The 4th Wall

Writing on The Wall: June 2013 Edition

moss — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 17:45:06 +0000

Wow, been a while since I did this! I guess I’ll have to get a new picture for these posts, huh?

At any rate, I’m happy to report that the dust has settled, the shelves are up and the art is on the wall in our new home at 8364 Rue Labarre in Montreal.

It’s been an undertaking to get it all put together, but I’m happy to say it’s going well and starting to feel like home. We’ve seen a lot of old friends and new faces since we moved and I’d like to extend a hearty “Thank You” to all who have visited!

So what now? Well, I’d like to give back a bit to those who’ve supported us through the move, the only way I know how: With Free Stuff!

I’m happy to announce that every week The 4th Wall will have a free giveaway. Starting on Wednesdays (New Comics Day), we will have a free poster, or button, or even comic to give away with purchase to anyone who stops by! Every week at 12pm on Wednesday’s we’ll announce that week’s item via our Twitter and Facebook. That week’s item will carry over to the next Wednesday (if supplies last!).

Just a little way for us to say thanks for showing your smiling faces in our new home

Keep Calm & Read Comics,

-Moss

May 22nd Is The Big Day!

moss — Thu, 16 May 2013 06:56:03 +0000

Hey Guys!

So, this is it! At 8pm May 15th we closed the doors at the St Jean location and are prepping to spend the next few days moving everything over to our new home at 8364 Labarre.

It’s going to take us a couple of days to get the new place up to snuff so as of May 22nd, we will be all set to go in our brand new, custom designed space at 8364 Labarre (H4P 2E7) in Montreal, just South of the 40, East of Decarie and right next to De La Savane Metro.

The West has been so very good to us, and we can’t thank everyone enough for all the support they’ve given us over the last few years as we tried to build a better mousetrap with our store.

The next phase of that starts now and on behalf of all of us, I hope you’ll continue on with us!

Keep Calm & Read Comics,

-Moss

Moving Day is upon us!

Bee — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:49:15 +0000

For those of you that don’t know yet, but I assume you do considering you’re reading this, The 4th Wall will be closing its Pointe-Claire doors today, May 15th, and heading on over to the new location. That being said, fear not! Although it will take us a few days to get it all set up, shiny and new and ready for you guys, The 4th Wall will be opening its doors again for you all on May 22nd at 8364 Labarre!

I know that coming to The 4th Wall has become a monthly, weekly, or even daily routine for many of us. I also know that a lot of you are concerned about how far The 4th is going to be from your houses, but I want to reassure you that it isn’t so bad really. The new location is super easy to get to, its right next to the De La Savane metro station, and just off Decarie near the 4o. And I know that doesn’t make it seem much better, but let me assure you, its worth it. It’s only 20-25 minutes from Fairview on public transit, and even less by car, how could it not be worth it? I travel in from NDG every day to the shop, not because I couldn’t get another job, not because I feel obliged, but because everything about the 4th Wall is worth the travel. I get to see your shining faces, I get to introduce you to books, I get to discuss the goings-on of the comic world with you, and I can only hope to continue seeing you all at the new location.

As we turn this new page, start a new adventure, I truly hope that you will all accompany us along the way. If it weren’t for you, the shop wouldn’t shine half as brightly as it does, and I’d love for you to continue on with us. You have helped make us what we are, a new breed of comic book shop, warm and inviting, and with the upmost love for each and everyone of you. Even though we might be changing our focus a little too, making the shop more boutique-y, I can assure you that the things you have learnt to love about us will always remain. We will always welcome you in, be more than willing to help you find exactly what you need, and help you in any way we can. We will still have comicpull pick-up at the shop, we will still order in anything you’re looking for, and we can still help you leave with piles of reading material.

It’s time for change, I’ll see you there!

xo
Bee

Big News From The 4th Wall!

moss — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:00:59 +0000

Free Comic Book Day is coming up fast, the day that is reserved for the celebration of all things Comics, fun, excitement and of course FREE STUFF!

This year’s Free Comic Book Day at The 4th Wall will be even more special because I’d like to announce that it is going to be our last at 940 St Jean Blvd.

Yes, that’s right, The 4th Wall is moving.

