November 1, 2022

ODPH Podcast

Best Jackett Press, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Pop Culture, Scott Snyder

BARNSTORMERS #3 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

November 1, 2022

ODPH Podcast

Best Jackett Press, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Pop Culture, Scott Snyder

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, we’re returning to the escapades of the high-flying duo surrounded in danger within the pages of Best Jackett Press’s second wave of comics on their line on Comixology Originals. Barnstormers #3 by Scott Snyder, Tula Lotay, Dee Cunniffe and Richard Starkings has been an excellent read thus far with much more excitement on the way. Let’s jump into the latest chapter and see what kind of trouble Hawk and Tillie have gotten into now, shall we?

Barnstormers #3 - On Sale November 1st
Creative: Scott Snyder, Tula Lotay, Dee Cunniffe and Richard Starkings
Credit: Comixology Originals/Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Barnstormers is a tale about Hawk E. Baron aka Bix, a former WW1 pilot who’s turned into travelling air showman as a way to make ends meat. On one fateful flight, Bix unknowingly crashes the wedding of Peyton Carlyle and Tillie. The wealthy family didn’t take kindly to this action and held Bix on the property. Things looked bleak until Tillie frees Bix and they make their escape. While on the run, reader have found out there’s more to both of these two that meets the eye. While making their way thru the Rollingers’ (another wealthy family) party, a blossoming romance between the pair has started. Meanwhile, The Carlyles have hired Zeke West to bring Tillie back. The question has now become: How long can their luck keep going and what happens when it runs out (as eluded to in issue #1 ).

This chapter starts with Bix and Tillie back at another wealthy party. While bantering about what to call themselves, readers see how the pair has taken a page out of Robin Hood and see them steal from the rich. Their air shows are now free to the public while they help people in worse conditions with some of the assets acquired from the party. This has now become a normal routine according to the narrator here: Zeke West, whos updating Peyton about their latest adventures. This is only upstaged by Bix and Tillie, who open up to each other about their pasts a bit more. Readers will be very locked in about Bix’s portion as his mystery starts becoming clearer.

The final act will have readers on the edge of their seats. It is a moment that was bound to happen and the first time this unfolds, it doesn’t disappoint. Things move very fast here. The pace is set up perfectly to cap off this portion of the story. Bix and Tillie’s journey doesn’t take a breath heading to the end of this issue. It will leave readers very excited to see where things fall from here.

Snyder keeps a great balance of drama with action in this chapter. The mysterious past of Bix gets another reveal during these pages which does explain some moments in the past few issues. There are some more questions raised that will make for quite the reveal when it’s all said and done. This all stems from Tillie getting Bix to fully trust her (even with her questionable past). Snyder has mastered doing the slow-burn build for both these characters as all is not what it seems. The lead pair have only begun to scratch the surface of their true motives. How this will all play out is anyone’s guess but rest assured, there’s much to enjoy on this flight to the end.

Breath-taking. It might sound like a broken record at this stage, but that is the easiest way to describe Lotay’s art. Capturing this timeframe has been a joy to witness. Seeing how Bix and Tillie have grown in their new roles as unexpected partners jumps off the panels, esp. when they’re performing in air. Seeing how they have those brief moments of being free from their pasts shine on the pages. Even with the latter half’s escalating events, Lotay never loses the ranges of emotions of worry, fear and joy to close the book out on. The final image puts a lasting visual of the eventual tragic fate coming.

Final Point: The story of Bix and Tillie takes an unforeseen turn while diving further into mystery as their past lives keep chasing them down. Snyder, Lotay and the team craft an impressive dive into a reluctant pair’s adventures even if it will all lead to disaster. Make sure you have this book in your collection via Comixology this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Barnstormers #3. Thanks for reading!

October 25, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Entertainment, Horror, Pop Culture, Scott Snyder

CANARY #3 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

October 25, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Entertainment, Horror, Pop Culture, Scott Snyder

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, we’re checking out the latest chapter of a second wave “Scottober” comic from the team over at Best Jackett Press for Comixology Originals. The line has been such a big success that there was an announcement at New York Comic Con that the deal with Comixology has been extended! This is huge news for comic fans because in the short span of about a year, this line has hit on all marks with fantastic stories like The “Last Ride” Of Marshall Holt in 1891 Utah.

