I Reads You: children's comics

Showing posts with label children's comics. Show all posts

Thursday, April 18, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #136

WORLD OF ARCHIE (JUMBO COMICS) DOUBLE DIGEST #136

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Daniel Kibblesmith; with Mike Pellowski; Bill Golliher; Frank Doyle; and various

PENCILS: Holly G!; Steven Butler; with Stan Goldberg; Bill Golliher; Dan DeCarlo, Jr.; and various

INKS: Jim Amash; Lily Butler; with Bob Smith; Rudy Lapick; James DeCarlo; and various

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; with Barry Grossman and various

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; with Bill Yoshida

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

192pp, Color, $9.99 U.S. (March 2024); on-sale January 10, 2024

Rating: All-Ages

“One Shot Worth a Million,” “The Perfect Specimen”

World of Archie (Jumbo Comics) Double Digest is part of “The Archie Digest Library” series. Debuting in late 2010, World of Archie Double Digest is a mini-trade paperback-like series that features stories reprinted from across the publishing history of Archie Comics. Sometimes, however, these digests offer original stories.

World of Archie (Jumbo Comics) Double Digest #132 reintroduces three characters from the “Golden Age” of Archie Comics (when it was known as M.L.J. Magazines, Inc.). These characters return in two new stories.

The first new story is “One Shot Worth a Million.” It is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. It introduces modern versions of two characters.

The first is “Fran Frazer,” who first appeared in MLJ'S Top Notch Comics #9 (cover dated: October 1940). She was one of those female “roving-reporters” characters, and she roamed the world as a photo journalist. She had a miniature camera, which she disguised as various fashion accessories, and Fran used it to collect evidence against the wicked and the corrupt. Fran was usually accompanied by the second reintroduced character, Hal Davis. The modernized Fran Frazer is a freelance photographer and journalist for “Strife Media.” The modernized Hal Davis is her romantic rival and is also now an African-American character.

Fran Frazer in “One Shot Worth a Million”:

Why is Archie Andrews skulking around the docks in the dead of night? Veronica Lodge wants to know. Well, Archie is assisting freelance photographer and journalist, Fran Frazer, in her investigation of criminal syndicate activity at the docks. And it involves Lodge Industry, which Veronica's father, Hiram Lodge, owns.

By the way, why is Veronica skulking around the docks? Well, she is assisting Hal Davis, Fran's (romantic) rival. Can Archie and Veronica stop bickering in time to help Fran and Hal unmask corruption at the docks?

The second new story is “The Perfect Specimen.” It is written by Daniel Kibblesmith; drawn by Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

The story reintroduces “Young Dr. Masters,” a physician who engages in dangerous adventures and misadventures to help patients. The character had his own comic book, The Adventures of Young Dr. Masters, which ran for two issues (cover dated: August and November 1964). The series was apparently an adaptation of the 1962 novel, Young Doctor Masters (Belmont Books), written by Frank Haskell. That Frank Haskell is not to be confused with Frank A. Haskell (1828-1864), the author and Union Army officer who served during the American Civil War. The modernized Dr. Masters is a television doctor and author.

Young Dr. Masters in “The Perfect Specimen”:

During his television show, Dr. Masters announces that he is about to embark on a six-city book tour for his upcoming book, “The Perfect Specimen! Health, Beauty, and You!” The tour will kick off in Riverdale, where Masters hopes to find the one “local teen” who “truly embodies the spirit of health and beauty.” That person would be the “perfect specimen” to appear on the book cover and to accompany Dr. Masters on his book tour.

Betty and Veronica each believes that she is the “perfect specimen.” Thus, begins their latest battle of the beauties, but can these two friends and rivals survive a health and beauty war of attrition?

THE LOWDOWN: For many years now, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. World of Archie (Jumbo Comics) Double Digest #132 is the latest.

“One Shot Worth a Million” and the “The Perfect Specimen” exemplify how Archie Comics has perfected the six-page humor story over the last several years. Archie Comics has always been good at humor short stories and stand-alone tales, as they've been doing it for decades. However, these new, tight, six-page tales that pepper Archie digests and single-issue anniversary specials are concise in their delivery of a beginning, middle, and end with a substantial plot. But there is a problem...

Often, I come across six-page stories that would be better served by being at least twice their length. That is the case with both these stories, but especially with “One Shot Worth a Million.” Writer Ian Flynn mixes espionage, teen humor, and comic romance with flair in this story, a hybrid with potential that demands to expanded into a longer story. The art team of Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks) certainly have the storytelling chops to keep the humor and comic action humming along for longer than six pages. Alas, it was not to be.

The rest of World of Archie Double Digest #132 is a mixture of winter-themed tales and high school hijinks, which Archie fans will always welcome. I should warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want World of Archie Double Digest.