As of May 15th, 2013, we will be all set to go in our brand new, custom designed space at 8364 Labarre (H4P 2E7) in Montreal, just South of the 40, East of Decarie and right next to De La Savane Metro.

It has been an extraordinary thing to have spent the last few years in Pointe-Claire, getting to know the community and the great comic book fans in the area. Giving West Islanders an outlet for their comic enjoyment has been a wonderful experience and not something we want to stop doing anytime soon, even if we are just a little bit further East.

More details will be laid out in the coming weeks, including special sales, events and chances to get some great stuff at a low price, so you are going to want to follow us on twitter: @the4thwallMTL and be sure to watch our Facebook page as well.

Thank you so much for your support, your time and please come along with us as we start the next phase of the story that is The 4th wall.

Keep Calm & Read Comics,

Jeff Moss

General Manager
The 4th Wall / ComicPull

Fred Reads Comics! Week of January 2nd

Fred — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 16:18:42 +0000

Daredevil End of Days #4

Daredevil End of Days #1 review here.
Daredevil End of Days #2 review here.
Daredevil End of Days #3 review here.

I don’t know how this book does it but I end up so excited after every issue. Sometimes it’s a low hum of tension because the story is so dark and taut, sometimes it’s full on jittery nerves. Every issue leaves me feeling something new. I know a lot of it is that impatient anticipation you get as you wait for something to play out. With each chapter, the reader and Urich find more clues and more information that’s seemingly unrelated, but still feels important. There’s a sense of something far greater at play here that we just haven’t stumbled upon yet. The story takes us to new places with sometimes familiar characters involved but they’re different than we remember. Harsher. Colder. Tired.

It’s not a pretty picture Bendis, Mack and Sienkiwicz are painting, but its an enthralling one. Bullseye, the man who killed Daredevil, has been found dead in his own apartment from a self-inflicted trick shot no one else could land. That isn’t apparent initially, as there are bullet holes all over the room and a gun in his hand. At first glance, it looks like a shoot out happened that Bullseye lost. An unlikely explanation if you know anything about the character, but thats what a cursory look seems to indicate. The truth is uncovered as Urich tracers each bullet mark on the wall as a ricochet of one shot Bullseye took with the intention of it ending up between his own eyes. It’s a powerful scene, as is the following when Urich looks into a lead that’s more disturbing than I’d anticipated. Not unsurprising exactly, but difficult to read due to one character’s terror and disgust. Maybe I’m just a lightweight.

Regardless, the book continues down a path that leads to a man finally incarcerated after decades of taking out bad guys permanently. He’s a hero, but that label really depends on who you ask, and he’s fought with and against the Avengers many a time. If you don’t know who I’m alluding to, well, you’ll just have to read the issue to see. If you do know who I’m talking about, he is every bit as frightening as you’d think.

Issue #4 of End of Days keeps up the tension without spoiling the ending in any way. A very consistent series so far, I can’t wait to find out who dun it.

Flash #15

Read a review of The Flash #13 here.
Read a review of The Flash #14 here.

Anyone who has been following Francis Manapul’s run on The Flash knows that every issue has at least one gorgeous splash page that incorporates The Flash’s name into the artwork. If you’re a fan of those, you’ll love Flash #15 where there are no less than four beautiful double page spreads to illustrate Barry’s internal struggles. Every possible outcome and its repercussions is intricately detailed in these stunning frames made to look like the speed force. It’s dynamically composed and a real stand out set of artwork for this series.

All this comes after the Flash is saved from certain death at the hands of Grodd by a mysterious primate named Solovar in the last issue. His murder attempt foiled and speed force dwindling, Grodd runs off to recharge, which allows Barry to be pulled from the battle by Patty and Turbine. He is recuperating at home when we’re treated to the beautiful splash pages I mentioned before. Let’s back up a moment though. Patty’s rescue is a seemingly simple enough task once Grodd disappears, but it’s also the moment where Patty finds out that not only is Barry still alive, he is also The Flash. A decisive moment for any superhero and the first time The Flash has revealed his secret identity (albeit without meaning to) to a lady friend since the reboot.

Half of the issue is illustrated by Marcus To and Ryan Winn, a great team that manages to emanate Manapul’s style without sacrificing their own. It’s not a jarring shift from one artist to the other, which is unfortunately pretty common if more than one person is working on a book.

