RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 53 by talents Jeff Parker and Dale Eaglesham!
Rick Jones is always getting into trouble. The same young man who was responsible for unleashing the world-breaking Incredible Hulk upon the Earth (and paving the way for the genesis of every Hulk currently in existence) is now responsible for freeing some evil, dormant Mayan Gods who might just bring our age to a burning apocalypse… or some other fate equivalent in nastiness. Yes, someone at S.H.I.E.L.D. should strongly consider locking this Jones boy up and throwing away the key! Yet along with the Red Hulk, Machine Man and the Alpha Flight team, Rick (transformed into A-Bomb) instead tries to remedy the fate befalling us due to his ineptitude… and put a stop to the Mayan doom he brought upon the world.
Writer Jeff Parker sets up an interesting story-arc in HULK Issue # 53 “Mayan Rule, Part One: Bloodletting“. Taking advantage of the timely concerns held by some that the end of the world is coming based on the Mayan calendar, Parker craftily strikes while the iron is hot when public awareness is at its peak (regarding this real world upcoming Mayan cataclysmic event.) Chock full of magic, bloodletting, human sacrifices, mystical mind control and a heaping load of superheroes, there is plenty of excitement to be had… which reads more like a Marvel “The Next Big Thing” Event (than a character book that focuses on the chronicles of the Red Hulk.)
Yet there in lies one of this issue’s problems. Ross and his red alter ego takes a major backseat to the events and the characters that surround him. Replacing the main Hulk logo with an “Alpha Flight” title might even seem more applicable here. And while Jeff Parker remains the ultimate weaver of well constructed stories, the way the events leading into this issue’s present day can be uncharacteristically confusing. In this order… the story contains a flashback, followed by a later flashback, followed by the A-Bomb in real time describing too briefly the events that occurred prior to both flashbacks… all based on an old A-Bomb backup story one may have trouble recalling told back in HULK Issue # 31. You won’t be alone if you find yourself skipping back a few panels asking yourself “what did I just read?”
Artist Dale Eaglesham is quite a talent. While he seems to alternate back and forth from a properly drawn Rulk (one without eyebrows) to a Red Hulk with scraggily gray hairs above his eyes, the powerful frame he gives the crimson beast is quite delightful and imposing. Dale also gives the Red Hulk a military cut of hair that really suits the Ross alter ego, and looks extremely sharp.
Dale Eaglesham definitely seems to be born to draw Alpha Flight. The way Dale draws these underappreciated characters is outstanding, and he may just well hold the prestigious honor of drawing the best Sasquatch and Puck to ever grace a comic book page. And who could not love the double page splash of this team, accompanied by the Rulk and crew as they ascend upon the mysterious new Canadian Mayan temple?
The unique borders Eaglesham adorns around various panels of this book is spectacular. They resemble Mayan aged-old hieroglyphics which demand recognition for its sheer creativity, as well as the fascinating cover for this issue.
Sadly however, in an unfortunate move, the solicitation trumpeting the next installment’s cover (issue # 54 hitting stands in two weeks) prematurely revealed this issue’s shocking ending, ultimately dulling the blow of Jeff Parker’s otherwise dramatic and climactic punch.
3.5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK REVIEW : HULK SMASH AVENGERS Issue # 5
“That’s all you got? COME ON! I’m not that’s green MAN-CHILD you’re used to bullying!” – Rulk
In the one-shot HULK SMASH AVENGERS Issue # 5, the spotlight shines on a villainous Red Hulk in the final installment of a five issue smash fest that celebrates new yet era-inspired “Hulk versus Avengers” tales uniquely told within different timelines of the Marvel Universe. Designed to take place between the events of the Red Hulk demolishing the new S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier [HULK Issue #2] and the battle between Rulk and the A-Bomb in the desert of Death Valley, Nevada [HULK Issue #3], the story revolves around Iron Man’s belief that uncovering the identity of the crimson giant will be the key to his defeat… and the imprisoned Bruce Banner holds that very key. And as the mysterious, seemingly unstoppable, crimson Hulk keeps hitting and pilfering S.H.I.E.L.D. installations, Iron Man understands he needs answers… right now.
This issue’s script penned by writer Fred Van Lente portrays a spot-on villainous Red Hulk. Lente superbly symbiotically captures the quintessential Jeph Loeb Red Hulk… a brash personality that is constituted more of “bad-assed” than “bad”. The story is balanced well, moving back and forth from a suspicious, tense yet restrained conversation between Bruce Banner and Iron Man to a rip-roaring battle between the Red Hulk and the Avengers.
Lente’s writing works in spite of Michael Avon Oeming’s disappointing art. While Oeming is very capable of designing interesting layouts, his caricature drawing ability needs improved structure and polish before achieving a favorable level of his professional skill set. However, interesting new revelations woven into this story offsets the issue’s shortcoming, especially when we learn that the Red Hulk has been hitting and stealing various goods from S.H.I.E.L.D. and obviously supplying it to the Intellegencia, in an effort to reach their mutual goals.
