Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Hawkman on Batman: The Brave And The Bold


With a thanks to Rick for giving me the heads up, we have here the first released image of Hawkman, along with other members of the Justice Society of America, from Cartoon Network's wild and wooly Batman: The Brave And The Bold cartoon.  The original superhero crew will make their debut on January 15th in an episode entitled "The Golden Age Of Justice!"  No word on who the badguy will be (Vandal Savage?  Per Degaton?  Hitler?!)  (Okay, so proably not Hitler.)

This picture is small but all of the characters look fantastic.  We have seen Wildcat and Flash previously, but Hawkman, Dr. Mid-Nite, and Hourman all look great in the bold (no pun intended) style of the show.  I do find it a little amusing that Hawkman is actually a little less barrel-chested here than he was on Justice League!

Definitely one to look forward to, along with appearances coming up from the Doom Patrol and the Metal Men as well!

Image: Justice Society of America from Batman: The Brave And The Bold, 2009, image acquired from TV Squad.

Waiting In the Wings -- 12/30/2009


We've only got one comic in stores today, but I have a sneaking suspicion that the Hawks may pop up in it.

Blackest Night #6 -- Things took a turn for the worse, if you can believe that, last time out, with Nekron turning all of the heroes who had come back from the dead -- including Superman and Wonder Woman -- into Black Lanterns.  And supposedly things get even more grim for the DCU in this issue.  This series has been a ton of gruesome fun so far, and I don't see it letting up any time soon.  Even the spectre of a skip month can't dampen my enthusiasm for it.

Monday, December 28, 2009

Read: Flash Comics #16


Issue: Flash Comics #16 (reprinted in The Golden Age Hawkman Archives v.1)
Title: "The Graydon Expedition" (suggested title)
Published Date: Apr 1941
Generation: Golden Age Carter
Retcon Status: In Continuity

Summary: While Shiera is on an archeological expedition in Mongolia, Carter Hall just happens to hear on the radio that they have gone missing.  So, Hawkman wings off to Asia Minor to track them down, wielding the ancient Sword of Keft.  The expedition had been attacked by raiders, and all but Shiera were slain; the girl was instead taken captive and held hostage in Dravidia.  When Hawkman arrives brandishing the sword, the Dravidians believe him to be Icaro, their winged god, taken form on Earth.  Hawkman is welcomed by King Targo, and Shiera is set free.

One of the Dravidians who raided the expedition, Daki, issues a challenge to Hawkman, but he is easily bested.  Hawkman spares his life.  Daki claims humility, but secretly plots a rebellion to overthrow Targo.  His plans are dashed by Hawkman, who finally does him in, leaving Targo to rule his people in peace.

Review: Definitely a lesser story, but with some novel elements.  The use of the ancient sword to make the locals think that Hawkman was their god is one of these nice touches, which makes this more than just the typical "Hawkman in an exotic locale" story.  What is odd though is that no mention is made of the fact that, even though the Dravidians welcome Hawkman and set Shiera free, they still killed the rest of the party!  Oh well!

Image: Flash Comics #16, 1941, Harold Wilson Sharp.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 12/23/2009


So, will there be any Hawk-related stuff at your local comic shops before the holiday?  Let's find out.

Blackest Night #1 (4th Printing) -- For those of you who came in late.  I mean, really late.  I mean, like missed homeroom and first period and now it's halfway through second late.  The fact that this is at it's fourth printing clearly demonstrates that interest in this series has not waned for the general comics populace.

Blackest Night: JSA #1 -- I am not sure if the Hawks will show up in this miniseries or not, but considering their ties to the Justice Society (both old and new), it would not be a stretch if they did.  Word of mouth on the Blackest Night tie-in minis has been very strong across the board, so I am intrigued with this one.

Green Lantern #49 -- When the Blackest Night goes, the reanimated corpses of Carter Hall, Kendra Saunders, Prince Khufu, and Princess Chay-era may follow.

Very somber sort of stuff right before Christmas, but thems the breaks.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Pop Funk "9 Blocks Of Justice" T-shirt


From PopFunk, purveyors of fine DC Comics related t-shirts, comes this new Justice League headshot style shirt, featuring the Winged Wonder Hawkman.  We've also got Supes, Bats, Aquaman, Plas, "That Goateed Moron" Green Arrow,  GL, Flash, and... Robin?

There's none of the legendary JLA gals on there but Robin makes the cut?  Them's the breaks I suppose!

Anyways, a nice, art-deco sort of aesthetic on this shirt, with the single color pops for each character, set on a black background.  Another winner from the folks over at PF.

Image: Pop Funk "Nine Blocks Of Justice" t-shirt detail, 2009, image retrieved from Pop Funk.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Read: Rann-Thanagar Holy War #6


Issue: Rann-Thanagar Holy War #6
Title: "The Demiurge"
Published Date: Dec 2008
Generation: Modern Carter
Retcon Status: In Continuity

Summary: After the events of last issue, Synnar the Demiurge and Deacon Dark are in command of the cloaked Thanagarian fleet over Rann, and have somehow established a fortified base on the surface.   Not only that, but they have established a forcefield around the planet which prevents also communication and teleportation.  But, Adam Strange, Hawkman, and The Weird receive backup in the form of Comet, Starman, Animal Man, Bizarro, Tigorr, and Starfire since Comet can still use his teleport powers.  But things get even worse when Sardath informs the heroes that Lady Styx's armada is en route now as well!

Needing intel, Adam has Comet telepathically spy on Synnar.  Up on the ritual ziggurat erected earlier, Synnar tells Deacon Dark of how he came to be:  Before time and space existed, The Supreme One created the Demiurge to be the architect of His universe.  And he created the celestial, the mortal, and everything in between.  Done with his work, the Demiurge watched over his creation while the Supreme One took care of His business, including the creation of the angels... and their eventual casting out.  Angry at his work being cast aside by the Supreme One, the Demiurge began to reabsorb his creation into himself and build power.  This lead to the only possible outcome, as all of the Supreme One's wrath and creations were targetted at the Demiurge.  Afterwards, the Demiurge's very existance was striken from history, dubbing him "The Nameless" for all eternity.  But, the Demiurge played gambit and survived, existing on a subatomic level to avoid detection.  And over the span of all time, he slowly built himself up, from crystalline lifeforms, to organics, to sentient life, to other dimensions, and cybernetic networks.

Eventually deciding to create a personification of himself, the Demiurge took cosmic dictator Tarus Deltar and transformed him into Synnar.  But the plan unraveled thanks to the Justice League, and it has taken nearly two decades to get back to this point, with Synnar The Demiurge ready to spread his word throughout the universe.  With Deacon Dark caught up, Synnar kicks Comet out of his head, having known he was being spied on the entire time.  And with Comet busy spying, Bizarro is free to attack the Inquisitor robots.  Synnar, however, is unimpressed, and effortlessly blasts Bizarro with an eye beam.  With their heavy hitter down, the heroes are desperate, and running out of options.

