overall.

Without further ado, let’s review Marvel Spotlight #28

Review: Marvel Spotlight #28

Our story begins with Moon Knight thwarting what appears to be a robbery. Moony single-handedly decimates a group of seven burglars dressed in dark purple garb. Our hero seems to be toying with the criminals, showing off his fighting skills and his strength.

While fighting, we see how Marc Spector’s other personalities are causing conflict in his everyday life. We’re introduced to his love interest, Marlene, who is anxiously awaiting her date night with Steven Grant, Moony’s billionaire playboy guise. Elsewhere, Marc Spector’s cab driving and information-seeking personality, Jake Lockley, has not showed up for his shift at the taxi company.

As Moon Knight finishes taking care of the burglars, he and Frenchie debate the reasoning behind the break-in. Little does Moony know, there are far greater threats pulling the strings in this charade. Sitting in the shadows, scheming and grinning, is the Conquer-Lord. His real name is Mr. Quinn, and he’s devised a diabolical plot to seize control over the city … to “conquer” it.

Conquer-Lord is an extremely imposing figure. He towers over everyone and has the physique of a Greek statue. He looks like Mr. Clean – a really jacked Mr. Clean. He harbors two pet rats, and the first time we see him he’s demanding some intel on Moon Knight.

After retrieving files from The Committee, Conquer-Lord’s assistant spills the beans on Moon Knight. He was a former combat veteran, mercenary, and supposedly battled a werewolf. This is where we get into those bits of detail that I mentioned above – the ones that should remain in 1976 – and for the most part, they did. The file states Moon Knight gained enhanced strength when saliva from the Werewolf by Night seeped into Moony’s open wounds.

Now, you gotta think, this is before we were introduced to the concept of Khonshu. There had to be a reason Moon Knight is well, the Moon Knight. This feels like an odd first draft, and it didn’t stick. But I commend them for trying.

We learn that Conquer Lord had hired the seven burglars (from earlier) who were police officers on the villain’s payroll. His plan was to infiltrate the office of the mayoral candidate and sabotage his election campaign, thus ensuring the current’s mayor’s re-election. Many references to Watergate are made.

After killing his assistant for knowing too much, Conquer-Lord dons his own costume. It’s sort of a proto Deathstroke/Deadpool costume, except he’s huge! Conquer-Lord decides since the idiot cops couldn’t get the job done, he’s going to assassinate the mayor.

Earlier, the police had discovered the beat-down burglars in the alley. They learn these villains were actually cops, causing them to believe Moon Knight had taken out seven undercover policemen. This causes some retaliation on the part of the cops – they attempt to shoot Moon Knight on sight before he hastily escapes in his mooncopter.

Moon Knight decides its time to go undercover as Jake Lockley, but first he must return home as Steven Grant. Marlene is waiting and visibly upset. Moony once again disappoints his love interest by canceling their date for the sixth time that week. This will be a recurring plotline between Marc and Marlene, and the seeds for it are planted in this issue.

Jake Lockley begins his shift as a cab driver, but of course, he has ulterior motives. He stops by a local diner to pick the brain of a waitress named Gena. Another Moon Knight family mainstay, Gena and her children will become constants throughout the years. Gena fills Jake in on why the cops are hunting Moon Knight – allegedly Moony had taken out some of their own. As they talk, another regular supporting character makes his debut, the strange Crawley. Crawley appears as a vagabond but is quite wise and a textbook of information when he’s not strung out.

Crawley informs Moony about Conquer-Lord and his intentions. Lockley calls Marlene and decides his date is back on. The date, as it were, is at the party for the mayoral candidate that Conquer-Lord has targeted. Moon Knight arrives just in time to prevent the villain from sniping the mayoral candidate. They begin to battle.

Meanwhile, Marlene shows off that’s she’s a formidable fighter herself. She swiftly takes out one of Conquer-Lord’s henchmen and rushes to Moon Knight’s aid. Moon Knight accidentally tosses Conquer-Lord directly into Marlene. Conquer-Lord takes Marlene captive and threatens to not only kill her, but have his henchmen open fire on the party-goers inside.