This is a great introspective chapter for The Flash and a distinctive moment of growth. What Barry decides to do at the end of this issue doesn’t seem like a great idea but is a defining choice for the character who sometimes seems like he’s running away from things instead of towards them.

I know I’m dying to see Barry kick some gorilla ass, how about you?

All New X-Men #5

Read a review of All New X-Men #1 here.
Read a review of All New X-Men #2 here.
Read a review of All New X-Men #3 here.
Read a review of All New X-Men #4 here.

Everything about this series has felt very authentic up until one part of this issue. There’s a moment where Wolverine loses his temper and says some pretty hypocritical things about Scott that I’d like to believe he would know better than to say. After everything Logan has done, the full gory history that’s no longer lost to the amnesia he suffered from in his early days, he has no right to judge him or consider undoing everything Pheonix Force Scott has done with one pop of a claw. By that rhetoric, he should really consider taking out Jean instead, which would save several planets from destruction by the Dark Phoenix. That’s a point originally brought up by the nerd-in-chief here at Silver Snail, not myself, but it’s one that I can’t really shake. There’s a double standard when it comes to forgiving certain people for what they’ve done under the influence of magic, the Phoenix or just because they’re suddenly on the “right” side (*cough* Magneto *cough*). Scarlet Witch killed thousands of mutants and nearly drove them to extinction, but her actions have been forgiven by most, along with the evil deeds done by Emma, Magneto and most of the X-Men at one point or another.

Argh. That can be attributed to Wolverine’s hot-headedness, but it’s an argument that so many fans agree with while still standing behind Magneto’s change of heart.

Beyond that, it’s still a great issue. Jean enters Hank’s mind to create a bridge for old Hank and young Hank to troubleshoot what’s wrong with him. I love that when he sees her in his mind, she’s in her Marvel Girl outfit. That’s how I think of her when she’s not imbued with the Phoenix Force. During this, she convinces him to show her exactly what happens to her in her future. It’s a shock to say the least, to suddenly have that much information including a physical understanding of your life and death. She could feel what it was like to die. What a terrible curse that comes with her powers.

It was another great chapter, despite that brief Logan induced hiccup of hypocrisy, and I’m really unsure of how they’ll resolve this storyline. That’s pretty exciting though!

Reviews originally posted on The Silver Snail. You can find Fred on Twitter or on her website.

Fred Reads Comics! Week of December 19th

Fred — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:25:07 +0000

Saga #8

Read a review of Saga #7 here.
Read a review of Saga #6 here.

Fiona Staples’ art is so iconic in this series, but lets talk about the covers for a minute. Not only is the art stunning, the background colour wraps all the way around to the back, a welcome change from most ad plastered books on the shelf. It’s a simple touch becoming more common again outside of the big two’s books and it really makes single issues feel less disposable somehow. That may prove to be a smart move as many consumers are skipping single issues and going straight to buying graphic novels.

Issue #8 jumps the timeline for the first few pages, going back to tell the story of how Alana and Marko first met. It’s suitably romantic, despite a bit of violence, but only a brief interlude before we return to the main storyline. There are some great interactions between Alana and Barr, whose intentions turn out to not be quite so menacing as they initially seemed in the last issue. Alana ends up with some sweet new clothes, a welcome change after wearing the same dirty outfit during their entire escape. It also gives them the opportunity to bond and discuss Marko. The way Brian K. Vaughan writes their dialogue leaves no doubt that those two star-crossed lovers are absolutely gobsmacked for each other. Writing an epic, universe spanning tale of adventure is challenging enough but he also manages to weave a really heartfelt, emotional love story that doesn’t rely on cliche definitions of romance. The cynic in me keeps waiting for the ball to drop in this series, for that moment where the action or dialogue or twists don’t quite hit the high bar set previously.

That’s not this issue and it honestly doesn’t seem like it will be a problem for a long time, if ever, in this series. Staples’ art is still gorgeous throughout the book and at the back of this issue, we get some insight as to what her process is. The fact that she does all her own line work, inking, colouring and lettering (with some design assistance from Fonografiks) is amazing. The fact that the majority is also done digitally blows my mind. She only does rough pencils to get a basic idea of panel layout and character placement before inking everything digitally. Even knowing that more and more artists are working digitally these days, her style felt so organic I never considered it was digital. That may just mean that I don’t know enough about the process but I really think it shows how remarkable her work really is.