Review: And here is where the whole purpose of this miniseries comes to bear, as Starlin lays his latest cosmic heavy out on the table for us to peruse.  And what a heavy he is: the Demiurge from the Age of Plato, God's Architect, building himself up into a force strong enough to overthrow God Himself.  I'm sorry but that's freaking awesome.  Synnar The Demiurge is one of the best villian concepts I have heard in a long time, right up there with Geoff Johns' take on the Reverse-Flash, and light years better than overhyped junk characters like The Hood.  And while Synnar may have started out as a Thanos clone, adding this element of the Demiurge to mix transforms him into a unique celestial threat who should be on the level of folks like Mongul and Darkseid.  Of course, DC won't use him like that, but if only Starlin uses him, maybe that's for the best.

The rest of the issue is chess board manuvering, necessary but not the focus.  Starlin is clearly in his element and enjoying himself playing in the cosmic sandbox.  

Image: Rann-Thanagar Holy War #6, 2008, Jim Starlin.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Upcoming: Blackest Night Hawkman


Attention, attention!  Awesome toy alert!  Black Lantern Hawkman is coming from DC Direct!

And that's not all!  I hear rumblings of Black Lantern Hawkgirl coming soon as well!  

Oh man, between these two, Larfleeze, Indigo-1, and all of the other Black Lanterns, this toy line is getting out of hand with the coolness!

Image: DC Direct Black Lantern Hawkman toy, 2009, image retrieved from Toy Legion.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 12/9/2009


Doesn't look like much in the way of Hawkman related stuff out this week at your local comic shops, but we do have some things of interest.

DC Holiday Special 2009 -- I have been a fan of these since DC restarted them a few years back.  The Holiday ones are consistantly better than the Halloween ones -- maybe because sweet is more fun to read than horror when it comes to superheroes?  In any event, this should be a seasonally fun comic, and worth the hefty price tag.

JLA Year One -- This new printing of the Mark Waid penned series is a good way for fans like yours truly who missed out on it the first time to check it out.  I have heard good things about this story, so I may have to pick this up.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Image: Lego Blackest Night


Ulises Farinas, artist of the webcomic MOTRO, has concocted this deviously awesome image of the Blackest Night -- as fought by Lego Minipeople!  And who's right there, ready to lay a serious brick-kicking down but Black Lantern Hawkman!

Notice also the Phantom Stranger standing off by his own in the back, Star Sapphire's costume looking even more ridiculous than normal, and Krypto!

Great stuff!

Image: Lego Blackest Night, 2009, Ulises Farinas, image obtained from IO9.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 12/3/2009


What kind of Hawk-centric merchandise can one expect to find at their local comic shops this week?  Let's find out.

Rann-Thanagar Holy War v.2 -- Appropriate that I posted the review of #5 this week, as the second and concluding collection of this series is released.  I have a weird sort of obsession with this storyline and it's sequel, in no small part to the issues collected in this volume.  Issue #6, which details the history of the Demiurge, was one of my favorite comics of 2008, and introduced the most insanely awesome new badguy in superhero comics since Johns' created the new Zoom.  Unfortunately, Jim Starlin is no Geoff Johns nowadays, so it seems that Synnar the Demiurge will remain toiling in obscurity.  Still, plenty of Hawkman and friends action for your enjoyment in this book.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Hawkman And The Atom Are Buddies (Cry For Justice #5)


From Justice League: Cry For Justice #5, we see that James Robinson knows who the real pals in the League are: Hawkman and The Atom!  The word balloon in the first panel is misplaced, marring the image slightly, but I really liked this exchange.  A lot of folks online have nothing but venom for this series, but so far I have enjoyed it (full disclosure: I have not read all of #5 yet).  It certainly has gotten me interested in seeing what else Robinson is working on in the DCU, from Mon-El over in Superman to his run on the main JLoA title.  

Oh man, but do I dig Mauro Cascioli's art!  I dug it on Trials of Shazam and I am digging it on Cry For Justice.  It'll never happen, but how cool would a regular monthly JLA book by him be?!

Image: Hawkman and The Atom, Justice League: Cry For Justice #5, 2009, Mauro Cascioli.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Read: Rann-Thanagar Holy War #5


Issue: Rann-Thanagar Holy War #5
Title: "Cursed Be The Peacemakers!"
Published Date: Nov 2008
Generation: Modern Carter
Retcon Status: In Continuity

Summary: Comet, Adam Strange, Weird, Bizarro, and Starman return to Rann from the devastated Throneworld, and Adam wonders if he will become the target of Prince Gavyn's wrath.  Meanwhile, Sardath and the Grand Mor of Thanagar are each planning an escalation of conflict, readying their fleets for combat.  Hearing of this, Adam and Hawkman break out their "secret weapon," and split the team up, taking Comet and Bizarro with them out into space.  The "secret weapon" turns out to be a telepathic wave broadcaster, a device which will use Comet's telepathy to speak to every member of both fleets!  Despite discovering that the Thanagarians have extremely advanced cloaking technology, Comet is able to use the device to suggest that each of the fleet's respective gods has ordered them not to fight.

Meanwhile, Deacon Dark and Synnar have made their way to Rann, where the "second coming" of the Nameless is set to take place.  Placing a ziggurat in the middle of a desert, Dark begins the ritual while Adam, Hawkman, and Weird take a closer look.  No sooner are they spying on the ceremony than they realize that Thanagar has snuck a cloaked fleet into low orbit around Rann!  Deacon Dark tells Synnar that he is blessed to give the Nameless his name, and the cunning Synnar makes a power play, giving the name "Synnar."  But this backfires on him, as the Namless is born into Synnar's body, which is changed to resemble the dark, armored form he wore in Hawkman and Adam's respective visions.

Review: This is one of those issues where a lot of stuff happens, but it seems like not a lot of stuff happens.  Does that make sense?  Sort of anti-decompression taken to it's ultimate level.  We have enough material here for two issues, but the fact that the Thanagarians have an invisible space armada just doesn't seem to have the weight that it should, and instead we focus more on the second half of the issue and the rise of the Demiurge.

In any event, beyond suffering from being a middle chapter, this is a pretty good little comic, with some good character moments from the three leads, some nice pencils from Lim, and the plot moves along a good bit.  And, of course, I am a sucker for Synnar the Demiurge.  But it really does suggest to me that Starlin wanted 12 issues, got 10, and made due.  

Image: Rann-Thanagar Holy War #5, 2008, Jim Starlin.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Smallville: Absolute Justice Second Look


As we continue counting down to Smallville: Absolute Justice, more and more teases are being trickled out, including this chest-thumping shot of Hawkman and Green Arrow at each other's throats.  Absolute Justice's screenwriter Geoff Johns promised us animosity, and animosity we have!

We also have our first looks at Dr. Fate and Stargirl, which can be seen here.  Overall, I like the look of their costumes.  Courtney's domino mask is a little too clunky and chunky, but otherwise she is represented well.  Fate looks pretty much as I expected him to look, and I am very satisfied with it.

As to Hawkman, this image shows off Michael Shanks' build much better than the first one did, as well as showcasing the texture of the helmet and costume.  I am more enthused by this image than the previous one.  This image also reminds me of this scene from early on in Volume 4, heh.

Smallville: Absolute Justice airs on February 5, 2010, and this Hawkman cannot wait!

Image: Hawkman and Green Arrow from Smallville, 2009, image obtained from Blog@Newsarama.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Holiday Hiatus


As I mentioned earlier, my family and I are heading out of town tonight to head down to Florida to spend the holiday with my wife's family.  I'll be back next week, and hopefully actually have something to blog about.  Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Waiting In The Wings -- 11/24/2009


Well, my wife, son and I are heading out of town for the holiday tonight, so you get the Hawk-related titles a day early this week.  Of course, I won't get to read them until next week at the earliest, but them's the breaks.