Begrudgingly, Moon Knight allows Conquer-Lord to escape in order to save the woman he loves as well as the innocents inside. But tragedy still strikes. Moon Knight is interrupted by a frantic man. The issue ends with the man informing our hero the mayor has been shot!

CAPSULE REVIEW: For the first solo adventure of a popular new character, Doug Moench and Don Perlin did a serviceable job, but it falls short. The writing starts off really well, especially the way Moench describes Moon Knight’s inner feelings while disrupting the goons at the beginning. The plot thread of Moon Knight juggling all his other lifestyles is great, but it doesn’t go anywhere, at least not in this issue.

The writing really starts to suffer with the “Watergate” scenario. You can tell Moench really wanted to tell a story similar to the scandal, but the meat of the story falls apart with critical thinking. Why would the cops immediately think the burglars were undercover cops and not crooked cops? And then, why would they just start firing on Moony? It makes the police seem utterly idiotic.

The art doesn’t hit home quite as well as it did in Werewolf by Night. Moon Knight’s design seems more subdued and the characters don’t stand out as much. Plus, Marc Spector just looks odd. The main highlight of the art here is Conquer-Lord. He’s a very 70s looking villain and I enjoy that.

What this issue really did well was introduce us to the supporting cast. From this issue alone, we have a pretty good idea what Marlene, Gena, and Crawley are like. We know Marlene is the reluctant lover, she loves Marc (or Stephen rather) but is constantly second fiddle to Moon Knight. We know Gena and Crawley are the info brokers, and pivotal to Moon Knight’s detective work.

At the end of the day, this issue does a great job establishing our cast of characters, but its story and art fall flat for me.

On a scale of 1 to 5, I’d rate this issue a 3.

Don’t miss the latest installment of the INTO THE KNIGHT! PODCAST – click here to listen!

January 15th, 2020

Classic Conan Countdown, Reviews

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REVIEW: Wood Witches, A Healing & A Dark Heritage

“Erfu is wounded and Conan is worried he is losing too much blood. One of the mysterious wood-witches appears, offering to help heal his friend. But a dark fiend is looking for this white-haired woman. Will saving Erfu be her last act of kindness before the fiend can find her? Or can Conan save the woman and her young companion?”

By ANDY MAGLOTHIN – Paint Monk’s Library Writer

This issue opens with Conan and Erfu on horseback riding through a forest on their way to Akkharia when they are suddenly attacked by robbers. One of the men shoots an arrow into Erfu’s left shoulder, causing him to fall off his steed. Still on his horse, Conan quickly kills a few of the attackers and chases off the others.

After Conan fends off the men, he attends to Erfu. The wound is deep and Erfu needs attention before they can get to Akkharia. Erfu and Conan decide to call upon the help of a Wood-Witch. Conan recalls Cimmerian shaman stories of the Wood-Witches appearing after burning the liver of a stag. After killing a large buck, Conan cooks the liver, but Erfu will not eat and finally, they both lie down for some rest.

Sleeping lightly, Conan notices a woman and a small child approach: Moraga and Naj. Moraga states she is a Wood-Witch and along with her young son they plan on providing care to Erfu. Moraga boils some water as Naj disappears to retrieve some herbs Moraga needs. Erfu’s concerned about being watched and their safety, yet the Wood-Witch states they are committed to assist.

Conan vows to protect them as Moraga describes her past. She was exiled by her village because they thought she was a witch. A group of them chased her away and as they were after her, a large ominous figure killed the villagers yet left her alive. The experience frightened her to the point it made her hair white and left her in exile with only Naj. Erfu’s fever finally breaks, so Moraga and Naj leave Conan and the still sleeping Stygian.