Canary #3 by Scott Snyder, Dan Panosian, Richard Starkings and Will Dennis continues one of the best horror western stories you’re ever going to read. With the tension built from last issue, let’s not waste another second and jump right into this book, shall we?

Canary #3 - On Sale October 25th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Dan Panosian, Richard Starkings and Will Dennis
Credit: Best Jackett Press/Comixology Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Marshall Holt’s last ride has been one to captures fan’s attention from the start and never let go. When a seemingly good boy commits a horrific murder, Holt’s investigation leads him to a haunting familiar place. It also leads him back to one of his most terrifying adversaries in Hyrum Tell. Tell’s actions have chilled Holt to the bone and no matter the time away, that encounter still frightens. This issue kicks off with a reminder of how dangerous and maniacal Tell’s actions were. The bodies of the children Tull has killed have been found. The scene pulls no punches. Holt’s reaction is one that someone with his character should have. Struggling to find the right thing to do has been something Holt has been challenging himself with. The resolution is one that plays a factor later in this story.

From here, Holt joins Edison Edwards (or Ed-Ed), a rock doctor & Mabel Warren, daughter of the founder of Canary to search for the mystery at the cave. For this trip, Edwards has brought a Sonotron with him to decipher the water levels in the mines. Once arriving at the cave’s entrance, our trio finds that they are not alone. When members of the Paiute Tribe approach & try destroying the Sonotron, Holt engages in an intense stand-off with a warning issued to him and his team. The message is loud and clear with an object presented that will catch readers attention for sure. One would think this is the biggest shock in the issue, but no one is ready for what they uncover after leaving the mine. That final image is going to haunt readers with fear and anticipation for the next chapter.

Talk about a game changing moment in the series! Snyder perfectly executes a fantastic exclamation point to this issue with that final shot! Before that moment, the conversation with Mabel explaining her father’s theory of “Forms” stands out. It’s am interesting idea that has lingered around this series since the beginning. Holt’s character evolution on this final case features the various forms he’s gone thru. The banter between Mabel and Holt is executed well as hearing Holt come to terms with how he’ being perceived was a solid add to his character. This issue’s pacing was worked in magnificently. Between the dialogue and getting inside Holt’s mind-frame, the big moments never lost its’ emotional pull. I can’t stress enough: Just WAIT for that final panel shot! Excellent work.

Panosian’s art continues to shine thru the pages of this story. With much dialogue being said between Holt, Mabel and Edwards, the reactions made by those characters will catch the reader’s attention. Going back to the conversation between Mabel and Holt while Edwards is off with his machine, Panosian dives right into Holt’s energy of a Marshall on his last case while Mabel pushing his buttons on what is really going on: He’s at the end of the line. The introduction of the Paiute Tribe to their arrival at the cave gave for another strong point of drama for this chapter. The creative team balances Holt’s world to his legacy without missing a beat.

Final Point: Snyder, Panosian & the creative team ramp up the tension and fear with another incredible issue. The saga of Holt’s last ride transforms with new elements in play that have only scratched the surface of what evil he looks to be facing before riding off into the sunset. This book is always a must-read so make sure you don’t miss it when it debuts on Comixology Originals this week!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Canary #3. Thanks for reading!

October 4, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Horror, NYCC, New York Comic Con, Scott Snyder

BOOK OF EVIL #1 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

October 4, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Horror, NYCC, New York Comic Con, Scott Snyder

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this entry, The season of “Scottober” has officially arrived! We’re checking out the latest edition to the impressive line of comics from SCOTT SNYDER for Comixology Originals. In the course of a year, fan have been treated to We Have Demons (w/art from Greg Capullo). Clear (w/ Francis Manupal), Night Of The Ghoul (w/ Francesco Francavilla), Barnstormers (w/ Tula Lotay), Canary (w/ Dan Panosian) and Dudley Datson & the Forever Machine (w/ Jamal Igle). Previously all were only available on Comixology but We Have Demons and now Night Of The Ghoul are available via print from Drak Horse Comics. The books speak for themselves in quality and content. Now on the anniversary, Snyder is ready to drop the latest book to an already star-studded line-up.

The ODPHpod talked with Scott a few months back and as soon as this book was mentioned, we’ve had it on our radars. Book Of Evil #1 reunites Snyder with a familiar creator: Jock, who fans know their work on Batman: Black Mirror, to welcome in the next phase from one of the hottest line of books in comics. Let’s not wait any longer and jump into this “Book”, shall we?

