Avengers #30 Preview

 

A brief, text-free preview of next month’s Avengers issue below.

Your First Look at AVENGERS #30 – An AVENGERS VS. X-MEN Tie-In!

Marvel is proud to present your first look at Avengers #30!  With Cyclops and Emma Frost more powerful than ever, it’s looking more and more like the end of the world for Earth’s Mightiest Heroes! But amidst all the chaos and battling, can the budding romance of Hawkeye and Spider-Woman survive the strain? The creative team of superstar writer Brian Bendis and legendary artist Walter Simonson bring you high-stakes action and drama this September in Avengers #30, hitting comic shops everywhere, the Marvel Comics app, and Marvel Digital Comic Shop.

AVENGERS #30 (JUL120545)

Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS

Pencils by WALTER SIMONSON

Cover by LEINIL FRANCIS YU

FOC – 8/27/2012, On Sale – 9/19/2012

 

 

Free Image Comics

Well, isn’t this nice? Yes. Yes it is.

Image Comics for Free at comiXology

Prices permanently slashed on 20 first issues

The first issues of many of the new series launched in the first half of Image Comics’ iconic twentieth anniversary year are now free at the digital distributor comiXology. The issues will remain free permanently, starting on August 24.

The free issues include the first issues of some of 2012’s best-selling comics, including SAGA #1 by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples, FATALE #1 by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips, THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS by Jonathan Hickman and Nick Pitarra, THIEF OF THIEVES #1 by Robert Kirkman, Nick Spencer, and Shawn Martinbrough, AMERICA’S GOT POWERS Jonathan Ross and Bryan Hitch, and MIND THE GAP #1 by Jim McCann, Rodin Esquejo, and Sonia Oback.

The other free first issues are ALPHA GIRL #1, CREATOR-OWNED HEROES #1, DANCER #1, DANGER CLUB #1, EPIC KILL #1, GLORY #23 (first issue of the relaunch), GRIM LEAPER #1, HELL YEAH #1, HOAX HUNTERS #1, NO PLACE LIKE HOME #1, PETER PANZERFAUST #1, PLANETOID #1, PROPHET #21 (first issue of the relaunch), and SECRET #1.

Many of these titles have been or will soon be collected into trade paperbacks, making the free issues the perfect way for readers to sample new Image Comics titles before purchasing collections.

Sequential Summary

For the last few weeks I’ve been contributing weekly round-ups of the comic book news over at SciFiPulse.

Check out my previous posts of Sequential Summary right here.

Kingstone Media and Jackket Knightmare

It’s always encouraging to see a new publisher appear in the pages of the monthly Previews comics catalogue. You can find 6 new comics from Kingstone on pages 319-320 in the current Previews. Kingstone is a Christian publisher and what I’ve seen of their diverse offerings has impressed me, so I recommend checking them out. They have OGNs based on Bible stories and historical figures, as well as sci-fi stories such as 2048 and dramas like Echoes of Eden.

 

 

Another Christian (self) publisher I’ve been meaning to mention for ages is American creator C. Souba Reyes and her work on the Jackket Nightmare series which follows a trenchoat clad avenger. It’s been great to see how her work has progressed in leaps and bounds in the 3 issues released thus far, which you can find here.

Indestructible Hulk in November

As part of Marvel’s relaunch of sorts, one of comics’ best writers is teaming with one of its best artists. I’m excited.

The Future of HULK Is Marvel NOW!

Superstars Mark Waid & Leinil Yu Take The Reins Of Marvel’s Most Incredible Avenger!

This November, prepare for an all-new definition of incredible as Indestructible Hulk #1 kicks off the all-new ongoing series from the blockbuster creative team of Eisner Award Winning writer Mark Waid & superstar artist Leinil Yu! As part of Marvel NOW!Indestructible Hulk  joins a number of titles that will take the Marvel Universe in an exciting all-new direction, as the industry’s top creators join the top Super Heroes to deliver all-new ongoing series, great for new and lapsed readers alike!

Through his entire history, the Hulk has always been an indomitable force, more weapon than man. His alter ego, Dr. Bruce Banner, is one of the most intelligent men on the planet. NOW! combined, they have become the strongest, smartest weapon alive – INDESTRUCTIBLE HULK, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.!

“Banner’s a changed man. No more stooping under the weight of “woe is me,” no longer bespectacled, no longer a fashion victim in purple,” explained Mark Waid in an interview with Marvel.com. “For decades, Banner’s felt like he’s no more than the Hulk’s helpless puppet. Now Banner’s USING Hulk to his own mysterious ends”

Marvel NOW! is the culmination of Marvel ReEvolution, the groundbreaking new initiative to evolve the comic book experience through innovation. With Indestructible HulkMarvel NOW! ensures fans will discover an entirely new perspective on the Jade Giant.