Another day passes to night and Erfu is more alert, asking Conan to recount the occurrences over the past few days. Conan updates Erfu, but they are interrupted by Conan sensing they are being watched. A set of red eyes and demonic voice are all Conan and Erfu can discern from the dark woods. The creature announces it is looking for the woman, warns Conan to not interfere and takes off in the same direction as Moraga and Naj.

The demon’s hooves leave easily discernible footsteps which Conan follows to find the demon confronting Moraga and Naj. Conan tosses his large torch to Moraga so she can protect herself then using his sword, attacks the demon.

During the course of the battle, Conan’s sword breaks against the demon’s hide, leaving him with the hilt and a jagged piece of the blade. The demon grabs Conan who uses the remaining portion of the blade to cut the demon’s face and squirm loose from the grip. The demon lunges at Conan who swiftly dodges the attack and the demon hits the ground hard.

With the demon on the ground and vulnerable, Conan lifts a large rock to smash the demon but it grabs Conan’s leg and again the Cimmerian is in the demon’s grasp. Erfu arrives, splashes a potion on the beast and sets it ablaze with a torch. The demon scrambles off between gaping boulders which miraculously close after he enters.

Conan, Erfu, Moraga and Naj are safe and Moraga reveals the demon is Naj’s father. Erfu opts to stay with Moraga and Naj to serve as a father figure to the boy. Naj will someday be torn between his demon and human heritage; but that is a story for another day.

CAPSULE REVIEW: I always start with the cover, which is an essential piece to any comic and this one certainly delivers the goods. It is a moonlit night, with Conan attacking a demon and Moraga and Naj in the background. As with most good covers, the action scene grabs the reader’s attention and was certain to have stood out on the newsstand back when the issue was released. My only gripe is a slight one, but the moon is just a white circle…no shadows, color chang or features. Maybe a wispy cloud would have helped…I’m no artist, but that just sticks out as odd. Again, minor detail, but no work of art is perfect right?

Story-wise, this has it all…character detail, a demon who battles Conan and a bit of teamwork to defeat the foe in the end. Featuring a collaboration between Christy Marx and Roy Thomas, the pacing, character development, scene changes, and narrative are enough but not too much. I really enjoyed Conan’s frustration with Erfu’s ongoing rambling. Erfu’s non-stop commentary kept Conan from noticing the robbers at the beginning of the story and was a source of frustration when the demon found them later in the tale.

Why are comics great forms of entertainment? Artwork like what’s featured in this issue….that’s why. Buscema and Chan continue their reign as the best team for the Cimmerian with this issue. The settings, characters, weapons, accessories…it all fits and it engages the reader, pulling them right into the mythos of the Hyborian Age. The battle between Conan and the demon was intense, and Conan using his broken sword to attack the demon was a nice touch.

Another quality issue from the consistent creative team and should be part of any Conan collection.

On a scale of 1-10, I give it 7 Aquilonian Luna.

Living life my own way – Andy from Aquilonia

January 13th, 2020

Into the Knight Podcast, Moon Knight, Reviews

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REVIEW: Moonie Vs. The Werewolf – A Hero is Born!

By RUSSELL MORAN – Guest Writer

It’s a trope as old as fiction itself, used in everything from Star Wars to Dragon Ball Z. In wrestling it’s called a “Babyface Turn,” and it’s very prolific in comic books – the villain who turns to the light. Many of the most popular comic book characters of all time were villains that become heroes, like the Punisher, Venom, Harley Quinn, and even Magneto. Among those names, however, is the character that spawned this review series: Marc Spector, The Moon Knight. And this is the issue it happens.

Our story picks up right where we left off in issue #32, with the werewolf in the custody of Moon Knight. We begin to see the seeds planted for his eventual turn. We see a lot of familiar tropes in this book, especially the villainy of greed and the corruption of power. The villains in this issue are downright despicable.