Blackest Night #5 -- No doubt that the reanimated corpses of Carter and Kendra will play a role in this comic, the first installment of the second half of Blackest Night.  I'm pretty sure Johns has some utterly evil stuff up his sleeve to spring on us all.

Green Lantern #48 -- I have not been following the tie-in titles to BN that I was not already reading, but I know in one of them we saw the Black Lanterns of Khufu and Chay-era, and they could show up here.

Justice League: Cry For Justice #5 -- The end of the last issue had Green Lantern and Green Arrow's little group running afoul of the Justice League, who for some reason at the beginning of this title had both Hawkman and Hawkgirl in it.  So hopefully we can see them all throw down with that lovely Cascioli artwork.

Smallville: Absolute JusticeTeaser Image


More teases for the upcoming Smallville: Absolute Justice telefilm were provided, appropriately, from the teaser trailer at the end of last week's episode, which can be seen here.  Points of interest include glimpses at the Sandman, Alan Scott's Green Lantern ring, the JSA's meeting table, and this portrait showcasing the Golden Agers in all of their glory.

Right in the middle, of course, are Hawkman and Hawkgirl, though they are slightly obscured here.  They're flanked by Jay Garrick and Dr. Fate.

Between the new information provided here and what we already know, this is shaping up to be one nerdtacular event.

Image: Smallville: Absolute Justice trailer screencap, 2009, retrieved from Speed Force.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Smallville Feature Changes Name


The oft-mentioned upcoming Smallville feature event starring the Justice Society now is "officially" a telefilm.

Say hello to Smallville: Absolute Justice.

Sources confirm to me exclusively that The CW has jettisoned the separate titles that were initially assigned to each of the two episodes — "Society" and "Legends," respectively — in favor of the singularly sensational (and far more marketable) Smallville: Absolute Justice.

What's more, I hear the movie — which marks the debut of Michael Shanks as Hawkman (pictured) — will air as a seamless two-hour event with only one set of credits.

This sounds more awesome with every little snippet which is released!  Mark your calenders for Feb 5th!  

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 11/18/2009


Do we have any new Hawk-merch coming out this week?  Let's check it out!

JSA v.3: Thy Kingdom Come Part 2 -- This collection finishes up the "Thy Kingdom Come" storyline and leads the way into "In The Name of Gog," which was Geoff Johns' penultimate arc on this title and the last one for Hawkman.  There's some good stuff in here, and is definitely worth checking out.

Justice Society of America 80 Page Giant #1 -- I haven't been reading JSoA since Johns left, so I am not really sure what is going on at the moment in the title.  But the JLoA 80 Pager was a nice treat, and there is always the possibility of this taking place before Carter and Kendra sloughed off this mortal coil.

Monday, November 16, 2009

First Look: Hawkman on Smallville


Check it out folks, we've got a first look at Michael Shanks as Carter Hall, AKA Hawkman, from Smallville's upcoming feature-length Justice Society adventure.

I am pleased with how the helmet and wing harness look, but Shanks looks like he needs to beef up a little bit.  Maybe it's just the picture, but he looks a little too scrawny to wield that mace effectively!  Otherwise, I have only minor complaints, which is tantamount to "where are the stripes?"  I don't mind the breastplate look, and the presence of the chestpiece is excellent.  I guess the real test will be when the rubber hits the road, so to speak, when it hits the airwaves.

There is also an interview which Shanks where he sheds some light on Hawkman's role in the story:

TV Guide: What's Hawkman's story?

Michael Shanks: When we first meet Carter Hall he's in his museum. (Luke sez: HECK YES!)  We'll learn he's a reincarnated prince from a thousand years ago. There is a reference to The Justice Society's time in the '70s, but we have since disbanded.

...

TVG: Is there any reference made to Hawkgirl?

MS: There's a lot of referencing to Shayera/ Hawkgirl throughout as his one true love, given the fact that these two have a tremendous history as thousand year-old reincarnated beings who continue to find each other lifetime after lifetime. And we will learn where she is now.

I don't know that I can get any more jazzed up to see Hawkman on the small screen at this point!  The special is set to air February 5, 2010.

Image: Hawkman from Smallville, 2009, image retreived from Comic Book Movie.com  

Friday, November 13, 2009

Hawkman and Hawkwoman Postcard by George Perez


I got put on to this postcard by Shag over at Firestorm Fan, and it certainly is a nice image.  I wish I could find a bigger copy, but you make do with what you have sometimes.

Anyway, I really like the symmetry which Perez uses here.  Besides their arms and wings, notice how the strip on the right boots line up, and then is nicely broken up on the left.  I also dig Shayera wielding the big two handed axe!

Image: Hawkman and Hawkwoman postcard, 1984, George Perez, image retrieved from Cosmic Teams.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Superfriends "Hobo Bag"


Thanks to rob! over at The Aquaman Shrine for passing along this little beauty, a Superfriends "hobo bag" of all things!  Unfortunately, the bag itself is no longer available for purchase, but you can still see some more pictures here.

It's unfortunate that bufoon Green Lantern is jutting his elbow in front of Hawkman, but I think Katar will get Hal back later at the JLA's "two hand touch" football game!

Image: Superfriends "hobo bag," 2009, image retrieved from The Aquaman Shrine.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Hawkman's Smallville Epsiodes Now a Telefilm?


According to the crew over at Blog@Newsarama, the upcoming Geoff Johns-penned Smallville episodes featuring Hawkman -- entitled "Society" and "Legends," respectively -- are now going to air as one two hour telefilm.

This comes on the heels of the previous announcement that Pam Grier (yes Coffy herself) will be playing the role of Amanda Waller in these episodes.  While I was a huge fan of CCH Pounder as "The Wall" on Justice League, this casting seems like a shoo-in as well.

This reall is great news!  I can't think of another time when characters as deserving as Hawkman, Dr. Fate, and Stargirl will get so much exposure.  I am very pleased to see the extra attention given to what is shaping up to be a very promising pair of episodes.  Hopefully CW (and maybe DC) will hype this as an "event," which, given the presence of the Winged Wonder, it most certainly is!  

Waiting In The Wings -- 11/11/2009


Do we have anything new featuring the Winged Wonders in store this week?  Let's have a look and see.

Absolute Justice HC -- I'm personally waiting for a softcover version, so I should be reading this Alex Ross take on the Superfriends sometime next decade.  But that's alright, since this looks pretty timeless anyway.

Green Lantern Corps #42 -- The Black Lantern Khufu and Chay-era or Carter and Kendra could pop up here, although I have not been following this title so I am not sure.

REBELS #10 -- Similarly, the space heroes could have to deal with our zombified heroes, but they seem to have their hands full with Starro at the moment!

