TRASH IN MY EYE Reviews: Archie Comics

Showing posts with label Archie Comics. Show all posts

Monday, July 14, 2025

Comics Review: "ARCHIE MEETS JAY & SILENT BOB" is More Charming Than Raunchy

ARCHIE MEETS JAY & SILENT BOB

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Kevin Smith

PENCILS: Fernando Ruiz

INKS: Rich Koslowski

COLORS: Matt Herms

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Fernando Ruiz and Rich Koslowski with Rosario “Tito” Peña

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Francesco Francavilla; Phil Hester; Dan Parent; Ty Templeton; Dan Panosian; Michael Allred; Fernando Ruiz and Rich Koslowski with Rosario “Tito” Peña

48pp, Color, $7.99 U.S. (regular covers), $11.99 (foil variants) (September 2025); on sale in comic book shops July 9, 2025

Rating: Teen+/Mature

Eternal high school student and teenage boy, Archie Andrews, and his friends made their debut in M.L.J. Magazines' Pep Comics #22 (cover dated: December 1941), and before long, Archie was the publisher's headliner character. In 1946, the company changed its named to Archie Comic Publications, also known as “Archie Comics.”

“Archie Meets” is a series of mostly one-shot comic books which features the cast of the Archie comic book franchise meeting other fictional pop culture characters or real-life figures. The first was Archie Meets the Punisher from Archie Comics and The Punisher Meets Archie from Marvel Comics. The latest is Archie Meets Jay and Silent Bob. Film fans know that the characters, “Jay and Silent Bob,” appear in some of the films from writer-director Kevin Smith. Jay, played by actor Jason Mewes, and Silent Bob, played by Kevin Smith, himself, first appeared in the film, Clerks (1994), and went on to appear in several of Smith's film, including their own Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001).

Archie Meets Jay and Silent Bob is written by Kevin Smith, drawn by Fernando Ruiz (pencils) and Rich Koslowski (inks); colored by Matt Herms; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. In this new one-shot, a summer job turns into so much more when Archie meets Jay and Silent Bob.

Archie Comics & Secret Stash Press Present “Jay & Silent Bob: Chasing Archie”:

“Jay & Silent Bob: Chasing Archie” opens at “Quick Stop Groceries” where Randal Graves is thinking about the recent passing of his friend, Dante Hicks (as seen in 2022's Clerks III). He also thinks that he and his coworker, Elias Grover, should not work as hard as they are, although Randal doesn't really work hard. Enter Archie Andrews – out of Riverdale and in New Jersey looking for a job.

Our All-American boy has entered the world of profanity, scatological conversation, and weed, but there is even more. Before long, Archie has met Jay & Silent Bob and has entered “RST THC” (formerly “RST Video”), their small business, a legal marijuana dispensary. Archie's new Jersey acquaintances all think he is square. Then, they learn that he is in a rock 'n' roll band, “The Archies.”

As luck would have it, The Archies are opening for “Josie and the Pussycats” on the power trio's Riverdale stop of their current concert series, “The Ersatz Tour,” at the “Riverdale Arena.” Jay's daughter, Millennium “Milley” Faulken,” loves Josie and the Pussycats. So, now, Randal, Jay & Silent Bob, Millie, Elias, and tag-along Blockchain are heading to Riverdale for the concert. But when one of the visitors decides to crash one of the bands' set, who knows just how crazy it will get.

THE LOWDOWN: For several years, Archie's marketing department has been sending me PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob.

Right from the start, I have to say that I love Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob, and I do mean love. As for as celebrity-written Archie comics one-shots go, Kevin Smith's turn here works out much better than October 2024's mildly disappointing and slightly over-hyped Archie: The Decision, written by DC Comics superstar writer, Tom King.

Kevin Smith makes Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob read like genuine Archie Comics, even with all the profanity (the F-bomb, among them), sexual innuendo, and drug references. In fact, the adult, or at least, older-teen elements don't seem all that out of place simply because this comic book is such a fun read. The happy ending makes me think that Kevin Smith, Jay & Silent Bob, and the “View Askewniverse” should make regular visits to Riverdale and vice versa.

The pencil art by Fernando Ruiz is classic Archie Comics storytelling and conveys a sense of spry, slightly edgy comedy that Kevin Smith brings to this and that frequently yields surprises – some of them shameless. Rich Koslowski, a frequent Archie Comics contributor, uses his solid inking on Ruiz's pencil art to sharpen the storytelling's focus. The colors by Matt Herms and the letters by the great Jack Morelli put the finishing touches that make Kevin Smith's characters and situations feel right at home in the world of Archie.

Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob is really a big deal. It is a classic-style Archie Comics comic book, so I automatically love it. However, dear readers, Kevin Smith and the creative team so completely pull off this crossover slash mashup that I think anyone who has ever enjoyed an Archie comic book will certainly enjoy Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics and of Kevin Smith will want to find a copy of Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob.

EXTRAS:

-- This comic book includes a “Special Feature, an essay by Fernando Ruiz entitled, “Notes from New Jersey … and Riverdale!.” in which Ruiz writes about his collaboration on this comic book with writer Kevin Smith. This piece also includes preliminary art and a color sketch.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The Kindle edition of ARCHIE MEETS JAY & SILENT BOB is available at Amazon.

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Friday, May 30, 2025

Comics Review: "ARCHIE IS MR.JUSTICE #4" vs Reggie Mantle

ARCHIE IS MR. JUSTICE, NO. 4 (OF 4)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Blake Howard

ART: Federico Sabbatini

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITOR: Jamie Lee Rotante

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Reiko Murakami

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Wilfredo Torres with Matt Herms; Matt Talbot

32pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (July 2025); on sale in comic book shops May 21, 2025

Rating: Teen+

Archie Comics has also published superhero comic books featuring offbeat characters. The latest is a four-issue comic book series, entitled Archie is Mr. Justice. The fourth issue is written by Blake Howard; drawn by Federico Sabbatini; colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. Archie is Mr. Justice focuses on teenager Archie Andrews and his superhero persona, “Mr. Justice.” Now, Archie has to face his a dear friend and a dreadful adversary.

