This is topic the Squadron Supreme thread in forum Dr. Gym'll's Cultural Rarities at Legion World.


To visit this topic, use this URL:
http://www.legionworld.net/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=8;t=000039

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Okay I'm of the notion this super-team and specifically the new book deserves its own thread.

I'm gonna post a non-spoiler review and then throw in some spoilers (with warning) at the end.

NO SPOILERS

Highest possible reccomendation. We are treated to the earliest beginnings of 2 members of the legendary Squadron Supreme. Incredible Gary Frank artwork and a story that just makes you wanna see more more more!


SPOILERS FOLLOW HERE ~ BEWARE!!!!!

S
P
A
C
E
*
*
*
*
*

This ain't your old-time SQUADRON SUPREME. This is a whole new quesadilla. We are treated to Hyperion's earliest days and it is a fascinating beginning... and then we are treated with a glimpse of The Whizzer's childhood. First clue that the MAX Squadron Supreme isn't the one we know and love: Stanley is black.

CONS of this not being "the" SS --

No possible interaction with the Marvel U.

PROS of this not being "the" SS --

a) We get back heroes that were previously lost to us (spoiler: NUKE is gonna be one of 'em based on the SKETCHBOOK included in the Special Edition -- and OMG wait 'til you see Power Princess *eyes POP!*)

b) We don't have to worry about Gru's previous SS work being destroyed or invalidated

In my opinion, the PROS outweigh the CONS.

I'm HYPED for this series! Once again, Marvel scores another title to my pull-list!

[ March 28, 2006, 06:48 PM: Message edited by: MLLASH ]
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
SQUADRON SUPREME ROLL CALL

A look back at what was and where the members stood when last we saw them... NOTE: If you have not read the 12-issue SQUADRON SUPREME series, the followup graphic novel DEATH OF A UNIVERSE and the NEW WORLD ORDER 1-shot, this list will contain spoilers!


HYPERION active as of New World Order

POWER PRINCESS active as of NWO

WHIZZER active as of NWO

DR. SPECTRUM active as of NWO

AMPHIBIAN active as of NWO

NIGHTHAWK 2 active as of NWO

SKYLARK/LADY LARK hospitalized in NWO

BLUE EAGLE deceased

GOLDEN ARCHER deceased

ARCANNA/MOONGLOW 2 inactive as of NWO

TOM THUMB deceased

NUKE deceased

NIGHTHAWK 1 deceased

--recruits from The Institute of Evil:

FOXFIRE deceased

DR. DECIBEL deceased

LAMPREY deceased

QUAGMIRE now on regular Marvel-Earth

APE-X discharged from duty; catatonic state

THE SHAPE hospitalized in NWO

--recruits that were 'Plants'

INERTIA deceased

REDSTONE deceased

MOONGLOW 1 inactive as of Death of a Universe

HAYWIRE moved to regular Marvel-Earth, now deceased

THERMITE hospitalized

--Other

SKRULLIAN SKYMASTER active as of NWO
 

---

Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
i did think about getting this [ had a flick through it yesterday ]

it had a "Smallville" slant to the orgin .... is this a new twist to the character ??

with currently getting 20 titles a month, i thought this was one too many to add to the list ....

maybe i'll go and get it today ??

afterall LASH is good at INFLUENCING people !! i bought No Doubt's cd after he praised it so much ....

Matthew.
 

---

Posted by Kid Prime on :
 
Thanks for the review, Lash! I'll try to get this this week!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Matthew-- as far as I can tell this is the first time we've ever been given ANY substantial backstory on a Squadron Supreme character... (ps/ did you LIKE the No Doubt cd?)

Jeffey-- I think you'll be glad you did.

FYI-- The SPECIAL EDITION contains a reprint of both AVENGERS 85 & 86, which I thoroughly enjoyed also!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Lash you mentioned the New World Order one shot. When did that come out? And how the hell have I wound up missing so many Squadron appearances?
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
*a quick check of the NWO 1-Shot*

Scott it is dated SEPT 1998 and it details the events of the Squadron returning to their OWN earth and what happened immedietely after... it follows the Squadron's stint in the early issues of Busiek's AVENGERS...

Basically, what it does is returns the Squadron to a 7-member status that mirrors the 'icon' JLA lineup that was the rage at that time...
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Thanks Lash. Yet another to hunt down.

So does that mean the Avengers TPB "Supreme Justice" covers the appearance of the Squad in Busiek's Avengers (volume 3 wasn't it?). If so I'll try and pick that one up as well.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Probably so -- if it is by Busiek/Perez then definitely! I was elated to see the SS again in AVENGERS but I can't say I was thrilled with how they were handled there. Still, it is worth getting for the SS fan.

The SS also had many appearances in the old QUASAR series...
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
I think I've got all the old Quasar appearances and the original Avenger ones. Its the most recent ones, the mid-1990's, that I missed out on. I sorta dropped out of collecting and reading comic books after Caroline and I got married in 1992. Didn't want to scare her away.
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 
One of my favorite subplots in QUASAR involved Her, the female version of Adam Warlock-- after being rejected by Warlock, she went looking for the ultimate mate. Hyperion was one of the candidates, IIRC. Fun stuff by the Gru... /
 

---

Posted by Princess Crujectra on :
 
I had completely forgotten this was coming out! Now I gotta get to the comics shop and see if I can find it...
 

---

Posted by Princess Crujectra on :
 
I'm bumming! My shop didn't have the special edition... just the regular one

Oh well. Not a bad first issue, although it didn't necessarily zip along. It did show a twist that you don't always see. I'll be interested to see where they go with this team.
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
The orginal mini is one of my all time favorite reads!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Cru--- I agree that SUPREME POWER # 1 was a non-"zippy" read... and that is fine with me!

I want to know the most minute details about this MAX Squadron Supreme (I almost want to refer to it as ULTIMATE Squadron Supreme-- and from the looks of things, that is what they are going for...) and that is gonna take some time to tell!
 

---

Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
(ps/ did you LIKE the No Doubt cd?)

---

sorry to digress .... yeah !! i did like "Rock Steady" !!!

Matthew.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
"Huh ... well... I guess Spot was kindof the right name after all..."

I'm surprised we didn't get any sketches of the new Whizzer since he appears in this issue.

So, what's with the barbed wire? Didn't they kinda figure out barbed wire is a piss-poor way of trying to fence in Hyperion? It may be there to keep others out, but the book seemed to indicate the barbed wire was for him.

Alien attackers? A twist on the Superman mythos for sure -- will the "Skrull" somehow be involved?

They didn't mention it yet, but I would think that the government's been studying his blood and DNA etc since he was a kid -- will anything come from it? I hope JMS at least addresses it.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Hey Lash if you're still watching this thread, is $25 too much to pay for Death of a Universe? It appears the book is rare and I can only find one copy on eBay. None of my on-line resources even offer it.
 

---

Posted by Danny Blaine on :
 
Scott, it is worth it! But you might find it cheaper if you hold off...

I think demand is high right now
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
You're probably right DB. Everyone wanting to cash in on the new series. I'll probably wait especially since I can get the TPB of the original series a lot cheaper than that.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Okay, just finished reading Supreme Power. Thumbs way up! Of course, this is Marvel though, so they'll probably sprock it up before much longer. But for now it'll definitely stay on my pull list.
 

---

Posted by Danny Blaine on :
 
I will post my opinion on this after I read it today. In fact, I will probably be doing several reviews this afternoon...
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Read it last night and really enjoyed it Looking forward to the next issue!!!!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Is this series an ongoing or a mini?
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by DrakeB3003:
Is this series an ongoing or a mini?

---

I get the impression it is supposed to be an ongoing but with Marvel's Max line you never know.
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
How is it I heard about this title, but never what it was about? I didn't know it was a MAXified version of SS. Now I gotta get it!
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 
Yeah, I heard Straczinski, Frank, Squadron, MAX, and it still slipped under my radar for preorders... Even though I had to pay full price at my shop, I'm happy I got this.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
1) Nice to see that everyone enjoyed SUPREME POWER # 1! And didn't let themselves be put off by the 'MAX' version. In fact is seems that, like me, you are GLAD it is a 'Max' version... leaving Mark Gruenwald's body of SS work 100% intact!

2) Scott I agree completely with Danny-- you DO want the DEATH OF A UNIVERSE graphic novel but it was one of those oversized tabloid deals Marvel did in the early-to-mid 80s so there probably AREN'T a lot of them around. I think if you wait you will do better than $25 though!
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
I really hope we get to see Arcanna in this series she was my fave Nighthawk would be cool too!!!
 

---

Posted by rokk steady on :
 
Read it. Loved it. I had high hopes for this and, for once, was not even *slightly* disappointed. Mmmm....
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Icey I love Arcanna too and hope she appears.

Based on the Special Edition issue 1's story and sketchbook I can confirm the following members:

HYPERION, WHIZZER, POWER PRINCESS, DR. SPECTRUM, NIGHTHAWK, AMPHIBIAN (although Amphibian may or may NOT be female) and NUKE.

Rokky, I knew you would like it...

>edited to add a character I'd left off by mistake<

[ August 12, 2003, 04:46 PM: Message edited by: MLLASH ]
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
I bought the regular edition. Lash are there any new characters in the sketchbook?
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
No BRAND new characters although Amphibian and Dr. Spectrum look NOTHING like the originals.

Power Princess physically looks similar to her old self but is obviously VERY very different, as you'll see....
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Ohhh!!!! just spoil it for me!!!! Please
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Will do!

SPOILERS!!!!!!!!!


As you recall, the Zarda of old (once she ditched that goofy helet and periwinkle blue outfit) was a class act in royal purple. Very modest (as Dr. Spectrum found out once).

Apparently this MAX Power Princess is gonna be outfitted like an X-rated version of Stripperella (there is in fact one costume design that has Zarda with completely bared breasts!).

Now... this COULD become a bone of contention with me... depending on how well it is handled. As of now, the sketchbook pictures didn't put me off... I can be a firm supporter of 'show it if you got it'... and I'll need to remind myself, 'This ISN'T Gruenwald's SS!'

I actually do have faith in this creative team to make whatever portrayal of Zarda they choose to use work.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
2) Scott I agree completely with Danny-- you DO want the DEATH OF A UNIVERSE graphic novel but it was one of those oversized tabloid deals Marvel did in the early-to-mid 80s so there probably AREN'T a lot of them around. I think if you wait you will do better than $25 though!

---

It eventually went for over $30 I think so I'm glad I waited. I am watching the TPB of the original (for the Ross cover) and the Avengers collection right now though. Hopefully I can pick them both up for around $30. Thanks for the help everyone.