Book Of Evil #1 - on sale October 4th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Jock and Emma Price
Credit: Comixology Originals/Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The world portrayed here is vastly different than what we currently perceive as “normal”. About 92% of the world’s population is now born as psychopaths This isn’t an exaggeration. This isn’t for shock value. This is the new reality that a 12 yr old boy named Homer lives in. Why the world is like this is very unclear at the this point, but the “average day” is made crystal clear to the readers from the opening page!

This issue is told by Homer as a journal entry. Readers can feel his sense of dread and fear as he’s riding a bus with an older woman…who’s foaming at the mouth to attack him should the bus cross the “Yolk Lines.” With each breath, she gets ready to attack Homer with scissors. Trembling with fear, Homer holds out hope to make it through in one piece. The moment never stops escalating until the bus shifts to the right side of the line. Just like that, the woman sits down. What feels like an event to the reader is just an average bus ride home for a 12 yr old in this new humanity.

As Homer continues his journal, he breaks down what has happened. In the 1960’s, children were changing as they hit their adolescence range (14-15 yrs old). This change was anything but average as their behavior had psychopathic tendencies. This was never a phase as it continued to spread throughout most the population, with no clear cut reason why this has happened. The remaining 8% are considered “animals” or less than Human. Homer is one of the 8%. He stays in “The Yolk”, a section designated for the animals to live in. With no parents to watch him, Homer stays there with his friends Blake, Elliot and Milton along with his older brother Poe.

To complicate things even more, Homer’s world is rocked with another obstacle to overcome. What exactly is that you ask? And what about a mysterious cartoon strip have to do with all of this, if anything? Readers will have these answered and also be waiting to see what Homer and his friends have to overcome next with a final image that gives some clarity on where this story is heading next.

Absolutely impressive first issue. Snyder crafts a world where insanity runs free and normalcy is all but forgotten. The words “New Normal” are often thrown around but with this volatile landscape, defining it as “normal” is anything but. Having the story told through Homer’s eyes via journal entry was a great play of storytelling. Every emotion could be felt within the 12 yr old’s words. It is truly fascinating how at such a young age (with impending doom coming when he matures) Homer is able to face this world and keep some hope. The story itself is a bleak and disturbing tragedy in the making. There’s no other way to say it, but Snyder never loses sight on how Homer braves the challenges and continues to press forward. In a sense, this is his own odyssey to return back to a time he’s only heard about but never lived thru: a normal life. Pacing was excellent and that final page’s words will haunt readers until next issue.

Jock’s art gives greater impact to the story when his imagery appears. Remember, this book is told in a journal entry format so there’s not traditional panels each page. Emma Price, who designed this book, did a phenomenal job with presenting it. The usage of certain colors like red (discarded terms) and yellow (“Animals”/Yolk references) in the dialogue added more layers to the story. When the images hit, Jock really drives home the horror and bleak aspect of this world. From the older woman’s rage on the bus to the almost optimism in the facial expressions of Homer’s friends waiting when he gets to their apartment, Jock’s art pops off the pages to deliver on making these moments connect with the readers. The usage of yellow thru the apartment is a great add-on to the story being told thru Homer’s eyes. There’s much to enjoy within the creative team’s work here.

Overall, Book Of Evil welcomes readers int a strange, dark world thru the eyes of normalcy’s last figures. Snyder, Jock and Price amp up on the creativity with their presentation while doubling down on the true horror of this world and the story about to be told. You simply can’t miss this book when it drops on Comixology this week. Highly recommended.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Book Of Evil #1. Thanks for reading.

September 6, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Entertainment, Pop Culture, Scott Snyder

DUDLEY DATSON AND THE FOREVER MACHINE #2 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

September 6, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Entertainment, Pop Culture, Scott Snyder

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, we’re checking out the latest installment from the second wave of comics from Scott Snyder with Comixology Originals (via Best Jacket Press). Dudley Datson and The Forever Machine #2 by Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano continues to build off it’s highly recommended first issue. How is Dudley faring after the last issue’s cliffhanger? Let’s jump back in for a deep dive on this incredible new book, shall we?

Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine #2 - On Sale September 6th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano
Credit: Comixology Originals/ Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Dudley Datson’s life is one that is ever-changing. Datson is a young teenager who’s an inventor of “Duds” an L.C.D. integrated fiber clothing. After presenting it with a less than stellar execution, Dudley bears witness to Dr. Shae, his mentor at the Brooklyn Academy of Engineering, defending herself from attackers who are trying to take a valuable watch. Defending is putting things mildly as Dr. Shae is wearing an exoskeleton to fend off these attackers. Now caught up in a situation he’s not ready for, Dudley gets help from an unlikely ally: Daedalus, Dr. Shae’s dog….who apparently can now talk?!

This issue picks up with the attackers now shifting focus towards Dudley. Daedalus shows that not only can he talk, but can handle his own verses these forces. Once one gets the upper hand on Daedalus, Dudley uses some quick thinking to handle the crisis at hand using his own invention. Noticing that his aggressor isn’t human, Datson makes a play to subdue the threat & the pair escape danger.

From here, Datson and Daedalus catch up about what is going on here. With a touch of excitement, Datson is introduced to the Chymical Society. What is the story behind this group? Better yet, What is the origin of Daedalus? How does Dudley fit into this equation? Readers will get those answers plus a final page that will keep them locked in until the next issue drops.

Snyder continues to craft a fun and energetic story with the life of Dudley Datson. The issue explains much of Daedalus and why he is WAY more than he seems. The secrets involved with his character were very surprising and validated on how creative this story is. This book’s storytelling shines when they go all in on focusing readers onto the multi-layered elements of it’s main characters. The dynamic between Daedalus and Dudley is enjoyable and only gets better as the issue progresses forward. “Reluctant Partners” is an understatement but this issue proves there will be many more panels with these two that should make readers very pleased following Dudley’s journey moving forward.

Igle’s artwork continues to impress with the details thrown in this issue. Seeing Daedalus’ story explained thru the timeline was a great segment. Everything down to the panel set-up made that part jump off the page. One of the more fun moments in this book was how the pair accessed the entrance to the Chymical Society. When reading this book, readers can tell how much enjoyment the creators are getting with stories with moments like these. Another stand out final page closes the chapter on this book & readers will be electrified to check out the next issue.

Overall, the adventure of Dudley Datson is just beginning and its’ enthusiastic journey is one not to miss. Snyder, Igle and company push the imagination boundaries with a thrilling chapter that is sure to please. The adventure is just beginning so make sure not to miss out on the latest issue when it drops on Comixology Originals .

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Dudley Datson #2. Thanks for reading!

August 30, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Scott Snyder

BARNSTORMERS #2 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

August 30, 2022

Ken M

Best Jackett Press, Comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, Scott Snyder

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, The next wave of “Scottober” books via Best Jackett Press shows no signs of a sophomore slump as they have a sure-fire smash on their hands in the form of BarnStormers by Scott Snyder, Tula Lotay, Dee Cunniffe and Richard Starkings. The first issue was a fantastic debut introducing readers into the world of Hawk Baron and his “partner” Tillie. Barnstormers #2 just dropped on Comixology Originals, and this story is one you won’t be able to pass over reading. Let’s take a deeper dove into this issue and see what’s going on, shall we?

Barnstormers #2 - On August 30th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Tula Lotay, Dee Cunniffe and Richard Starkings
Credit: Comixology originals/Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

When we last saw Hawk E. Baron aka Bix, a former WW1 pilot who’s paying the rent check by performing aerial tricks, took an unexpected turn. Thinking he was finally going to hit a big score, Baron couldn’t hav worse luck. After crashing a wealthy family’s wedding party (literally), Hawk has become a wanted man due to his unexpected partner, Tillie. After she helps Hawk escape the Carlyle property, Tillie hops in Baron’s plane and the pair fly away. Little do they know what lies ahead for them.

This issue jumps in where the pair finally lands after such a dramatic escape. Tillie offers Baron a parting offer as she plans her next move. The move? Crash a wealthy party and steal some food to start. Baron reluctantly goes along after hearing Tillie’s story. In a mix of divine intervention and living in the moment, Tillie divulges to Baron how the wedding wasn’t one of love but of financial convenience as The Carlyles were putting pressure on her family for their land. In her words, When Baron arrived, she took it as a a sign to run. Meanwhile, her former fiancee is making plans of his own to get Tillie and Baron, in the form of Zeke West. Readers get a quick background of him during this issue which is very solid.

