Read the Freaking Comics!

December 2024 marked the dawn of DC’s Absolute Universe, and Absolute Wonder Woman #1 is leading the charge! A warrior raised in Hell, wielding dark magic and a flaming red lasso—this isn’t the Diana you know. In this deep dive, we explore everything from the jaw-dropping story to the stunning artwork and the seismic impact it’s having on the comic book world! Gateway City is under siege, and a mysterious warrior—flying a skeletal pegasus and wielding a massive Athena Blade—arrives to defend it. But this isn’t Themyscira’s princess; this is Diana, the Daughter of Circe, the Witch of the Wild Isle. Raised in the depths of Hell, she’s a force unlike any before! Kelly Thompson’s bold writing, Hayden Sherman’s gritty pencils, Jordie Bellaire’s striking colors, and Becca Carey’s sharp lettering bring this dark new Wonder Woman to life. Plus, we’ve got exclusive insights from the team! From skyrocketing prices to DC’s market dominance, this issue is already a key piece in the 2024 comic landscape! Don’t miss this deep dive into *Absolute Wonder Woman #1*! Like, comment, and subscribe for more! #AbsoluteWonderWoman #WonderWoman #DCComics #KellyThompson #HaydenSherman #JordieBellaire #BeccaCarey #ComicBooks #NewComics #DCAbsoluteUniverse #GatewayCity #WonderWomanComic #Superheroes #ComicCollectors #ComicInvesting #VariantCovers #ComicReview #GraphicNovels #MartianManhunter #AbsoluteBatman #AbsoluteSuperman #Circe #ComicDeepDive #DCBlackLabel #ComicArt #ReadTheFreakingComics

In July 1987, Marvel delivered an unforgettable showdown in 'X-Men vs. Avengers 4'! This finale of the 4-part miniseries pits Earth’s Mightiest Heroes against the Children of the Atom with Magneto at the heart of the chaos. As charred remnants of Asteroid M rain down over Singapore, Magneto races to recover his technology—but is he a villain reverting to his old ways, or something more? The Avengers, the X-Men, and even Soviet Super-Soldiers clash, while the world teeters on the edge of mistrust and destruction. Originally plotted by Roger Stern, this issue shifted gears under Tom DeFalco and Jim Shooter, turning Magneto into a more morally complex figure. The story’s twist led to behind-the-scenes tension, changing the original narrative direction. Featuring stunning pencils by Keith Pollard and inks by industry legends like Joe Rubinstein, Bob McLeod, and Al Williamson, this issue offers a visual treat despite its controversial tone shift. Thor’s battle armor also makes an appearance, adding another layer of intrigue. Dive into this deep analysis of one of Marvel’s earliest crossovers, complete with epic battles, behind-the-scenes drama, and an exploration of Magneto’s redemption arc. 📖 Support real artists, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your favorite comic moments! #MarvelComics #XMen #Avengers #Magneto #Thor #MarvelHistory #ComicBookArt #KeithPollard #JoeRubinstein #BobMcLeod #TomDeFalco #JimShooter #ComicBookCollector #XMenVsAvengers #MarvelCrossover #1980sComics #ComicDeepDive #MarvelFandom #MarvelUniverse #ComicReview #SuperheroShowdown #MarvelEvents #XMenFans #ComicBookNerd #MarvelLegends