Read: Flash Comics #15


Issue: Flash Comics #15 (Reprinted in The Golden Age Hawkman Archives v.1)
Title: "The Hand" (Suggested Title)
Published Date: Mar 1941
Generation: Golden Age Carter
Retcon Status: In Continuity

Summary: Carter Hall is paying a visit to his friend Elwin Thayer, who has been acting strangely.  While on his way, though, Carter finds Elwin's daughter Teddy on the side of the road!  She tells Carter that her father has been receiving death threats, and locked himself in the library and sent her away.  They go to the house to find Thayer murdered, and the priceless Everest Emerald stolen.  Dropping Teddy off with Shiera, Carter investigates as Hawkman.

Meanwhile, we see that it was Elwin's brother Edward who is the murderer -- somehow he created a disembodied hand (which can speak!) to do his bidding.  He killed his brother for the Emerald (and estate) in order to impress his girlfriend Sandra.  As Hawkman investigates the grounds, the girls arrive with similar intent.  All three of them see the Hand, sent by Edward to kill Teddy, though they are able to avoid it.  Hawkman trails the hand back to Edward's apartment, and finds him dead -- killed by Sandra's thugs!  Hawkman takes out the thugs (with a timely assist from the Hand), but is shot in the shoulder by Sandra.  The lady killer then finds Shiera and Teddy outside, and takes them hostage.  Recovering, Hawkman and the Hand agree with to work together.  As Hawkman grabs the girls from the car, the Hand strangles Sandra, and the two drive off a cliff.  Back at the Hall place, Teddy chides Carter for not being brave like Hawkman.

Review: This is a bizarre one.  We never quite learn just how the hand was created, no how it manages to speak.  Add to that a lot of confusing coloring, including people's clothes spontaneously changing colors from panel to panel, and Sandra completely changing her appearance halfway through the story.  Still, it's amusing enough, including Teddy's admonishment of Carter as a "fraidy cat," which reminded me of the classic "Where were you when Superman was here, Clark?" motif.  The Moldoff cover is nice, but once again not connected in any way to the story.

Image: Flash Comics #15, 1941, Sheldon Moldoff.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 11/4/2009


Do we have any Hawk-related stuff to look forward to at the LCS this week?  Let's find out!

Superman: World of New Krypton #9 -- Last issue detailed a clash between the New Kryptonians and... a race vaguely resembling Thanagarians.  I am not sure what the heck Robinson was trying to pull off with the Thanagarian dialect being spoken, but it didn't work.  They haven't been portrayed that way, well, ever.  And if it was military slang, it was laid on too thick to be really believable.  The Wingmen slang from Hawkworld was pretty well developed by Truman, and would have made more sense.  "Devils!" for instance.  About the only one I liked was the use of "Grand!" as a modifier, which struck me as similar to the use of "prime" on Transformers: Beast Wars.  Anyways, needless to say I didn't care for the Thanagarians last time out.  This issue features alien badass Jemm, Son of Saturn, but it may also include the Thanagarians as well.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Michael Shanks on Hawkman


From that traditional comic book news outlet The Huffington Post...

Wait, what?

The Huffington Post?

Are you serious?

Alright, folks, I'll post the tidbit excerpted over at the Comic Reel at Comic Book Resources, but I am not clicking through to that site.  The management of Being Carter Hall does not endorse or support The Huffington Post in any way, and makes no claims or guarantees on the content of the site should you choose to click the above link.

Anyways, Michael Shanks on playing Hawkman on Smallville:

"I have yet to shoot a frame of film on this episode. This is what I've been doing the most of, is going for fittings and you know, talking to the producers about the character and discussing the elements of the voices. But mostly it's been focused on the costume and the logistics of the costume. Again, it's a necessary thing. I really appreciate the reverence that these guys have."

Also, Shanks (unsurprisingly) confirms that he is playing Carter Hall, archeologist, and not Katar Hol, Space Cop.  I say "unsurprisingly" because Geoff Johns is writing his appearances!

Smallville has been on an upswing through last season into this one, so I am very much looking forward to seeing the Society pop up over on "Earth-CW."

Monday, November 2, 2009

Justice League Of America Monopoly Card


Thanks to Shag over at Once Upon A Geek, here we have a "Batcomputer" card from Justice League of America monopoly (essentially a Community Chest card).  Evidently, this is the only appearance Hawkman makes in this set, which is disappointed as That Goateed Moron Green Arrow rates a lot more, including getting a game piece!  Ah well, those morons in marketting don't know what they are doing.  

At least the Winged Wonder's card pays out some cash.

Image: Justice League of America "Batcomputer" card, 1999, retrieved from Once Upon A Geek.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Acquired: JSA Classified #22


Picked this one up for 33 cents at the Greenville Comic Con last weekend.  It's part 2 of 2, I think, but that's alright.  The way I see it, that means I only need one more issue to get the whole story!  I am fairly intrigued as to why Blackfire has Wingman's gear on, especially considering her role in Rann-Thanagar War.  Hmmmm.

Walt Simonson could do nothing but covers for random DC comics for the rest of his career and I would be happy.  I like the "two-toned" nature of this cover, and the dynamic look of both combatants chosen weapons.  Nice stuff.

Image: JSA Classified #22, 2007, Walt Simonson

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 10/28/2009


Heading down to the LCS today?  Then be sure to check out these new Hawk-related arrivals.

Blackest Night #4 -- Not many titles this week but this one's a doozy at least.  No doubt that the Black Lantern Hawks will have some dastardly tricks up their proverbial sleeves.  I imagine that this will be the turning point in the story, as we will be halfway into it, and we will get more of an idea of the overall story here.  I have been really digging this book and very much am eager to get my hands on it.  And the week of Halloween to boot!

Green Lantern #47 -- Haven't been reading this title, despite being BL-related, but as always there is a chance of either the Hawks or Khufu and Chay-era popping up here in zombified form.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Acquired: Hawkman "Army Man" Toy


This weekend at Greenville Comic Con, I picked up a very curious item: a small (maybe 3" tall), green plastic Hawkman toy.  It very much looks like something which would have come from a Justice League of America Army Men set.  In fact, there were other members of the JLoA, and in various colors as well.  I have not been able to take a picture yet, but I believe it is stamped 1981 on the base.  

Anyone out there have any information?  I did a cursory search on the web and came up empty.

A picture will be forthcoming... and by forthcoming I mean sometime soon, hopefully!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Hawkman Cast On Smallville


We have been hearing strong rumors about Hawkman appearing with some of his fellow Justice Society members this season on Smallville, and late last week we got confirmation on the actor who will be playing the Winged Wonder: Michael Shanks, who played Daniel Jackson on the various Stargate TV shows.

I never watched much Stargate but I think Shanks has a fairly good look for Hawkman on the small screen.  He looks to be in good shape, which is a plus, although I imagine he will not be bare-chested.  His face conveys intelligence and intensity, which are the two traits I think are most important for a live action Hawkman.  He is a little young but it is Smallville after all.  And he does look like a museum curator.  How exactly he will be costumed and portrayed (ie, alien or human), we don't know yet, but with Geoff Johns handling the writing chores I am leaning towards Egyptian Prince over Space Cop.  

Speaking of, Johns added this little note on his Twitter account:

Yes, Hawkman will have wings. And a big mace. Oh. And he and Green Arrow don't get along. At all.

Oh yeah, baby!  It's on now!  

Image: Michael Shanks, ???, retrieved from Blog@Newsarama.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 10/21/2009


As near as I can tell, there is no Hawkman or Hawkgirl related stuff on the release list for this week, so I thought I might take a moment to talk about some of the other stuff being released by DC instead.