From this moment, readers are shown a side of Baron that hasn’t been shown before. What is his big secret? The story shifts back to seeing how Baron becomes more involved in Tillie’s plans. How does the pair escalate things? It’s a perfect set-up for shifting gears in the story and one fans can’t help but become fully entrenched with for the next chapter.

Brilliant issue. Snyder hits two big points in this issue that will grab readers attention for a double take. The first one is Baron’s secret. When the reveal is done, it will catch readers off guard for it’s only in a a quick moment. If you go back and re-read issue #1, you can see how it fits in with a few panels there as well. It also adds another layer into his character. Since we’ve been introduced to Hawk E. Baron, he’s come across as an unlucky pilot trying to find his way. With this revelation, the latter half of the issue carries more weight.

The second big point is Tillie’s endgame. When she explains her motives for leaving the Carlyles, she appears to be a sympathetic character. This changes quickly as they attended the Rollinger party. The further they work thru the party, it becomes clear Tillie has had some plans in motion the entire time. How that fits in the overall story will be such a fun read.

Absolutely stunning art by Lotay and Cunniffe. There was one moment that really stood out to me for being so creative and subtle at the same time. There is a scene where Zeke is getting hired by the Carlyles. How Lotay and Cunniffe crafted the sunlight hitting the window blinds to create the striped shadows came off well. It added a unique feel to the scene. Mixing in the imagery of the Rollinger family business to this time period was great as well. Without spoiling too much, the visions Bix sees here feel to play a bigger factor down the road. Excellent final page to close out this chapter.

Overall, Barnstormers #2 delivers on a fantastic read that readers will be locked in on from the opening page. Snyder, Lotay and company present a multi-layered dive into the unlikely pair and their dangerous adventures. Excellent storytelling and phenomenal art will make this a must-add for your reading list! Don’t delay picking it up.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Barnstormers #2. Thanks for reading.

August 23, 2022

ODPH Podcast

comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, NYCC, Scott Snyder, Best Jackett Press

CANARY #2 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

August 23, 2022

ODPH Podcast

comics, Comixology Originals, Dark Horse Comics, NYCC, Scott Snyder, Best Jackett Press

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! For this entry, we’re continuing to check out one of the next wave of books from Scott Snyder via Best Jackett Press for Comixology Originals. One of those books was “Canary”, which gave readers an absolute hit with the introduction of Marshall Holt and his investigation into something sinister in 1891 Utah. The book feels like a horror western saga and plays heaving into the latest issue. Canary #2 by Snyder, Dan Panosian, Richard Starkings and Will Dennis moves the story forward with another electrifying chapter. Let’s not waste anymore time and take a deeper look at this book, shall we?

Canary #2 - On Sale August 23rd
Creative: Scott Snyder, Dan Panosian, Richard Starkings and Will Dennis
Credit: Best Jackett Press/Comixology Originals

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story of Marshall Holt thus far has been very captivating. With a short time left before retiring, he investigates a brutal murder of a school teacher by a seemingly "innocent” boy. Holt finds out there might be more to this killing than meets the eye. After bringing him in, Holt finds out more bizarre circumstances where “normal” people are committing these deadly attacks. Holt takes a lead to track down a contact with a possible theory, all roads lead towards a haunting place: Canary. Holt reluctantly goes but readers see a flashback sequence where Holt sought out to arrest Hyrum Tell, a killer who’s encounter with Holt has left the lawman rattled when “Canary” is brought up.

This issue picks up where readers see more of the initial encounter between Holt and Tell. Once the flashback is over, Holt is en route to meet Edison Edwards (or Ed-Ed), a rock doctor who might have a theory connecting all these crimes. The theory centers around the Canary Mine. Upon their arrival at the Canary depot, the pair is treated with some hospitality form Mayor Gem, who gives off a very unique energy pertaining to the case at hand. Readers get more insight to what really happened in the Canary mine that plays a big part of the story going on within these pages. However, that takes a step back when Holt and Edwards arrive at “The Gem of The Utah Hills”, Canary. Readers get to meet some of the town’s most noteworthy characters, but none stand out more than Mabel Warren. What is her connection to this case? Readers will find out that answer plus have some great discussions after a final page sets the pace for the next issue perfectly.