Doug Moench and Don Perlin must’ve had their fingers on the pulse of their readers for sure. In his first appearance, Moon Knight is immediately given the spotlight. He’s an amazing combatant, he’s quippy, and above all, he has a fantastic design. So, it’s no surprise really, that Marvel and the team on Werewolf by Night were grooming this baddie into a protector of the night.

While not as valuable as #32, this issue is still highly sought after among collectors. A low grade can fish as low as $30 but a pristine condition will put you in the ballpark of $200 or more. I imagine this book will heat up even more with the rumor circulating that Jack Russell will appear in the Moon Knight Disney+ series as well as the new Blade film.

How does this vile merc for hire (who beat our poor hero half to death last ish) morph into a future avenger? What becomes of Jack Russell? And what side plots begin to thicken? Find out, right now.

REVIEW: Werewolf by Night #33

Moon Knight has the werewolf strapped to a ladder dangling from the mooncopter, with the police in tow. The police begin firing shots at the fleeing mercenary and his prey. Moonie takes a slug to the right shoulder but maintains his grip. The Mooncopter has evaded the boys in blue for now and begin their journey to a payday with The Committee.

Meanwhile, Mr. Northup continues to hunt for Raymond Coker, another werewolf, in Haiti. Northup attempts to bribe the customs office, but the Haitian man refuses to accept his dirty money. Northup tells the man his country will pay for this in blood, via a real live lycanthrope.

Raymond Coker is still in session with the voodoo priestess known as Jeesala of the Thousand Years. In the last issue, she had revealed she knew Ray was a werewolf, but he tells her that he’s since been cured and that’s not why he’s here. Ray begins to spin a yarn about a tragedy that befell some of his relatives in Haiti.

He tells Jeesala that in a small village north of Mirebalais, his aunt and uncle were savagely murdered by a mysterious assailant. Only Ray’s little cousin Banita survived the assault, and she’s unable to speak, immobilized by the fear of what happened before her eyes. A young woman named Maura has been looking after the child following the murders and attempts to relay what happened to Ray during a flashback.

Before she lost the ability to speak, Banita said her father and mother had just sat down for their evening meal, when a man burst through their front door. The Man was tall, gaunt, and immensely powerful. But he was silent. He swiftly, and brutally murdered Banita’s mother and father and dragged their writhing corpses out of the house. Banita was frozen in fear.

When Maura questioned Banita about who the man was, the answer was one that surely impossible. Ray tries to poke further, insistent on discovering his aunt and uncle’s murderer. In a fit of fear, Banita begins to shriek the name of Papa Jaranda, Raymond Coker’s great-great-grandfather. Jeesala warns Ray that he has a Zombie problem on his hands.

Back in the city, Moon Knight is surprised when the slumbering beast he’s transporting suddenly awakens. The werewolf, in pain and enraged, lashes out at his foe. They tumble five hundred feet into the water below. Their titanic confrontation continues underwater until Moony pulls the werewolf back up onto a pier. But the werewolf isn’t finished yet, he won’t give up, much to Moony’s chagrin. Once again, they tumble back into the watery depths. The werewolf fights through the pain, as nothing can keep him from his attacker.

The werewolf gains the upper hand, striking Moon Knight with ruthless force. Moon Knight is beaten. The Werewolf looks to deal the deathblow, but morning’s light prevents Moony’s certain doom. Moon Knight is amazed to have witnessed the transformation from wolf to man. After a brief encounter with a drunk, Frenchie arrives with the Mooncopter and off to the Committee they go.

We get a brief update on Buck, still fighting for his life in the hospital. Elaine, Buck’s girlfriend, pleas with the doctor for answers. But the doctor states he simply has none. Even if Buck awakens from his coma, he may be paralyzed for the rest of is life.

Moon Knight arrives with the cargo. The Committee, helmed by a large unnamed fellow, places Jack Russell in a cage. Topaz and Lissa are strung up like prisoners. The Committee won’t pay Moon Knight until after the full moon rises, to guarantee this man is indeed the werewolf. They plan to keep the werewolf as a “pet” who they will systematically release into the public to murder innocents, all for their own enjoyment.

