It was another relatively slow week in the world of comics as DC and Marvel both made strides in their television and film departments.
On Agents of SHIELD, Elizabeth Henstridge (who plays Jemma Simmons) apparently drummed up some Emmy buzz with her emotional performance. We also learned that Mantis may be making her debut in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and Matthew McConaughey allegedly turned down a major villainous role in the film.
In DC's corner, Supergirl made its debut on CBS as the No. 1 highest rated premiere of the season. You go, girl! We also got some inklings of information about the purported 2017 solo Batman film. The kicker? We might be seeing Red Hood and Nightwing. Bring on the Bat Family!
No matter which side you're on, let's take a look at this week's offerings:
Marvel Comics
Captain America Sam Wilson #2
After a hefty load of backlash from issue No. 1, the new Captain America comes back swinging and starts explaining why him and Steve Rogers aren't on the best of terms.
The short story: Wilson backed up the Marvel Universe's version of Edward Snowden, and OG Cap did as well. But Wilson doesn't want the man prosecuted, and Rogers holds his faith in the law. I'm feeling some Civil War vibes here.
New Avengers #2
Ultimate Reed Richards AKA The Maker continues to make (heh) himself known among the New Avengers. Here were get a closer look at the crystal-headed monsters from issue No. 1 and the sorcerors and telepaths on the team figure out a way to stop them.
This issue does have a bit of build up, though, and it looks like The Maker is working on summoning some sort of hellbeast. Can't wait to see how that turns out.
Star Wars: Kanan #7
Kanan so far has been all about flashbacks and flash forwards, and this issue is no different. He we see young Jedi Caleb Dume being scoped out for a Jedi master.
He's quick-witted, snarky and not the best with the force, but Master Billaba sees something unique in him. This series isn't as bombastic as the other Star Wars comics, but it's a fun diversion and a nice companion piece to the Rebels television show.
Other releases to look out for: Chewbacca #2, The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1, Spider-Man 2099 #2
DC Comics
Batgirl #45
Batgirl plans the wedding of her friend in this issue, and she's the maid of honor/best man! Why? Well, in continuing its progressive nature, Batgirl hosts a same-sex marriage, and its spectacular.
Props to DC for making such an organic event out of something that many mediums are unable to depict. The emotion and happiness are present, and we even get a bit of drama between Batgirl and Grayson. (They should end up together. Leave me alone.)
Grayson #13
Speaking of Grayson, in this issue of Tim Seeley's continued spy thriller, good ole dick is slumming it with some pirates after saving them from Tiger Shark, a guy who wears a red bandana. Yup, that's about it.
Grayson continues to stun with its stellar humor, great characters and ever-present use of Midnighter. We could always use more Midnighter.
Robin Son of Batman #5
In this issue, young Damian Wayne discovers that his mother, Talia Al Ghul, is alive and well (or so we think.) While I'm not one hundred percent certain what has been happening in this series, its not too hard to follow by just jumping in.
With Damian's death successfully faked in Gotham City, it looks like he's about to go on a spiritual journey with his least favorite person: his mother.
Other releases to look out for: Gotham By Midnight #10, Superman #45, Aquaman #45
Winner - DC Comics
This week, the top prize has got to go to DC. Marvel had a strong showing with the sophomore issues of Captain America and New Avengers, but this week was dominated by all things Bat Family. Batgirl planned a kickass wedding, Grayson took down some scummy rogues and Robin met his maker, literally.
Keep up the good work, DC.
Indie Spotlight
Each week we'll put up one independently published comic we think you should read. This week it's...
Black Magick #1
Award-winning writer Greg Rucka's new comic baby takes readers on the journey of Det. Rowan Black, a homicide detective for Portsmouth Police Department. It's a mysterious and ambiguous title from Image Comics with killer art, stunning narrative and a whole lot of noir influence.
You won't want to skip on this one.