Dive into the action-packed world of Bloodshot #3 from Valiant Comics, released in April 1993! While Indecent Proposal dominated theaters and Snow’s "Informer" topped the charts, Bloodshot patrolled the streets of Brooklyn searching for his true identity. Written by Bloodshot creator Kevin VanHook, this issue explores the gritty underworld of Flatbush, where Bloodshot takes on mob boss Don Carboni and his thugs. VanHook shares exclusive insights with *Read the Freaking Comics*, shedding light on Bloodshot’s evolving identity as Michael Lazarus, a "good man" reborn from the life of crime.This issue features legendary talents like penciler Don Perlin, inker Chris Ivy, and letterer Jade Moede, along with fascinating nods to 1990s pop culture, including mob cars, Cuban cigars, and even the NFC Championship Game! Despite its significance in Bloodshot’s story arc, this issue feels more like a filler, setting the stage for greater revelations. Discover the rise and fall of Valiant Comics, the speculator boom of the 1990s, and how Bloodshot became one of Valiant’s most iconic characters. Plus, a trip down memory lane with classic ads for *Mega Man 5*, *Sewer Shark*, and more! Hit like, subscribe, and let us know which comics you’d like us to review next. Support real artists! #Bloodshot #ValiantComics #1990sComics #KevinVanHook #DonPerlin #ComicBookReview #Brooklyn #MobBoss #ComicBookArt #IndecentProposal #RetroGaming #MegaMan5 #SegaCD #Informer #Snow #ComicCollector #Flatbush #MichaelLazarus #ValiantUniverse #Ninjak #WerewolfByNight #MoonKnight #Rai #SolarManOfTheAtom #BulletproofComics #ComicDeepDive #IndieComics

Step back into the fantastical world of Valusia with Marvel’s *Kull the Conqueror Vol. 2 #1*! Released in December 1982, this issue brings Kull, King of Valusia, into a whirlwind of madness, treachery, and war after he defies warnings to unearth a long-buried catacomb beneath his kingdom. Written by Alan Zelenetz and illustrated by John Buscema, this double-sized issue delivers a Shakespearian tale of betrayal, redemption, and ancient curses. Discover how Zelenetz, a high school principal turned Marvel writer, masterfully adapts Robert E. Howard’s vision, bringing Kull to life as a thoughtful and driven ruler distinct from Conan the Barbarian. With stunning art by Buscema, vibrant colors by Marie Severin, and intricate lettering by Janice Chiang, the story immerses readers in a richly detailed fantasy realm.From insights into the comic’s distribution during the dawn of Marvel’s direct market strategy to its connections with Howard’s original pulp stories, this video deep dives into *Kull the Conqueror Vol. 2 #1*. Learn about the creative team behind the issue and the legacy of Kull in the Marvel Universe.Don’t miss the fun trivia, collectible insights, and more. Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts below! #KullTheConqueror #MarvelComics #RobertEHoward #JohnBuscema #AlanZelenetz #MarieSeverin #JaniceChiang #FantasyComics #Valusia #ConanTheBarbarian #ComicBookHistory #Marvel1980s #BronzeAgeComics #ComicArt #EpicTales #SwordAndSorcery #ComicCollecting #MarvelLegends #ComicReview #ComicDeepDive #MarvelDirectMarket #RetroComics #PulpFiction #ComicCreators #ComicYouTube #SupportArtists Notes and ThanksSession Zero Comic Books and Games   / sessionzerogames  https://comicvine.gamespot.com/alan-z...https://www.newsfromme.com/2022/11/04...https://www.animationmagazine.net/201...https://www.akiracomics.com/blog/denn...bulanadiart.comhttps://marvel.fandom.com/https://rsmwriter.blogspot.com/2023/0...ebay.comPriceCharting.comhttps://www.midtowncomics.com/https://www.cultofmac.com/news/tiah-s...   • Daryl Hall & John Oates - Maneater (Offici...  By Unknown author - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Re..., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index...By Suiseiseki - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index...By King Features Syndicate - https://popeye.com/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?...By Marvel Comics/Marvel Entertainment.The original uploader was Iftekharahmed96 at English Wikipedia..Later version(s) were uploaded by DatBot at en.wikipedia. - Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.(Original text : http://marvel-microheroes.wikia.com/w..., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index...By Thomson200 - Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index...By photo by Alan Light, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index...https://la-ribambulle.com/guice-butch/

DC’s Blackhawk #248 (October 1976) continues the Blackhawks’ battle against the villainous Biolord, who threatens to obliterate Great Britain with a million-megaton missile. In this thrilling installment, Blackhawk risks his life to sabotage the missile mid-air, only to learn that Chuck had tampered with its guidance system. The Blackhawks then face Biolord’s deadly Metadroids, forcing them to choose between his morally ambiguous plan to “save the planet” or fighting to the bitter end. With the help of Duchess Fatale and Andre, Biolord is seemingly defeated—but his consciousness transfers into a jet-propelled body, resulting in a final showdown with devastating consequences.