[ August 11, 2003, 11:00 PM: Message edited by: Lightning Lad ]
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
I know I kinda brought this up already, but by saying this is a version of the "SS", is Marvel kinda sidestepping that this is really their riff on the JLA? It seemed a tad odd to me at first that they reprinted the old Avengers appearance since it isn't even the same version of the team, but could it be a way for Marvel to say "hey look, the "SS" is a part of Marvel history -- *this* is the source material we're working from, NOT the JLA."
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
P.S. Ralph Macchio's "Up up and awwaaaaaaaayyyy!" comment didn't help either.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Drakey, the SS has always been Marvel's riff on the JLA. I'm not sure of what you're saying... are you wishing they'd gone another route with the story...?
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
I think that there's a difference between creating an obvious homage in a different title for a guest shot and creating a title in and of itself that's based on another company's characters. It's not just a one-time thing or an occassional thing anymore. Greunwald's mini had the benefit of taking these characters into a totally different arena that had little or nothing to do with their JLA roots (same as what happened with the Imperial Guard), but the new title seems to be based on those roots more than before. It seems a tad underhanded to me on Marvel's part but I guess it's a fine point.
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 
The difference being, I'm actually reading the Squadron. With the exception of the BWAHAHA era, I haven't enjoyed the JLA since before the Crisis...
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
It's probably safe to assume that the MAX SS is what ULTIMATE JLA would be if DC -did- ULTIMATE versions....
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
Just had to say, as a result of this thread, I started rereading Gruenwald's SS series. I remembered it was good, but I didn't remember it was freakin' brilliant!! And I've only finished the first issue.

Hopefully when I get to the shop today I'll still be able to pick up the new series. I missed reserving it when it came out. I hope it's still in stock!! I have them on preorder as of issue 3!
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
AAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!

They didn't have Supreme Power #1 at my shop. It was gone! The horror...the horror.

Oh well, I guess I'll have to check the other 3 shops around. Wish me luck!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Has anyone seen the Powers #2 preview featuring Dr. Spectrum? I'm very impressed. He's always been my favorite Squadron member partly because I tend to like energy wielders but mostly because he's the Hal Jordan parallel. I like how it really takes someone of singular focus and willpower to use the prism at all without disaster. He also seems to have no problem with killing, which may make for an interesting dynamic with the rest of the team.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Omni Craig:
AAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!

They didn't have Supreme Power #1 at my shop. It was gone! The horror...the horror.

Oh well, I guess I'll have to check the other 3 shops around. Wish me luck!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by DrakeB3003:
Has anyone seen the Powers #2 preview featuring Dr. Spectrum? I'm very impressed. He's always been my favorite Squadron member partly because I tend to like energy wielders but mostly because he's the Hal Jordan parallel. I like how it really takes someone of singular focus and willpower to use the prism at all without disaster. He also seems to have no problem with killing, which may make for an interesting dynamic with the rest of the team.

---

I too saw the preview. Can't wait for the issue to be released. For anyone else who wants to see the first four pages, here are the links, courtest of Comics Continuum:

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4

[ August 23, 2003, 02:01 PM: Message edited by: Lightning Lad ]
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Hey Omni Craig I bought 3 issues so I have 2 extra copies if you need one I'll be happy to send it to ya!!!!!!
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
Thanks icefire, I'll keep that as a plan if my other local shops are a bust. Appreciate the offer.

Thanks for your offer to look around too Scott.

See, that's why this place is "da best!" It's the great people!!

-LLLW!
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Omni sendme your address and I'll send it to ya free of charge!!!!
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Omni did ya get one????
 

---

Posted by Caleb on :
 
Icefire is such a darn sweetie!!!

xxoo
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by icefire:
Omni did ya get one????

---

Not yet, but I've got one more card up my sleeve. During lunch today I went to one of my "back up" comic shops, only to discover it went belly-up recently (windows covered in butcher paper and everything!). Guess I wasn't spending enough money there...

If my last option doesn't pan out tomorrow (actually, later today), I'd be much obliged to take you up on your right-neighborly offer, icefire!! Thanks again!

LLL and all their dedicated fans too!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
When is issue 2 slated for release?

When I called my store and had them hold # 1 I cannot remember if I told them to add it to my pull-list permanently. Maybe I better call them today.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
When is issue 2 slated for release?

When I called my store and had them hold # 1 I cannot remember if I told them to add it to my pull-list permanently. Maybe I better call them today.

---

September 3rd is the due date for #2.

[ August 27, 2003, 06:54 AM: Message edited by: Lightning Lad ]
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 
Most likely pushed back to Thursday the 4th here, and Friday the 5th abroad, because Monday's a holiday...
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Poverty Lad:
Most likely pushed back to Thursday the 4th here, and Friday the 5th abroad, because Monday's a holiday...

---

Very true. I forgot the holiday. I wonder why Marvel doesn't take into account the Monday holidays on their website for releases and DC does.
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
Maybe Marvel doesn't give their employees the day off!!
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Can't wait for issue #2


and Caleb let me show you how sweet I can be
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
I can't wait for #2 either! I was able to get #1 today after all. Thanks to both Scott and especially icefire for offering to help me acquire one. Above and beyond the call, gentlemen!
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 
Truly. It's a wonderful network of people we've built in this little community! Both TD and Stu have helped me out with stuff I couldn't find, for which I was only too glad to reciprocate. TD is the poster MOST responsible for turning me onto Ambush Bug, too! (Honorable mention to Lash ) And I've also helped out UltraMatthew and Faraway. Are we cool, or WHAT?!?
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Well yes we are!!!!
 

---

Posted by rokk steady on :
 
I recently finished reading the Gruenwald series recently re-released in TP, and I was amazed all over again. I don't think I appreciated it properly the first time around. That is majorly moving stuff.

And I also can't wait for No.2 of the JMS series this week.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Waitaminnut -- did #2 come out today? I missed it at the store.
 

---

Posted by Princess Crujectra on :
 
According to my store, #2 didn't come out today. Of course, the new kid that works there also put two copies of Outsiders into my pull box, so he might not have been paying close attention
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
I just checked and Marel still has it set for this week. But since I haven't picked my books up and probably won't until next week at the earliest I don't even know if my store got it or not.

Just checked the comics newssites too (Comics Continuum, CBR, etc) and did not see anything about a delay. Don't know what's up with that.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Just thought to check Diamond's list and they have it shipping next week, 9/10. It is so very unlike Marvel to ship late and not update their website.
 

---

Posted by rokk steady on :
 
*so* unlike reliable, dependable Marvel indeed!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Those wacky Marvel bigwigs were too busy eating fried fatty foods to let us silly fanboys know.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by rokk steady:
I recently finished reading the Gruenwald series recently re-released in TP, and I was amazed all over again. That is majorly moving stuff.

---

Oh I couldn't agree more! Gruenwald seamlessly mixed the super-heroics and drama together in the SQUADRON SUPREME maxi!

Fave dramatic moments:

* The Golden Archer/Lady Lark/Blue Eagle triangle. Throw in a little forced behaviour modification, and ... MAN! The ramifications of this were SO true and realistic to me throughout the series, all the way up to Blue Eagle bashing the Archer's skull in during the grisly finale.

* Dr. Spectrum/Nuke

* Dr. Spectrum/Foxfire... the Doc never was quite sure if Foxy *really* loved him because the Institute of Evil's B-Modding. Of course in the end she really DID.

* Ape-X's unrequited crush on Tom Thumb and the secret project she had involving him (never revealed, but I believe she was gonna somehow download his consciousness into that robot form we glimpsed).

* Zarda falling for the evil Hyperion and the aftermath of that. OH MY GOD-- I have NEVER felt so sorry for a character in my life--- I think this is why Power Princess is one of my faves. I was *so* rooting for her to snag the REAL Hyperion after he killed his evil doppleganger.

* The families. Arcanna's. Whizzer's. I *liked* these minor characters!

I could go on and on...
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Anyone pick up issue # 2 yesterday? Come on! Spoil it for those of us who don't get paid until next week! And speaking of spoilers, here's a look at # 3, just two pages and the cover, courtesy of Comics Continuum.

Cover
Page One
Page Two
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 
All I gots ta say is: WHERE ARE THE BOOBIES?!

I don't knkow why they bother putting this book out as a MAX title... a little salty language? OOooooh...



I liked issue 2. While #1 focused very heavily on Hyperion, with only minor spotlights on Whizzer and the prism, 2 expands on Whizzer and Dr. Spectrum, as well as introducing Amphibian. I'm still not 100% sure I'll keep this title... I'll give it a few more issues to really catch me. JMS tends to build slowly, but when he hits his stride he can be really good.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
JMS gets a shitload of leeway with me simply because of how much I loved Babylon 5. Throw in the Squadron Supreme and I'm there for at least six issues. As it happens, I'm really liking what I've seen so far anyway.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
oooooh, mustgoto CBS! Need FKAJL and Squadron Supreme fix!!!

And Povvins-- the boobies will arrive with Power Princess. Patience, my pet!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Poverty Lad:
While #1 focused very heavily on Hyperion, with only minor spotlights on Whizzer and the prism, 2 expands on Whizzer and Dr. Spectrum, as well as introducing Amphibian.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Poverty Lad:
I'm still not 100% sure I'll keep this title... I'll give it a few more issues to really catch me. JMS tends to build slowly, but when he hits his stride he can be really good.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Caleb:
maybe we'll get some nice male booty when Amphibian shows up. His origin was sad and tragic.

---

I have a feeling Amphibian's going to be a female (despite that sketch)
 

---

Posted by Poverty Lad on :
 


Caleb got me. When I actually went back and READ the issue, instead of skimming through at work, I realized my preconcieved idea of Nighthawk caused me to miss the obvious...

Having thoroughly read the issue, I can say I'm on-board for the duration. And yes, how SAD was Amphibian's origin?!

P.S.-- Looking forward to a rejuvenated Power Princess... heh...
 

---

Posted by Icefyre on :
 
I really hope we get to see Arcanna!!!!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
If they stick to the "big seven", I wonder if they're going to have a Skrull? He was part of the origin, but was never really a part of the team other than to be an obligatory Martian Manhunter analogue.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Skymax-- The Skrullian Skymaster-- had a rather large role in the NEW WORLD ORDER 1-shot and was indeed one of the 7 active members left at the end, along with the 5 other originals plus the new Nighthawk. (this brought the team back to a JLA copy as at the time JLA consisted only of the bif 7).

I personally hope ALL of the Marvel-U Squadroners make an appearane in the MAX title eventually...

Dunno if they're going to stick to the original 7 as team members only, but I do know that late-addition NUKE appears in the sketchbook of the Special Edition # 1 issue. That bodes well I think for the team expanding past the original 7.

Haven't made it to the CBS yet to get this or FKAJL... I am SO ready to!!!!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Of the non-"Big 7" Squadron members, I hope they bring back Golden Archer, Lady Lark and The Eagle guy (The Hawkman analogue - forgot his name).
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Blue Eagle!!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I dunno why I always liked Lady Lark so much... maybe that feathered bathing suit was so stylish! Plus I've always had a soft spot for redheads...

I'll echo Icefire, I want Arcanna back!!!! Except this being a MAX title, who knows what Arcanna would be like now...?

Tom Thumb would be nice to see too.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I *finally* read all my comics yesterday... loved issue # 2.

So it seems we're going to have an older military-man Dr. Spectrum, a very young Amphibian (who may be male or female), an immortal Power Princess, a 20ish Hyperion, a Nighthawk from Memphis (which is cool but I was appalled by what took place in that scene-- Memphis isn't like that at all-- and I was surprised about the race switch after it was already done with Stanley), and Stanley, the Whizzer.

I liked how this issue maintained the focus on Hyperion while also hitting on so many other soon-to-be Squadron Supremers. I think the pace kicked up a notch, and I'm willing to bet it'll kick up another notch in issue 3.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Regarding the Whizzer, I believe the name will be changed to "Blur". I knew a kid "Stanley the Whizzer", but he didn't run fast ...
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
BLUR works for me.