Snyder delves more into what composes Azrael William Holt without slowing down too much of the overall story. The flashback sequence during the Mayor’s retelling of Holt’ novel moments connects to readers extremely well. The sequence with Holt and Tell truly translate into a battle of good and evil that fits in perfectly to this story. Once he gets to Canary and starts interacting with Edwards and Warren, Holt starts lowering his guards and connecting on a more personal level than we’ve seen thus far. His complexity of balancing what happened prior in Canary is a very big point of his character. Seeing a break here with what’s to come made for a well-rounded issue.

Panosian’s art crushes this issue. This western horror saga continues to amaze with it’s incredible visuals. The imagery involving the flashback/novel retelling is haunting and adds to the effectiveness of Tell as the main protagonist. Without spoiling, there’s a moment in the book when Holt makes a gruesome discovery after encountering Tell. Panosioan drives the horror factor home with a very few panels. It’s balanced out with moments meeting the residents of Canary and the mysterious Mabel Warren. Readers will have to make their own judgements on her character, but her mannerisms pop out due to the amazing artwork here.

Overall, Canary #2 builds the drama and slowly peels back the layers of the lead character with another can’t miss read. Snyder, Panosian, and their team give the readers excellent storytelling & art to showcase Marshall Holt’s struggle to solve the mystery without losing himself in the process. Don’t miss grabbing this over at Comixology this week.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you think of Canary #2. As always, thanks for reading!

July 19, 2022

Ken M

Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Comixology Originals, Scott Snyder, SDCC, San Diego Comic Con

CANARY #1 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

July 19, 2022

Ken M

Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Comixology Originals, Scott Snyder, SDCC, San Diego Comic Con

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! On this edition, we’re taking a look at the return to Comixology Originals (via Best Jackett Press) for the one and only Scott Snyder! Last October, Snyder (along with Greg Capullo, Francis Manupal & Francesco Francavilla kicked off “Scottober”, with such releases as “We Have Demons”, ”Clear” & “Night Of the Ghoul”. All three books are fantastic reads and generated much excitement for comic book fans into checking this line of books out. All three of those series have wrapped (for now) but that wasn’t the end of what Snyder had started with Comixiology.

This week, It’s Scottober 2.0 as Snyder has three NEW books that are perfectly timed to drop for San Diego Comic Con (SDCC). One of those books is Canary #1 by Snyder, Dan Panosian, Richard Starkings and Will Dennis. Let’s check out the latest entry into the Comixology Originals line and see what fans will be buzzing about this weekend at SDCC, shall we?

Canary #1 - On Sale July 19th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Dan Panosian and Richard Starkings
Credit: Comixology Originals/Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This story kicks off in 1891 in Utah. Marshall Holt is investigating a murder of a school teacher. The panels pulls no punches in how violent of a crime this was. After talking with the local sheriff , Holt gets a sense where to go to find the alleged killer: a young boy by the name of Johnny Apple. Holt’s reputation draws a following to join him, but he declines and sets out to find the killer by himself. It’s bold but Holt doesn’t show any sense of worry as he sets out to find the child.

What he stumbles upon appears to have more than he bargained for. Readers will see how this mystery might be connected to something more sinister. How does
”Canary” play a role in this story? Can Holt solve this case? If he can, at what cost? The tension and drama is built so perfectly that after finishing the issue, you know there’s something special happening here.

A Horror Western story? Sign me up! Snyder welcomes readers into a very interesting world. Marshall Holt seems like the stoic lawman of the old west. Once the layers of the issue start peeling, readers see that there might be more going on with him and a past experience that meets the public eye. It’s a great counter balance to his celebrity status as the “dime novel cover model” that people know him as. This point is driven home when he is asked about his mask that he wears. The mood seems dark and when we see a flashback of Holt, it adds a great element to the direction of whats to come. Excellent storytelling.

Panosian crafts a gritty old western town to the letter within these pages. The imagery from the initial murder readers see to the gunfight that happens later captures that energy throughout this issue. How the facial depictions of Holt and Apple’s emotion are done this issue gives more impact to the story. Seeing how the young boy reacts to what’s happening and Holt’s flashback moments to current time, there’s much happening here with both. Can’t wait to see where this story goes next!