DCU Halloween Special 2009 -- The Halloween Specials DC has put out since they started the holiday books up again.  I remember last year's really being a dud.  The Holiday Specials have been better, but I have high hopes for this one.  Doubtful we will see the Hawks, but you never know.

Justice League of America #38 --  The beginning of the end for the current team, as this issue apparently features Despero beating the ever-loving crap out of the Justice League in order to facilitate James Robinson's incoming version of the team.  I am torn on what I think about the new lineup.  I like the "new Trinity" in principle, but I don't really know much of anything about Mon-El nor Donna Troy.  Personally I hope that Donna gets a nickname which sticks, for one thing.  I am also torn on the former Teen Titans.  Cyborg is a good fit, but Starfire I am less sure about.  Of course, most of my exposure to Starfire comes from the Teen Titans cartoon, so that is a clouding factor.  Atom, GL, GA, Guardian, Congorilla, though: bring it on.  Should be a fun ride either way.

Outsiders #23 -- I just want to say that the format and pacing of this storyline is exactly what I want to see in my comics.  Hopefully this will continue on once Dan DiDio takes over writing chores.  

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Read: Hawkman v.4:no.14


Issue: Hawkman v.4:no.14 (reprinted in Hawkman v.2: Allies & Enemies)
Title: "Killers, Part 2"
Published Date: Jun 2003
Generation: Modern Carter
Retcon Status: In Continuity

Summary: In the swamps of St. Roch parish, the Gentleman Ghost appears before the half-crazed Chief Nedal, telling him that he will help the officer if he does him a favor -- one which involves reloading his gun.

Meanwhile, Hawkman and Hawkgirl are still fighting, with Hawkgirl demanding vengeance on Nedal for murdering her parents.  Just as Hawkman manages to pin her down, the Ghost appears to the heroes.  He taunts them, since a mortal cannot touch a spirit, and explains to them that when he met them for the first time, it was in the mid-1800s, when "they" were known as Nighthawk and Cinammon, respectively.  "Gentleman" Jim Craddock's death at the hands of Nighthawk (who thought Craddock was forcing himself on Cinammon, when in fact they were tussling over an attempted larceny) transformed him into the Gentleman Ghost, forced to wander the Earth forever since the souls of those responsible for his death cannot pass on.  He cruelly tells them that he has sent Nedal to their "temple," the museum, because it amused himself.

Back at Stonechat, Nedal almost immediately opens fire, hitting Jayita in the gut and clipping Officer Isabella in the shoulder.  Danny and Nedal struggle, with Nedal chasing the young man throughout the museum.  The Hawks arrive to save Danny, and Nedal is on the run from the Winged Wonders.  With the Chief subdued, Hawkman wants to hang him with Craddock's noose for killing Jayita, but Kendra stays his hand.  That doesn't stop the Gentleman Ghost, however, who does the deed himself, leaving Nedal hanging off the widow's walk of Stonechat.

The truth about Nedal is made public and the Hawks given a pass by the media.  But one new arrival wants to get to the bottom of this new Hawkman, and readies to make herself known: Shayera Thal, Hawkwoman of Thanagar.

Review: The art in this issue is handled by guest penciller Don Kramer, who has done some work on Batman and Detective Comics, as well as the current JSA vs Kobra miniseries.  His work is straightforward and trim, a big visual change from Van Sciver's work in the last issue.  Other than the complicated manner in which he draws the lenses on the helmets, his work is not a bad fit for the Hawks, although his Gentleman Ghost is not afforded the same special effects coloring that EVS got.  Anyway, I really like this issue, as it wraps up a major plot point, brings back a major bad guy, and has one hell of a last page teaser.  

Johns does a good job of detailing the Ghost's motivation and point of view.  It is not very surprising that after Johns essentially brought him back around this time that his stock has risen considerably in the larger DCU, including his various animated appearances.  

All in all a good, concise two-parter and a very strong Hawk adventure.

Image: Hawkman v.4:no.14, 2003, Andrew Robinson.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Hiatus: Gone Fishin'


Heading to the beach to go fishing... so no blogging for me!  I'll see everyone back here Monday morning!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 10/14/2009


It's Wednesday, which means new comics!  Do we have anything fresh featuring the Pinioned Powerhouses this week?

Blackest Night #1 3rd Printing -- In case you missed the first two printings, you too can see the murder of Hawkman and Hawkgirl and their resurrection as Black Lanterns!  ... I guess I shouldn't have spoiled that, since ostensibly someone buying the 3rd printing might not have read it yet... oh well.

Green Lantern Corps #41 -- After the reveal of sorts of the "Lovers" in a recent issue of Green Lantern, something could be made of either them or the regular old Black Lantern Hawks in this issue.  I am buying the main Blackest Night book, but not the tie-ins.  I wonder how DC will collect these comics?  

Trinity v.3 TP -- I believe this finishes up this weekly series, which at some point I am going to have to bundle these together on In Stock Trades or something.  Seems like a lot of money, sure, but you know me and Hawkman.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

The Atom And Hawkman Coming Back?


Well, for one month at least!  DC announced at the current Baltimore Retailer's Summit, DC Head Honcho (and upcoming Outsiders scribe) Dan DiDio announced that in January, 8 titles are being resurrected as part of Blackest Night, and The Atom And Hawkman is one of them.  It's even coming back with it's original numbering (and we didn't even have to send in any postcards or anything).

From The Source:

- ATOM AND HAWKMAN #46 Geoff [Johns] brings you the double date from Hell, The Black Lantern Hawks work to reunite Atom with his long dead love, Jean Loring.

You can see a little bit of the cover, although it is in black and white and negative-reversed, and obscured, in the image.  To me, it looks like Jean Loring is the Slaver Queen, which I guess makes perfect sense!

Of course, here at Being Carter Hall we have been calling for the return of The Atom And Hawkman as a $3.99 co-feature title for months now.  While this is not quite that awesome, it is definitely a step in the right direction.  Should be a cool event, and I am definitely looking forward to seeing all the classic trade dress in play!

Image: Blackest Night One-shots promo image, 2009, retrieved from The Source.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Read: Hawkman v.4:no.13


Issue: Hawkman v.4:no.13 (reprinted in Hawkman v.2: Allies & Enemies)
Title: "Killers, Part 1"
Published Date: May 2003
Generation: Modern Carter
Retcon Status: In Continuity

Summary: At the Stonechat Museum, the DEO arrives to arrest Kendra for the murder of a police officer when she was a girl.  The St. Roch police have been trying to contact Carter, but they have not been able to reach him (since the Hawks were on their Himalayan adventure).  As the DEO places Kendra in custody, Hawkman smashes a police cruiser with his mace, but Kendra tells him that he can't help that way.

In the car, Kendra finds that Chief Nadal is driving the car, and that he plans to run away with her.  When she asks him why, Nadal tells Kendra that he loves her, and she has an immediate revelation: Nadal is one of the police officers who tried to assault Kendra and her mother all those years ago, and caused his partner to be shot and killed.  Kendra accuses Nadal of murdering her parents, which he admits, saying they were getting too close to uncovering him after he made a new life for himself in St. Roch.  Kendra then slips her handcuffs and lashes out at him, sending the car careening down a hill and into a swamp, catching fire.  Nadal escapes, and Hawkman arrives in time to pull Kendra from the back, who then retrieves her helmet and wings from the trunk.  