WHIZZER is kinda golden-agey, so I think it's fine to leave that in the golden age with the member of The All-Winners Squad....
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Blur works for me too!!!!1
 

---

Posted by Low-Middle-Income Lad on :
 
#3 came out today, right? I didn't make it to the CBS today to check.

(Though, now that I think about it, I'm pretty sure I preordered it-- better check my records before I hit the store tomorrow! )
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
***Spoilers for #3***
I'm now convinced this is one of my favorite books out there. There wasn't really much superheroic action to speak of, but the way this story is unravelling, from the version of the U.S. that JMS is constructing, to Hyperion's characterization and what I've seen of the re-envisioned Squadron all combine to create an exciting and dramatic book.


First off, though it simply makes sense for the story, it also made perfect sense how the various presidents reacted to Hyperion. The humanitarian Jimmy Carter was the one to give Hyperion a home. George Bush, former head of the CIA was the one to recruit Hyperion for covert military actions and of course media-savy, Bill "Slick Willy" Clinton was the one to slap a superhero costume on him and announce his existence in a press conference.

The main character in this issue though was the reporter and I liked how his story developed -- especially the interview page with the crazies mixed in with people who actually knew parts of the truth. It reminded me a bit of a "Powers" in terms of the repeated panels and the humor. Having this guy's perspective gave us all that "regular guy" view of Hyperion and how his presence affects the real world. Great stuff -- especially how he was able to see Hype's (hmm, interesting nickname given how he's being presented by the media this issue) loneliness and alienation. It actually makes me impatient to see him meet the rest of the Squad already so he can have that sense of belonging and friendship that he needs.

I can only imagine JMS plans on making the rest of the squad's stories this interesting. If so, then it will definitely become my favorite title on the stands.

[ October 06, 2003, 07:38 AM: Message edited by: DrakeB3003 ]
 

---

Posted by Low-Middle-Income Lad on :
 
I saw #3 at my CBS and had to resist the urge to give it a lookthru. I've got it coming from my sub service in a week or so...<uuuuuurrrrgh...!>
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
This book isow on my permanent list!!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Drake, wonderful review! Makes me wanna get out and get issue 3. Maybe Thursday...

I *knew* I would be interested in this series just because it was the SS, but I've been THRILLED with the issues thus far!

Looks like MARVEL may be doing what was at one time for me the unthinkable.... my Top 3 Comics are all Marvel titles... INHUMANS, X-STATIX and now SUPREME POWER.
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Also Issue 3 had one awesome cover!!!!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
To really boil it down, the fact is this book seems to be about "drama" rather than "action." It's about characters rather than combat. It's still only issue 3 so who knows where the book will go, but that's what's happening so far.
 

---

Posted by Star Boy on :
 
How many issues are there going to be?

Am I the only one who feels that if this is only to be 12 issues, then we'll have barely scratched the surface?
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
I think this is supposed to be an ongoing.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
********SPOILERS FOR #4***********

This continues to be a great book, but this month re-establishes the pace -- it's a slow book. That can be good or bad depending on your take on things. I may even be wrong and the next few months will pick up on the action, but I kinda doubt it.

Much of what went on before is restated or deepened -- Hyperion is alone. His "parents" are taken away from him but he discovers the "Blur" (sort of).

Nighthawk is the big thing this ish -- his scene with Devereaux is painful if not obvious. Kyle looks a bit too old from the context of the story (I can imagine Gunn from "Angel" in this role) which is a shame since a younger looking man acting out this way would've been more powerful, imo. The shot of him in his outfit in front of the mirror is very effective though -- it really conveys how odd it might look for a grown man to don this kind of outfit, no matter the reason.

The following scene though makes me wonder if Nighthawk also deals with black on black crime or back on white crime for that matter with the same zeal. His brutality certainly brings him into a different realm than a simple Batman analogue.

It's apparently been a couple of years since the last ish -- I have to wonder: what has Dr. Spectrum been up to this whole time?? More black ops? Political assassinations? Why wouldn't the government put him out as a public hero since it's worked so well for Hyperion?

Interesting tidbit with the dead fish -- shades of "Watchmen" and Dr Manhattan, but it's still interesting.

Btw, pretty stupid of whatsisname to mention Amsterdam seconds after Hype left the room when they went to all that trouble for the first meeting.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Just read issue 4, another gem!

Great art yet again, mesmerizing!

I'm officially ready for the pace to kick up a notch-- Hyperion's out, Nighthawk is making his (quite terrifying) presence known, Whizzer has been discovered and Doc Spectrum is out there too. For frag's sake, let's get 'em all together already!

Actually, I'm only half-serious... this series is apparently gonna be ultra-lavishly told and that is fine with me!

next issue's title: CRANK UP THE VOLUME.

Do I dare hope this refers to the return of... Lady Lark?!?!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
For frag's sake, let's get 'em all together already!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Do I dare hope this refers to the return of... Lady Lark?!?!

---

That never occured to me -- but it would be good to see another female hero included (unless of course my theory on Amphibian being a female turns out to be true).
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
If a title like that does NOT refer to the return of Lady Lark, it's a terrible joke to play on us long-time SS fanboys! :-D If it does, I wonder what role if any Dr. Decibel (the Institute of Evil member who gave her her powers and was later behaviour-modified and joined the SS) will play in the story....

I've a feeling Amphibian will be female... too much ado was made about the mother wanting a "boy" before she killed herself....
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Just some fanboy thought...

I doubt BLUE EAGLE (previously known as American Eagle and Capt. Hawk) will appear in this series, or if he does it will have to be a drastically different character.

The Marvel U- Blue Eagle was a second generation hero, and the MAX-U SS world has never known superbeings before Hyperion...
 

---

Posted by Danny Blaine on :
 
Have we heard ANY rumblings about characters other than Hyperion, Nighthawk, Power Princess, Blur, Dr Spectrum and Amphibian?

I do remember seeing a sketch of Nuke, any others?
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Spoiler link:

I guess the cover art solicited for issue 7 answers the question of whether Amphibian's going to be male or female...

(My link was a bust... use Scott's, below... )

[ November 24, 2003, 12:28 PM: Message edited by: Pov ]
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Toonzone doesn't allow remote linking. Try this link to Comics Continuum instead for the peek.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
********SPOILERS for #5********

Blur gets the spotlight this issue (sorry, no Lady Lark despite the title) and while it's a solid read that moves the story along, it wasn't as captivating as the previous issues -- mostly because of Blur himself. We know he wants to be a "hero", but we don't know why (other than he's a momma's boy I guess). He may just not be that interesting a person, but I'd still like to know what he's been doing as the "Alanta Blur" -- there are all these stories, but what was he using his powers for other than running around? The stories about him don't mention him helping people or anything. The "hero who sells out" idea has been done a lot of times and hopefully JMS won't tread familiar territory with it.

So now we know what Spectrum's been up to all this time -- doing a thorough examination of the inside of his eyelids. The scenes that show the raw power of the gem, even when not directed by an individual (or maybe *because* it's not being directed), are very effective and seem to be more about its destructive abilities than being able to create energy constructs like the original Dr. Spectrum (or GL for that matter). It remains to be seen if that's even part of its abilities. As an aside, did it strike anyone else as stupid for the scientist guy to be standing right between Joe and the spaceship when they opened the box? I really expected him to get flash-fried (though it appears something might have happened to him). I would have liked to have seen more of Joe but all we get is to see him wake up.

Hyperion doesn't do a lot this issue, but there were some nice moments -- the idea of him needing a private elevator was funny (moreso cuz those bozos didn't realize how pointless it is). The "glasses as ridiculous disguise" gag has been done to death, but it was still cute to see them pay homage. The scene was punctuated by his frustrated efforts at a normal life so it was nice to see him perk up at the prospect of a kindred spirit in the Blur (I hope he and Hype become friends cuz the poor boy needs it -- it'll be depressing if Hype actually meets someone else "like him" but is disappointed again).
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Toonzone doesn't allow remote linking. Try this link to Comics Continuum instead for the peek.

---

Cool -- naked team member ... (the Legion already has two not counting belts, so why not?)

I like the coloring -- those yellow circles look like those "fake eyes" markings some animals have to fake out predators. It conveys a greater sense of realism (more than slapping an orange shirt on Aquaman cuz it kinda makes him look like a goldfish ).
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Another winner issue and I enjoyed the focus being away from Hyperion again.

I quite like Stanley AKA The Atlanta Blur. I've a feeling he is going to end up being looked down on by his super-peers, but Who in his shoes wouldn't have done what he did if it had been offered to them?

'Bout TIME Dr. Spectrum woke up.

I still think the title of this story was a mean joke to play on Lady Lark fans!

SQUADRON SUPREME ALERT!

SS completists will want to check out the current arc in EXILES entitled "King Hyperion". It's written by that Austen guy many of you dislike. I think his story thus far is very well done but I strongly dislike the way he writes female characters.
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
The new Exiles arc is okay I like the fact that Warbird is there! but we'll see!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I like that Carol's there too but I hate that she's depicted as a horny, bloodthirsty bimbo.
 

---

Posted by Poveneezer Scrooge on :
 
Yeah, she really shouldn't be bloodthirsty...
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
Lash I agree I don't like the depiction of Carol or Kitty! But we'll see!!!!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Speaking of Kitty, have you seen the pic of her from the upcoming X-treme X-Men #44? She's all grown up!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Speaking of Kitty, have you seen the pic of her from the upcoming X-treme X-Men #44? She's all grown up!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by DrakeB3003:
Cool -- naked team member ... (the Legion already has two not counting belts, so why not?)

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Ger:
so I guess we get a plastic bag over this issue again?

---

Again? When did we before? And believe me, in Utah if they found out about it even a plastic bag wouldn't save it.
 

---

Posted by Ger on :
 
Issue #3 or 4 was bagged here in Dallas. The one in which Hype was sporting his costume on the cover for the first time.
The reporter got out of bed to go out to his balcony where Hype was flying. The reporter was nekkid and his whole groin was shadowed except a small portion which would represent his penis.

Similar to the Doc's in this issue but Doc's was a little more "fleshed out".

Another fine issue. I'm interested to see where they will take Knighthawk. Right now, he's not much better than the criminals he mutilates. I enjoyed Hype's talk with him though. When are they gonna bring in the Power Princess for goodness sake.
 

---

Posted by Star Boy on :
 
Wow... Didn't even notice it.

(Poor Dr. Spectrum... )
 

---

Posted by Ger on :
 
OUCH!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Wow -- I am liking this book more and more every month! It doesn't have any really "big" scenes (there hasn't even been any fights yet), but every issue is chock full of little moments that say alot, every issue is filled with characterization and there are important moments all the time that aren't overblown or overly dramatic, but still resonate.

Case in point: the meeting between Hyperion and Blur. Very nicely done -- two guys just chatting, checking each other out. As much as I wanted something more overt (like a handshake or a smile even), for Hype to really have a friend who understands him, this was a first step after all and there was some nice foundations laid down.

The first meeting between Hyperion and Nighthawk was equally subtle and revealing of both characters. The Nighthawk POV sequence was great -- reminded me of Robert Smeigel's "Fun With Audio" animated segments on "Saturday Night Live" and perfectly captured his attitude towards Hype and his speach without him having to say a word or for us to hear his thoughts, preserving his detachment. The never changing lynched man on the right of frame tells us what we need to know about Nighthawk. And the last line "prick" was just funny -- we've never seen a Batman/ Superman chat end that way! The added racial tension makes these two very different from the "World's Finest" -- there's a gap there that seems impossible to bridge.

