There were a lot of rumors and rumblings in the comic book film world this week.
Warner Bros.' upcoming DC Comics film Suicide Squad seemed to open well in test screenings, but these things always seem to. One thing is for sure though: it looks like Jared Leto will be starring as the Joker in a Skrillex and Rick Ross music video. Oh.
The Flash has also found a new director, with Dope helmer Rick Famuyiwa taking over duties from the recently departed Seth Grahame-Smith. This is very good news, and we're looking forward to seeing this new take on The Flash.
Over on the Marvel side of things, rumors are flying about that recent Oscar winner Brie Larson is the front runner to play Captain Marvel. Since Larson is absolutely phenomenal in films like Room and Short Term 12, she would be a more than welcome addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Also, we kinda sorta know what's going on with the film rights to Namor now. Sort of.
No matter which side you're on, here are some must-reads for this week
Civil War II #1
We'll admit it. As an event, it's hard to be excited for Civil War II right now. With the movie just recently giving us a fresh take on Mark Millar's original Civil War, we're a bit burnt out. Secret Wars seems like it just ended, DC is rebirthing and Cap said "Hail Hydra." We're a bit tired of the shock and awe.
But in its promises, Civil War II #1 does deliver, though not without the craziness most would expect from a comic book crossover. There are two main, but not-so-shocking character deaths here, and the sides are already forming in the Iron Man vs. Captain Marvel debacle. Meanwhile, the Inhuman Ulysses is just trying to sleep at night. Sorry bud.
The real standout in this issue is the splash page toward the beginning, which effectively shows every active duty Avengers charging toward battle. It's fantastic. Let's hope the rest of the event is as appealing, and on time. We all know how Secret Wars turned out.
Batman Rebirth #1
Hot off the heels of last week's Rebirth primer, Batman is ready to re-introduce himself to the world, and it's with a whisper, not a bang. But this isn't a bad thing at all, as this issue, co-penned by Batman writers Tom King and Scott Snyder, is merely a continuation of the fantastic New 52 run. Though we expect King to deviate a bit, especially coming off of critically-fantastic series like Vision and The Omega Men.
Anyway, this issue gives us our first glimpse of Duke as Batman's new sidekick, but he's no Robin. Nope, with a new yellow motorcycle suit, he looks to be joining Batman's side as something brand new, and we welcome it. After all, there are way too many Robins now. There's also an updated take on Calendar Man here. Hey, we welcome any and all re-imagination, especially those that make a character at least somewhat interesting.
Superman Rebirth #1
Not much happened in this week's Superman issue, though it does provide so needed set-up for the pre-Flashpoint Superman. The entire issue involves Clark and Lana taking the New 52 Superman's remains to the Fortress of Solitude. Why? Because Clark has a hunch that he can revive this world's Supes, just like he was revived himself.
Spoiler: It doesn't work. But that's OK, because this issue is a great sendoff to a character that never quite felt like the Superman we've all come to know and love. And when you reach the final pages of this intro issue, you'll feel hope for the future of Superman, not sadness for the loss. Basically the complete opposite of the recent movie version of Superman. Yeah, I went there.
Green Arrow Rebirth #1
Well, I can start by saying this is definitely the best comic of the week. While the New 52 incarnations of Green Arrow and Black Canary were both great in their own right, it's fantastic to see the two together again. And though this is a continuation of the aforementioned runs, the moment the two meet makes up makes us feel like they've been together forever.
But once you get past just how great that is, this issue is still awesome, and sets up what is looking to be a grounded and gritty arc for our heroes when the new series officially starts. Mole people are selling humans on the black market, and who better to take them down then the street-level dynamic duo of Green Arrow and Black Canary? We're in.