B+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Thursday, April 4, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: Disney's GARGOYLES #1

DISNEY'S GARGOYLES #1

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Greg Weisman

ARTIST: George Kambadais

COLORS: George Kambadais

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: David Nakayama

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Rated “Teen”

“Here in Manhattan” – Chapter One: “A Little Crazy”

“Gargoyles” was an animated television series produced by Walt Disney Television Animation that ran for a total of 78 episodes over three seasons, from October 24, 1994, to February 15, 1997. The series focused on “gargoyles,” a species of nocturnal creatures that had spent a thousand years in an enchanted petrified state. Reawakened in modern New York City, they are stone by day, but when day falls, they are warriors, the city's night-time protectors.

“Gargoyles” has been adapted into comic books by both Marvel Comics (1995) and Slave Labor Graphics (2006-09). Dynamite Entertainment is the new license holder and begins its publication with Gargoyles Volume 1. The series is written by “Gargoyles” creator Greg Weisman; drawn and colored by George Kambadais; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry. The series will act as a “Season 4” of the original television series, following Weisman's preferred story line.

Gargoyles Volume 1, #1 (“A Little Crazy”) opens at night in Manhattan. Elisa Maza, an NYPD detective from the twenty-third precinct, is in on the action as the Gargoyles do what they always do – at night. However, a gang war is brewing, and it may be worse than the previous one. Meanwhile, deep underground in the “Labyrinth,” something momentous is about to happen.

THE LOWDOWN: Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles. One of them is Gargoyles #1, the first Gargoyles comic book that I have read.

Although I was aware of the “Gargoyles” animated series, I never got around to watching it, but I do remember that it had a substantial fandom. I was aware of Slave Labor Graphics' comic book series, but unaware of Marvel's series – neither of which I read.

I am aware of Greg Weisman's work in animation. I have really enjoyed some of the comic books that he has written. He wrote the majority of comic book series that adapted the first “Young Justice” (2010-13) animated series. I also really enjoyed his Star Wars comic book, Star Wars: Kanan (2010) for Marvel Comics, which focused on one of the main characters from the Disney animated series, “Star Wars Rebels (2010-2014).

I like Weisman's set-up for this first issue of Gargoyles. Weisman uses this first issue to acquaint readers with the franchise's characters, although many people reading this first issue are already in the know. He ends this first issue with a last act filled with intriguing sub-plots.

I also immensely enjoyed artist George Kambadais' art on Dynamite's recent John Carter of Mars miniseries. The dynamic illustrations and shimmering colors he brought to John Carter, Kambadais transports to Gargoyles. Gargoyles #1 looks good, and the lettering by Jeff Eckleberry makes the story pop and gives the dialogue some edginess.

I think the second issue of Gargoyles is where the story will really kick into gear, but Gargoyles #1 is a good start. Hopefully, this series, which will act as a Season Four (I think) of the original animated TV series, will please fans, new and old.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of the Gargoyles franchise will want to try Dynamite's new Gargoyles comic book series.

A-

★★★½ out of 4 stars

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/dynamite-entertainment

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Thursday, February 1, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: ARCHIE Valentine's Spectacular #1 2023

ARCHIE VALENTINE'S SPECTACULAR #1 (In-stories and on digital Wed., Feb. 1st)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Jamie Lee Rotante; Greg Crosby; Craig Boldman; Dan Parent

PENCILS: Holly G!; Pat Kennedy; Rex Lindsey; Dan Parent

INKS: Jim Amash; Jon D'Agostino; Rich Koslowski; Rudy Lapick

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Barry Grossman

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (March 2023)

Rating: All-Ages

“More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Archie's characters (sometimes referred to as “the Archie Gang”). One of them is the Archie Valentine's Spectacular No.1. It features one new story and four reprint stories. Entitled “More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!,” the new story stars Archie Comics' newest character, “Cassie Cloud.” The story is written by Jamie Lee Rotante; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Introducing Cassie Cloud in “More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!”:

The story opens at the "Valentine's Spectacular Dance." The newest student at Riverdale High is Cassie Cloud, who recently transferred from Centerville. Cassie is tall, confident, funny, and catching all the guys’ attention – much to the chagrin of the girls. Betty and Veronica notice, however, that Cassie doesn't seem interested in the attention of the most popular boys in school, including Archie and Reggie. So Ethel and Midge join them for some research into Cassie.

Why is the hot new girl hanging out with the likes of Dilton, Toño, Raj, Randolph, and even Simon a.k.a. “Prankenstein” – all known as nerds? And do the girls have something to learn from her about learning to love the “short kings?”

THE LOWDOWN: I have been reading comic books, on and off, for the better part of five decades. I have sporadically read Archie Comics titles over that time, so I usually miss the publisher's introduction of new characters. Thus, Cassie Cloud isn't the only character that is new to me in Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1.

I think she has a lot of potential, as set up in this nice five-page story that is “More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!” Cassie is similar to classic Archie female characters like Betty and Veronica, but she is different enough, especially in terms of her interests, to create hopefully exciting new story scenarios across all Archie titles. Writer Jamie Lee Rotante and artist Holly G! have created a winning story for this character, and hopefully, they will do more.

The rest of Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1 is comprised of reprints: three “Veronica” solo stories and one “Jughead” solo. One Veronica story, “Valentine's Day Dilemma,” finds Archie struggling to figure out what kind of Valentine's Day gift he could give to the rich girl (Veronica) who already has had a better version of anything he can afford. In “Sweets to the Sweet,” Jughead is sure that he has the perfect way to scam the girls of Riverdale out of their Valentine's candy.