Archie is Mr. Justice #4 opens in the past of Archie's friend, Reggie Mantle. When they were little kids, Reggie and Archie were close. By the time, they were teens, that was no longer the case and an embittered Reggie fell in with a bad crowd, in particular, Edward “Ed” Fogarty a.k.a. “Fangs.” Reggie and Ed plan a prank. It goes awry and changes Archie's life, and the lives of Reggie and Archie go on totally different paths.

The power of jealousy, resentment, and fear can be the most destructive power of all. Now, Kid Wicked and Mr. Justice will clash over the skies of Riverdale and irrevocably change two lives.

THE LOWDOWN: I have been reading comic books, on and off, for decades. I have sporadically read Archie Comics titles over that time. For many years now, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. Archie is Mr. Justice No. 4 is the latest.

Archie Comics has been reviving some of the old M.L.J. “Golden Age” superheroes for several years now. The latest to rise from the grave is “Mr. Justice,” also known as “the Royal Wraith.” Created by writer Joe Blair and artist Sam Cooper, Mr. Justice was an 18th century English prince who was murdered by rebels. Chance and circumstance brought about his return to the mortal world in the 1940s in the form of Mr. Justice. Mr. Justice first appeared in Blue Ribbon Comics #9 (cover dated: February 1941; M.L.J. Magazines), which, in a bit of meta-fiction, is the comic book that appears in Archie is Mr. Justice #1 as one of Jughead's comic books. From this particular comic book, Archie takes inspiration for his “Mr. Justice” identity.

For this fourth and final issue, writer Blake Howard and artist Federico Sabbatini delve into the complications in the friendships of children who are growing and developing and changing. Howard's script deftly depicts how Reggie consistently makes bad choices, and Howard offers a conclusion that seems genuine rather than feel-good contrived. Sabbatini's graphical storytelling captures Reggie's resentment and bitterness, but he also depicts how much Reggie wants to be wanted and acknowledged.

Glenn Whitmore's colors capture the nuance and shifting moods of this story, especially the sense of dread and finality that is the destiny of this story. Jack Morelli's lettering provides a steady beat for a story that finds the messiness of relationships with each page and also the fun of the explosive destruction of superhero fight comics.

I am surprised by Archie is Mr. Justice #4 as I was by this entire series. I hope that an eventual trade collection attracts you, dear readers, lots of you, so that we can have something like this again.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' superhero titles will want to try Archie is Mr. Justice No. 4.

[This comic book includes a two-page section on the making of Archie is Mr. Justice No. 4. There is also a Q&A featuring Blake Howard and Federico Sabbatini.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://x.com/archiecomics

https://www.instagram.com/archiecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

https://www.youtube.com/user/ArchieComicsOfficial

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Comics Review: "ARCHIE & FRIENDS LEVEL UP! #1" Levels Up on "Minecraft"

ARCHIE & FRIENDS LEVEL UP! #1 (#19)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Hal Smith; George Gladir; Bill Golliher

PENCILS: Steve Butler; Doug Crane; Dan DeCarlo; Sam Schwartz;

INKS: Lily Butler; Scott McRae; Mike Esposito; Rudy Lapick; Samm Schwartz; Dan DeCarlo

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Barry Grossman

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peňa

VARIANT COVER: Dan DeCarlo

32pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (June 2025); on sale in comic book shops April 2, 2025

Rating: All-Ages

“Servers You Right”

Archie Comics published the series, Archie & Friends, from 1992 to 2012 for 159 issues. Since 2019, Archie has been publishing a new iteration of Archie & Friends as a series of themed one-shot comic books. The latest is Archie & Friends (Level Up!) No.1, the nineteenth issue in the series. It features one new five-page story and five reprint stories. Entitled “Servers You Right,” the new story is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Steve Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Archie and Friends in Level Up! in “Servers You Right”:

Archie and the Gang (Betty, Veronica, and Jughead) come together to play the video game, “Crafty Miners,” an open world video game where you can do anything. The fun and games turn a little edgier when Veronica decides to be her normal self, and Reggie shows up to do some damage. Can Dilton, the server administrator, save the day?

THE LOWDOWN: For several years, Archie's marketing department has been sending me PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is Archie & Friends Level Up! (which is titled Archie and Friends, No. 1 (#19), in the indicia).

The Archie & Friends series has previously offered movie-themed editions in the past, such as Archie and Friends Hot Summer Movies (cover dated: July 2023), which included the story, “Riverdale Jones and the Burger of Destiny,” a parody of the then upcoming film, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023). The target for parody this time is the recent smash hit, Warner Bros. film, A Minecraft Movie, which is based on the video game, Minecraft, which debuted in 2011.

I don't have much interest in the movie, but I will likely watch it when it arrives on the Warner Bros. Discovery streaming service, Max, in a few months. Surprisingly, the script by Ian Flynn offers a rather nice scenario, which could have become a rather nice full-size, standalone story instead of this good five-page story. I wish Archie would have let Flynn fly on this one.

The art team of Steve Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks) deliver some standout work. As far as my experience with their Archie Comics work, this is the best looking that I have seen in terms of composition and aesthetics. And I say this as a fan of their Archie work. “Servers You Right” has captured my imagination in a way I did not expect. Glenn Whitmore's colors really serve the art quite well, and, as always, Jack Morelli's lettering hits it hard.

In addition to the main stories, there are five reprint stories. Two with Archie as the star, and one each with Betty, Jughead, and Sabrina the Teenage Witch as the star. I grew up on classic-style Archie Comics. So, there is something comforting about seeing Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead in both all-new and classic adventures. I will always recommend classic-style Archie titles, so I am giving Archie and Friends Level Up! a heartier recommendation than usual because of the Butlers' art.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie & Friends Level Up!.