And the Nighthawk design is definitely the best of the bunch so far (much better than Hype). Those intense, freaky eyes say it all.

I have to wonder though what it says about Hype that he let Nighthawk get to work unimpeded -- he's seen how brutal he can be. Despite his speech, I guess Hype really only has sympathy for the innocent.

The Dr. Spectrum bit was very troubling -- who's in control here? Will he have to battle the ship's consciousness for control of his powers? The first meeting between Spectrum and Hyperion will most likely not be the low key affairs we witnessed this time around -- especially depending who might be in control at the time.

[ January 14, 2004, 06:20 PM: Message edited by: DrakeB3003 ]
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Star Boy:
Wow... Didn't even notice it.

(Poor Dr. Spectrum... )

---

Hey, it was probably cold out ...
 

---

Posted by Star Boy on :
 
It was fairly high up, I suppose... Wind Chill factor could've been a bit of a problem.

Like George Constanza says... "There was shrinkage!!"



[ January 14, 2004, 06:19 PM: Message edited by: Star Boy ]
 

---

Posted by Ger on :
 
What did you guys think was the point of the last page. The whole point of "setting things right in the world" and giving Hype something to do to keep him from going crazy.

Are we simply setting up for the formation of the squadron or is there something a bit more forceful on his mind. Like when the Squadron tried to create Utopia in their mini.

I'm just dying to meet more members. I like the emphasis and characterization they're putting on each individual member, but I'm wondering how long it will be before more powered individuals show up -in a villainous capacity or whatever.

I also enjoyed the whole sci-fi aspect of the micro-bacterial agents released from Hype's ship. It explains the sudden emergence of the powered people. I wonder how far that will go.
 

---

Posted by icefire on :
 
I can't wait to get this!!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
JEEPERS, you guys have me on the edge of my seat to read this!!! I got it today, so I'll dive into it this weekend...!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Ger:
Are we simply setting up for the formation of the squadron or is there something a bit more forceful on his mind. Like when the Squadron tried to create Utopia in their mini.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Portfolio Boy:
I have read very few of [The Squadron Supreme's] appearances since those early Avengers appearances circa mid/late '70s.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Ger:
It a bunch of individuals and we discover why they are the way they are as they slowly come together.

---

Are we even really sure these guys are ever going to come together as a superteam? I think it's kind of assumed since they're based on the Squadron Supreme, but it wouldn't suprise me if it never really happens. (and if you know for sure don't tell me - I don't wanna know!! )
 

---

Posted by Comet King on :
 
Thanks guys! If it wasn't for this thread I wouldn't have bothered picking Supreme Power up and I'm glad I did.

The new Nighthawk is scarey! Yikes!

And when are we going to get a new Arcanna? She had a neat name! They should get some more use out of it...

[ February 08, 2004, 02:39 PM: Message edited by: Comet King ]
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Arcanna, Power Princess, Lady Lark... I want to see them all here eventually!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Hey, maybe Arcanna will be reworked into a magical cowgirl!

YOU know... Tex-Arcanna...???
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Wow, issue 7 was another goodie!

Drake, I am beginning to believe there will NOT be a team formed. If there WAS gonna be, why not call the book 'SQUADRON SUPREME'?

Can't wait for next issue's slugfest!

Amphibian sure had pert breasts for a fish! I like her already, but she might as well be an alien from Uranus. How is she going to fit in the picture? Man, this book needs to be bi-weekly!!!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Drake, I am beginning to believe there will NOT be a team formed. If there WAS gonna be, why not call the book 'SQUADRON SUPREME'?

---

Regardless of whether they get together or not, I'm sure the name change was due to the fact that it's not the Squad people are familiar with. They're close enough to use the word "Supreme" in the title, but also maybe to not step on Greunwald's maxi (maybe). And while I woudn't be surprised if they never got together, it's still a scene (and progression) I'd love to see happen -- if only because these characters are so different, it'd be fascniating to see it happen.

This actually reminds me (of all things) of "Gundam Wing" which had five main characters who were all very individualistic (well, except Quatro) who pursued their own agendas and only got together before the last act of the series (and even then, they didn't necessarily get along, their various goals happened to coincide).

The showdown next issue should be *good* -- not only because of the powerhouses involved, but because Joe and Mark are interesting sides of the same coin (as displayed in the last issue where Joe and Mark were usually on opposite sides of the planet doing their thing) -- both were trained and are in service to the government, but one willingly, one less so. One kills as the other protects. One seems to be losing his humanity as the other is beginning to discover his.

If seeing two of the Squad together is this interesting, I can't wait til three of them share a scene (which at this pace won't happend for another two years -- not that I mind if the stories are this good )
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
On the plus side and fortunately for us all, SUPREME POWER has pretty much stuck to schedule and avoided becoming a quarterly-or-less book like ULTIMATES.

That was my biggest fear about this book, but thus far that fear has been groundless.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
**********SPOILERS for #8**************
Hyperion vs. Dr Spectrum! Boy, when they get around to action, they don't mess around do they? We've seen Nighthawk's sheer brutality, and here we're exposed (yes, that's a pun on the fact that the combatants' clothing was getting shredded) to the raw power posessed by these two. It was like an immovable object versus the unstoppable force. The surprising thing to me was the change in Hyperion. That first experience of pain either did something to him, or it was an influence from the crystal -- maybe it triggered a subconscious need for him to posess it? Hard to tell for sure, but his recitation of those questions over and over had me wondering.

[B5 detour]As an aside, it also reminded me of "Babylon 5" and the questions Sheridan heard when he was "dead" that were repeated time and again over the series. The part where he makes contact and the crystal/ ship "sings" to him reminded me of the transcendant yet inexplicable experience several characters had when seeing a Vorlon in its natural state.[/B5 detour]

I shouldn't have been surprised that the confrontation failed to bring any kind of resolution or major (or obvious) change to the characters -- it's something we've come to expect from the way other stories are told, but JMS is taking his time here as well as when he had Hype meet Blur and Nighthawk -- the groundwork is laid and it's still unclear what will come from this first meeting.

The first part of the fallout from this fight is the confessional scene, which was a tad chilly seeing Hyperion on the edge here. He's finally expresing some of his resentment and it shows he's not necessarily the altruist he's been trying to be -- if anything, it makes him seem more human. It's still a good sign that he went to a priest -- that he still acknowledges a higher power perhaps and that he would seek guidance from another as well.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
****SPOILERS FOR #9*****
Hyperion sets out to get some answers but gets more than he bargained for from Gen Casey. The past two issues have been very Hyperion-centric as he makes a break from his government handlers and tries to find out about his origins. I certainly understand since he's the focus of the book, but I'm missing the others. We've seen only glimpses of them so I long to see more. The Spectrum/Amphibian connection certainly implies she and Spectrum will be close (or she will be to him at least). Since it seems Hype and Princess Power are getting together, I wonder if round two will be the battle of the super couples?

The two scenes appraising Hype's power -- from his megadeath ratings, to the notion of using a two ton press to push a spike into a baby -- chilling stuff that enhanced Hypes "stroll" through the military base.

Oh, and that last page ... wow. Looks like Hype is a lot more powerful than the other incarnations we've seen of him -- it only brings more possibilities of what he's going to actually do with the world once he sets a goal.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Issue 9 was great as always and I appreciated the brief Doc Spectrum/Amphibian scene. I'm still hoping that ultimately Hyperion will form the Squadron Supreme.

Advance solicits say Power Princess makes the scene next issue- Hooray!

Although I can't fathom how they will segue the end of # 9 into the intro of Zarda.
 

---

Posted by Comet King on :
 
I just read the trade and, amazingly, I'm not that bothered that Hyperion's the main focus character. I really like the others but his tale is a bit on the tragic side innit? There's only so much sympathy to go round...

But I'm glad Zarda's coming back! I was a preturbed to see that she's been bricked up behind that wall for 2000 years or whatever!

Does anyone think this is a bit on the slow paced side though?
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
This book definitely has a slower pace, but the frustration only comes from the fact that this book is so G-damn good and I wanna know what happens next!

A lot actually happens in most issues -- whether it's character development, creating atmosphere or just introducing all the various "Squadron" members, but JMS is taking his time with it and that's fine with me because he's creating something with real depth.

[ April 16, 2004, 07:15 PM: Message edited by: DrakeB3003 ]
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I agree that there is an enormous amount happening in each issue, and I've been thrilled with this series so far--definately a candidate for Marvel's best current series.

This past issue was very nicely done, and showed further characterization of Hyperion (and General Casey). I'm really looking forward to seeing the other characters start meeting up with each other, but there's no need to have the story rushed along.

On to Power Princess!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Holey Canoli, according to the Marvel solits, there's going to be a "Dr Spectrum" mini! That's great news since the main book is focused on Hyperion and there hasn't been enough room to really delve into the other "Squadroners'" stories (I also can't help but like Dr Spectrum since he's based on Green Lantern).
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
But Jeepers H. Christmas!! When is issue # 10 coming out?? It's later than a pregnant girl's period!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
LOVED the last page of #9... shades of KINGDOM COME...!
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
Issue #10 hits the stands tomorrow, May 26th - I can't wait!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
***SPOILERS for #10****
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
hehehe.... titties....
-- Power Princess makes her debut and man, what a body! (I'm talking about the first time we see her when she's all wrinky and sagging and stuff... eewwww) No matter how many times they showed her naked after that, I still have that first impression in my mind {{shiver}}
-- as with the other issues, we have no idea what the Princess' agenda is. She also seems as robotic as Spectrum did when he was posessed by the crystal. The prophecies hint that she'll be a force for good, but it doesn't seem like it so far.
-- JMS really plays up the "birth" angle with the repeated fetal positions and nakedness (Spectrum was naked too for his "rebirth", and Amphibian's always naked)
-- The Amphibian/ Spectrum exchange was kinda sweet. I look forward to seeing them together again soon so they can build on their friendship (assuming it all doesn't go to hell).
-- Considering Hype was injured in the explosion, could that mean Nuke will be an adversary to be feared??
-- Despite the slow pacing and lack of "big" events this issue, JMS and Frank manage to convey that what we're watching are historic moments that will determine the fate of the world. It's like we're counting down to something ... what, I don't know, but I'll be there for it!
 

---

Posted by Frostfyre on :
 
I noticed a Dr. Spectrum 6 issue mini will be coming in the fall!!!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Issue 1 of the mini will be in the June solicits. Saw the cover on CBR and it looks pretty sharp.
 

---

Posted by Frostfyre on :
 
Pov, Dr Spectrum has always been one of my faves so I'll be picking this up!!!! I just wish we could see Arcanna!
 

---

Posted by Mystery Lad on :
 
Has Lady Lark appeared?

Was there a 'Hawkman' analogue? I don't seem to remember... I'm 'tradesitting' for this title.

Is it now an ongoing? Didn't it begin as a miniseries?

Todd
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
I'm also looking forward to the Spectrum mini. I've always been partial to him since he's the GL analogue, but I actually like this Joe Ledger as well. The gentle side he revealed this issue went a long way in cementing my fondness for this character.

Mystery Lad, as far as I know, this has always been meant as an ongoing but I'm not 100% sure.