The full moon rises, and Jack’s metamorphosis claims him again. The Committee, very pleased with Moon Knight’s handiwork, attempts to pay him his ten-thousand-dollar bounty. But in a change of heart, Moon Knight turns on his employers. He releases Jack from his cage and sets the prisoners free. Together, the werewolf and Moon Knight wipe out the members of the Committee.

Once the villains are slain, the werewolf attempts to start round 3 with Moony. Moon Knight makes a spectacular escape and lets the werewolf be…for now. Our last shot is of Moon Knight, money in hand, watching as the werewolf leaves into the night.

CAPSULE REVIEW: Once again, Doug Moench and Don Perlin craft a wonderful tale of action, suspense, horror, and drama. This issue was a great bookend to the last issue and really got me excited when Moon Knight rescued the very beast he just finished fighting. The tale was expertly told.

Moench’s writing is a little dated by today’s standards, but that’s one of the reasons I enjoyed it. In a comic created in 2020, I wouldn’t accept our hero calling an adversary “lard butt” but as a comic of its time, it works! Moon Knight’s dialogue in this is hilarious. His quips and comebacks rival that of a certain friendly neighborhood hero. He also really knows how to build suspense and drama, which I’m sure is one of the reasons Moench had such a long tenure on Batman.

Perlin’s art is amazing as always. He stages some epic fight panels and draws all the characters with such finesse. His horror chops really shine here, too. The design of the mysterious zombie is genuinely creepy and reminded me of what Joe Bennett is doing right now on Immortal Hulk. Really good stuff here.

Before starting these reviews, I was very much interested in the Werewolf by Night as a series. I’ve been a big fan of the universal monsters and werewolves for a while. But now that I’ve actually read these issues, I’m hooked. I plan to hunt down the singles for this whole series. Moench and Perlin are still selling comics to the masses 40+ years after their publication.

Of course, the highlight of the book is seeing Moon Knight’s slow ascent into heroism. My favorite part of the issue (which I neglected to talk about in the synopsis so I could discuss it properly here) is after Jack turns back into himself. They had just had a very long, grueling battle. Moon Knight just witnessed the impossible, and he begins to feel remorse for his foe. He’s not a monster, he’s not a poser. He’s a man with a terrible disease. Moon Knight kneels and removes his crescent darts from Jack’s flesh. In that moment, we as the reader know this mercenary in white is not evil. He still feels for others, and he eases Jack’s pain.

Overall, the one-two punch of issues #32 and #33 are a MUST read. Not just must-read for Moon Knight fans, or werewolf fans, but must-read for Marvel Comic fans. It’s not the best story ever written, but Moench and Perlin successful set up and deliver a great story of good outweighing evil, compassion, horror, and triumph. They managed to do in two issues what most modern comics do in six.

On a scale of 1-5, I’d rate this issue a 4.

Listen to the latest installment of the Into the Knight! podcast by following this link:
https://intotheknightpodcast.wordpress.com/2020/01/12/episode-128-the-age-of-khonshu/

January 9th, 2020

By Bob Freeman, Conan (2019), Reviews

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REVIEW: Serpent War #3 – Art, Writing Losing Focus

“THE LAST STAND OF CONAN, DARK AGNES, SOLOMON KANE & MOON KNIGHT! CONAN and DARK AGNES against the servants of SET in STYGIA! SOLOMON KANE and MOON KNIGHT encounter a bizarre relic – but will it aid their quest, or doom their compatriots? And what lurks in the mind of JAMES ALLISON?”

By BOB FREEMAN – Paint Monk’s Library Writer

I had to go back and revisit the first two chapters in Conan: Serpent War because “Chapter 3: The Faithful and the Fallen“ seemed so different from its predecessors, and not simply due to having another new artist on board.

Though to be fair, the art was simply a let down across the board. New illustrator Luca Pizzari is a bad fit for a Conan tale. The artwork is too manga for my tastes and just altogether unappealing. It was a major turn-off.