Hawkgirl tells Hawkman of Nadal's confession, adding that her touching of the Absorbascon restored her repressed memories of this life, and grabs one of his spears, intending to kill the police chief.  Hawkman tries to stop her, but Kendra's rage is implacable, and the two Hawks tangle furiously in the sky.  Meanwhile, Nadal is trying to find his way out of the marsh when he runs right into the spectral form of the Gentleman Ghost!

Review: When I first read this issue, I was floored!  Nadal, the man who murdered Kendra's parents?  I guess it's not that surprising, considering his somewhat over-blown interest in Kendra, but I figured he would be to Kendra like Jayita was to Carter initially.  Needless to say this is a much different direction.  Geoff Johns captures Hawkgirl's fury really well, and her venom in arguing with Hawkman in the swamp.  Guest penciller and frequest Johns collaborator Ethan Van Sciver's Hawkman looks great, but his Hawkgirl has a weird angular thing going on which just looks a little bizarre.  Needless to say he has gotten better at the female form.  His Gentleman Ghost, though, pretty much makes up for any shortcoming (including some insane sfx coloring from the crew at Heroic Age).  A very strong story, starting to wrap up one of the introductory plotlines from the series, which is always nice.  I like protracted mysteries as much as the next guy, but it's always good to have them solved, too!  

Image: Hawkman v.4:no.13, 2003, Andrew Robinson.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

"Gotcha" Panel from Shadow War of Hawkman #4


The Thanagarians are coming for YOU!

As I said the other day, I am a sucker for this type of gag in comics, and this is one of the better ones of this type.  They really are coming for you!

Image: Panel from Shadow War of Hawkman #4, 1985, Richard Howell.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 10/07/2009


Can we expect to find anything related to the Winged Wonders this week at the local comic shop?  Let's find out.

JLA Mini Neon Sign -- Yeah, we're feeling the loss of Wednesday Comics with the inclusion of this item right here.  Considering the rate at which DC is putting these things out, we should be getting a Hawkman sign right after Martian Manhunter and right before the Phantom Stranger.

Superman: World of New Krypton #8 -- Featuring an encounter between the New Kryptonians and Hawkman's "people," the Thanagarians.  Is the solicitation text just a mistake, or is it a subtle hint that there is more to this than meets the eye?  I really think that Dan DiDio wants a Space Cop Hawkman winging around the DCU, so you can bet I am going to be reading this issue with a fine toothed comb for any potential candidates for a "new" Katar Hol.  

Wow... that would be an elegant solution, wouldn't it?  Just make a new Hawkman, not named Katar and start with a blank slate?  Sure it would piss off lots of people but maybe you could give him memory implants via an Absorbascon or something.  That'd give us our Space Cop with all the continuity baggage, for sure!

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Coming Soon To Being Carter Hall


Well folks, I was doing some thinking about the blog over the last few days and have come up with some features and content which I hope to introduce or implent in the coming weeks and months.

-Introduction/"Who Is Hawkman?" -- The inspiration for this post.  Even though I have stated that I was not (and to certain levels still am not) a Hawkman expert, I never thought about those who might find this blog who literally have no idea who Hawkman is.  So I am going to be working up a primer of sorts which will stay permalinked in a prominant spot on the front page, where new readers can get a quick catch-up.  Furthermore, I want to use this space to explain terms I use on here a lot (I have gotten several questions on just what I mean by "retcon status"), and hopefully clear things up for the non-comic book fans out there.  The problem, of course, is that this is going to take some time to make really clear and understandable, especially considering the pre- and post-Hawkworld Katar Hol.  

-Villain content -- I know I promised this last time I did one of these posts, and I am still working on exactly how I want to present this, but these are coming.  I promise.

-Hawkgirl/Hawkwoman content -- See what I said about villains above.

-Hawktoys -- Besides actually opening up and talking about the Hawk-related toys I have, I want to track down the ones I want but don't have, as well as shine a spotlight on some more obscure, older, or otherwise hard to find toys.  

-Hawk essays -- I tend to get ideas jumbled in my head, so maybe it would be better for me to get them down on paper and organize them rather than let them rattle around in there.  I was doing pretty well with this at the launch but have since slacked off, and I want to get back into it.

-Wednesday Comics -- Now that the series is done I'll finally get around to posting about it!  Actually I want to read the full story in one sitting and then get into each strip.  That actually was my plan from the start so I don't feel so bad about this.

In addition, I am really going to try to get back on track with my Volume 4 reviews, as well as finishing up Rann-Thanagar Holy War.

So, readers?  What else would you like to see?  What can I improve upon?  I'm always up for criticism (as long as it's not about how much cooler Green Arrow is or something like that...) and improving the blog.  So any thoughts or feedback are greatly appreciated.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Read: Shadow War of Hawkman #4


Issue: Shadow War Of Hawkman #4
Title: "No Sound Of Clashing Wars"
Published Date: Aug 1985
Generation: Silver Age Katar
Retcon Status: Out Of Continuity

Summary: Rab Mekir, tied to the Absorbascon, seeks out the secrets of key humans throughout the world, and the Thanagarian invaders seek them out and entrap them to do the aliens' bidding.

Meanwhile, in The Bunker in Detroit, Katar and Shayera are being taunted by Fell Andar from their ship, which he has captured.  Now that they have taken control of all of the Hawks' Thanagarian weapons, Fell's invasion is set to amp up to a full scale level.  The Hawks figure out a quick plan, and ride a Relativity Beam to their ship, where they are quickly surrounded.  But the heroes are one step ahead, having programmed the Beam to teleport them from the bridge to the computer room, where they overtake the guard and begin to override the master computer.

While hacking the computer, Hawkwoman discovers that Fell has programmed the ship onto a collision course with Detroit.  Suddenly, the Thanagarian guard stabs Hawkman with a screwdriver, and the rest of the invaders evacuate all of the air out of the room.  With time running out, and the invaders cutting through the wall to come and kill our heroes, Hawkman and Hawkwoman make a hard decision, and program the ship to self-destruct.

The Hawks survive, by riding the Relativity Beam back to Earth.  While they confront the fact that they were forced to kill their own countrymen, the Hawks head back to Grinder's Bluff, and find Rab Mekir still in agony hooked up to the Absorbascon.  While they talk about what to do with him, Fell Andar pops up and tries to kill our heroes once again -- but he doesn't get the chance, as Rab blasts his commander with a mental bolt, seeming killing both of them.

The adventure over, Carter and Shiera Hall retake their places at Midway City Museum, with a Commander Frazier in their confidence and a new museum artist being interviewed.  But all is not as it seems, as one of Fell's agents is still on Earth... the battle is over, but the war has just begun.

Review: The first salvo of the Shadow War finishes up here in fairly satisfying fashion.  There's actually a bit less going on in this issue than the last, but that's alright because there's a bit more action than plot is all that means.  It's a very straightforward story, but it does have some really nice touches.  One which stands out in my mind is the initial prologue, which features the Thanagarians going out and cornering various humans to their own ends.  This includes a panel where they bust through the comic and come right at the reader!  I'm always a sucker for that sort of sight gag.