B+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://twitter.com/archiecomics

https://www.instagram.com/archiecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

https://www.youtube.com/user/ArchieComicsOfficial

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Comics Review: "ARCHIE IS MR.JUSTICE #3" vs. Betty Cooper?!

ARCHIE IS MR. JUSTICE, NO. 3 (OF 4)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Kenny Porter

ART: Maria Sanapo

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITOR: Jamie Lee Rotante

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Reiko Murakami

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Soo Lee; Matt Talbot

32pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (May 2025); on sale in comic book shops March 19, 2025

Rating: Teen+

Archie Comics has also published superhero comic books featuring offbeat characters. The latest is a new four-issue comic book series, entitled Archie is Mr. Justice. The third issue is written by Kenny Porter; drawn by Maria Sanapo; colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. Archie is Mr. Justice focuses on teenager Archie Andrews and his superhero persona, “Mr. Justice.” Now, Archie has to choose between two loves – Betty Cooper and Riverdale.

Archie is Mr. Justice #3 opens in Pickens Park, Riverdale. There, Betty Cooper meets with Harper, a reporter. Betty has arranged this meeting in order to tell the story of how Mr. Justice changed her life, how he made her brave. This is also a story, however, of love and heartbreak.

With great powers comes great sacrifice, but when Archie is faced with having to choose between his responsibilities and his first love, Betty Cooper, will his duties to Riverdale win out over his heart? And what choices will Betty make? Plus, there are appearances by Kid Wicked, Mad Flame, and the rise of the “Defendo-Bots.”

Archie Comics has been reviving some of the old M.L.J. “Golden Age” superheroes for several years now. The latest to rise from the grave is “Mr. Justice,” also known as “the Royal Wraith.” Created by writer Joe Blair and artist Sam Cooper, Mr. Justice was an 18th century English prince who was murdered by rebels. Chance and circumstance brought about his return to the mortal world in the 1940s in the form of Mr. Justice. Mr. Justice first appeared in Blue Ribbon Comics #9 (cover dated: February 1941; M.L.J. Magazines), which, in a bit of meta-fiction, is the comic book that appears in Archie is Mr. Justice #1 as one of Jughead's comic books. From this particular comic book, Archie takes inspiration for his “Mr. Justice” identity.

For this third issue, writer Kenny Porter and artist Maria Sanapo delve into the complications that come from having both a superhero identity and a personal life, which the prior issue also did. Porter's script captures the birth of young love – in full bloom – and then, it captures the arrival of complications. I can say that the emotions and romance that Porter depicts resonate in the story. The coming on of romantic troubles and later, the hope of reconciliation and maturation engaged me; I was surprised to find myself investing, as a reader, in Archie and Betty's relationship.

Sanapo's art and storytelling offer a feeling of nostalgia and a sense of now. Her line work is classic comics cool, but the storytelling is a storm of complications and subtle conflicts of interests that readers were unlikely to find in comic book romance six or seven decades ago. Sanapo's art is a blending of eye-pleasing graphics and rich storytelling. Honestly, I think Sanapo's work here makes an argument that this story should have been a graphic novel instead of only being a single issue.

Glenn Whitmore's colors capture the nuance and shifting moods of this story, and I think he is perfect for Sanapo's art. Jack Morelli's lettering provides a steady beat for a story that finds the messiness of relationships with each page and also the fun of the explosive destruction of superhero fight comics

I am surprised by Archie is Mr. Justice #3. It is as strong as prior issues, but is also different. It stands out in a way that will hopefully attract readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' superhero titles will want to try Archie is Mr. Justice No. 3.

[This comic book includes a two-page section on the making of Archie is Mr. Justice No. 3. There is also a Q&A featuring Kenny Porter and Maria Sanapo.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://x.com/archiecomics

https://www.instagram.com/archiecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

https://www.youtube.com/user/ArchieComicsOfficial

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Friday, February 14, 2025

Comics Review: "ARCHIE Valentine's Spectacular No. 1" is the Official Comic of Valentine's Day

ARCHIE VALENTINE'S SPECTACULAR #1 (2025)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Jamie Lee Rotante; Daniel Kibblesmith; Craig Boldman; George Gladir

PENCILS: Holly G!; Dan DeCarlo; Rex Lindsey

INKS: Jim Amash; Rex Lindsey; Rich Koslowski, Dan DeCarlo

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Barry Grossman

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Rex Lindsey; Bill Yoshida; Vickie Williams

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (April 2025) – On-sale February 5, 2025

Rating: All-Ages

“Riverdale is Where the Heart Is!”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Archie's characters (sometimes referred to as “the Archie Gang”). One of them is the annual Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1. The 2025 edition of this comic book has one new story and three reprint stories, with one of the reprints being a two-parter. Entitled “Riverdale is Where the Heart Is!,” the new story is written by Jamie Lee Rotante; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Archie and the Gang – featuring Hearts, Flowers, & Candy: “Riverdale is Where the Heart Is!”:

As the story opens, the Spirits of Valentine's Day: “Flowers, Hearts, & Candy,” have come to Riverdale, which they believe is “a place where love grows.” Their tour of this romance capital of the world will allow them to witness love in all its glory – from loving friends and to romantic couples. Their tour will take them from the brightest and most familiar spots to the gloomiest and most supernatural locales in Riverdale. But even in Riverdale, does everyone get a Valentine.

THE LOWDOWN: Archie Comics has been sending me PDF review copies of their titles for several years. Archie Valentine's Spectacular No.1 is the latest.

“Riverdale is Where the Heart Is!” isn't a great story so much as it is a nice story just in time for Valentine's Day. It is warm and sweet like cocoa, and its sentimental emphasis on everyone getting a treat for Valentine's Day can pull on the heartstrings. The creative team of Rotante, Holly G!, Amash, Whitmore, and Morelli deliver a charming love letter to readers.