Lady Lark hasn't appeared and I don't know if she will. They showed some design sketches for Nuke, but aside from the members that've already appeared that's the only other Squadroner I know of in this series.

And the Hawkman analogue in the "Squadron" was Blue Eagle.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
No appearance as yet by Lady Lark, but some of us are rooting for her.

The first TPB to this book is out already, Todd, I highly recommend it.

To the best of my knowledge, this book is now an unlimited-issue monthly series, already spawning spinoffs such as the upcoming Doc Spectrum mini.
 

---

Posted by Mystery Lad on :
 
Thanks, DrakeB3003 and Lashie! Barnes and Noble carries it, so I'll order one at work when I go back Wed.

Now for a real toughie... has the Perez illustrated Avengers/Squadron Supreme meeting been released in TPB form? Anybody?

And does SUPREME POWER affect Kyle Richmond of Defenders fame?

Thanks,

Todd

[ May 31, 2004, 02:22 PM: Message edited by: Mystery Lad ]
 

---

Posted by Zeroman on :
 
Only thing I don't like about the Doc Spectrum mini is that it is being down by a different team. I was really excited about it when I thought it was going to be JMS/Frank doing it, but now I think I will probaly skip it.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Mystery Lad:
Now for a real toughie... has the Perez illustrated Avengers/Squadron Supreme meeting been released in TPB form? Anybody?

And does SUPREME POWER affect Kyle Richmond of Defenders fame?

---

The very first Avengers/SS battle was reprinted in the "expanded" edition of "Supreme Power #1" (which also has some character design sketches) which was released the same time as "regular" #1 (which was just the new story). Maybe you can find it at the CBS or ebay (I don't know if it was reprinted in the tpb though).

And no, this has nothing to do with any of the Squadroners we've seen before. Richmond in Marvel U. proper is not affected.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
It's kinda like ULTIMATE SQUADRON SUPREME, Todd, in that the original SS isn't affected by this at all and these characters are completely different. Which I kinda like, as it leaves the whole of Gruenwald's SS stories intact (see earlier pages of this thread for more details).

I'd LOVE to see the Perez SS issues in tpb. They'd include the first Hellcat appearances. Lessee, that would be issues 141, 144 (first Hellcat), 147 & 148 (and throw in 149 to finish off the Patsy/Buzz/Roxxon connection). I have the originals but I'd like a TPB. It'd be kinda small, only 5 issues, so maybe they could price it at $8.99 or something. That would be a treat.

I also want to get the CELESTIAL MADONNA tpb.
 

---

Posted by Mystery Lad on :
 
Again, thanks DRAKE and LASH. I'll keep my eyes peeled for that 'expanded edition' of SUPREME POWER 1.

I got that CELESTIAL MADONNA tpb, along with the one reprinting the AVENGERS/DEFENDERS 'war'. Rereading those awoke my sleeping Marvel fanitis.

My original copies of everything 70s and 80s are long gone (don't ask...)

So, I'm selectively rebuilding. TPBs are the way to go, for me.

Todd
 

---

Posted by Spellbinder on :
 
I'm not sure how much longer I'll be collecting this title. It's not bad, but it is a bit more graphic than I am comfortable with, and the characters feel a bit too alien from the originals for me. I don't mind a new take, I prefer my heroes not punch their fist through people
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
...

...

...

Geez, Zarda's first full-frontal put me off the rest of her scenes...

Man, she's creepy...!
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Todd, I also highly reccomend picking this up in the trade! A great read, with *great* art!

A Celestial Madonna TPB is a must! About five years ago, I reread the entire Avengers run from #1 to the Brotherhood of Evil taking over Avengers mansion saga, and the Celestial Madonna saga might be the supreme highlight of the post-#16 years! It was just so cool, and kept going with more twists and turns! I also have a strong affinity for Mantis now, and Kang was the ultimate Avengers villian during this era.

The latest Supreme Power was good I thought, and the art continues to stun. I can see why Zarda's continual nudity might put some people off, but nudity has never bothered me . The scenes with her and Hyperion were both tantalizing and creepy at the same time, and I'm curious to see where it's going--is Zarda planning to 'take over' Earth?
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Oh, and I really liked the Busiek Avengers/Squadron Supreme annual a few years back (with art by Salvador Larocca maybe?). I liked the nostalgic feel to it the most I think.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
With the success of Supreme Power, I wonder if there are plans to revisit the Squadron Supreme? Last I remember, the "big 7" were just about to win back their world...
 

---

Posted by Kid Prime on :
 
I'm LOVING Supreme Power.

Um, is anyone else missing Arcanna, though?
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by DrakeB3003:
With the success of Supreme Power, I wonder if there are plans to revisit the Squadron Supreme? Last I remember, the "big 7" were just about to win back their world...

---

Yes, in NEW WORLD ORDER.

Hyperion, Power Princess, Skymax, Doc Spectrum, Whizzer, Nighthawk (the original's son) and Amphibian were still active.

Arcanna, Lady Lark and the Shape were around but inactive.

I'd love a revisit to the Squadron Supreme.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Man I have to catch up on my reading. I still have, I think, the last 2 issues to read.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Read it. I was just one issue behind. Man, this is NOT your father's Squad. Very interesting and I want a poster of that final splash page.
 

---

Posted by Frostfyre on :
 
That would be one hella cool poster!!!!!
 

---

Posted by Kid Prime on :
 
I'd settle for Hyperion dropping that sheet from his waist at the beginning of the next issue.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Issue 10 was fine, it's great to have Zarda back, but there was actually more nudity in this issue that I was comfortable with.

Do Amphibian, Zarda AND Hyperion all have to be running around naked? I was surprised Doc Spectrum still had his pants on!
 

---

Posted by Frostfyre on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Issue 10 was fine, it's great to have Zarda back, but there was actually more nudity in this issue that I was comfortable with.

Do Amphibian, Zarda AND Hyperion all have to be running around naked? I was surprised Doc Spectrum still had his pants on!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Kid Prime:
I'd settle for Hyperion dropping that sheet from his waist at the beginning of the next issue.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Dr. Decibel, Quagmire and Foxfire died loyal to the Squadron, and Ape X remained loyal until her brain shut down. The Shape remained loyal. I'm rooting for them, so I hope it isn't any of them except maybe Lamprey.

---

Lash,

Didn't Quagmire appear a few times on Marvel Earth, fighting against Quasar? I remember a Marvel Comics Presents with their first encounter, and then a few issues of Quasar's book (I believe in the #40s).
 

---

Posted by Kid Prime on :
 
I would also like to go on record as being very tired of Zarda's boobs. Get a toga already, girl!!!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
I think they deserve their own maxi-series, but that's just me...
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
Craig, I totally agree. The series is moving a bit slow, and the nudity does seem rather gratuitous. This is a great series, but the story does need to get a-movin'.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
It seems to me that the story is in fact moving along this last issue. There wasn't really a whole lot of characterization in this last issue (especially with the main man, Hype who just sat by), but we see each character take a big step towards whatever their final destiny will be.

I don't see the nudity as gratuitous though. As I said in previous posts, Zarda's nudity vs. Hype's sheet spoke towards the characters' identities (hehehe.. he said "titties..."). And nudity has been a recurring theme regarding several members' "births"
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Finally read it last night.

I quite like the Nighthawk/Blur get-together; it's ABOUT time. Their scenes, to me, were the saving grace of the story.

The Zarda/Hyperion scenes were to me nothing but filler. We don't know if ANY of the origins given are true, or what ANY of the possible scenarios have to do with the price of eggs. Thus far, I don't like Zarda very much at all. A shame, as I *LOVE* the regular Marvel-Universe Power Princess.

I'd officially like to go a full THREE ISSUES without seeing any naked heroes.

Omni, true, Quaggy popped up in regular Marvel-Universe to battle Quasar but only AFTER he "died" still loyal to the SS. It turned out he was somehow teleported through the darkforce somehow.
 

---

Posted by huntdrouin on :
 
Just got # 12 today...3 weeks late...and really enjoyed it. However, I agree with Lash. How many more naked super-heroes do we need to see. Of course, if it was the men and not only Zarda (of late), I wouldn't complain a bit <g>
 

---

Posted by Kid Prime on :
 
You see! FULL FRONTAL HYPERION! You know we all want it!!!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
What issue are we supposed to be on? It seems forever since I last got a copy.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Latest issue was excellent IMO. Finally, the story gets moving again. ALL the stories!

We get to see some good characterization and major decision making on the part of Hyperion, Zardo, Nighthawk, the Blur and Dr. Spectrum. The best issue in months.
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
But was there nudity? I won't pick it up unless there's and ...
 

---

Posted by Omni Craig on :
 
Issue #12 came out this week Scott, but it was long overdue. Also Dr Spectrum #1 is on shelves now too! Gots 'em both at da same time!

Pov, there was more nudity from Zarda, but she finally gets some clothes on about halfway into the issue.

And it is all starting to come together now. And it appears during this story arc we will see more of the "heroes" operating together! Finally!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
CRAP! Gotta e-mail my store and have 'em pull the Doc Spec mini...!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
I agree, things pick up a bit where we get a four-part story. Reminded me a tad of "24" with the multi-parallel storytelling going on.
random thoughts:
-- While Hype is no longer the spotlight, it's interesting to note that he traverses storylines. He leaves the Zarda panels (naked as she is), to reemerge in Nighthawk/Blur's dressed in black leather similar to Nighthawk (makes me wonder how he'll get a new costume - Nighthawk has the resources...) Is this a clearer visual cue that Hype will be the thing that brings them all together? It reminds me of the symbolism in Hype's first meeting with Blur where we see the barriers come down between the horses in the corral.
-- I also liked the similarly framed/staged parallel panels - it's a nice way to tie these events together visually.
-- Blur has a great moment with Nighthawk. He's brighter than he's been presented so far and may actually be the most grounded member of the Squad after all (as his speedster predecessors were).
-- The escaped inmates/experiments is the first clear threat for our heroes. I'm a tad apprehensive about this - I hope it doesn't dominate the story because the bigger picture is more interesting. I imagine these villains will provide some more action though to counterbalance the slower, less action oriented development of the larger story of Hype's alien origins.
-- Zarda is *far* from being a hero. Will Hype be able to turn her around/ reign her in?? Even if he does win her to his cause, is she even capable of feeling any sympathy for humanity?
-- Zarda makes an interesting counterpoint/parallel to Nighthawk, and his line "you people". If he thinks Hype's a prick, I can't imagine what he'll think of her. Again, this reminds me of "B5" where the major impediment to salvation was the prejudices and barriers between the forces of good.
-- Nice to see Joe protect Amphibian. I hope he gets back to her soon with that name.
-- What's with the left arms?? Was this guy abused by a left-handed mother or something?
-- Nice marketing to put out Dr Spectrum the same week as "Supreme Power". Hopefully fans of this series will pick up the other.

Question: what's the story with the post-it notes on Hype's stuff? Where'd it come from?

Re: Dr Spectrum #1: a slow start (big surprise) as we flashback to when Joe got thrown into a coma and the prism first bonded to him. Looks like we'll be exploring the nature of their relationship (it seems similar to Hype's relationship to Zarda so far - does JMS have issues with dominant women?). I just hope the whole thing doesn't take place in Joe's head during his coma.