This issue features the creative talents of writer David Anthony Kraft, penciller James Sherman, inker George Evans, colorist Carl Gafford, and letterer Gaspar Saladino, under editor Gerry Conway and executive editor Jenette Kahn. The cover was crafted by Pablo Marcos and Vincent Colletta. Blackhawk #248 encapsulates the quirky, high-stakes storytelling of the 1970s, complemented by stellar artwork and dynamic action. The issue is a snapshot of an era when DC was experimenting with bringing classic heroes into modern settings.

For a full breakdown, analysis, and trivia about this iconic issue, watch the video and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

#Blackhawk #DCComics #Biolord #JamesSherman #DavidAnthonyKraft #1970sComics #ComicBooks #VintageComics #ComicArt #Superheroes #DCUniverse #GoldenAgeComics #SilverAgeComics #JenetteKahn #GerryConway #GeorgeEvans #ComicBookArt #ComicHistory #ComicBookReview #ReadTheFreakingComics #ComicCollectors #RetroComics #ComicBookCulture #ComicBookCommunity #OldSchoolComics

Notes and Thanks

Special Thanks to Jim Sherman

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Join us as we deep-dive into Wolverine (Vol. 2) 106 from October 1996, a unique issue that explores the softer, introspective sides of Wolverine and Elektra. This story takes us from Wolverine’s old homestead in Alberta, Canada, where he pays respects to Silverfox’s grave, to a Greek villa where Elektra reconnects with her past. Both characters reflect on loss, love, and rediscovery while uncovering surprising connections from Wolverine’s WWII days.

Written by Larry Hama, known for G.I. Joe and 'The Punisher War Zone', this issue showcases his storytelling prowess. Penciler Val Semeiks brings dynamic layouts to life, while inkers Chad Hunt and Al Milgrom add precision and depth. Adam Kubert delivers an unforgettable cover, and colorist Derek Bellman’s work leaves a lasting impression. Richard Starkings’ lettering ties it all together.

We also explore Wolverine’s tumultuous love life, Marvel’s 90s industry struggles, and some quirky ads like Sega Saturn’s 'Nights into Dreams'. Stay till the end for a shoutout to comic shops in Lethbridge, AB, and Santorini, Greece. Hit like, subscribe, and suggest comics for future videos!

#Wolverine #MarvelComics #Elektra #LarryHama #ValSemeiks #AdamKubert #AlMilgrom #DerekBellman #SilverFox #MarvelHistory #ComicBooks #90sComics #ComicArt #XMen #MarvelVsDC #GreekIsles #ComicCollectors #Greece #ComicDeepDive #MarvelLegacy #ComicBookHistory #ComicsCommunity #MarvelUniverse #CrashBandicoot #GamerNostalgia #ComicBubble

Photos & Thanks

Very special thanks to Val Semekis

atlantisbooks.org

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atlantisbooks.org

dc.fandom.com

marvel.fandom.com

https://www.comichron.com

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https://www.pricecharting.com

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Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #1 (1989) is a seminal issue in Batman history, kicking off the character’s first solo series in nearly 50 years. Written by the legendary Dennis O’Neil, this issue explores Bruce Wayne’s earliest days as a vigilante, chronicling his time in the Alaskan wilderness and his first forays into Gotham’s criminal underworld. Stripped of his iconic gadgets and armor, we see a raw and vulnerable Bruce forging the identity of Batman. After surviving a life-threatening ordeal thanks to the traditional healing methods of a Native American group, Bruce finds inspiration in a bat flying through his window—cementing the legend we know today.