As a bonus, one of the reprint stories is a “Betty and Veronica” tale drawn by Archie Comics' legend, the late Dan DeCarlo. Entitled, “The Trophy,” it offers a classic scenario Betty and Veronica fighting a girl (Cheryl Blossom) for Archie's attentions.

If you are like me and love classic-style Archie Comics, you will love these stories. And Archie Valentine's Spectacular is certainly for you, dear readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1.

[This comic book includes “Editor's Notebook” by Mike Pellerito, featuring art by Vincent Lavallo and Holly G!]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://twitter.com/archiecomics

https://www.instagram.com/archiecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

https://www.youtube.com/user/ArchieComicsOfficial

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Saturday, January 25, 2025

Comics Review: "ARCHIE IS MR.JUSTICE #2" vs. Visionary

ARCHIE IS MR. JUSTICE, NO. 2 (OF 4)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Amanda Deibert

ART: Brent Schoonover

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITOR: Jamie Lee Rotante

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Reiko Murakami

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Jamal Igle; Matt Talbot

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (March 2025); on sale in comic book shops January 22, 2025

Rating: Teen+

Archie Comics has also published superhero comic books featuring offbeat characters. The latest is a new four-issue comic book series, entitled Archie is Mr. Justice. The second issue is written by Amanda Deibert; drawn by Brent Schoonover; colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. Archie is Mr. Justice focuses on teenager Archie Andrews and his superhero persona, “Mr. Justice.” Mr. Justice may be the superhero that all of Riverdale is talking about, but now, he's not the only one. His activities have brought forth a rival – Visionary.

Archie is Mr. Justice #2 opens as Hiram Lodge, a greedy developer and real estate tycoon, plans to change the face of Riverdale through his company, Lodge Industries. No longer will it be small town, but instead will be state-of-the-art and exclusive. That also means a lot of people will be displaced from their neighborhoods and homes, and those people cannot afford the new luxury estates.

Hiram's daughter, Veronica Lodge, believes that she can mitigate the damage her father does by starting a charity that will help people find jobs. She also thinks that a charity fashion show is appropriate, and she wants her dear friend, Archie, to help her. However, some people want no part of her charity, and when the protesters show up at a Lodge Industries worksite, there is violence. And much to Veronica's disappointment, Mr. Justice takes the protesters' side.

Now, with the help of Lodge Tech, Veronica is about to become Riverdale's newest superhero, “Visionary.” Veronica does not know that her rival, Mr. Justice, is actually her precious Archie Andrews! Now, things are going to go from bad to worse.

Archie Comics has been reviving some of the old M.L.J. “Golden Age” superheroes for several years now. The latest to rise from the grave is “Mr. Justice,” also known as “the Royal Wraith.” Created by writer Joe Blair and artist Sam Cooper, Mr. Justice was an 18th century English prince who was murdered by rebels. Chance and circumstance brought about his return to the mortal world in the 1940s in the form of Mr. Justice. Mr. Justice first appeared in Blue Ribbon Comics #9 (cover dated: February 1941; M.L.J. Magazines), which, in a bit of meta-fiction, is the comic book that appears in Archie is Mr. Justice #1 as one of Jughead's comic books. From this particular comic book, Archie takes inspiration for his “Mr. Justice” identity.

For this second issue, writer Amanda Deibert and artist Brent Schoonover delve into the complications that come from having both a superhero identity and a personal life. Deibert's script captures the ambivalence, unruly emotions, spurned feelings, and anger, all with an aura of relentlessness that can be called both smooth and constant.

Schoonover's art and storytelling present a story that is not so black-and-white in its conflict. He offers not so much heroes and villains as he does imperfect people. Glenn Whitmore's colors capture the nuance and shifting moods of this story, and Jack Morelli's lettering provides a steady beat for a story that finds the messiness of relationships with each page.

I am surprised by Archie is Mr. Justice #2. This is a melancholy chapter in this series, and it is not as aggressive nor as powerful as the first issue's story. Still, I wish that what is presented in this second issue was developed as a graphic novel. The story has the potential to decompress.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' superhero titles will want to try Archie is Mr. Justice No. 2.

[This comic book includes a two-page section on the making of Archie is Mr. Justice No. 2. There is also a Q&A featuring Amanda Deibert and Brent Schoonover.]

A-

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://x.com/archiecomics

https://www.instagram.com/archiecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

https://www.youtube.com/user/ArchieComicsOfficial

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Sunday, December 29, 2024

Comics Review: "ARCHIE Christmas Spectacular" 2024 Edition is the Thought That Counts

ARCHIE CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR (2024)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Ron Cacace; Tom DeFalco

PENCILS: Holly G!; Rex Lindsey; Steven Butler; Pat Kennedy

INKS: Jim Amash; Lily Butler; Bob Smith

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

VARIANT COVER ART: Kubert School

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2025; on-sale December 4, 2024)

Rating: All-Ages

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina in “Revenge Gifting”

Archie Comics frequently publishes holiday themed one-shot comic books featuring Archie's characters (sometimes referred to as “the Archie Gang”). The latest is the Archie Christmas Spectacular, 2024 edition. It features one new story and four reprint stories. The new story is a humorous tale tied to the (very dark) Chilling Adventures of Sabrina series and is entitled, “Revenge Gifting.” The story is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina in “Revenge Gifting”:

Amber Nightstone is the fiercest magical rival of Sabrina Spellman, a.k.a. “Sabrina, the Teenage-Witch.” Now, Amber is on a mission to get Sabrina... the best Christmas gift ever?!

In her own unique way, Amber has... convinced Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead to help her find a gift for Sabrina. Why would Amber buy her sworn enemy a gift? Well, in the spirit of the holidays, Sabrina gave Amber a gift made of real amber. Not one to appreciate the thought that counts, Amber is determined to outdo Sabrina and give her an even better gift. But can you get the perfect gift for someone you really haven't taken the time to know?