Saga #8 is a great mix of history, current story with Hazel’s family and some great new character interactions. There really isn’t a dull moment and things never quite go the way you think they will so you’re always on the edge of your seat. If you aren’t already, you should be reading Saga.

Wonder Woman #15

Read a review of Wonder Woman #14 here.

Ironically, after declaring my newfound love for Tony Akins’ art on this book, Cliff Chiang has returned to doing the interiors. Just in time for Orion to make his grand entrance. I’m not very familiar with him as a character, but what I do know points to his introduction meaning interesting things for Wonder Woman. Lets back up to Chiang’s return and how exciting that is. He has such an expressive but simple art style that really suits Brian Azzarello’s writing in this book, and his covers are always stunning. It’s an oddly natural fit for a creative team I wouldn’t automatically consider putting together.

Back to the story. Along with Orion’s introduction, we also meet Milan, a powerful being currently living the slum life. He’s apparently pals with Orion, too, as their quick joyride makes clear. It’s a great example of what makes this book so wonderful; even though Azzarello tackles some intimidating mythological characters, he’s modernized them by adding enough realism to make them more believable, all while not taking them too seriously in the process. He doesn’t tear them down or force current slang/trends on them, thankfully. That always backfires as it dates the comic and eliminates the possibility of it becoming a timeless story. No, Azzarello makes these gods feel current without being trendy or tied only to this era. Oh, and just a susceptible to flights of fancy (like joyrides) as mere mortals.

Wonder Woman continues on her quest to return Zola’s child to her, and, in one of my favourite moments, requests that Hera and Zola stay in their hotel room and order room service. The queen of the gods is briefly placated by this indulgence and that really cracked me up. As long as someone is serving her or treating her like a queen, she is content. It also gives the two women a chance to discuss what’s happened and finally, FINALLY, it’s pointed out to Hera that perhaps her anger at Zola should be directed at Zeus instead. Seems so obvious but so many place the blame on the third party instead of their partners actions. I’m glad Azzarello takes the time to correct that assumption.

Lennox and Wonder Woman track down Milan and his pal Orion, but Diana bumps into someone surprising along the way. Unexpected, but a nice moment that I won’t spoil with more details. Of course tensions build as they always seem to do when gods, or in this case half-gods, meet but the expected fight is delayed until the next issue. The last few pages set up another battle of epic proportions and it certainly seems like issue #16 will be great. This has been a consistent book that I feel will only be made better when read as a trade. That may be my impatience for the next issue talking though.

All New X-Men #4

Read a review of All New X-Men #3.
Read a review of All New X-Men #2.
Read a review of All New X-Men #1.

The first part of this issue is heartbreaking. The original X-Men confront modern day Cyclops and Magneto and so much happens with so little being said. Most of it is internal dialogue as Scott runs through all the possibilities of how or why these X-Men could appear before him. The options he considers really illustrate just how damaged he’s become after everything he’s suffered through and/or done to himself. It takes him a while to come to the truth and that in of itself is a brutal moment. Add in the fact that he starts broadcasting his thoughts to Jean and you have a really heavy scene, all within the first three pages. The fact that this first meeting doesn’t go well is hardly a surprise, but I was still caught off guard by the emotional intensity of their interactions. Brian Michael Bendis already set up some tense moments in the previous books, but the catalyst between two Cyclops and of course, Jeannie, is such a poignant moment.

Damn. I wish more X-Men books were this well written and thought out. The rest of the issue involves a lot of recovery and dissection of what just happened, why and who could be responsible for it. Even though Emma wasn’t there for the double-Scott action, she’s naturally disturbed by it and it just heightens their already strained relationship. As she says herself, the last thing she needs is Jean Grey showing up.

In the midst of all the X drama, there are new mutants watching as their heroes battle younger versions of themselves. Not exactly a confidence-boosting sight, but, if anything, it’s preparing them for the multitude of weird events their futures will likely hold. Even though it’s not a light series by any stretch, Bendis manages to include a lot of great moments to break the tension, if only for a panel or two. He doesn’t shy away from the hard questions, though, and Stuart Immonen does a spectacular job of conveying what Jean is thinking when she looks at Scott now, even though she doesn’t say a word. Somehow, this gentle boy that she loves will grow up to be someone who doesn’t prevent her death and kills Charles Xavier. All in one brief panel. Good art continues the story when words fail to capture the moment and Immonen nails every non verbal cue.