[ August 21, 2004, 05:33 AM: Message edited by: DrakeB3003 ]
 

---

Posted by matlock on :
 
I bought issue 12 just to check it out since there's a pretty good bit of enthusiasm here for the series. I'm not really sure what to make of it. I thought that the person on the cover was a villain, not a hero. I guess I don't have much of a feel for the wierd "bondage" costumes. I might try another issue or so, but this might be a little too "Authority" for me. I was a little disappointed by the art too, I like Gary Frank but I'm not sure I like the inker.

I was a little let down that they didn't use the pseudo-DC cities from the old Squadron Supreme days, but I did think it was kind of cool that the Blur is from Atlanta.

I know there's a TPB of the first issues, but does anyone know if there's a good website out there with info on the series? I couldn't find one, most of the hits I got searching for "supreme powers" were pertaining to governments and the Catholic church.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I don't like disliking Zarda. And I REALLY dislike this Zarda.

On the other hand, I REALLY like this Stanley.

I am still enjoying the book but I am starting to miss "THE" Squadron Supreme...
DOctor Spectrum # 1 was an okay read.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Read DOCTOR SPECTRUM # 2...

Is it just me, or is this mini more padded than a flat-chested teen's bra?
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
If this whole mini is going to be a talking head story with Joe Ledger in a coma coming to terms with the power gem, I'm going to be very disappointed.

That said--

S

P

O

I

L

E

R

S:

I'm still trying to figure out the ending of the second issue... did he kill his family? Or was he just figuratively burning off those memories to prevent teh gem from using them?
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
It isn't made clear.

It's 20-odd pages of filler with little meat.
 

---

Posted by Miss Tricks on :
 
Are there plans to introduce a Skrull/Martian Manhunter type?
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
I didn't get the special edition of #1 that had the sketchbook, but I don't remember anybody mentioning plans for Skymax, Lady Lark or other SS members... sorry... Anybody else heear anything?
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
The only other SSer mentioned/depicted in the Special Edition that hasn't appeared yet is NUKE.

I'm still crossing my fingers for Lark, Arcanna, Skymax and ALL the rest...
 

---

Posted by Catspajamas on :
 
Nuke? Anyone else see the obvious plot device he'll serve for an arc?
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Do you figure they'll send him up against Hype, Doc Spec and Zarda?
 

---

Posted by Catspajamas on :
 
Either he will oppose the heroes as a villain, or, more likely (at least in my mind), he'll be used by someone (probably the US gov't) against the united Squadron.

I really want to see the other Squadron members appear and, in some cases, get updated codenames like Blur did. Skymax needs an update.

It'd be interesting if JMS formed a counterpoint organization to the Squadron. One led by Golden Archer and consisting of Tom Thumb, Blue Eagle, Lady Lark, and Arcanna. Shape seems an applicable Plastic Man analog, too.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Jillikers! I love a lass who knows her Squadron Supreme!
 

---

Posted by Catspajamas on :
 
My brother is about 10 years older than I am and has a HUGE comic collection. He helped raise me and we are pretty close. It's like our bonding thing. He has more actual "been there, read that" knowledge, but I scour the net and fill in the blanks. Plus I know more about Archie & the gang

Analog super-heroes are a personal passion of mine, though.
 

---

Posted by Pov of Nine on :
 
Squadron Supreme 13 is listed as coming out tomorrow, 11/24. One can hope!
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
That sounds correct. The delay was supposedly to let Gary Frank catch up, but I'd heard that there would be at least one issue of SP coming out at the same time as Doc Spectrum.
 

---

Posted by HighPriestess Viviane on :
 
It's all about Arcanna.
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
I so agree, Viv. I heard someone say that magic doesn't fit with the SP universe, but there are ways around it. She could easily be a "witch" (Wiccan, or whatever) who gains super-powers and attributes them to spells. IIRC, Arcanna was less of a spellcaster and more of an elemental. If you highlight something like that, she fits in perfectly. But if Arcanna does show up, she had better not be calling herself Moonglow.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I'm finding my interest waning in SUPREME POWER.

The DOCTOR SPECTRUM mini has been one giant excercise in story-padding and has been an utter disappointment. I can't believe I'm actually planning on finishing it. Maybe I won't.

As for SP itself, long delays between issues aren't helping my interest when combined with storylines that move like molasses. It was different when the book was actually monthly. Not so any longer.

This next issue better be DAMN good.
 

---

Posted by Pov of Nine on :
 
I'm only buying it if it has boobies.


 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, the boobies are okay but not enough for me.

That issue where Zarda spent and ENTIRE issue showing her tits and telling Hyperion nonsensical variations of what their origins might be was a total bore.
 

---

Posted by Pov of Nine on :
 
She had dialogue in that issue?!
 

---

Posted by huntdrouin on :
 
Just got # 13. Very good read and nice to see the beginnings of team development. Only took a year, ha.

I hope it starts coming out monthly again. Too long of a stretch otherwise.

And I agree, the Dr. Spectrum mini is really stretched out without saying much. Of course, I'll finish it but it's not holding my interest anywhere near what Supreme Power does.

Still waiting for Hype in full frontal coverage. Well, a boy can hope can't he?
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
For those of you who read SP #13, you do know that the villain is a former SS member, right? It looks like JMS might be using the entire SS after all - just not in ways that are expected.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
The only thing I remember about the other Redstone was that his powers were based on drawing strength from the earth (he shriveled like a grape when they took off into space). What was the background of that Redstone? Wasn't he one of the "reformed" villains?
 

---

Posted by huntdrouin on :
 
Redstone wasn't one of the reformed villains. He was a completely new meta when he was introduced in the series. I believe he was native american. He did drawn his powers from the earth but don't think much more was revealed about him.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Redstone? Kewl!

He was one of Nighthawk's "plants" that joined the Squadron to betray them and dismantle their Utopia Program. False Pretenses Lad! And yes, he died almost right away when the team went into space in the END OF A UNIVERSE graphic novel. And I believe he was indeed a native American.

So he's the bad guy, huh?
 

---

Posted by huntdrouin on :
 
Possibly ONE of the Bad Guys
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
Scientific nitpick time:

Isn't a sonic boom left in the wake of someone travelling faster than the speed of sound? In other words, the boom would never precede Hype's arrival (I guess he could've overshot, then turned around or something...).
 

---

Posted by knowjack on :
 
I'm still enjoying this, but I'm starting to feel it's WAY too stretched out. It seems like it takes FOREVER for something to happen.

Still loving the art though.
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
For some reason the decompression isn't bothering me as much here. Probably because I can see why he's spending time on certain things - set up for later issues. The only thing that really seems to drag out it Amphibian since she gets almost zero panel time.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Okay, read the latest issue. It was good. Still kind-of wishing things would, ummmm... HURRY UP. Not sure about how crazy I am that a former Squadroner is the bad-guy (and he WAS a hero, despite joining the SS to betray them... see the original 12-issue mini for all the details).

They could have used Lamprey, Quagmire or any of those Institute of Evil guys...
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by DrakeB3004:
Scientific nitpick time:

Isn't a sonic boom left in the wake of someone travelling faster than the speed of sound? In other words, the boom would never precede Hype's arrival (I guess he could've overshot, then turned around or something...).

---

All aircraft traveling faster than the speed of sound generate at least two shock wave cones—one at the nose and one at the tail of the aircraft. Additional shock waves are produced at other locations on the aircraft that cut through the air such as the canopy, inlets, wings, and vertical tails. These shock waves tend to merge into a strong nose shock wave and a strong tail shock wave. Both the nose and tail shock waves have similar pressure and the time interval between the two waves as they reach the ground primarily depends on the size of the aircraft and its altitude above the ground. Each shock wave generates a separate sonic boom. However, since both shock waves pass a location very quickly, a stationary observer may only hear one sonic boom, since the human ear has difficulty distinguishing the sudden sound changes, the sonic booms "appear" to merge together and only one sonic boom is heard. The sound generated by each sonic boom becomes more distinguishable as the size and mass of the aircraft increases. Vehicles such as the space shuttle with considerably larger size and heavier mass than most aircraft generate two distinct sonic booms.

So technically the boom could have come before. Although I would think with a human sized 'aircraft' only someone with super-hearing could tell if it was the pre- or post-boom.
 

---

Posted by Just Pov on :
 


New issue's listed for this week...
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
I for one have had less to say about this series lately. The story may be moving along more, but it's nothing groundbreaking and unfortunately, characterization has been sacrirficed.

I still like the book, but it used to be #1 for me and now it's barely top 5.
 

---

Posted by huntdrouin on :
 
IDDY BITTY SPOILERS for # 15

I'm still enjoying it. It's the one I saved til last this week (an old hold over routine from when I was a kid, lo those many years ago).

I'm a little disturbed by the fate of Redstone (won't give anything away). It makes sense but is downright creepy when you think about how things are going in today's world.

I also like some of the increased tension (on one hand) and cameraderie (on the other) between characters. It may take a loooong time for anything truly dramatic to happen, but I'll be along for the ride.

Hey, if PP can go around naked all the time, then so should Hyperion!

That's my story and I'm stickin to it.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
I enjoyed #15 more than the last several issues. It's great to see the "Squadron" interacting a lot more now and the exchanges are not only unexpected, but shed a lot on their characterization. Hopefully we'll see the girls get into it a bit more, but it was great to see Joe follow up on his promise to Amphibian (did anyone else see "The Life Aquatic"? -- I couldn't help but smile when Joe told her the name he came up with).
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
That was the name of Amphibian in the Squadron Supreme. To me, since that character was male, the name doesn't fit.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Supreme Power has one more issue from me. # 16 will be a maker or breaker.

I've grown weary of the ham-handed, gratuitous nudity and usage of "fuck you" in the dialogue.

I know attitude's like Nighthawk's exist out there, but I don't wanna read about it.

I dislike both Hyperion and Nighthawk, and Dr. Spectrum's sole redeeming quality for me is his budding relationship with Amphibian.

This comic isn't fun for me anymore.
 

---

Posted by Princess Crujectra on :
 
I had it taken off my pull list last week. I really wanted to like it, but really I've never been a fan of this brand of "super-team". While I don't think of myself as a total prude, the nudity and language made me uncomfortable, and to me was completely unnecessary. And the violence was just a little too over the top for my tastes.

This just ain't your father's Squadron Supreme, and it just ain't mine either.
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
How is this selling nowadays, anyway?
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
for Lashie's make-or-break issue...
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
And I meant it-- I dropped the atrocious DR. SPECTRUM mini after the 4th dismal issue and don't even care what else happened there.

# 16 better be DAMN good to be almost 3 months late.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Sadly, I really can't find it in me to maintain any interest right now. Hopefully it'll change and the latest few issues will peak my interest again...
 

---

Posted by Igee The Mighty on :
 
Whelp, there's talk about Supreme Power moving over to Marvel Knights from MAX. While that may certainly tone down the nudity & profanity, I wonder how it'll change the way the stories are told. SP is one of those books that seems to feed off of the edge a MAX imprint gives.

On a similar note, I've decided to drop SP with this issue for financial reasons. Between the Infinite Crisis prelude minis and the tie-ins, my wallet's starting to cry. So I'm down to my sole Marvel title...Young Avengers.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Hmm. Well, it isn't made--- but it isn't broken yet either.

# 16 had sufficient developments to keep me coming back for at least ONE more issue... (which I guess is all a comic really NEEDS to do).