If you are like me and love classic-style Archie Comics, you will love these stories. And Archie Valentine's Spectacular is for you.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1.

A-

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://twitter.com/archiecomics

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https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Tuesday, January 23, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: JOSIE ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR #1

JOSIE ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR #1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Holly G!; Frank Doyle; Tom DeFalco

PENCILS: Holly G!: Dan DeCarlo; Kennedy Bros.

INKS: Jim Amash; Rudy Lapick

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Vincent DeCarlo; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2024); on-sale November 8, 2023

Rating: All-Ages

Josie and the Pussycats in “Rock Cats”

In December 1962, Archie Comics published a comic book entitled She's Josie. She's Josie #1 (cover date: February 1963) gave a starring role to a level-headed redhead named “Josie Jones” and focused on her fanciful life and times as a teenager. Created by Dan DeCarlo, Josie first appeared in Archie's Pals 'n' Gals #23 (cover dated: Winter 1962-1963).

Josie Jones would become "Josie James," and later, she would take the name by which most readers and fans know her, “Josie McCoy.” She's Josie was renamed Josie with issue #17 (cover dated: December 1965). The series became Josie and the Pussycats with issue #45 (cover date: December 1969), in which Josie and her friend, Melody, formed a band called the Pussycats. The two friends added bassist, Valerie Smith, the new girl in school and one of the first major African-American comic book characters. The trio donned leopard print band uniforms that came with long tails and cat-ear headbands. Hanna-Barbera adapted this new-look Josie into the Saturday morning animated television series, “Josie and the Pussy Cats” (1970-71), and the follow-up, “Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space” (1972-73).

2023 is the year Archie Comics is celebrating the sixtieth anniversary of Josie's debut. Archie has just published the one-shot comic book, Josie Anniversary Spectacular, No. 1. The comic book features one new story, “Rock Cats.” It is written by Holly G!; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Josie and the Pussycats in “Rock Cats”:

The story opens with Josie and the Pussycats: Josie McCoy, Valerie Brown, and Melody Valentine being launched into space aboard the first Lodge/Cabot rocket for an extraordinary concert event. It's a first – Pussycats in orbit! There is trouble in space, however, and soon the girls have lost contact with their fans back on Earth. Can a passing space fan save the day and the concert?

The story features a host of characters from the world of Archie Comics. From Josie and the Pussycats, there is Alan M. Mayberry, Alexander Cabot III, Alexandra Cabot, and Pepper Smith. The “Archie Gang” includes, Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper, and Veronica Lodge, to name a few. Plus, there is a special appearance by Cosmo the Merry Martian.

THE LOWDOWN: I have been a fan of the Josie and the Pussycats franchise since I was a small child. I am crazy about classic Josie comic books from the 1960s to the early 1980s and of the 1970s animated series.

Josie Anniversary Spectacular No. 1 offers a new story in “Rock Cats” that manages to hit upon a number of familiar Josie elements, although it is only five pages long. I must admit that I like writer-artist Holly G!'s visual nod to the rocket ship that the legendary comic book artist and illustrator, Alex Toth, designed for the “Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space” animated series.

Josie Anniversary Spectacular, No. 1 also reprints two vintage Josie stories drawn by Dan DeCarlo, Josie's creator. They are “A Gym Dandy” from She's Josie #1, and “The Ghostly Guardian” from Josie and the Pussycats #61 (cover dated: April 1972). This comic book also includes a story starring one of the original She's Josie's supporting characters, Pepper Smith, who has made something of a comeback. It is a modern story entitled “Only the Strong Survive” from World of Betty and Veronica Jumbo Comics Digest #18 (cover dated: August 2022).

I must warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics titles. Thus, I am happy to recommend Josie Anniversary Spectacular, No. 1, and I am pleased that Archie Comics has published it. Here's to a brighter future for Josie and the Pussycats.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics and of Josie and the Pussycats will definitely want to get a copy of Josie Anniversary Spectacular No. 1.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

https://twitter.com/archiecomics

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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Thursday, December 7, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #124

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #124

DC COMICS

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Robert Pope

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott McRae

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Dezi Sienty

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kwanza Johnson (reprint)

COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2023)

Ages 8+

“Driven to Crime”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #124 opens with “Driven to Crime,” which is written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Walter Carzon (pencils) and Horacio Ottolini (inks). The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma visiting the set of the television series, “Riding Around with Celebrities in My Town.”

The host, Len, informs the gang that he is planning a spin-off series, “Flying Around with Celebrities Above Town.” However, a gruesome ghost that calls itself “the Aviator” is totally against anyone flying around his unfriendly skies. Now, it's up to Scooby and company to ground this wraith.

As usual, the second story, “Just Plane Spooked,” is a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #18 (cover date: April 2012).] The story finds Mystery Inc. visiting the owner of the airline company, “Receding Airlines.” It seems that his airline's flights are being haunted by the ghost of “Cordelia Fairheart,” a famous female aviator (“aviatrix”) who disappeared with her plane over the ocean over eighty years ago. Now, in order to solve this mystery, Shaggy and company will have to do something that absolutely scares him – take a flight!