Issue #4 is an emotionally taut, solid read that should not be missed.

Reviews originally posted on The Silver Snail. You can find Fred on Twitter or on her website.

Hobbitses Inspired Fantasy Comic List

Justin — Sun, 16 Dec 2012 20:15:34 +0000

Who here hasn’t seen The Hobbit yet? If you’ve answered “no”, then you’re doing it wrong. Fantasy epics of that quality don’t come along often enough for my taste. Add to the fact that the combination of 3D and a framerate of 48fps create a technological masterpiece and you’re in for a good time. Although, since they’re stretching out a single book (smaller than any title in the Lord of the Rings trilogy) into a trilogy, I definitely find myself wanting for more. And yes, I’m one of those few fools who hasn’t read the actual book of The Hobbit.

Of course I can always go ahead and read the rest of the actual book to get my fix but you know what that’s missing? Pictures. So, in honor of The Hobbit and all its fantastical creatures I’ll be going through some of my favourite fantasy graphic novels for all you readers out there. These are also all continuing series, so if you pick one up and like what you see you can sign up to receive new issues as they’re released via ComicPull.

Saga Vol.1 TP – Image

I don’t know exactly what I can tell you to prepare you for Saga. This is a crazy mix of sci-fi/fantasy that I’ve personally never read before. From the moment I read the first page I knew I’d love the book for not only its snappy dialogue, but the insanity of the universe written by Brian K. Vaughan (Y the Last Man) and artist Fiona Staples (Mystery Society).

This is one situation where the quotes on the back of the book say it best: “Creating the emotional epic that hollywood wishes it could make” – The A.V. Club.

Fables (Vol. 1 – 17 TP) – Vertigo

Fables is one of those comic series that almost everyone knows at this point. If you don’t, then here’s your chance to be redeemed.

The fairy tale creatures have been exiled from their homeland and forced to live in the real world or, more specifically, New York City. Bill Willingham writes a fantastic tale incorporating many of the famous characters in slightly different incarnations. It all starts off with Detective Bigby (Big Bad) Wolf investigating who killed Rose Red and continues to go down the rabbit hole from there.

Skullkickers (Vol. 1 – 3 TP) – Image

For those who like a little (maybe a lot) of comedy with their fantasy comics, you can’t go wrong with Skullkickers. A bald mercenary and his dwarvish companion go on a quest for riches, and nothing will stop them lining their purses with that sweet sweet gold. This is one title that will keep a smile on your face from beginning to end.

Game of Thrones Vol. 1 HC – Bantam

Winter is coming! Jokes, it’s here, but the 3rd season of Game of Thrones is taking its sweet time getting here. In the meantime, why not catch up to the comic series with volume one of the graphic novel?

Writer Daniel Abraham and Artist Tommy Patterson, this collection is gorgeous. The books and TV show are fantastic, and this comic series is no exception. For anyone who’s even heard the words “Game of Thrones” or “winter is coming”, pick this up. Even if you haven’t, this is a fantastic interpretation of a fantasy-drama that shouldn’t be missed.

I love hobbitses. You love hobbitses. Why can’t we all love hobbitses together?

Fred Reads Comics! Week of December 12th

Fred — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 15:21:22 +0000

Batman #15

Read a review of Batman #14 here.

I’ve been really excited about reading this issue. #14 was spectacular and the scenario Scott Snyder has set up with the Joker makes the term “tense” seem like spending the day with a box full of kittens. The first page of issue #15 ramps up the tension even more as Batman talks himself down from the psychological ledge the Joker’s put him on. The scientific dissection of how the Joker’s pupil reactions simply don’t behave the same way as any other criminal– or human for that matter– pinpoints just how far outside the realm of normalcy the Joker really is. At the end of the day, he’s still a mad man but this atypical unconscious biological response differentiates him on an anatomical level, something that’s hard to ignore when you’re trying to convince yourself he’s just a man. It’s chilling and effective. It sets the stage for the issue and continues the Death of the Family story really well.