Even if you have only read Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #1, you know that as a “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” tale, “Revenge Gifting” is really an “Archie & Friends” story, and it is a nice one. Writer Ian Flynn offers up that perfect kind of holiday comics story that captures the true meaning of Christmas. The art team of Holly G! and Jim Amash brings out the humor in Amber Nightstone in the wake of her misfortune in the Josie Annual Spectacular, No. 1. Their art finds the fun in her.

The rest of this issue features reprints of classic-style Archie Christmas and holiday stories. There are guest appearances by several Archie Comics superheroes, including the “Ralph Hardy” and “Ivette Velez” versions of the Archie Comics' superhero, “The Jaguar.” The Shield and The Mighty Crusaders also appear.

Dear readers, I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics, especially when it comes in Christmas packaging – anytime of the year.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie Christmas Spectacular.

B+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

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Monday, December 2, 2024

Comics Review: "ARCHIE IS MR.JUSTICE #1" Certainly Surprises

ARCHIE IS MR. JUSTICE, NO. 1 (OF 4)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Tim Seeley

ART: Mike Norton

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITOR: Jamie Lee Rotante

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Reiko Murakami

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Francesco Francavilla; Matt Talbot

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2025); on sale in comic book shops November 20, 2024

Rating: Teen+

Archie Comics has also published superhero comic books featuring offbeat characters. The latest is a new four-issue comic book series, entitled Archie is Mr. Justice. The first issue is written by Tim Seeley; drawn by Mike Norton; colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. Archie is Mr. Justice focuses on teenager Archie Andrews and his superhero persona, “Mr. Justice.” With the aid of his friend, Jughead Jones, Archie battles the greedy real estate magnate, Hiram Lodge.

Archie is Mr. Justice #1 is a tale told by the dearest friend of Mr. Justice. That would be Jughead Jones. Young Archie Andrews is your typical teenager, except for the fact that he has super-powers. Archie also has an undying urge to do what’s right, which inspires him to create a superhero persona, “Mr. Justice.” Guiding Archie on the path of super-heroism is his best friend, Jughead, who provides the comic book template for Archie's alter-ego.

The pair aims to right the wrongs of Hiram Lodge, a greedy developer and real estate tycoon. Lodge has turned Archie and Jughead's tranquil hometown of Riverdale into a luxury city, forcing families out and big businesses in – creating a city of haves and have-nots. Can Archie’s brand of justice bring Riverdale into a new prosperous era, or will his need to do good ultimately be his downfall?

Writer Tim Seeley offers in this first issue an enjoyable comic book that captures both a superhero coming of age and also a young hero who initiates the crusade that may likely bring about his downfall. In a way, Seeley spins a comic book yarn that reads as if it came from age at least 40 years ago. It is straightforward, dramatic, melodramatic, and poignant and tragic in a way that engages the reader without unnecessary complication.

Artist Mike Norton is a veteran storyteller whose clean drawing style also recalls a classic era of comic books He conveys the light and darkness in Archie's mission, while also capturing the nuance and darkness in Jughead's narration. Glenn Whitmore's colors also captures the nuance and shifting moods of this story, and Jack Morelli's lettering provides a steady beat for a story that gets more intense with each page.

I am surprised by Archie is Mr. Justice #1. It is a powerful first issue when I expected it to be no more than mildly entertaining. I am more than mildly shocked, dear readers. Give this a try.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' superhero titles will want to try Archie is Mr. Justice No. 1.

[This comic book includes a two-page section on the making of Archie is Mr. Justice No. 1.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Thursday, November 7, 2024

Comics Review: "JOSIE Annual Spectacular #1" is Rockin' the Monster Suburbs

JOSIE ANNUAL SPECTACULAR, NO. 1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn, Holly G!

PENCILS: Steven Butler; Dan DeCarlo; Holly G!

INKS: Lily Butler; Jim DeCarlo; John Costanza

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Bill Yoshida

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Steven Butler and Lily Butler with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (December 2024); on-sale November 6, 2024

Rating: All-Ages

Josie and the Pussycats in “Encore No More!”

In December 1962, Archie Comics introduced the character, Josie Jones, in Archie's Pals 'n' Gals #23 (cover dated: Winter 1962-1963). Created by Dan DeCarlo, Josie Jones would become “Josie McCoy,” and she would join her friends, Melody and Valerie, in the band, “Josie and the Pussycats.”

Archie is releasing a trio of “annual spectaculars” that involve the machinations of a new character, “Mother Striga.” She made her debut in Sabrina Annual Spectacular, No. 1. Her story continued in the Archie Halloween Spectacular. Striga's debut arc concludes in Josie Annual Spectacular, No. 1 (November 6, 2024).

Josie Annual Spectacular, No. 1 includes one new story and two reprint stories with the second reprint being a two-part tale. The new story, the Mother Striga tale, is entitled “Encore No More!” It is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Josie and the Pussycats in “Encore No More!”:

Alexandra Cabot makes an emergency call to her friend, Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Apparently, Mother Striga has bewitched Josie and the Pussycats, and their concert at Eyegore Estates has turned into a real monsters ball. Their music is brainwashing the monster-people. Luckily, Sabrina believes that this state of affairs can play in her favor in ending the threat of Mother Striga. But she'll need Alexandra's help to do it.

Meanwhile, Sabrina's cat, Salem Saberhagen, and Alexandra's cat, Sebastian, are reunited. Now, it is up to them to do their part to free Josie and the Pussycats.

THE LOWDOWN: I have been a fan of the Josie and the Pussycats franchise since I was a small child. I am crazy about classic Josie comic books that were published from the 1960s to the early 1980s, and I still love the two 1970s animated television series based on the comics.

Josie Annual Spectacular No. 1 brings an end to the Mother Striga introductory story arc. I imagine that the character will make a return, likely in an “Archie Horror” one-shot. Writer Ian Flynn does good work getting a lot out of what amounts to a 15-page story that is serialized over three issues. Honestly, he offers enough subplots and ideas for three full issues, but he ends this arc on a nice and unusual note. I must mention that while “Encore No More!” is ostensibly a Josie and the Pussycats tale, Josie supporting character, Alexandra Cabot, and Sabrina are the leads.