Howell has a few opportunities to really cut loose, and he delivers nicely -- including a great splash page of the Hawks' ship detonating.  Isabella doesn't get much opportunity to pontificate, but the delivers the action element quite nicely, including the wounding of Katar Hol.  All in all it's a good wrap-up which does a good job of closing things out while still keeping the future wide open.  Of course, we all know that more was to come...

Image: Shadow War of Hawkman #4, 1985, Richard Howell.

Friday, October 2, 2009

Upcoming: Superman: World of New Krypton #8


Over at DCU: The Source, we have a 7-page preview of the upcoming Superman: World of New Krypton #8, which features lots and lots of Thanagarians.  Woo!

Most interesting to me of these images is the cover itself... notice the two Wingmen sporting Honor Wings!  Most unusual.  can't remember the last time we saw a Wingman with Honor Wings who wasn't, you know, the star of a Hawk book.  

The solicitation text also has a very intriguing little snippet: Can Superman keep things peaceful between the two races – or will The Man of Steel discover that Hawkman's legendary temper is shared by all his people?

"[A]ll his people" huh?  More evidence to a return to a Space Cop Hawkman, perhaps?

Also of note is that there is, apparently, a variant cover by Joe Kubert, but DC does not have it pictured on their website, oddly enough.

Image: Superman: World Of New Krypton #8, 2009, Gary Frank.

"Maces High" by Keith Pollard and Josef Rubinstein


Our "sketch" today is actually an inked commission from Keith Pollard with Josef Rubinstein on inks, and features the Pinnioned Powerhouse laying a beat down on the Ponytailed Punkass, AKA Thunderstrike!

I am most familiar with Pollard's work on Iron Man, right after the century mark on his title, but his most well known run was on Thor starting in 1979 and lasting for a few years on the Thunder God's book.  He did handle a few issues of Thunderstrike, as well.  Near as I can tell, he has drawn Hawkman in one comic -- Justice League of America #197.

The musculature of these two looks great.  Both look ripped up without being ridiculous, which is appropriate for a Bronze Ager like Pollard.  He even makes Thunderstrike's costume look pretty decent.  The use of Hawkman's more modern design, with the pouch belt and more utilitarian pants, works well in this combination.  The helmet has a nice low-key look to it, without excessively large Honor Wings, but not losing them either.  And the wings look great, as well.  All in all a heck of a nice piece of art, which would make for a good cover -- even if the endgame is a foregone conclusion.

Image: "Maces High," 2008, Keith Pollard and Josef Rubinstein, retrieved from Comic Art Fans.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Image: Chariot Stamp, Flash Comics #11


Today we have another of Sheldon Moldoff's "collect and save" stamps from the early days of Flash Comics.  This stamp, featuring a chariot, was originally found in Flash Comics #11.  I am trying to think of a time when Hawkman rode a chariot, but I can't think of one.  Of course, he has been shown in a chariot as Prince Khufu in ancient Egypt, so that works, at the very least.

Image: Chariot stamp from Flash Comics #11, 1940, Sheldon Moldoff.  

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 9/30/2009


Any new Hawk-ish stuff coming out this week?  Let's take a look.

Superman/Batman v.1: Public Enemies TPB -- Hawkman is featured as one of the various combatants which the "world's finest" pair have to tackle in this reprinting of the Loeb and McGuiness epic.  Also, the new DCAU DTV movie, appropriately titled Superman/Batman: Public Enemies, was released yesterday and also features Hawkman, voiced by Michael Gough... though not the Michael Gough who played Alfred Pennyworth.  You got that?

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Pop Funk DC Originals Hawkwoman T-shirt


Figured it was about time I showcased this nifty t-shirt, the only one I have ever seen to feature Shayera and only Shayera.  I am torn on the use of the Hawkwoman moniker; in one sense, it is a little more mature sounding and she did sport it for a long time, but on the other hand, more people know her as Hawkgirl.  So that's a toss up.

The light blue is an interesting color choice, but I think it works.  Perhaps not as well as the sand color on Pop Funk's Hawkman t-shirt, but I think the blue will look better on the ladies.  The image is a classic Hawkgrrrr... Hawkwoman pose, and the presence of the mace and the birdies are both nice touches.  I like also how her costume is feminine without being a bikini or something, but that's a general compliment to the character and not this shirt specifically.

Maybe if I order the Hawkman one for myself, I'll get this one for my wife?  Yeeeeeeeaaaaaah, I think not.

Image: DC originals Hawkwoman t-shirt detail, 2008, retrieved from Pop Funk.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Image: Australian Happy Meal Box


Novel little item here from the Land Down Under, where women glow and men plunder.  Can you hear, can you hear the thunder?  You'd better run, you'd better take cover.

Errr.  Anyways.  This Happy Meal box features several DC heroes of the day, including our own Katar Hol.  Actually, considering this is art for a fast food promotional box, I rather like the way that Hawkman is portrayed here.  Of course, I am partial to this uniform so I'm probably just more prone.  Wonder Woman and Flash look sharp too, though notice that the artist did not bother to fill in the white space in Diana's lasso.  Aquaman and GL's 90s looks really haven't aged as nicely as Hawkman to my eye.  Unfortunately, Hawkman is not the hero who wins the Speed Challenge.  

I picked up this image from rob over at The Aquaman Shrine,  who in turn got it from one of his F.O.A.M. members Jay Hernandez.  rob can hunt this stuff down with his network of informants like nobody's business.  I swear, this guy is like The Shadow if The Shadow was a superhero blogger.

Image: Australian Happy Meal box, 2003, retrieved from The Aquaman Shrine.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Weekend Hiatus


Well, my wife and I have packed up seemingly everything we own and are heading down to Myrtle Beach with our son for his first family vacation.  (He didn't really help with the packing.)  Should be back and blogging for your reading pleasure on Monday.  Have a good weekend!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 9/23/2009


Any Hawk-stuff shipped to our local comic shops this week?  Let's take a quick peak.

Wednesday Comics #12 -- The finale to DC's superior summer series should wrap things up for Kyle Baker's Hawkman strip, which now features the King Of the Seven Seas as well.  (Makes you wonder: with two cameos in this edition, if there is a second edition of WC, will Aquaman rate a feature?)  This series has been a ton of fun for me, as I am right in the target audience, I think.  In the coming weeks, I am hoping to do a wrap-up review of the entire Hawkman story here, which should be interesting reading all at once.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Image: JLU Warhawk Toy


An interesting item today, one which I have never seen in stores.  I know, JLU toys being hard to find in retail outlets.  Unheard of!  Anyways, this three pack features a trio of Batman Beyond characters, who figured into the second part of the JLU episode "The Once And Future Thing."  Besides Terry McGinnis Bats and "old as dirt" Bruce Wayne, we also get Warhawk, who eventually is revealed to be the son of Green Lantern John Stewart and Hawkgirl.  

Now, I am not sure exactly how an Earthling and Thanagarian can have a kid, but that setup worked for Mr. Spock, so who am I to complain?  I do like that the toy evokes a vaguely Wingman-ish sort of look with the armor.  Not a bad looking figure from this picture, but I doubt that I will ever see it in a Target.  Besides, what good is Old Man Bruce without Ace?!