“Mark and Leinil’s spin on the Hulk mythos will have fans — new and old – exclaiming, ‘Why didn’t I think of that!?'” said Marvel Editor In Chief Axel Alonso.  “It’s the brute force of the Hulk and the brainpower of Bruce Banner, together at last — but not the way you think. And with S.H.I.E.L.D. in the wings, readers can expect a globe-hopping adventure with an unlimited special effects budget.”

Each issue of Indestructible Hulk includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app for iOS and Android devices. Additionally, each issue of Indestructible Hulk features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

“Not only does every book with the Marvel NOW! logo feature a new superstar creative team and blockbuster story, but they also come with all-new incentives for our retailer partners,” explained David Gabriel, Senior Vice-President of Sales, Marvel Entertainment.. “We want to make sure every comic shop nationwide is fully stocked to meet the high demand we’re already seeing for Marvel NOW! And want to make sure their voices are heard throughout this exciting time. Stay tuned for more news on how Marvel will be working directly with retailers to make sure our programs address their needs.”

An all-new direction! All-new threats! All-new piles of rubble! This is Hulk NOW!

This November, Mark Waid and Leinil Yu redefine destruction in Indestructible Hulk #1!

For more on Marvel NOW!, please visit now.marvel.com and join the conversation on Twitter using #MarvelNOW.

INDESTRUCTIBLE HULK #1

Written by MARK WAID

Art & Cover by LEINIL YU

ON SALE THIS NOVEMBER!

Batman: Fighting Figures and Fighting the Future

Hot Toys, makers of super detailed action figures have released a 6 minute short film with their Batman toys in action. It’s cool and rather whacky and features Commissioner Gordon, Batman, Joker and Bane. Watch Batman: The Dark Knightfall below and drool over more of their great work here.

Frank Miller’s influential and groundbreaking 1986 mini-series featuring an ageing Batman in a terrifying future Gotham is the next release from Warner Bros. slate of animated films based on DC Comics stories. Below is the official info of The Dark Knight Returns and the cool trailer.

FRANK MILLER’S COMIC MASTERPIECE IS NOW AN ALL-NEW DC UNIVERSE ANIMATED ORIGINAL MOVIE BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS, PART 1 COMING SEPT. 25, 2012 FROM WARNER HOME VIDEO

RoboCop star Peter Weller leads Stellar Voice Cast as Batman
in Animated Blu-rayTM Combo Pack & DVD

Frank Miller’s landmark graphic novel about fear, hope and redemption is celebrated with proper measures of haunting visuals and intense action in Batman: The Dark Knight
Returns, Part 1, the next entry in the popular, ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original Movies. Produced by Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation, the all-new, PG-13 rated film arrives September 25, 2012 from Warner Home Video as a Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD, On Demand and for Download. The Blu-ray™ Combo
Pack will include UltraViolet™.

The DC Universe Animated Original Movies have been a fan favorite since debuting in 2007 with Superman Doomsday. Now averaging three releases each year, the DCU animated films are based on classic tales from DC Comics’ revered library or original stories featuring DC’s
fabled characters. Stars of feature film and primetime television populate the stellar voice casts of the DCU animated films. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 represents the 15th film in the ongoing series.

Fanboy demi-god Peter Weller (RoboCop) leads a stellar voice cast as Bruce Wayne/Batman. Joining Weller behind the microphone is David Selby (The Social Network, Dark Shadows) as Commissioner Gordon, Ariel Winter (Modern Family) as Carrie/Robin, three-time DCU veteran Wade Williams (Prison Break) as Harvey Dent/Two-Face, and Michael McKean
(This is Spinal Tap) as Dr. Bartholomew Wolper.

In the bleak and ominous future of Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1, it’s been a decade since Bruce Wayne hung up his cape, following most of the other superheroes who had been forced into retirement.  Facing the downside of middle age, a restless Bruce Wayne
pacifies his frustration with racecars and liquor – but the Bat still beckons as he watches his city fall prey to gangs of barbaric criminals known as The Mutants.

The return of Harvey Dent as Two-Face finally prompts Wayne to once again don the Dark Knight’s cowl, and his dramatic capture of the villain returns him to crime-fighting – simultaneously making him the target of law enforcement and the new hope for a desolate Gotham City. Particularly inspired is a teenage girl named Carrie, who adopts the persona of Robin and ultimately saves Batman from a brutal attack by the Mutant leader.  Armed with a new sidekick, and re-energized with a definitive purpose, the Dark Knight returns to protect Gotham from foes new … and old.