There’s a brief step back into Batman’s history with the Joker in this issue that elaborates on a secret Bruce has kept for years. It could be monumental in explaining how and why the Joker has come after the Bat-Family now, or it could truly be circumstantial. Part of me thinks that this may just be Bruce being too paranoid about one aspect of the situation but not paranoid enough about the other. I love the way Snyder is melding parts of original Bat history with this truly fresh take on the Joker, as he did with the Court of Owls story.

Greg Capullo’s art continues to be outstanding though with Joker’s introduction, it now also borders on cringe-worthy. It’s that damn mask! There are moments in this issue where it slips on Joker’s face a bit, the eye holes not quite matching up and the exposed tendons/facial muscles showing through in other gaps. It’s truly gruesome and a great visual reminder that this isn’t just another Joker story. This is the Joker’s return and that is not something to underestimate or downplay. He’s decided to return; he hasn’t been caught or exposed. This is all on his terms and they are detailed, precise and brutal.

The build-up to the next issue is huge as more of the Joker’s plot is uncovered towards the end of #15. Or at least, the parts he knew would eventually be discovered become known to Batman. That’s an underlying theme with Death of the Family: with every step that Batman takes, the reader is painfully aware of how the Joker is always one or two steps ahead. You know the tide will turn eventually and Batman will regain the upper hand but you really don’t know when or at what cost. There’s a lot to lose in this story and I really believe Snyder has the balls to do some real damage to the Bat-verse. Not for naught, and with a purpose, but damage nonetheless. Those are the kind of stakes a character like the Joker deserves for his return.

Dr. Manhattan #3

Adam Hughes doing interior artwork. Repeat that sentence again in case it didn’t make an impact the first time. It’s been years since Hughes has had the opportunity to focus on a book so completely, and Dr. Manhattan is all the better for it. Though I did intend on reading all of the Before Watchmen books anyway, this was the book I was most excited to see simply because of his artwork. It surpassed my expectations but thankfully not just because it was gorgeous. I considered Dr. Manhattan to be one of the most interesting characters in Watchmen, so to catch a glimpse of his narrative is monumental. J. Michael Straczynski has given voice to a character that is beyond time, beyond the understandings of mortal men. A look under the hood of the most powerful being in the known universe.

The first two issues focused on his origin and growing awareness of an alternate version of his timeline, where he did not become this godlike man. Issue #3 pushes past that and Manhattan realizes how one deliberate choice he made actually created an infinite number of unique possibilities instead of overwriting the “real” timeline. His story is fragmented at every turn by the possibilities of each subsequent choice. Unraveling from the end to the beginning, it’s science fiction at its finest: exploring multiple realities, the “what if’s” surrounding his life and the very nature of time. His awareness is expanded as a result.

The catalyst for all this is so simple and integral to the original story that this revelation feels very authentic. There’s been much debate as to whether Before Watchmen is necessary or could add anything to such a spectacular original work and I believe this moment is a shining example that yes, it can. Watchmen will always exist as a unique identity that doesn’t need any other supporting material. That goes without saying, but the Dr. Manhattan series–and this issue in particular– gave us insight into the character, a possible explanation for his behavior that doesn’t detract from and if anything elevates the original story, and is just a pretty damn cool moment for fans. Building on another’s work is a very fine line to tread, especially something as beloved as Watchmen, but I believe that Straczynski and Hughes have not only treated Dr. Manhattan with the utmost respect, they’ve done justice to the spirit of the character. Beyond being a thought provoking title, it’s visually stunning too. Mixing more traditional panel layouts with some really engrossing free-form pages that enhances the story and ensures more of an impact.

For the love of Manhattan, don’t prove me wrong Issue #4!

Reviews originally posted on The Silver Snail. You can find Fred on Twitter or on her website.

Writing on The Wall – Dec 7, 2012

moss — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 18:28:23 +0000

News and notes on upcoming events and products from The 4th Wall!

Wow! So much happening in the next couple of weeks, it’s hard to know where to begin!

First up, Gift Ideas. It’s so hard to shop for comics fans because chances are they have everything! Well, don’t worry we’ve got you covered!