Image: Justice League Unlimited Three Pack: Bruce Wayne, Batman, Warhawk, 2009, image retreived from ???.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Read: Shadow War Of Hawkman #3


Issue: Shadow War Of Hawkman #3
Title: "My Worlds Opposed"
Published Date: Jul 1985
Generation: Silver Age Katar
Retcon Status: Out Of Continuity

Summary: The Thanagarian who killed Hawkwoman against orders is installed as the "permanant monitor" by having his brain wired directly into an Absorbascon, putting him in mental contact with every single human being on Earth.

Meanwhile, Hawkman is not impressed by Fell Andar and his invasion force, and lays into his fellow Thanagarian.  Eventually, however, Hawkman is overcome by sheer numbers and restrained.  But, he is saved by the timely arrival of none other than... Hawkwoman!  Shayera saves and frees her husband and partner, and the two wing off in a tactical retreat.

Shayera reveals that it was, in fact, Mavis Trent who had dressed up in her uniform back at the museum, and was intent on breaking into their office to play a cruel joke on them when she was spotted and murdered.  Shayera quickly disguised herself as Mavis Trent to avoid tipping any humans off that she was still alive -- for if any humans knew she still survived, the Absorbascon-wielding invaders would know immediately.  The Hawks regroup and figure that they need to destroy any data of theirs held in the Justice League's computer banks, so that Fell's group does not get their hands on it.  They head off to Detroit and infiltrate the League's new HQ.

The Hawks come up on Aquaman on moniotr duty, but the King Of The Seven Seas is subdued with Shayera's stun gun from behind without putting up a fight.  But their intrusion is met by the Elongated Man, who demands to know why they have broken in and attacked a member of the League.  But the Hawks cannot tell Ralph the truth lest he unwittingly tell Fell's invaders.  Finally stunning the Stretchable Slueth, the Hawks beging deleting their data from the computers, just in time to receive a transmission from Fell: he is on their ship, coming to kill them with their own vessel.

Review: Another very strong issue in what is a definitely strong miniseries, featuring not only the shocking (well, at the time I am sure) return of Hawkwoman as well as beat-down of two old school members of the Justice League.  Actually, the fight is somewhat tame; Aquaman is shot with the stun gun in the back, and Ralph puts up a good fight but he too succumbs pretty quickly.  How insane would it have been to have the Hawks fight the whole Detroit League?

That notwithstanding, the reunion between the Hawks is very touching, and me being a big married softie, I rather appreciated the emotion on display.  (Although, how did Shayera know that if she told a human she was alive the invaders would find out?)  Furthermore, the nature of the "shadow war" is spelled out in logical terms and the rising action clearly handled by Isabella.  Howell's pencils continue to impress, and Alfredo Alcala's inks look great, especially in the early stages in the caverns where he gets a chance to crazy feathering the shadows.  I can't imagine reading this and not being overly eager for the conclusion.

The big swerve comes after halfway through the issue, and comes after a "Continued on Third Page Following" note, which I thought was appropriate.  Also, when we see that Rab Mekir is connected to every human mind on Earth, amongst those pictured is Tony Isabella's most famous creation, Black Lightning.

Image: Shadow War of Hawkman #3, 1985, Richard Howell.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Acquired: Charlotte Comic Con


Well, this past Sunday I was able to make it up to Charlotte for the Charlotte Comic Con, and I am happy to report that I now possess even more Hawkcomics!  Let's take a look at what I found.

Hawkworld -- The big hit this time out.  I have never had much luck in tracking down issues of Hawkworld, but thanks to the good folks at Heroes Aren't Hard To Find, I was able to pick up most of the series, including issues #2-10, 14-21, 23, 25-26, and Annuals 1 and 2.

The Brave And The Bold -- I was able to find #186, which features Hawkman and Batman taking on the Fadeaway Man.

DC Comics Presents: Hawkman -- From the mid 00s, this one-shot features Hawkman fighting a winged ape on the cover, so how could you go wrong with that?

Legend Of The Hawkman -- Joe found these quite by accident and I snapped them up.  Hawkman never got much in the way of "Prestige Format," so I am very much looking forward to reading these.

Hawkman v.4/Hawkgirl -- Continuing on buying up those issues which are uncollected, I was able to find (quite on the cheap) v.4:no.26 and 47.  I've only got a handful of these uncollected issues left.  And I was able to find quite a number of issues from when the title changed over to Hawkgirl, including #50-55, 57, 59-60, 62-63, and 65.  At this point, I can just get the singles and not worry about buying the collected editions of the Hawkgirl era.

All in all, one heck of a Hawk-haul!

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Waiting In The Wings -- 9/16/2009


Any new materials with the Winged Wonders coming out this week?  Let's take a look!

Blackest Night #3 -- If nothing else we should see the Black Lantern Hawks throw down along with the other members of the "Black Lantern Justice League" as teased at the end of the last issue.  I am eager to see them in action, especially since Johns always portrayed both Carter and Kendra as viscious beasts in combat -- I can only imagine what they will be like as Black Lanterns.  Also, perhaps the fate of the Atom?

Wednesday Comics #11 -- Last week, Hawkman sure got left in a tight spot, huh?  I think he'll figure a way out of it, and it should be fun to see how.  Will Aquaman pop up this week?  He's running out of time to do so!

Monday, September 14, 2009

Read: Shadow War Of Hawkman #2


Issue: Shadow War Of Hawkman #2
Title: "Fallen Angels"
Published Date: Jun 1985
Generation: Silver Age Katar
Retcon Status: Out Of Continuity

Summary: In the Heartland of America a young man with dreams of being a winged superhero named Icarus is brutally shot out of the sky by the alien invaders.  

Back in Midway City, Hawkman is busy mourning the death of Shiera the previous issue.  He buries his grief, though, and sets about with the work that has to be done.  Taking the new police chief into his confidence, Hawkman rounds up all of the Thanagarian gear stored in his office, and vaporizes them so that they cannot fall into the wrong hands.  Arming himself with Roman spiked gloves, Hawkman angrilly blows off Mavis Trent and then wings off to investigate at former Commissioner Emmett's house.

Meanwhile, the invaders deal with their member who attacked Hawkwoman, who claims that poor intelligence is to blame.  The commander, one Fell Andar, agrees, and repurposes the young man into the "permanant monitor."

At the Emmett place, Hawkman is pick up a trace radiation signal from the silhouette of Mousey Mason.  He tracks it to a craggy series of bluffs on the coast of Lake Michigan, and quickly infiltrates the invaders' base.  Quickly disabling most of their numbers, Hawkman is felled when struck from behind.  He awakens to find Fell Andar standing over him, and is horrified when Andar tells him that they are the vanguard from Thanagar for a full scale conquest of the galaxy, starting with Earth.

Review: Anyone who thinks the idea of Hawkman being filled with rage is a new idea needs to read this comic.  Various characters comment about the fact that Katar is about the burst with fury, and when he gets his hands on Fell's invaders, well, that fury gets released.  Looking back, that reveal at the end must have been pretty surprising, although really, it makes sense.

Interesting to note that the name is indeed spelled "Fell Andar" this issue, although in one instance it is "Fel."

All in all another really strong issue from Isabella and Howell, who have a very good grasp on the Hawkman story they want to tell and how they want to portray the character.  Strong all around.

Image: Shadow War of Hawkman #2, 1985, Richard Howell.