I am really impressed with the art throughout this arc. The team of Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks) deliver some really good-looking art. Their compositions are like an homage to Josie and the Pussycats legend Dan DeCarlo, but with a stylish modern sensibility. It really is eye candy. The colors by Glenn Whitmore add a surreal touch to the art and to the story, while also giving the narrative a kind of low wattage occult edginess. The lettering by the great Jack Morelli gives voice to the spicy dialogue which closes this story on a winning note... and a note of warning.

In these reviews, I always warn readers that I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics titles. Josie Annual Spectacular No. 1 is kinda new because it is classic-style Archie Comics with an eye towards reinvigorating it. I recommend this entire “Mother Striga” line.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics and of Josie and the Pussycats will definitely want to get a copy of Josie Annual Spectacular No. 1.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Comics Review: "ARCHIE Halloween Spectacular #1" Wants to Party on the Dark Side

ARCHIE HALLOWEEN SPECTACULAR (2024)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Dan Parent; Francis Bonnet

PENCILS: Steven Butler; Dan Parent; Rex Lindsey; Bill Galvan

INKS: Lily Butler; Bob Smith; Rex Lindsey; Bill Galvan

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Rex Lindsey

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Steven Butler and Lily Butler with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (November 2024); In-store October 2, 2024

Rating: All-Ages

Archie and the Gang in “Party Hardly!”

Archie is releasing a trio of “annual spectaculars” that involve the machinations of a new character, “Mother Striga.” She made her debut in Sabrina Annual Spectacular, No. 1. Her story now continues in the Archie Halloween Spectacular. It will conclude in Josie and the Pussycats Annual Spectacular, No. 1 (November 6, 2024).

Archie Halloween Spectacular offers four reprint stories and opens with a new five-page story featuring Mother Striga, “Party Hardly!” It is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Archie and the Gang in “Party Hardly!”:

As the story opens, Sabrina warns Jughead that something strange is going on in the Fae Folk community. Meanwhile, over at Hodge Manor, the party to end all Halloween parties is happening. How did Veronica convince her father, Hiram Lodge, to let a wild party go on in his home? Does Mother Striga have something to do with that? And why is Archie on the arms of magical bad girl, Amber Nightstone?

THE LOWDOWN: Over the last few years, Archie's marketing department has been sending me PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is the new one-shot comic book, Archie Halloween Spectacular (2024 edition).

This Halloween special includes three reprint stories featuring classic Archie Comics superheroes such as “The Web” and “The Crusaders.” The highlight, of course, is the new story, which is the middle part of the Mother Striga story arc. A lot happens in this story with writer Ian Flynn filling every panel with action and dialogue that informs the readers and moves the narrative forward. Flynn makes “Party Hardly's!” manic weirdness work.

As was the case with the Sabrina Annual Spectacular, the stars here are the art team of penciller Steven Butler, inker Lily Butler, and colorist Glenn Whitmore. They create a playfully macabre and pop Gothic sensibility that really sells this story's setting, plot, and characters. Whitmore's other-worldly, almost psychedelic colors are the perfect accompaniment to the Butlers' monster-mash aesthetic for this story. Also, Jack Morelli's lettering puts the finishing touch to this delightful tale. They make me wish that “Party Hardly!” was a longer story.

Dear readers, I will always recommend classic and classic-style Archie Comics stories. So, of course, I think you should read this.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will definitely want to get a copy of Archie Halloween Spectacular.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Comics Review: "SABRINA Annual Spectacular #1" Brings on the New Baddie

SABRINA ANNUAL SPECTACULAR, NO. 1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Dick Malmgren; George Gladir; Frank Doyle

PENCILS: Steven Butler; Dick Malmgren; Bob Bolling; Dan DeCarlo

INKS: Lily Butler; Jon D'Agostino; Rudy Lapick;

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Steven Butler and Lily Butler with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2024)

Rating: All-Ages

Sabrina in “Awakening!”

Sabrina the Teenage Witch is an Archie Comics character that was created by writer George Gladir and artist Dan DeCarlo. Sabrina Spellman first appeared in Archie's Madhouse #22 (cover-dated: October 1962).

Archie is releasing a trio of “annual spectaculars” that involve the machinations of a new character, “Mother Striga.” She makes her debut in Sabrina's Annual Spectacular, No. 1. Her debut story will continue in the forthcoming Archie Halloween Spectacular, No. 1 (October 2, 2024) and Josie and the Pussycats Annual Spectacular, No. 1 (November 6, 2024).

Sabrina Annual Spectacular offers four reprint stories and opens with the new five-page story that introduces Mother Striga, “Awakening!” It is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

“Awakening!” opens in the neighborhood of “Eyegore Estates,” the place that hosts all the things that go “bump in the night.” Sabrina the Teenage Witch and her cat, Salem, are shocked to discover that everyone is acting like zombies... even the zombies.

Soon, Sabrina learns that her nemesis, Amber Nightstone, has unleashed an evil more powerful than she expected. It's Mother Striga, the first witch and the mother of all witches!

THE LOWDOWN: Over the last few years, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is the new one-shot comic book, Sabrina Annual Spectacular, No. 1.

In the the opening story, “Awakening!,” writer Ian Flynn teases big things to come, but this first chapter can really only tease. The stars here are the art team of penciller Steven Butler, inker Lily Butler, and colorist Glenn Whitmore. They create a playfully macabre and pop Gothic sensibility that really sells this story's setting, plot, and characters. Whitmore's other-worldly, almost psychedelic colors are the perfect accompaniment to the Butlers' Charles Addams' like aesthetic in this story. Also, Jack Morelli's lettering puts the finishing touch to this delightful tale. Although “Awakening!” is only five pages long, it is really a classically cool comics story.