Chief amongst those developments:

1. Amphibian leaving the ocean to join Dr. Spectrum

2. Stanley's (Blur's) loyalty to Hyperion

3. Power Princess in clothes finally

At this point, Stanley is my primary draw to this book-- he is the only likeable character and I'm worried about him.

[ May 02, 2005, 04:34 PM: Message edited by: MLLASH ]
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
The dialogue with the general and his grand daughter was actually pretty good too. There was enough things happening this issue to not get me bothered by the pages long exchange, so I was able to focus on how good the exchange actually was.

I agree about Blur too, but I also kinda like Dr. Spectrum a lot at this point.

Oh, and did you guys hear this will be becoming a Marvel Knights title now? Not sure if that will effect anything, just no more nudity (which it appears was getting on people's nerves anyway...)
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
This is still a good book, and this issue picks up a bit in terms of the development of the "big picture", but man that delay hurts the momentum of this book. I had a hard time remembering the previous issue and the Redstone battle.

I'm glad to see the reporter again - that was one of the best issues of the series and the fact that my affection for a previous story was sparked helped my feelings for this (very late) book.

Dr Specturm will always be my default favorite unless he does something totally horrible if only because Specturm was always the GL analogue. Despite the "Dr Spectrum" mini (which honestly could just as easily have been a one-shot), I like Joe a lot - I like the contrast between him being a stone-cold killer and the affection he shows for Amphibian. They have a sweet relationship.

Hyperion is getting scarier each month. He's slowly going over to the dark side. I wonder if Stanley and possibly the formation of the Squadron might settle him down. I also have to wonder if there's any way the Princess will actually devlop into a "hero" in any sense of the word.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
*Spoilers for #17*
- Mark continues his slide from humanity, but it's encouraging to know that he still wants to help people (if only because he can't think of anything else to do).
- Power Princess really needs some brain fixing. Otherwise I can't see how she's going to be anything other than a villain.
- cat fight! Amphibian's vision of Power Princess indicates she really isn't the Power Princess we know from the Squadron.

The Marvel solits also have some intersting news:

SUPREME POWER: HYPERION #1 (of 5)
Written by J. Michael Straczynski
Penciled by Dan JURGENS
Cover by TERRY DODSON
The first of two SUPREME POWER specials! Now that the world knows his dark secret, Hyperion suddenly finds himself both alone and hunted. Four new super-powered individuals -- each based on a character from the original Squadron Supreme -- are after his hide, and they’ve got the will and means to take him down.
32 PGS./MAX - EXPLICIT CONTENT …$2.99

SUPREME POWER: NIGHTHAWK #1 (of 5)
Written by Daniel Way
Pencils & Cover by Steve Dillon
The second of two SUPREME POWER specials! As a young boy, Kyle Richmond—the man who would one day become Nighthawk—witnessed the senseless murder of his parents. There was no reason for their deaths, no provocation -- they were just simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was a traumatic event that has left him scarred for life—and turned him into a hero more feared than the criminals he polices. Now it’s happening again...but on a much larger scale. The people of Chicago—men, women and children—are dying in the streets, victims of a monster whose thirst for slaughter cannot be quenched, whose soul is a bottomless void, and whose scars run even deeper than Nighthawk’s. Long ago, Kyle Richmond looked into the face of madness—now, it’s looking back at him. And it’s flashing a killer smile.
32 PGS./MAX- EXPLICIT CONTENT …$2.99

Anyone planning to get these? After being burned by the "Dr Spectrum" book, I'm vey wary. But JMS is writing the Hyperion book and hey -- four new Squadroners! If they're following the basic JLA lineup, I imagine it's Golden Arrow, Lady Lark, Blue Eagle and Nuke.

[ June 26, 2005, 07:56 PM: Message edited by: DrakeB3004 ]
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I'm very interested, though I find it difficult to believe that Golden Archer or Blue Eagle would last 2 seconds against Hype. Lady Lark might last 10 (I'm sure she could cause serious damage to his hyper-ears). I'm almost positive Nuke will be one of them.

I'll likely try them both but if they suck they won't even get the 4 issues Dr. Spectrum got out of me.

re: # 17... once again I'm interested enough to come back next issue.
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
Spoilery stuff for #18
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Anyone read this issue yet? Man, that issue absolutely rocked. I can't believe this book is going Marvel Knights. It's going to ruin it. At least the Nighthawk and Hyperion mini's will still be MAX.

Anyway, those final two pages really had a big impact - literally. If that's not a message to the US Gov, I don't know what is. I can't wait to see the aftermath of it all.

I also loved the glimpse with got of many of the old Squadrom Supremers. I wasn't sure who the one woman was in the bar who was the "last man staanding" from a brawl. Maybe Minx? (Was that the name of the SS villain?) I couldn't decide if the chubby guy was Pinball(?) or Shape. The rest were easy enough to figure out.

I am wondering what the new spin on Arcanna is. She was working with quantum physics which suggests she's not the sorceress she was in the past. Then again, I've heard people discuss things like "quantum magic", which could be the direction they're going to take Arcanna. I don't know exactly what quantum magic is supposed to be, but I would guess a comic could spin it to be something like "real" magic but with a scientific basis.

I definitely loved this issue an can't wait to see where JMS goes with his story. I might even have to cave in and buy it as an MK book.
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
What does "Marvel Knights" mean? There was no next issue blurb - was this the last issue of SP?
 

---

Posted by ferroboy on :
 
That was the last MAX issue of Supreme Power. It will start over with a new #1 under the Marvel Knights imprint. MK pretty much means that the book will undergo extreme censorship in order to be accessible to more readers. I think Marvel is forgetting that this is NOT the Squadrom Supreme and shouldn't be treated as such. The SS Hyperion would never do what the SP Hyperion did at the end of #18.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by ferroboy:
I wasn't sure who the one woman was in the bar who was the "last man staanding" from a brawl.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by legionadventureman:
What has happened since the events of the previous 12-part Squadron Supreme? Who lives? Who dies?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by legionadventureman:
Skrullian Skymaster sounds like a joke version of J'onn J'onzz...

---

It was. He was the Martian Manhunter of their original "Justice League" lineup. He was also their "Abin Sur" since he gave Dr. Spectrum (Green Lantern) his power prism.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Okay, I read # 18.

And it hooked me for sure, with the appearances of Arcanna, Pinball, Master Menace, Nuke, Tom Thumb and Inertia (good catch, Drake-- I couldn't remember Inertia's name being revealed before).

Stanley remains my favorite character.

So I'm DEFinitely onboard for the HYPERION mini, for the "new" characters, as I dislike Mark. Not so sure about the NIGHTHAWK mini, as I also dislike Kyle. Anyone try it?
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Heh... 18 was actually my -last- SP issue. I just finally admitted I don't care enough to follow this series any more, through two miniseries and a watered-down relaunch. Strazcynski's lost me. The ending to RISING STARS was drawn out and bland, and the projects he's handed off to his "understudies" have sucked hardcore ( RS:Bright, Doc Spectrum, and the current RS:Voices of the Dead(?) )

I'm done. It was bad enough when I was only reading it for the & ...
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
The Nighthawk mini is certainly a step above the Dr Spectrum mini (maybe because the main character isn't in a coma). They seem to be taking him even more into Batman territory, with a clandestine rooftop meeting with the Deputy Mayor (though it's not clear how much of allies they really are - esp since he's white), and a foe (racist of course) who it looks like might take up a "clownish" persona if the last panel is any indication. Not bad - I'll pick up the next one to see where it goes.

Has anyone seen the new Avengers "Serpent Crown" tpb? Lots of good Squadron Supreme action there.
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
I've actually liked both the Nighthawk and Hyperion miniseries so far. They are taking an interesting direction with Arcanna which I am not sure I'll like, but I'll keep reading.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
The Hyperion mini is pretty interesting so far. Thank god they actually managed to gather the team in *one* issue. These days, it wouldn't surprise me if they spent half the time introducing the characters for a big confrontation at the end that would end up being anticlimactic.

I wonder what they plan on doing with Inertia since she was introduced along with the others in Supreme Power.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by DrakeB3004:
The Hyperion mini is pretty interesting so far. Thank god they actually managed to gather the team in *one* issue.

---

Agreed on all counts. I finally got HYPERION # 1 (though I decided to pass on NIGHTHAWK).

I really like Arcanna so far, and Emil "Master Menace" Burbank is equally fascinating.

Maybe Inertia and Tom Thumb are going to join up with Hype?
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
The first issue of Nighthawk was ok, but the second issue was a total waste. It had about 2 pages of actual story, and the rest of the issue was pointless.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
ATTN: Fans of the *"REAL"* Squadron Supreme--

You don't wanna miss EXILES # 77!

Seems to pick up after the NEW WORLD ORDER 1-shot, with the SS Membership standing at the "based on the JLA big 7" membershp.

And if the cover for EXILES # 78 is any indication, the team is about to get a new member from the Squadron....
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
It's always fun to see the Squadron. With the Squadron Sinister "reunion" in New T-Bolts, there's plenty of SS action going around.

I also like the color change to the original Nighthawk's costume.

If one of the Squad is leaving the team, I hope that means they liberate their earth first (since it takes seven to do it)
 

---

Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
IMHO the 12-part maxi was a good read - the Bob Hall (darn! I forgot who inked the first couple of issues, I think he inked the first JLA-JSA George Perez issue which featured the Secret Society of Super-Villains) and then Paul Ryan took over...lotsa pathos and tragedy (the death of the black chick with the yellow crewcut is a standout).

Obviously a homage to JLA, with new members Power Princess and Arcanna (Wonder Woman and Zatanna, respectively)...A shame they couldnt admit an Elongated Man-like member or have their own android super-hero on the team (like Red Tornado). Skrullian Skymaster (J'onn J'onzz) - what became of him?

[ February 27, 2006, 04:40 PM: Message edited by: legionadventureman ]
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
The Skrullian Skymaster was away for awhile, but returned in the Squadron Supreme one-shot. He's still with the team (the "big 7"), which can currently be seen in "Exiles".
 

---

Posted by ActorLad on :
 
Er, there was a Plastic Man/Elongated Man analog in the team he was called Shape.
 

---

Posted by armsfalloffboy on :
 
One of my favorites ever. I picked up some kind of summary comic of the Supreme Power series, and it was unrecognizable. Left me a little cold...
 

---

Posted by Calybos on :
 
The Supreme Power series is a lot darker and more conspiratorial. Plus, there's gratuitous nudity to justify the "MAX/adult" rating.

The original series, however, had some kick-butt characters, both heroes and villains.

I was intrigued by Dr. Decibel, though I thought the "Shape as mental child and therefore good" thing was a bit weak. Who SAYS kids are inherently good?
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
For fans of the original Squadron Supreme, they're currently appearing in "Exiles" and it's a good appearance (continues next month). We get to see them post "New World Order", fighting to liberate their world and Nighthawk gets a new (if somewhat familiar) new outfit.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
You know what? I get *so* many Marvel, DC and Independent comics that my Dad and brother (who buy them with me) are demanding I start to cut back. I don't think this relaunch is making the cut.

I just haven't been into it in over a year. I guess I'll be depending on you guys to give me the low-down on whether the relaunch is any good or not!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Okay, I've edited this title to reflect the end of Supreme Power.