Overall, Canary #1 delivers on a debut issue that will have fans talking. Snyder and Panosian present a captivating tale of the old West with a strong horror element added in. Marshall Holt's story is just beginning but the opening chapter is one not to miss adding to your collection. Make plans to pick up a copy on comiXology this week!

If you are in attendance for this year’s SDCC, make plans to stop by the Comixology Booth for some great events and check out the Comixology “Scottober: West Coast edition” panel on Sunday July 24th - Room 6DE - 12:30PST!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Canary #1. Thanks for reading.

July 19, 2022

Ken M

Comixology Originals, Entertainment, Scott Snyder, San Diego Comic Con, SDCC, New York Comic Con, NYCC

BARNSTORMERS #1 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

July 19, 2022

Ken M

Comixology Originals, Entertainment, Scott Snyder, San Diego Comic Con, SDCC, New York Comic Con, NYCC

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH podcast! On this edition, we’re taking a look at one of the THREE new series coming out on the Comixology Originals line (via Best Jackett Press) written by the one and only Scott Snyder! Last year, Snyder (along with Greg Capullo - “We Have Demons”, Francis Manupal - “Clear”, Francesco Francavilla - “Night Of The Ghoul” & their creative teams) generated such a buzz with these books, October became “Scottober” at New York Comic Con (NYCC). If you were in attendance for NYCC21, you know the hype for these comics was electric & matched with an incredible panel discussing the books which I was in attendance for.

This week, It’s Scottober 2.0 as the new books are perfectly timed to drop for San Diego Comic Con (SDCC). Leading the way is Barnstormers #1 by Snyder, along with Tula Lotay, Dee Cunniffe, Richard Starkings & Will Dennis. Let’s not waste any more time and jump right into the next phase of Scottober on Comixolgy Originals shall we?

Barnstormers #1 - On Sale July 19th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Tula Lotay, Dee Cunniffe, and Richard Starkings
Credit: Comixology Originals/Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This book is set in 1927 and is centered around a pilot named Hawk E. Baron. Baron has returned from World War 1 and now is paying the bills via barnstorming people in the sky for a small cost. Where this story begins, Baron is not having the best of luck with his line of work. His last few stops haven’t been anything to write home about but he’s told about this place called “Barnville.” There he is told about many people that will be waiting & thinks this will be the place where his luck changes. Upon arrival, his hope looks to be answered correctly. However, like most things too good to be true, it appears Hawk might be in way over his head.

A few hours prior, Hawk is in Whempy, Tennessee. Hawk provides the readers an insight on how the “Barnstorming” hustle works. Hawk runs into an operator girl who he’s trying to convince her to help announce his arrival in the next town. However, something halts that conversation for a bit. When it resumes, the operator agrees to terms but Hawk’s arrival is anything but a warm welcome. A minor mistake has now spiraled into Hawk meeting some of the town’s people in an unwelcome manner. This has now set him on a new adventure with mystery, love and murder creeping around the corner. What does it have to do with a woman by the name of Tillie? You’ll have to pick up the issue and find out!

What an incredible first issue! Barnstormers hits the ground running with hooking readers into Hawk’s problems from an impromptu introduction to some of the Barnville residents. Synder presents the readers with a very flawed character that finds himself in way over his head & basically no time to assess the danger he’s in. This goes into what Tillie brings to the story. Snyder shows a little bit to her character but not enough where readers can make a call on her motives just yet. From the initial panel. Hawk’s seemed like he’s never too sure of what he’s doing and by issue’s end, this is brought right to the forefront. The final narration on the last page drives home that there is so much more to this story & it’s definitely going to hook fans until its conclusion.

Lotay delivers some breathtaking images within this issue. Taking readers back into the 1920’s is made to look easy with the artwork here. The facial expressions from the characters really pop off the pages to add something extra to the story at hand. Look no further than the full page panel of Tillie near the end of the book. It’s absolutely impressive work. Everything about this book has a unique retro feel to it with maybe one exception but it’s a noteworthy moment in the book. It’s still too early to tell what Hawk witnessed in the pausing moment between the operator woman’s conversation but it adds a nice pace-changing visual to what’s being created here. Readers will have much to rave about with the art.

Overall, Barnstormers #1 kicks off a suspenseful thriller which will leave readers guessing at how this story will play out. Snyder brings excellent storytelling to this issue & is matched perfectly by the stunning art style of Lotay. Get on board now at Comixology & do not let this issue pass you by. Excellent read!