Two of the reprint stories are from Sabrina's creators, George Gladir and Dan DeCarlo. The classic Sabrina story, “Haunt Taunt,” is written by Gladir and drawn by Bob Bolling and Rudy Lapick and originally published in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch #60 (cover dated: June 1980). DeCarlo pencils “Strange Love,” written by Frank Doyle and published in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch #1 (cover dated: April 1971).

Dear readers, I will always recommend classic and classic-style Archie Comics stories.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics and of Sabrina the Teenage Witch will definitely want to get a copy of Sabrina Annual Spectacular, No. 1.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Thursday, August 29, 2024

Comics Review: ARCHIE: THE DECISION #1 - Archie Flips for Betty & Veronica

ARCHIE: THE DECISION, NO. 1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Tom King

PENCILS: Dan Parent

INKS: Bob Smith

COLORS: Rosario “Tito” Peña

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Stephen Byrne

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2024); on sale in comic book shops August 28, 2024

Rating: All-Ages

“Everyone Flips Out!”

For decades, Archie's affections have been split between two girls: nice girl, Betty Cooper, who debuted with Archie in Pep Comics #22, and spoiled rich girl, Veronica Lodge, who first appeared in Pep Comics #26 (cover dated: April 1942). Now, in a new comic book, Archie finally chooses between the two. It all happens in Archie: The Decision, No. 1. The story is written by Tom King; drawn by Dan Parent (pencils) and Bob Smith (inks); colored by Rosario “Tito” Peña; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

As Archie: The Decision, No. 1 (“Everyone Flips Out!”) opens with the declaration, “I, Archie Andrews, am finally going to decide between Betty and Veronica!!” How is Archie going to make this momentous decision? He's going to flip a coin, but when the coin flip goes awry, Archie and best pal, Jughead, go on a mad chase.

And what of Betty and Veronica? Well, each has mixed feelings, but neither is going to give up the chance of finally being “the one.” Will Archie really be able to make “the Decision?” This issue also features appearances by classic Archie Comics characters, including Reggie, Moose, Dilton, Midge, Ethel, Nancy, Chuck, Mr. Weatherbee, Miss Grundy, Josie and the Pussycats, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and “Hot Dog” the dog, to name a few.

THE LOWDOWN: For several years, Archie's marketing department has been sending me PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is Archie: The Decision, No. 1.

Apparently, acclaimed comic book writer, Tom King, is a big Archie Comics fan, so he proposed writing a kind of ultimate story about Archie finally choosing between Betty and Veronica. Archie Comics obviously jumped at the chance to have a big name like King's write a comic book for them.

The resulting book, Archie: The Decision, No. 1, is not on the level of other Tom King first issues, such as The Omega Men #1 (2015), The Sheriff of Babylon #1 (2016), and Mister Miracle #1 (2018), which were all published by DC Comics. King offers a thin plot and executes it into a 21-page chase story that is filled with cameo appearances by a host of Archie Comics characters. In fact, two of my childhood faves, Josie and the Pussycats and Sabrina the Teenage Witch, each get one page to themselves. But this special one-shot comic book isn't among Tom King's best work. It's his love letter to Archie Comics, seemingly mostly written to himself.

Even artist Dan Parent doesn't really offer a “Wow!” factor. If there is such a thing as a modern superstar Archie Comics artist, it's Parent. Archie: The Decision, No. 1 isn't his best work; it isn't even his best recent work. It's pleasingly pleasant, which is probably the best thing I can say about King's script. Colorist Rosario “Tito” Peña and letterer Jack Morelli do really good work.

So Archie: The Decision, No. 1 is a big deal in one way, and not so much in many other ways. Still, it is a classic-style Archie Comics title, so I'll take it rather than leave it.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie: The Decision, No. 1.

[In a bonus feature, Tom King and Dan Parent pick their favorite Archie Comics stories.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Comics Review: "ARCHIE COMICS: JUDGMENT DAY #3" Offers a Helluva Ending

ARCHIE COMICS: JUDGMENT DAY #3 (OF 3)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Aubrey Sitterson

ART: Megan Hutchinson

COLORS: Matt Herms

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Megan Hutchinson with Matt Herms

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Francesco Francavilla; Reiko Murakami; Luana Vecchio

32pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (September 2024); on sale in comic book shops July 31, 2024

Rating: Teen+

Archie Comics also has a dark side, as seen via a number of horror and dark fantasy titles sometimes published under the “Archie Horror” imprint. Archie's latest horror offering is Archie Comics: Judgment Day. It is the first in Archie Comics' new line, “Archie Premium Event.” It is written by Aubrey Sitterson; drawn by Megan Hutchinson; colored by Matt Herms; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. The series finds Archie on a mission to rid his hometown of Riverdale of all “wicked-kind.”

Archie Comics: Judgment Day opens in a Riverdale beset by all manner of shape-shifting demons. Archie is on a quest to cleanse his hometown, and thanks to Madam Satan, he has the power to do so. She possesses the power to summon, imprison, and enslave demons for her own purposes. Archie now has the “infernal power” in the form of Alistair, a demon that Madam Satan has bound to him.

Archie Comics: Judgment Day #3 opens as Archie is forced to confront the final battle. Can Jughead continue to be Archie's conscience... and be successful at it? What is going on with Reggie, and what has he done to Betty and Veronica? Will Archie give in to his lookalike, Alistair’s sweet words.

It’s finally time for Archie to decide—will he give himself over fully to Alistair, or retain the parts of himself that make him Archie? It's the last temptation of Archie.

THE LOWDOWN: For a long time, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. Archie Comics: Judgment Day #3 is one of them.

I was right all along. Judgment Day writer Aubrey Sitterson did concoct a delicious dark brew that quenched the dark thirsts of his readers' imaginations, and it was good to the last drop. The ending is unexpected – to an extent. The more this final issue goes, the more obvious what Archie's choices will be and what the consequences will be. To the end, Sitterson keeps the readers engaged.