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #124 has as a theme aviator ghosts. The new story, “Driven to Crime,” which is drawn by one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book art teams, Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini, is surprisingly different. The best part of it is its unusual ending, which is more about restorative justice than criminal justice.

The reprint story, “Just Plane Spooked,” is produced by another of my favorite Scooby-Doo creative teams, that of writer Sholly Fisch and artists Robert Pope and Scott McRae. Although the ending is typical, the story still stands out because the storytellers sell the idea that flying in an airplane practically drives Shaggy bonkers, and that turns out to be funnier than I expected.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #124 is a fun read, and is, like issue #123, an exceptional issue. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read it, and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

★★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Young Alfred: Pain in the Butler” by Michael Northrop and Sam Lotfi.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://www.dccomics.com/

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Thursday, November 9, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: BETTY & VERONICA FRIENDS FOREVER: Beach Party #1

BETTY & VERONICA FRIENDS FOREVER: BEACH PARTY #1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Jamie L. Rotante; Dan Parent; Francis Bonnet; Craig Boldman; Tania Del Rio; George Gladir

PENCILS: Holly G!; Dan Parent; Jeff Shultz; Rex Lindsey; Bill Gollhier; Dan DeCarlo

INKS: Jim Amash; Bob Smith; Rex Lindsey; Rudy Lapick

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Rex Lindsey; Vincent DeCarlo

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante, Vincent Lavallo, and Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Holly G! with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (August 2023)

Rating: All-Ages

Betty and Veronica in “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party”

Eternal high school student and teenage boy, Archie Andrews, and his friends made their debut in M.L.J. Magazines' Pep Comics #22 (cover dated: December 1941), and before long, Archie was the publisher's headliner character. In 1946, the company changed its named to Archie Comic Publications, also known as “Archie Comics.” Two of Archie Comics' main characters are Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge, best friends and also rivals in their love for Archie.

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Betty and Veronica. The latest, apparently the twenty-first in this series, is Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1 (#21). It features one new story and five reprint stories. Entitled “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party,” the new story is written by Jamie L. Rotante; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Betty and Veronica in “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party”:

The story opens at Veronica's beach house, which she has decorated so that it looks like Babbi's beach house. Who is “Babbi?” She is this story's stand-in for the beloved fashion doll, “Barbie.” Many of the young women at the party are hugely influenced by Babbi, but not everyone attending is crazy about the iconic Babbi. That includes Cassie Cloud, so when her brother, Casey Cloud, gets caught up in Babbi fever, she has something to say.

Archie, Reggie, Jughead, Trevor, Kevin, and Eliza are among the Archie gang appearing in this story. Plus, a special guest star is just around the corner.

THE LOWDOWN: Archie Comics often sends me PDF copies of their titles for review. While I don't get to review all of them, I enjoy these single issue titles like Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1.

First, I enjoyed “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party” because Holly G!'s art is so pretty. Next, there is a delightful scene of Kevin Keller openly lusting after new character Casey Cloud. Third, the whole Barbie/Babbi angle is quite nice, and in the end, the story left me wanting more. Because of the appearance of a special guest, the story ends in the middle of Veronica's “Babbi” party, so, at least to me, it feels like we missed out on potentially the best parts of the story.

As usual, I must warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics titles. Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1 offers a new character, but the story feels old school and classically fun.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1.

B+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://archiecomics.com/

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https://www.facebook.com/ArchieComicsOfficial?ref=tn_tnmn

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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8914136-archie-comics

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Thursday, September 28, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #123

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #123

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Valerio Chiola; Robert Pope

INKS: Valerio Chiola; Scott McRae

COLORS: Valerio Chiola; Candace Schinzler-Bell

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Adam Ansari (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Valerio Chiola

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (October 2023)

Ages 8+

“Swede and Sour”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #123 opens with “Swede and Sour,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Valerio Chiola. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma attending Coolsville's very own Swedish festival, “Välkommen.”

However, a “draugr,” an undead creature from Scandinavian sagas and folktales, is also attending the festival. This draugr, which appears as an undead, reanimated Viking, is ruining the festival. Can Shaggy and Scooby solve this case with the help of a smelly fish dish?

As usual, the second story, “A Midsummer Night's Scream,” is a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #49 (cover date: November 2014).] The story finds Mystery Inc. attending the “Shakespeare Outdoors” festival's production of William Shakespeare's beloved play, “A Midnight Summer's Dream.”

Now, some of the play's most famous characters have come to life and are raising magical havoc. Can Mystery Inc. solve the mystery and Shaggy's donkey head?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #123 has as a theme summer festivals. “Swede and Sour” is a surprise. Valerio Chiola's pliable compositions give this kooky story a sense of motion, so Derek Fridolfs' story results in an odd treat. Still, I don't think this “draugr” was played to the hilt.