And if you are in attendance for this year’s SDCC, make plans to stop by the Comixology Booth for some great events and check out the Comixology “Scottober: West Coast edition” panel on Sunday July 24th - Room 6DE - 12:30PST!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Barnstormers #1. Thanks for reading!

July 19, 2022

Ken M

Scott Snyder, San Diego Comic Con, SDCC, Dark Horse Comics, Comixology Originals

DUDLEY DATSON AND THE FOREVER MACHINE #1 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS/BEST JACKETT PRESS)

July 19, 2022

Ken M

Scott Snyder, San Diego Comic Con, SDCC, Dark Horse Comics, Comixology Originals

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! for this edition, It’s “Scottober” In July on the Comixology Originals line (Via Best Jackett Press) as Scott Snyder returns with THREE brand new series! Last time Synder unveiled new books on the CO line on October of 2021, fans were treated to “We Have Demons” with Greg Capullo, ”Clear” with Francis Manupal & “Night Of the Ghoul” with Francesco Francavilla! All three books are incredible reads and are must owns on Comixology and print form for “We Have Demons” (currently) via Dark Horse Comics. There was a great panel at New York Comic Con (NYCC) which I was in attendance for that broke down the movement to Comixology and plans for the comic line.

This week, Scottober 2.0 kicks off as Snyder has three NEW books that are perfectly timed to drop for San Diego Comic Con (SDCC). One of which has Snyder working with Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor, Tom Napolitano and Will Dennis on Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine #1! Let’s jump into this issue and chck out the next wave of “Scottober” on Comixology, shall we?

Dudley Datson and the Forever Machine #1 - On Sale July 19th
Creative: Scott Snyder, Jamal Igle, Juan Castro, Chris Sotomayor and Tom Napolitano
Credit: Comixology Originals/ Best Jackett Press

*** POSSIBLE SPOILERS WARNING ***

The story opens up with a very quirky narration: did you know that every great inventor has something very similar in each of their own stories? They all have a pet. However, in one inventor’s case, that always doesn’t guarantee anything. His name is Dudley Datson, a young man who’s life is anything but normal.

Datson is about to have a huge presentation, with his father, who is dealing with some health issues, claiming to in attendance. This is giving our lead much anxiety as you would expect. From here, readers are introduced to other major players in Dudley’s universe. Ohno, his best friend, Dr, Shae and Daedalus, a lovable dog ….. to everyone but Dudley all join the fray as Datson prepares his invention of “Duds” as he refers to them as. “Duds” are L.C.D. integrated fiber clothing (to sum it up quickly). However the presentation doesn’t exactly go according to plan and it makes for quite the awkward moment.

From this fallout becomes another issue that Dudley will not see coming. The misfire of the presentation has now become the least of his problems. Readers will be very invested to see which way the story goes from here. No spoiler talk of what happens for the latter part of this story. All I will say is readers are in for a fun ride and a last panel curve ball they arguably won’t see coming. Get ready!

This book was such a fun read. Snyder brings to life all the anxiety of a young genius that one would expect. Seeing the stumbling in social settings felt natural for a kid feeling the weight of the world on his back. How the story shifts will be an entertaining turn for the young lead. The book might mislead to a degree where readers think its going, but once the new direction of events are established, this is gonna be something to be buzzing about. The supporting cast is one to watch as well. The back and forth between Ohno and Dudley is light hearted and breaks from the more “normal” tone of the book. This world created will lock readers in for the ride after first read. No doubt about that.

Igle’s art is stellar for this issue. From the detail work in the opening pages “History lesson” to the lab where Datson made his invention, the arts is very fine and makes the pages pop off. There’s another scene later where a big surprise is unveiled but Igle’s art needs to be acknowledged for it. The final panel is so well done. The energy of a young man in NYC is brought to life with much to rave about. Tremendous job.

Overall, Dudley Datson & the Forever Machine #1 is a big hit. There’s a lot of elements happening with this story but Snyder, Igle and the rest of the creative team present it with such energy and enjoyment. After that final page, expect to be locked in for the ride cause it’s only going up from here. Make a point to check this out on Comixology this week! Highly recommended!

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Dudley Datson & the Forever Machine #1 !

Thanks for reading!