Artist Megan Hutchinson has drawn some stellar art in Judgment Day. From beginning to end, her graphical storytelling is a flow of magical weaving with page after page of tapestries that recall the art of Heironymus Bosch. Hutchinson's storytelling is dazzling, and her cover art is purely a thing of illustrative beauty, making evil look sexy. Under the colors by Matt Herms, her art is eye-popping and gorgeous. The great Jack Morelli tops it off with his classic comics lettering.

Archie Comics: Judgment Day is really good. It is a delightful surprise, and I hope more readers get to experience it via a trade collection.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' “Archie Horror” imprint will want Archie Comics: Judgment Day.

[This issue contains a look at how this series came to be and also an interview with colorist Matt Herms and letterer Jack Morelli.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Comics Review: "KARDAK THE MYSTIC #1" is Mystically Charming

KARDAK THE MYSTIC #1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Joe Corallo

ART: Butch Mapa

COLORS: Ellie Wright

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITOR: Jamie Lee Rotante

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Butch Mapa

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Skylar Patridge

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2024); on sale in comic book shops August 14, 2024

Rating: Teen+

Eternal high school student and teenage boy, Archie Andrews, and his friends made their debut in M.L.J. Magazines' Pep Comics #22 (cover dated: December 1941), and before long, Archie was the publisher's headliner character. In 1946, the company changed its named to Archie Comic Publications, also known as “Archie Comics.”

Archie Comics has also published superhero comic books featuring offbeat characters. One of the stranger ones was initially known as “The Mystic” and he first appeared in Top Notch Comics #1 (cover dated: December 1939). In Top Notch Comics #4 (cover dated: April 1940), The Mystic became “Kardak.”

Kardak debuted in a story by writer Harry Shorten and artist C. A. “Chuck” Winter. Kardak was John Cardy, an American adventurer and professional magician known as “Kardak the Mystic.” He was a superhero magician, employing tricks and mystical powers to fight organized crime and super-villains. He was assisted by his fiancée, Lorna Dorne, and his faithful servant, Balthar. Kardak made his final Golden Age appearance in Top Notch Laugh Comics #29 (cover dated: September 1942).

A modern version of Kardak the Mystic arrives in the new one-shot comic book, Kardak the Mystic No. 1. It is written by Joe Corallo; drawn by Butch Mapa; colored by Ellie Wright; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Kardak the Mystic No. 1 introduces John Cardy. He is the stage magician, “Kardak the Mystic,” and all he ever wanted was to be recognized for his talents at magic tricks and sleight of hand. However, the audiences for his shows are shrinking, and his loyal assistant, Lorna, believes that they should retire the act and move on with their lives.

Walking down the street one night, deep in his thoughts, John comes upon a magic shop, “Enchantra's Enchantments.” There, he gets an offer he can't refuse – an amulet that would change everything for him. But that kind of power is never free...

I really like Kardak the Mystic No. 1. Joe Corallo's story is simple and straightforward, but really engages the imagination. It is a standalone tale, but it suggests a number of possibilities going forward. As I read it, I found my imagination to be quite engaged, and I was always wondering about what came next. The ending certainly left me wanting more.

Corallo's script is transformed impressively by Butch Mapa's art into graphical storytelling with a hint of the supernatural. Mapa's art is clean and smooth, so it captures the obvious emotions, dilemmas, conflicts, and danger that play in this story of transformation. The coloring by the talented Ellie Wright heightens the tension and drama in the story. As a team, Mapa and Wright team-up results in a dark tale that sparkles with playful magic and creepy mysticism.

Wow. I'm impressed, but also disappointed. I don't think that there is much of a chance of readers getting a second issue. Or maybe Kardak can pull of another miracle.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' superhero titles will want to try Kardak the Mystic No. 1.

[This comic book includes a two-page section on the making of Kardak the Mystic No. 1.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Saturday, July 20, 2024

Comics Review: "ARCHIE COMICS: JUDGMENT DAY #2" - Is Hellraisin' a Bad Thing?

ARCHIE COMICS: JUDGMENT DAY #2 (OF 3)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Aubrey Sitterson

ART: Megan Hutchinson

COLORS: Matt Herms

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Megan Hutchinson with Matt Herms

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Francesco Francavilla; Reiko Murakami; Inhyuk Lee

32pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (August 2024); on sale in comic book shops June 19, 2024

Rating: Teen+

Archie Comics: Judgment Day #2 opens in a Riverdale beset by all manner of shape-shifting demons. Archie is on a quest to cleanse his hometown, and thanks to Madam Satan, he has the power to do so. She possesses the power to summon, imprison, and enslave demons for her own purposes. Archie now has the “infernal power” in the form of Alistair, a demon that Madam Satan has bound to him.

Archie has been so successful that there are apparently only two demons left to kill. However, his old buddy, Jughead Jones, is concerned that in the course of killing all those demons that Archie has lost himself. He hopes that Betty and Veronica can help him reach Archie, but Alistair has other plans. Meanwhile, where is Reggie?

THE LOWDOWN: For a long time, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. Archie Comics: Judgment Day #2 is one of them.

With this miniseries, writer Aubrey Sitterson has concocted a delicious dark brew that should quench the dark thirsts of his readers' imaginations. In a review of the first issue, I said that Madam Satan is the straw that stirs this drink. However, with this issue, Sitterson has made Archie such a radiant alpha-man hero that even Alistair pales next to him.

Megan Hutchinson is killing it with Judgment Day. Her art is a flow of magical weaving with page after page of tapestries that recall the art of Heironymus Bosch. Hutchinson's storytelling is dazzling, and her cover art is purely a thing of illustrative beauty. Under the colors by Matt Herms, her art is eye-popping and gorgeous. The great Jack Morelli tops it off with his classic comics lettering.

If Archie plans on doing more horror and dark fantasy comic books like Archie Comics: Judgment Day, then, they must do them. There is entertainment gold in Archie's horror comic books.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Archie Comics' “Archie Horror” imprint will want Archie Comics: Judgment Day.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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