The issue features stunning pencils by Ed Hannigan, inked by John Beatty, and colored by Richmond Lewis. Together, their work brings Gotham’s gritty streets to life. This dual-covered collectible was offered in four color variants and coincided with the rise of Batmania following Tim Burton’s blockbuster film.

This video dives deep into the story, the creative team’s impact, and the comic’s cultural significance. Packed with fascinating trivia and a nostalgic look at 1989’s comics boom, this is a must-watch for fans of the Caped Crusader!

Like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into iconic comics!

#Batman #LegendsOfTheDarkKnight #BruceWayne #DennisONeil #EdHannigan #JohnBeatty #RichmondLewis #GeorgePratt #DeanMotter #DCComics #GothamCity #ComicBooks #BatmanOrigin #ComicCollectors #1989 #ComicHistory #Batmania #TimBurtonBatman #DarkKnight #SuperheroComics #BatmanYearOne #CapedCrusader #ClassicComics #BatmanFans #ComicDeepDive #BatmanArt

Photos and Thanks

John Beatty

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March 1991 brought Spider-Man into the heart of New York City in Spectacular Spider-Man #174, as Peter Parker balances reporting duties with superhero heroics. When Spider-Man’s Spidey sense detects a threat at the Daily Bugle, he uncovers a deadly plot by Doctor Octopus, who buries Peter under rubble and holds Mary-Jane—and the entire Bugle building—ransom for $20 million.

Join us as we break down the thrilling story crafted by David Michelinie, Gerry Conway, and Terry Kavanagh, paired with Sal Buscema’s fluid, dynamic art, Joe Rosas’ vivid coloring, and Richard Parker’s lettering. From underground sewer battles to the Daily Bugle’s dramatic statue collapse, we explore the issue’s nuances, cover continuity quirks, and iconic character portrayals.

We also dive into the comic’s historical context, 1991’s Marvel dominance, the growing specialty store market, and the era’s fun pop culture touches—from video game and trading card ads to the Spider-Man stories that defined a generation.

Whether you’re a longtime Spider-Man fan or new to Peter Parker’s adventures, this episode delivers a deep dive into one of the most exciting Spectacular Spider-Man issues of the early ’90s.

October 2021 saw Superman and Superboy thrust into a high-stakes mission in Action Comics #1031, as mysterious Warworld ships chase a smaller vessel carrying Kryptonian refugees to Earth. Join us as we break down Phillip Kennedy Johnson’s story, Daniel Sampere’s bold art, and Mikel Janín’s striking cover.

We explore the first appearance of Thao-La, the Genesis Fragment, and the ancient Kryptonian language Falkiri, while diving into Superman’s heroic efforts to protect the refugees and uncover their mysterious origins. Along the way, we provide behind-the-scenes insights into DC’s creative team, the editorial context, and the state of comics in 2021—including sales trends, relaunches, and the impact of the Infinite Frontier initiative.

Whether you’re a longtime Superman fan or a newcomer curious about modern DC storytelling, this episode delivers a detailed, exciting deep dive into one of the most action-packed issues of the year.

Step back to March 1987 and explore Mark Hazzard: MERC #5, a gritty tale of friendship, betrayal, and bikers in Marvel’s short-lived New Universe imprint. Join us as we examine Doug Murray’s story, Mark Beachum’s art, and the creative team behind this often-overlooked comic. From kidnappings and biker showdowns to real-world New York locations like The Cloisters, this episode uncovers the surprising realities behind a “grounded” Marvel universe.

We’ll also dive into the history of Marvel’s New Universe—its ambitious real-time storytelling, tight budgets, and the creators who helped shape this experimental line. Whether you’re a collector, a Marvel historian, or just curious about 1980s comics, this episode gives a detailed, nostalgic look at one of Marvel’s most unique experiments in storytelling.