“A Midsummer Night's Scream,” the reprint story, is this issue's better story. Sholly Fisch is one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book writers (as is Fridolfs). This Shakespearean riff is beginning to end kooky. It is one of the most unexpected Scooby-Doo comic book stories I've ever read, and it offers the best “bad guys” I think I've ever come across in this series.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #123 is a fun read and also an exceptional issue. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read it, and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

★★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Fann Club: Batman Squad” by Jim Benton.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://www.dccomics.com/

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Tuesday, September 19, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: ARCHIE & FRIENDS Hot Summer Movies #1

ARCHIE & FRIENDS HOT SUMMER MOVIES #1 (#16)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Adrian Ropp; Rich Margopoulos; George Gladir; Dan Parent

PENCILS: Bill Galvan; Gene Colan; Dan DeCarlo: Dan Parent

INKS: Ben Galvan; Rudy Lapick; Jim DeCarlo; Dan Parent

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Dan Parent

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Bill and Ben Galvan

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (July 2023); on sale in comic book shops June 7, 2023

Rating: All-Ages

“Riverdale Jones and the Burger of Density”

Archie Comics published the series, Archie & Friends, from 1992 to 2012 for 159 issues. Since 2019, Archie has been publishing a new iteration of Archie & Friends as a series of themed one-shot comic books. The latest is Archie & Friends Hot Summer Movies No.1, the sixteenth issue in the series. It features one new five-page story, two reprint stories, and gallery of humorous illustrated cards. Entitled “Riverdale Jones and the Burger of Density,” the new story is written by Adrian Ropp; drawn by Bill Galvan (pencils) and Ben Galvan (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

“Riverdale Jones and the Burger of Density”:

The story opens in Riverdale, specifically Pop's Diner. Archie and Betty are concerned about the state of Jughead Jones, who has just devoured Pop's thickest and juiciest burger creation yet. However, Jughead's mind is far away. He is once again the hero burgerologist, Riverdale Jones, and he is deep in the heart of the rain forest, where he hopes to find the most delicious, exotic burger. With his faithful pet, Hot Dog, by his side, can Riverdale find a legendary hamburger that may be every bit as formidable as the one Jughead already ate?

THE LOWDOWN: Over the last few years, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is Archie & Friends Hot Summer Movies No. 1, (which is titled Archie & Friends #1 (#16), in the indicia).

“Riverdale Jones and the Burger of Density” is a nice, short send-up and tribute to Indiana Jones. With the impending arrival of the film, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, this is the perfect time for Archie Comics to spoof the beloved movie adventurer and archaeologist. If I understand correctly, Jughead has been “Riverdale Jones” in the past, but if that is the case, I have not been able to discover the specific issue or issues in which Riverdale appeared.

Anyway, writer Adrian Ropp and artists Bill Galvan and his son, Ben Galvan, have created a sweet comics confection that alone is worth the price of admission. Plus, as a bonus, this comic book offers “E.T. Travesty,” a tale drawn by the classic Archie Comics artist, Dan DeCarlo.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie & Friends Hot Summer Movies No. 1.

B+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Thursday, August 17, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #122

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #122

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Robert Pope

INKS: Randy Elliot; Scott McRae

COLORS: Sylvana Brys; Jason Lewis

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Alex Antone (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Sylvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (August 2023)

Ages 8+

“The Key of Eeek”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #122 opens with “The Key of Eeek,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma attending the “Coolsville Concerto in C Minor?”

Why, you ask? This piano recital is being performed by the top students at a local piano school, and Daphne is one of those top students. However, the mythological being, “Pan,” has decided to crash the recital. Can Mystery Inc. solve this mystery before the entire recital is canceled?

As usual, the second story, “Monsters of Rock,” is a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #33 (cover date: July 2013).] The story finds Mystery Inc. attending a concert by the glam-rock band, “Smooch” (a substitute for the real-life band, “Kiss”).

However, everyone's good time is ruined when the ghost of “Johnny B. Badd” crashes the concert. So why is the spirit of a classic singer from the early day of rock 'n' roll haunting Smooch? Hopefully, Mystery Inc. can solve this mystery before the haunting ruins Smooch's tour.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #122 features the theme of “haunted public musical performances.” It offers a new story, “The Key of Eeek,” that presents another side of one of the character, Daphne. Over the last three decades, various Scooby-Doo films and television series have expanded on the character of Daphne, making her smarter, more intelligent, and more well-founded than the early TV series did. So, while this story isn't great, I like what it presents. Besides, it is drawn by Randy Elliot, one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book artists.