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 is directed by Jay Oliva (Man of Steel, Green Lantern: Emerald Knights) from a screenplay by Bob Goodman (Warehouse 13). Sam Register (Young Justice, Teen Titans, Ben 10) and Bruce Timm (Justice League: Doom) are the executive producers. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 will provide the epic story’s
thrilling conclusion with its release in early 2013.

“Frank Miller’s classic re-imagining of Batman has been faithfully recreated under Bruce Timm’s skilled guidance as a masterpiece of storytelling,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Warner Home Video Vice President, Family & Animation Marketing and Partner Brands. “This
story has been treated with great reverence, including a tour-de-force performance by science fiction legend Peter Weller as the voice of Batman. We know our fans will not only love this film as a stand-alone, but will clamor for the release of the second half next year.”

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 Blu-ray™ Combo Pack has more
than 2 hours of exciting content, including:
•       Standard and high definition versions of the feature film
•       UltraViolet™*
•       Sneak Peak at Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2, the next DC
Universe Animated Original Movie
•       Featurette – “Her Name is Carrie … Her Role is Robin” – An all-new
featurette.  Experience the role of Robin, through the eyes of a
female warrior.
•       Featurette – “Batman and Me: The Bob Kane Story” – A documentary
comprehensively chronicling the remarkable life of the creator of
Batman.
•       Two bonus episodes from Batman: The Animated Series handpicked by
producer Alan Burnett: Two-Face, Parts 1 and 2
•       Digital Comic – “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns” (digital comic
with cover art and three full comic pages)

* Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 UltraViolet offer is a
limited time offer.  Restrictions and limitations apply.  Go to
ultraviolet.flixster .com/info for details.

Finally, here’s a short video showing many of the different Batman symbols used over the decades. There have been a lot.

The Future of Iron Man

A new suit of armour, a new creative team, and a new direction for the suave genius Tony Stark. Details below.

The Future of IRON MAN Is Marvel NOW!

Superstars Kieron Gillen And Greg Land Take The Reins Of Marvel’s Armored Avenger!

This November, Tony Stark soars to new heights in Iron Man #1, kicking off the all-new ongoing series from the chart topping creative team of writer Kieron Gillen and artist Greg Land! As part of Marvel NOW!Iron Man joins a line of titles that will take the Marvel Universe in an exciting all-new direction, as the industry’s top creators join the top Super Heroes to deliver all-new ongoing series, great for new and lapsed readers alike!

Technical visionary. Unparalleled engineer. Avenger. Iron Man has done it all, from combating the greatest threats facing the Marvel Universe to dealing with his own inner demons. Now, when his greatest invention becomes his greatest mistake, Iron Man must act fact…and build faster! The lethal techno virus Extremis is out in the wild and for grabs to the highest bidder! It’s up to Tony Stark to contain it and that means creating a new suit of armor!

“Kieron and Greg are about to take Iron Man on a journey unlike anything he’s ever experienced,” said Marvel Editor In Chief Axel Alonso. “This creative team took the X-Men to the next level, and with Iron Man they’re taking everything you know and love about the character and putting a spin on it that will have readers buzzing. Wait until you see what the new suit — I mean, suits — of armor can do!”

Marvel NOW! is the culmination of Marvel ReEvolution, the groundbreaking new initiative to evolve the comic book experience through innovation. With Iron Man, Marvel NOW! ensures fans will see a side of Tony Stark, never seen before.

The story will focus on him questioning things about himself and trying to find out exactly how the universe ticks, what’s this all about and why he does this anyway,” explained Kieron Gillen in an interview with Marvel.com. “There will be a lot of changes in the armor throughout the series; in the first five issues there will be a different armor every issue.

Each issue of Iron Man includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app for iOS and Android devices. Additionally, each issue of Iron Man features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

“Not only does every book with the Marvel NOW! logo feature a new superstar creative team and blockbuster story, but they also come with all-new incentives for our retailer partners,” explained David Gabriel, Senior Vice-President of Sales, Marvel Entertainment.. “We want to make sure every comic shop nationwide is fully stocked to meet the high demand we’re already seeing for Marvel NOW! And want to make sure their voices are heard throughout this exciting time. Stay tuned for more news on how Marvel will be working directly with retailers to make sure our programs address their needs.”

An all-new direction! All-new threats! All-new armor! This is Iron Man NOW!

This November, Kieron Gillen and Greg Land redefine what it means to be invincible in Iron Man #1! 

For more on Marvel NOW!, please visit now.marvel.com and join the conversation on Twitter using #MarvelNOW.

IRON MAN #1

Written by KIERON GILLEN

Pencils and Cover by GREG LAND

FOC – 10/15/2012, On Sale – 11/7/2012