While I have been critical of the overall art in this series to date, this is by far the weakest outing, making me almost nostalgic for Eaton and Hannah, or Segoria to have tackled this chapter instead. I hate to be so critical. I’m sure Pizzari did his best, but this did not work on any level for me.

Anime-stylings in *Conan: Serpent War #3* did not appeal to this reviewer.

And for the first time, neither did the writing. The story feels drawn out for no purpose other than to deliver an 80+ page trade paperback when all is said and done. While the plot is solid, here the first strains of poor pacing and dialogue begin to show cracks in the venerable Jim Zub’s handling of the characters.

Conan and Agnes’ banter has become bothersome, and their dialogue forced and unnatural. Kane and Moon Knight as well, though it’s Moon Knight that grates the worst. I don’t think Zub ever had a great handle on him, but here it is altogether worse.

As for the story, I like it just fine on the surface, but with each iteration it becomes more and more apparent that this would have been better served in 32 pages. Far too much padding… and let’s face it, with a revolving door of artists, there’s little to no continuity.

With a single issue remaining, I will be glad to see it end and I am anxious to see how Zub, and what I suspect will be another new artist, handle the grand finale. What started with so much promise has devolved into yet another misstep by Marvel in their most recent tenure with Howard’s legacy.

Looking at my previous rankings, the first issue garnered 10, while the second issue received 8.75 skulls of my enemies. Looking over the littered field of my bitter foes, I can only muster up the strength to deliver 6 for this issue and I take no pleasure in this.

I truly hope the end of Serpent War mirrors the first issue and we go out on a high note, otherwise my anticipation for Conan the Barbarian #13 featuring Jim Zub and Roge Antonio will be greatly tempered. It’s already strained based on E.M Gist’s cover art alone. Thankfully, what I’ve seen of Roge’s interiors has me excited still.

Even though I am critical about this issue, I continue to have faith in Jim Zub as an author. He has proven he has the skills to pull this off and I am rooting for him to deliver something truly special, something that will truly honor the enormous legacy of Howard’s greatest creation.

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Archive for the ‘Reviews’ Category

REVIEW: Aaron’s Tale Finds Redemption In Conan #12

REVIEW: Thomas’ “Goodbye” Marks 10th Anniversary

Review: Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #115

REVIEW: Marvel Spotlight #29 – Moon Knight by Kirby?

Review: Marvel Spotlight #29

COMIC-WATCH: Dreadlands Full Of Great Art, Old Tropes

REVIEW: Serpent War Conclusion, Arc Are Both Misfires

REVIEW: A Kothian, A Mastiff & An Undying Wizard

REVIEW: Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #114

REVIEW: Moon Knight Goes Solo in Marvel Spotlight #28

Review: Marvel Spotlight #28

REVIEW: Wood Witches, A Healing & A Dark Heritage

REVIEW: Moonie Vs. The Werewolf – A Hero is Born!

REVIEW: Werewolf by Night #33

REVIEW: Serpent War #3 – Art, Writing Losing Focus

Conan: The Podcast (Episode 2)

Conan: The Podcast (Episode I)

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Welcome to the Library!

Language

INTO THE KNIGHT PODCAST

Weirded Wonder

COMIC BOOK GRADING

Golden Age Podcast

Robert E. Howard News

WRITER JIM ZUB’S BLOG

ARTIST TIM TRUMAN’S SITE

Atlas Comics Archives

“Groovy” Comics Blog!

THE DEFENDERS FAN SITE

MARVEL UNLIMITED

COMIXOLOGY

Archive for the ‘Reviews’ Category

Review: Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #115

Review: Marvel Spotlight #29

REVIEW: Conan the Barbarian (Vol. 1) #114

Review: Marvel Spotlight #28

REVIEW: Werewolf by Night #33

Conan: The Podcast (Episode 2)

Conan: The Podcast (Episode I)

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