Two years after “Monsters of Rock” was first published (2013), the members of the classic line-up of the band, Kiss, were the costars of the direct-to-DVD animated film, Scooby-Doo! and Kiss: Rock and Roll Mystery (2015). Kiss also appeared in the Season Two episode of “What's New, Scooby-Doo?” (“A Scooby-Doo Halloween” – October 24, 2003, Episode #6). In “Monsters of Rock,” Smooch pales in comparison to the real Kiss, but the fictional band is a nice substitute.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #122 is a fun read. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read it, and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B-

★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Superman of Smallville” by Art Baltazar and Franco.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, August 1, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: BETTY & VERONICA FRIENDS FOREVER: Game On #1

BETTY & VERONICA FRIENDS FOREVER: GAME ON #1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ron Robbins; Bob Bolling; Rex Lindsey; George Gladir

PENCILS: Dan Parent; Howard Bender; Bob Bolling; Rex Lindsey; Pat Kennedy

INKS: Bob Smith; Henry Scarpelli; Bob Bolling; Ken Selig

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Digikore Studios

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante, Vincent Lavallo, and Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2023)

Rating: All-Ages

Betty and Veronica in “Sabrina is Be Glitched”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Betty and Veronica. The latest, apparently the twentieth in the series, is Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Game On #1 (#20). It features one new story and three reprint stories. Entitled “Sabrina is Be Glitched,” the new story is written by Ron Robbins; drawn by Dan Parent (pencils) and Bob Smith (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Betty and Veronica in “Sabrina is Be Glitched”:

The story features appearances by Sabrina the Teenage Witch and by new Archie Comics characters, Amber Nightstone and Trick & Treat. “Sabrina is Be Glitched” opens at “Riverdale Arcade.” Inside, Archie is impressing his pals, Trevor and Sabrina, with his arcade game skills.

Using Trick & Treat and her own magic, Amber transports Archie and friends into a magical MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game). Now, Betty and Sabrina must launch a bid to save Archie from Amber's tricks. Veronica, Cassie, Jughead, and Kevin join the virtual reality mayhem. But is the solution to this trap really about who trusts whom?

THE LOWDOWN: Archie Comics often sends me PDF copies of their titles for review. I received Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Game On #1 about two weeks ago. [This review has been delayed because thieves have stolen my car and have ransacked my home for my comic book and periodicals collection.]

“Sabrina is Be Glitched” is the brand new story that kicks off Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Game On #1, which is a collection of tales of video games, digital drama, and virtual reality madness. “Sabrina is Be Glitched” is not a great story, but it is entertaining. The story shows that Amber Nightstone can become quite a foil for the Archie Gang. Also, even this story reveals her potential as a star. We'll see.

As usual, I must warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics titles. Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Game On #1 is important because it features another early appearance of characters that can play a big role in the world of Riverdale.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Game On #1.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, June 27, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #121

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #121

DC COMICS

STORY: John Rozum; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Robert Pope

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott McRae

COLORS: Sylvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Dezi Sienty

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kwanza Johnson (reprint)

COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Sylvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2023)

Ages 8+

“Local Legends”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #121 opens with “Local Legends,” which is written by John Rozum and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are visiting the small town of “Pond Cove.” The town is beset by monsters: the Goat Man, the Lizard Man, and the Green Devil, in particular, but it has also been the longtime haunt of Bigfoot.

Professor Collier at the local “Intercontinental Museum of Cryptozoology”believes that there is more to these hauntings than people suspect. Mystery Inc. agrees, but can they unravel the mystery before someone gets away with something?

As usual, the second story, “Mummy Knows Best,” is a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #24 (cover date: October 2012).] The story finds Mystery Inc. visiting the museum.

They are getting an early preview of the exhibit of the mummy of King Tookooforskool, which was discovered by the famous archaeologist and adventurer, North Dakota Smith. When the mummy comes to life, however, the gang has a new mystery to solve.

I usually find a theme shared between the two stories in each issue of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?, but issue #121 doesn't seem to have one. I really like “Local Legends” because of the reason I usually like many of the stories in this series – it would make a good plot for an animated Scooby-Doo direct-to-DVD film. It has a main plot, but the secondary plot is the one to watch. That would play well in an animated film. Plus, “Local Legends” is written by a favorite Scooby-Doo comic book writer, John Rozum, and a favorite series artist, Walter Carzon.

I don't have a lot to say about the reprint story, “Mummy Knows Best.” It has some nice ideas, and I like Robert Pope and Scott McRae's odd art.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #121 is a fun read. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read issue #121 and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B-

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Shazam! Thundercrack” by Yehudi Mercado.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, May 30, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: ARCHIE & FRIENDS All-Action #1

ARCHIE & FRIENDS ALL-ACTION #1 (#15)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Daniel Kibblesmith; Bill Golliher; Rich Margopoulos

PENCILS: Ryan Jampole; Pat & Tim Kennedy; Rex Lindsey

INKS: Ryan Jampole; Bob Smith; Rex Lindsey

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Rosario “Tito” Peña; Barry Grossman

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Ryan Jampole with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (May 2023); on sale in comic book shops April 5, 2023

Rating: All-Ages

Archie and the Gang in “Super Mecha Teens”

Eternal high school student and teenage boy, Archie Andrews, and his friends made their debut in M.L.J. Magazines' Pep Comics #22 (cover dated: December 1941), and before long, Archie was the publisher's headliner character. In 1946, the company changed its named to Archie Comic Publications, also known as “Archie Comics.”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Archie's characters (sometimes referred to as “the Archie Gang”). The latest, the fifteenth in the series, is Archie & Friends All-Action No.1. It features one new story and two reprint stories. Entitled “Super Mecha Teens,” the new story is written by Daniel Kibblesmith; drawn by Ryan Jampole; colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Archie and the Gang in “Super Mecha Teens”:

The story opens in the near future at “The Weather Station,” the nerve center for the “Super Mecha Teen Project.” Neo Riverdale is protected by “mechas.” Each mecha is a giant robot controlled by two co-pilots whose minds are joined by a mental or neural link. Cadet Archie Andrews is the project's newest cadet, and he is “universal co-pilot,” which means he has “perfect neural compatibility.” Archie can be anyone's co-pilot.

