Comics this week

Countdown- The series improved again this week. It's taken a while, but the book looks like it has finally found it's legs. This week was helped by two factors; a large part of the focus was on Oracle and her worldwide computer battle with The Calculator, and there a big segment on Mary Marvel. Of course, the minus are still there. I'm eagerly awaiting the death of Jimmy Olsen/Mr. Action. Never hated, even dislike, the character till now. Die Jimmy Olsen, die! And the Question's decision to just let the rogues go is just strange. Still, things are looking up.

Black Adam #1- Since becoming the breakout star in 52, it was a matter of time before Black Adam got his own series. I was worried DC was just trying to cash in, but the worry was unfounded. A potential problem was the fact that anybody who reads Countdown knows that Black Adam did indeed regain his powers, but writer Peter Tomasi ignored Countdown totally. A great decision! The mood was dark and the tension high as Black Adam try to reclaim his position as DC's biggest villain/anti-hero. We also see several different parties trying to locate Adam, but the main action was on the man himself. Torture, cannibalism, a military uprising, grave robbing, all done by Adam to reclaim his power. We also see the fact that Adam still has the loyalty of many men who would gladly die for him. This issue was brutal from beginning to end, read it!

Nova #5- You must really feel for the Worldmind. It's Nova Corps destroyed, it had to depand on a hot-headed Richard Rider for protection. Poor Richard Rider isn't in the best of shape since the last issue, and the Worldmind has to turn to some unlikely allies for assistance. Who does it end up with? A Kree who has as much problem as Rider did following orders. Ko-Rel is set up to be a very relatable multi-dimensional character, maybe even the start of a new Nova Corps, and that is great. Nova need a supporting cast. I also love the action involving Gamora. Most writers use her as the sexy flower vase, but we see here why she is the 'Most Dangerous Woman'. The only thing I don't like is the fact that there are about 2-3 artists on the book. Why? Can't 1 guy do this book by himself? Outside that, Nova is still a must-buy book.