SP kinda fizzled out for me, I never bothered to finish buying the awful Dr. Spectrum mini, didn't even check out the Nighthawk mini and haven't yet completed the Hyperion mini (although I intend to), but I *did* read SQUADRON SUPREME # 1.

Nice enough setup issue. I particularly liked how Hyperion saw to it that there would be NO "covert" branch of the SS.

Was anyone else chilled by the inage of Bush standing among the SS on that final 2-page spread? *Brrrrrr*

Stanley *was* the only character I even remotely liked, but I'm opening up to Arcanna quite a bit.

Don't at all like the silly new take on Tom Thumb.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I read # 2.

Nice to see some team action at last.

And with the surprise revelation in the finl issue of the HYPERION mini (which turned out to be VERY good!), SQUADRON SUPREME has become a "book to watch".

Also, the Marvel Universe-proper Power Princess has joined the EXILES (# 79 was quite excellent).

And don't forget that those who missed the DEATH OF A UNIVERSE graphic novel and the NEW WORLD ORDER 1-shot can now pick those up in TPB form (which also includes the SS's Busiek/Perez AVENGERS appearances). Should make a fine companion to the SS's maxiseries TPB.

Fans of the SS's original 12-issue maxi will definitely want to read DoaU and NWO especially.
 

---

Posted by RED-001 on :
 
If you had to choose which version of Squadron Supreme,which do you like the best?

The original 1985-86 series

JMS's Supreme Power for Marvel MAX line

or The Marvel Knights take?

While I'm at it,there's now plans for an Ultimate version called Ultimate Power.
 

---

Posted by Reboot on :
 
Ultimate Power's an Ultimate Universe/JMS' SS crossover.

Makes sense, since JMS is basically writing Ultimate Squadron anyway.
 

---

Posted by ActorLad on :
 
The original, no contest.
 

---

Posted by Not-So-Bad Lad on :
 
Gruenwald, allll the way.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Gruenwald, the maxiseries and Death of a Universe.

Nothing else has even come close.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
Gru's version
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Speaking of Ultimate Power...

Gru for me too. I loved JMS' version at first but I soon lost interest and didn't even bother with the new series. But I might pick up UP just for Land's art.
 

---

Posted by Lance's realm on :
 
It has been about 2.5 months since the last issue of SS, and there is not a new issue this week or next. What is going on? Does anyone know? Did the artist take a sabbatical, or does no one care if it comes out on time?
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
Maybe it's being relpaced for the time being with "Ultimate Power"?
 

---

Posted by Reboot on :
 
They're kinda without an artist at last report - Gary Frank quit a few months back to do some Hulk, and Deodato, who was meant to take over, has been moved to Ellis's Thunderwang.

Apparently, there's going to be a Nighthawk vs Hyperion miniseries though, in addition to UltPower.
 

---

Posted by Lance's realm on :
 
Sooo...is SS still alive? And what is Ultimate Power? Is it already out?
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
"Ultimate Power" is the Squadron's crossover with the Ultimate Universe (kinda like how the old Squadron Supreme crossed over with 616 Marvel). The first issue's already out (though I think they're reprinting ).
 

---

Posted by mhr_kara on :
 
Gary Frank quit? nooooo... i loved his art on the book.
 

---

Posted by Lance's realm on :
 
So, is Ultimate Power required reading for the Squadron Supreme? And was the first issue of UP worth reading? By the way, issue 7 of SS is supposed to be out next week. Here's hoping...
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
Issue one of "UP" was setup, but without much explanation. It was also almost all Fantastic Four.
 

---

Posted by Stratum on :
 
My LCS had a preview issue for the next SS, so I'm guessing it's next week.

Jamie
 

---

Posted by Lance's realm on :
 
Is this series completely dead now? I didn't read the Nighthawk/Hyperion book. Was that the end of SS as we know it?
 

---

Posted by Positive Man on :
 
I've just finished reading Supreme Power 1-18, Squadron Supreme 1-7 and all the mini series (Doctor Spectrum, Nighthawk, Hyperion and H vs N) and I think it may well be the best Max series ever (if we discount Ennis' Punisher). I particularly liked Hyperion and the 'versus' minis.
Two questions:
1- does anybody likes it as much as I do?
2- how com the series is interrupted?
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
1 - yes
2 - sales?
 

---

Posted by Reboot on :
 

quote:

---

http://www.newsarama.com/NewJoeFridays/NewBarberFridays.html
> So, where exactly is Squadron Supreme? When can we expect it back?

We’re working on it. This was a book that came to me to edit when J. Michael Straczynski had left the book, as had Gary Frank. It was a pretty awkward time to come aboard, because those two guys are really big shoes to fill. Moreover, this was always their book. The whole thing with the series was that it was JMS writing his version of the Squadron Supreme story, and Gary Frank drawing it.

Now, the series can be great with other people at the helm—and it will be great. But the problem is making sure this next iteration of the book is as distinctive and unique as the JMS/Frank one. Making it something that stands on its own as much as the first did, and making sure it still satisfies the readers that’ve been around for the whole time.

It wasn’t a matter of finding somebody who could write in the JMS mold—no matter how talented a writer—or draw in the Gary Frank mold—no matter how good a penciler. It was a matter of finding a writer and a penciler who would bring their own unique talents to the fray.

So to get to your questions. We’ve got a writer working on it now and we’ll see it end of this year or early next. Sorry for the wait.

Don’t miss Ultimate Power, though, because that series has a huge impact on the future of Squadron Supreme.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lance's realm:
Is anyone reading this? How is it? Can I get a review before I plunk down my 3 bucks?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lance's realm:
[qb]Is anyone reading this? How is it? Can I get a review before I plunk down my 3 bucks?

---

It might get good, but it ain't yet. I really enjoyed JMS and Frank's work on the first dozen or so issues of Supreme Power, but it meandered further and further off-course, IMO, as cross-overs and such were introduced. This book *really* needed to grab me from issue one, and it didn't.

So that saves me a couple of bucks a month, I guess, but I was kinda hoping for more...

Random details;

Arcana using her powers in a mercenary fashion (miracles for cash), which grated on me immediately, since she made such a big hoopty-doo about how dangerous her powers were in the last series and how careful she had to be.

Emil is still a manipulative backstabbing untrustworthy dick, and the stupidest smart-guy ever, since *everybody knows that he's a manipulative backstabbing untrustworthy dick* and ignores him. Everything cool about T.A.O. from the WildCATs, he ain't.

The Nick Fury of the Ultimates-verse, who is capable of regrowing arms, but not eyes, and is the same dude who betrayed, imprisoned and / or tried to kill Ultimate Hulk, Ultimate Thor, Ultimate Captain America, etc. each over the run of Ultimates 2, and then got his country ravaged by not listening to warnings from his team that it was about to happen (and warned Tony Stark that Natasha was a spy who tended to kill her husbands, but then was SHOCKED to find out that she was, GASP, *a spy!*), is now apparently in the Supreme Power-verse, where nobody knows what a colossal screw-up he is. Lucky dude. I guess he'd already done all the damage he could do in the Ultimates-verse.

Some new characters were introduced, one of which seems to be Supreme-Power-verse Spiderman/woman/thing and another seems to be kind of a SP Captain America/Punisher mashup. Given that the premise of the original Squadron Supreme was to be thinly-veiled mockups of the Justice League (much like the Imperial Guard are 'homages' to the Legion of Super-Heroes), the presence of mock-ups of *Marvel* characters like Spidey and Cap leaves my head spinning and makes the Supreme Powers-verse seem less like the Supreme-Powers-verse and more like yet another Ultimates / Exiles world.

Introducing new characters who were homages to the Teen Titans or Outsiders or Justice Society might have made more sense, IMO, thematically, assuming that the title *needed* more characters, which it so desperately did not...

We see nothing of Hyperion, Zarda, Spectrum, his fishy girlfriend whose name I forget (Kinsley?), Tom Thumb, Shape, Nighthawk, Inertia or the Blur, save some news footage of them standing around that's supposed to be a year or two old.

[ August 08, 2008, 08:04 AM: Message edited by: Set ]
 

---

Posted by Uranus Lad on :
 
Yeah, there's an "Iron Man" character as well. I've read the first couple issues and am really not sure how I feel about it so far. It seems to have potential but honestly I'd like to see the real team return and as a natural progression try to "fix" the world or something. Like a more sophisticated version of what they did in the 70's series.

Like the Justice League crossed with the Authority. They could potentially introduce versions of the whole DC universe (within reason).

[ September 09, 2008, 06:11 PM: Message edited by: Uranus Lad ]
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
It's a shame what happened to this series. It started off so strongly because of *story and characterization* Now it's just another alternate universe series where the only interesting thing about it is seeing another new analog of a familiar hero.
 

---

Posted by Chemical King on :
 
Yeah the first two new issues certainly haven't been worldshaking...

That's what happens when you leave the main characters out of your story. Kinda like Final Crisis, but on a smaller scale. Annoy your readers with supporting cast nobody gives a damn about. And introduce at least five new characters every issue. Yawn...
 

---

Posted by lancesrealm on :
 
Anybody reading the new Supreme Power? I am thinking of checking it out...
 

---

Posted by MLLASH Siegel on :
 
Wasn't even aware of it.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Some time ago I put an end to my buying any Supreme Power related stuff and I've stuck with it. After an incredibly strong start, it just spiraled into less and less enjoyable issues. I don't miss it.

Now if a Squadron Supreme series / mini came out, with the "real" Squadron...that might be a different story.
 

---

Posted by Power Boy on :
 
We never got a follow up story to the original 12 issue mini series did we?

They remade society and then were taken out by Nighthawk's team. This should have left a huge gap in their society. Even if some of their inventions could be run by regular people ... the social changes they imparted on society would make for interesting stories.

Also, after all that bloodshed it would be interesting to see some heroes quit or decide to go on. (I guess they reunited for Death of a Universe but I didn't catch that one ... was it good?)


hmmm after reading the description on amazon it looks like Death of a Universe might be some of what I was asking for. It's been put on my wish list!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH Siegel on :
 
DEATH OF A UNIVERSE was a spin on CRISIS, and was by the original SS team (Gruenwald as writer); it was excellent and dealt with much of the fallout from the maxiseries. It also contains one of my favorite scenes in all of comics, a scene between Zarda and Arcanna just before they are about to face what appears to be absolute certain death. Some of the characters that survived the maxiseries do NOT survive DEATH OF A UNIVERSE.

They also did get some followup in the NEW WORLD ORDER one-shot, which occurs after the appearances in the Busiek/Perez AVENGERS run and effectively re-established the original SS lineup of the "big 7" (and happened to take place during Morrison's 'BIG 7' JLA stint). IIRC, written by DnA but I will need to verify that.

ALl of the above are collected in one TPB.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH Siegel on :
 
Peebs, if you're curious about the status of SS members following the NWO 1-shot, I posted those as the second post to this very thread. I've gotta re-read this whole thing now.

Also I feel I should state that MARVEL ZOMBIES SUPREME were zombie clones of the original Gruenwald SS and not (thank heavens) the actual SS zombiefied.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
The new Supreme Power series is ok so far. The main reason I'm still reading is that it directly picks up on a lot of what was set up in the beginning of the original series. (when it was great) I'm interested to see how Mark's alien origins and the story with Dr Spectrum's crytal pan out.
 

---