But even future Archie is trapped in the eternal choice between Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge. Still, he is needed inside a mecha for battle. Will it be Betty's mecha or Veronica's. And if Cadet Andrews doesn't make a decision soon, Neo Riverdale is doomed. If he can't pick his best girl, can he pick his best pal?

THE LOWDOWN: I have been reading comic books, on and off, for the better part of five decades. I have sporadically read Archie Comics titles over that time, and I have always enjoyed what I read.

Recently, Archie Comics has been introducing new characters via five-page stories. “Super Mecha Teens” offers what seems like a new series with familiar characters in a new-for-them setting. So will there be more “Super Mecha Teens?” It would be nice, as it is an intriguing concept.

Writer Daniel Kibblesmith teases what could be a cool children's action comic book, one that would retain the eternal Archie Comics' love triangle: Archie, Betty, and Veronica. Ryan Jampole's art is pitch perfect for the concept. So, yes, there is potential here. Time will tell if we get more...

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie & Friends All-Action No.1.

A-

★★★½ out of 4 stars

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Thursday, May 25, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #120

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #120

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

ART: Valerio Chiola; Scott Neely

COLORS: Valerio Chiola; Jason Lewis

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Alex Antone (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Valerio Chiola

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (April 2023)

Ages 8+

“Djinn-Kies!”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #120 opens with “Djinn-Kies!,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Valerio Chiola. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma attending the “Coolsville Antiques Auction.” Velma has even brought a Van Dinkenstein family heirloom, a vase, for appraisal. However, a thieving Djinn (a magical spirit from Arabian and Islamic mythology) keeps arriving in a cloud of smoke and stealing antiques. Can the gang solve this mystery before everything valuable gets stolen?

The second story, “Give Me a Ring” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Scott Neely. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #30 (cover date: April 2013).] The story finds Mystery Inc. called to New Orleans.

It seems that two of the world's great archaeologists, Lewis Clark and Stanley Livingston, have discovered the legendary “ancient ring” that belonged to the “voodoo queen,” Marie LeFaux. Hundreds of years ago, Marie used the ring to turn people into zombies. Lewis tells the gang that Stanley was turned into a zombie after he placed the ring on his finger. Can the gang solve the mystery of the new zombie and the cursed ring? Can Shaggy and Scooby survive the spicy Cajun food?

If Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #120 has a theme, it is that the two stories involve some of my favorite fantasy beings/creatures. So the theme is “for Leroy's pleasure.” The title “Djinn-Kies” is a play on Velma's favorite exclamation, “Jinkies!” Besides that, the story features a delightful mix of an antique-stealing Djinn, family heirlooms, and a secret armoire. It is also produced by Derek Fridolfs and Valerio Chiola, two of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book creators.

As a Louisiana native, I like having “Give Me a Ring” set in a cartoon version of New Orleans. Zombies, voodoo, Dixieland jazz, and a playful nod to spicy Louisiana food: I think these would make the perfect elements for a Scooby-Doo straight-to-DVD movie. Oh, and “Give Me a Ring” is produced by Sholly Fisch and Scott Neely, Scooby-Doo favorites of mine.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #120 is simply a fun read. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read issue #120 and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Diana and Nubia: Princess of the Amazons” by Shannon Hale & Dean Hale and Victoria Ying.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, March 28, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #119

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #119

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

ART: Randy Elliot; Dave Alvarez

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Candace Schinzler-Bell

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Aniz Ansari & Jessica Chen (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs and Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (February 2023)

Ages 8+

“Centaur Attention”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #119 opens with “Centaur Attention,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma arriving at the “Coolsville Equestrian Center.” There, Daphne and her horse, Daisy, are participants in the “Coolsville Equestrian Meet.” However, a monstrous centaur is determined to ruin the event. Can the gang stop the creature in time to save the event?

The second story, “Knight Mare” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Dave Alvarez. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #52 (cover date: February 2015).] The story finds Mystery Inc. attending the “Renaissance Faire.” Everyone is having fun until a ghost, “The Scarlet Knight,” arrives to ruin the event. What's the story behind this ghostly knight, and will Shaggy and Scooby once again be coerced into being the bait for a trap to catch the the Scarlet Knight?

If Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #119 has a theme, it involves riding horses and ghostly villains that want to stop fun events from occurring. Both stories, the new and the reprint, feature Scooby-Doo comics creators that are among my favorites. That said, this is an average issue in the series, especially considering that there have been several above average issues published in the last year. The villains are not that interesting, but both artists turn in some nicely drawn pages featuring excellent graphic design within the individual panels and overall pages.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #119 is a slight downgrade from issue #118. Still, it is a Scooby-Doo comic book, Scooby-Doo fans. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read issue #119 and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B-

★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “My Buddy, Killer Croc” by Sara Farizan and Nicoletta Baldar.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Wednesday, January 18, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #118

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #118

DC COMICS

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Walter Corzan; Scott Neely

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott Neely

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Jason Lewis

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Alex Antone (reprint)

COVER: Walter Corzan and Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Ages 8+

“And the Winner Isn't...”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #118 opens with “And the Winner Isn't...,” which is written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma … making a silent film?! Actually, the gang is helping film a promotional short for the upcoming “Movie Awards.” However, a ghost, calling itself the “Silent Phantom” is determined to ruin the show.

The second story, “Dial 'E' for Eeeeeeeeek!” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Scott Neely. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #32 (cover date: June 2013).] The story finds Mystery Inc. invited to the studios of notorious film director, Alfred Hatchplot.

He is known for his scary movies that make audience jumpy, but now, he claims that something is making him jumpy. It seems that Hatchplot is being haunted by the menaces from his filmograpy, including the dark birds from his film, “The Annoying Birds.” Can Scooby and the gang solve this case before these menaces start targeting them?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #118 is a nice movie-themed issue. The opening story “And the Winner Isn't...” is produced by one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book creative teams, but it is actually not a winner. However, it does have an unusual ending regarding the villain, one that I don't recall ever seeing in a Scooby-Doo comic book, TV series, or film.

“Dial 'E' for Eeeeeeeeek!” is a nice spoof of Alfred Hitchcock and his films. Alfred Hatchplot is a rather tame take on Hitchcock, who supposedly could be quiet a tyrant on his film sets. The shower scene in Psycho, which is arguably Hitchcock's most famous film, gets a nice send-up as a movie entitled “Whacko.” Shaggy and Scooby even take a spin around Psycho's infamous shower scene with a bathtub scene of their own.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #118 is an improvement over issue #117, which would have been a disaster if the reprint story had not saved the new story. So grab your popcorn and “Scooby Snacks” and read issue #118 or maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Green Lantern: Alliance” by Minh Lê and Andie Tong.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, November 22, 2022

#IReadsYou Review: "ARCHIE HALLOWEEN SPECTACULAR" 2022

ARCHIE HALLOWEEN SPECTACULAR (2022)
ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Francis Bonnet; Bill Golliher; Dan Parent; Rich Margopoulos
PENCILS: Ryan Jampole; Pat & Tim Kennedy; Bill Golliher; Dan Parent; Gene Colon
INKS: Ryan Jampole; Jim Amash; Bob Smith; Rudy Lapick
COLORS: Glenn Whitmore
LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida
EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald
EiC: Mike Pellerito
COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (November 2022)

Rating: All-Ages

Eternal high school student and teenage boy, Archie Andrews, and his friends made their debut in M.L.J. Magazines' Pep Comics #22 (cover dated: December 1941), and before long, Archie was the publisher's headliner character. In 1946, the company changed its named to Archie Comic Publications, also known as “Archie Comics.”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Archie's characters (sometimes referred to as “the Archie Gang”). One of them is the Archie Halloween Spectacular, which Archie has been publishing since 2017. This year's edition features four Halloween-themed reprint stories and one brand new story. Entitled “Spirits of Halloween,” the new story stars Archie Comics' newest character duo, “Trick & Treat.” The story is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Ryan Jampole; colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Archie Halloween Spectacular opens with Trick & Treat in “Spirits of Halloween.” Meet Trick & Treat, a pair of impish magical creatures that come around every Halloween and eventually cause chaos. Trick, a pumpkin-headed fellow who also sports bat wings, loves the three “S's” of Halloween: suspense, screams, and scares. Treat, a Caspar-like ghost, loves the three “C's”: costumes, creativity, and candy.

This year, the duo arrives in Riverdale for some Halloween fun and then, fall into disagreement. Which imp's view of Halloween is the better? They decide to make a wager of it, one that involves Archie and his rival, Reggie. How much mischief will Trick & Treat cause Riverdale and Archie while everyone is out trick-or-treating?

THE LOWDOWN: Trick & Treat are impish characters like “The Great Gazoo” from the animated television series, “The Flintstones” or “Jiminy Cricket” of Walt Disney's Pinocchio. Although introduced as Halloween characters, I think Trick & Treat can cause trouble anywhere and anytime in the universe of the Archie gang.

The reprinted stories are comprised of two “Betty and Veronica” stories, and one of those guest-stars Sabrina the Teenage Witch. There are also two “Archie” stories, including “The Secret Project,” a fun story featuring Archie and his pal, Jughead Jones.

Dear readers, I always have to be honest. I have enjoyed what little of the modern Archie Comics that I have read, but I grew up on classic-style Archie Comics. Thus, I will always recommend such Archie titles, so I am giving Archie Halloween Spectacular 2022 a hearty recommendation.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of the 2022 edition of Archie Halloween Spectacular.

B+

★★★½ out of 4 stars

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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