If the person in your life is a long time comics fan, let me suggest the ABSOLUTE EDITIONS. These are over-sized, slipcased editions of some of the best comics out there. Crisis on Infinite Earths, Sandman, Watchmen, Batman: Hush and so many more have been given Absolute editions. The best part? They are so nice that even if your person has read these stories, theres so much extra packed into the Absolute Editions that it’s like a whole new experience.

What’s that? You need stocking stuffers? We got that too! Image Comics are putting out a new wave of their IMAGE FIRST series! These are reprints of some of Image’s most successful series like Chew, Fatale, Saga, The Walking Dead and more! AND, each one is only $1! it’s a great way to try out these series before you buy the graphic novels.

My favourite thing in the store (so much so that I put it on MY Christmas list), would have to be THE COMPLETE CALVIN AND HOBBES box set. This set is back in stock in a new 4-volume, slipcased softcover edition and contains all 3300 Calvin and Hobbes strip, plus every bit of promotional art Bill Watterson ever produced. It’s an amazing set and would look perfect under the tree!

And finally, Just a reminder that the Justice League of America #1 “State” Variants are still available for pre-order as a complete set. DC is offering all 52 variants + the standard cover (53 comics in total) as a bundle for $149.99*. If this is something you would like, orders and a 50% deposit ($75) are due by closing (7PM) on Monday, Jan 7, 2012.

Also, Justice League of America (New 52 Wave 3) and Marvel NOW’s Uncanny X-Men are available to pull at ComicPull! Be sure and add titles early, so we have to do all the work!

Products: Coming up in the store

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #699.1
This is the last issue before the last issue! Yep, a quick story that’ll take us into Amazing Spider-Man #700 and apparently set up the new Morbius series coming in 2013. Can’t say Morbius excites me, but the Spider-Man story has been so great I’ll take it!

AVENGERS ARENA #1 NOW
I’ll be honest. I have no idea how this one is going to go. It pits many of the Marvel U’s younger heroes against each other, we just don’t know why. I’m curious enough to give it a shot though!

BATMAN #15 (DOTF)
Death of The Family is rocking the caped crusader’s world, and I can’t even begin to imagine how it’s going to end. This has been the best series of the New 52 for my money and promises not to let up anytime soon!

CABLE AND X-FORCE #1 NOW
The first of two new X-Force books in the Marvel NOW-niverse. I have no idea if they are going to connect or play off of each other but I want to know how Cable came back from the dead!

CROW SKINNING THE WOLVES #1 (OF 3)
I haven’t been too impressed with the Crow from IDW thus far, but this series is be the one and only James O’Barr. For those not in the know, he’s the creator and writer/artist of the original Crow book that has inspired films, tv, music and of course, comics. I’m super-excited to see new work by him, especially in the world of the Crow!

So there ya go! Stay tuned, my friends. New comics day is Wednesday and we’ve always got loads of news, reviews and Writing on The Wall all week long!

-Moss

*All of the prices quoted on variants are subject to availability and sales taxes.

A DKB Must Have Graphic Novel

Devin — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 15:03:46 +0000

Look no further, a great graphic novel for you (well depending on your type of read) has just arrived at The 4th Wall this week!

Yes my friends, a wonderful, color full, very funny, and violent as hell 8 issue comic series has finally been made into a hard cover graphic novel which is Butcher Baker, The Righteous Maker. This series was done by Joe Casey and Mike Huddleston who had great chemistry in creating this series, and released by Image Comics who do a great job entertaining the bigger boys and girls!

Now, about the story. What can I say, this series has bit of evreything! From a semi-retired mercianry with a severe attitude problem who would pretty much pull the plug on anybody if it would mean that he would be left alone to enjoy his booze and strippers, violent road rage, lots of guns and explosion, demons/demi-gods, to even Jay Leno! This mini-series is so out there that it’s actually kinda hard to give an exact detail of the story, but in the end it all makes sense (in a weird drug induced way!), and it is entertaining from beginning to end.

Usually I would write a longer review but for this book, not much more can be said except keep your arms and legs in at all times in the cabin while reading this graphic novel. So take a break from the everyday reading of your old favorite classic super heroes (but continue afterwards!), and try something totally different from your comfort level and enter a new world of comic style. I dare you!

Next time, “Bronies”… The hard core male fans of My Little Ponies… Why?! Until then, share the magic! Did I just say that?!