The only thing frustrating other than the art is precisely fitting this story in the Red Hulk continuity. The only logical place this addendum can fit is between the Helicarrier attack (where Tony Stark realizes the new Hulk is red) and the battle with A-Bomb (that ruptures the ground unleashing the Banner Hulk from captivity). The problem is both the conclusion of issue #2 and opening of issue #3 suggests Rulk’s rumble with A-Bomb and Iron Man dealing with the Helicarrier wreckage occurs at the same time. The ability to overlook this error in continuity will be the deciding factor if fans ultimately adopt this one-shot event and integrate it into the timeline of their favorite Red Hulk lore.
2.5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 52 by Jeff Parker and Carlo Pagulayan
WARNING : There is a MAJOR SPOILER in this review, so stop right here if you’ve yet to read this outstanding issue. Get your @#$ to the comic book store now, enjoy all the goodness that is Jeff Parker’s HULK and we’ll wait for you here! Now, without further ado…
In this oh so enjoyable issue of HULK #52 “I am Legion“, the Red Hulk takes on the final lap of his quest to rid himself of the evil apparition that has latched onto him ever since the events of Circle Of Four. After successfully ridding himself of the “haunts” that were unleashed upon him in the last issue, Dr. Strange now leads the Rulk through a subterranean network called Monster Metropolis to find the underground lab run by the Legion of Monsters, a team of creatures that do their best to enforce law in the monster world. With the help of some “strange” enchantments, a key member of the Legion may be able to trap the menacing apparition that wants Ross dead… and even identify it. And once its identity is revealed, Dr. Strange is confident the excavation of this menacing spirit will be elementary, finally relieving Ross of his supernatural burden.
Writer Jeff Parker crafts a simply wonderful conclusion to his “Haunted Hulk” storyline, an issue that gratifyingly has it all. The opening is all action, where Parker throws monster upon goulishly delicious monster at the Rulk… and at the Legion’s Manphibian and Werewolf who quickly come to the Red Hulk’s aid when the situation starts looking bleak. Much like how L.M.D.s and androids appeal to Thad’s cold and efficient human side, it’s terrific how Ross relates to the Legion team with his alternate monstrous side.. leaving only interaction with humans and their super powered freaks as undesirables. Parker also recognizes that Ross is the ultimate comedic straight man, a fact that Jeff exploits wonderfully thanks to some sadistic humor by Manphibian which results in a more than hilarious payoff. It begs you to wonder how many other writers in comics can actually make you laugh out loud like this?
We’ll get to the satisfying conclusion momentarily, but the amazing “wow factor” spurred on by the numerous wonderful beasts that artist Carlo Pagulayan creates reaches a heavenly critical mass in this issue. His genius talent of bringing such glorious monsters to life almost has me convinced these ghoulish creatures actually live in Pagulayan’s basement, only to pose for the mighty Carlo for panels in this very arc! They’re all so brilliant, as well as Pagulayan’s rendition of the Red Hulk (that already has garnered tons of praise.) His Legion of Monsters is superb too, proving when Carlo is drawing various monstrosities… look out… because this talent is really in his element! Now while some of the color choices are odd and confusing (a green colored hand that appears to be Manphibian’s swipes at the throat of a banshee… yet reveals to be the Werewolf’s) Val Staples hits more than he misses. These monsters are colored beautifully.
The conclusion of this issue finally reveals the long awaited identity of the ghost that has plagued the Red Hulk for so long, with absolutely thrilling results. Shockingly… the spectre is revealed as no one other than… Dark Samson, the evil alter ego of Dr. Leonard Samson!
The big reveal brought a level of anticipation and excitement to the read that has been rarely matched in comics today. And the fascinating nature of Dark Samson’s return asks more questions than it answers, a testament to writer Jeff Parker’s craft. What are we suggesting here when a shadow of Samson’s evil alter ego (that should have passed on with his spirit) was actually capable of latching on to traces of gamma radiation left by Rulk’s brief visit to the underworld, allowing him to begin reconstituting himself? Could all gamma beings have this capability, a chance at immortality? Does it only apply to gamma beings who haven’t passed on peacefully? Why couldn’t the gamma infused Abomination attempt the same feat, or did the essence of Dark Samson simply get to the traces of gamma radiation first? Enquiring fans want to know, and will be debating the implications for years to come.
Jeff Parker’s magnificent decision to return the dead Leonard Samson into the fray (as well as the method behind the evil doctor’s resurrection) is drenched in brilliance. Issues like this reveal Parker at his best: A story telling mastermind… especially when his tales draw from the distant echoes of the past. Much like re-exploring the mental reconnection between Ross and Zzaxx to the repercussions of assaulting a Watcher, when Parker weaves in threads of the Red Hulk’s past into today’s storied tapestry, Jeff reaches a new level of awe, excitement and fascination. It pours the reader a glass full of comic wonder… and craftily reminds us why we loved comics in the first place.
5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 51
In HULK Issue # 51 “Haunted Hulk Part Two : The Blood Curse of the Forgiven”, the Red Hulk has embarked on a quest that has taken him deep into the Pyrenees Mountains of Catalonia, searching for the redeeming body of water called the Penance Pool. According to one of the mystic texts obtained by Dr. Strange, legends dictate that this pool is a form of holy water, with magical properties that can cleanse the former General of the onslaught of apparitions that have been haunting him as of late. Of course, the mysterious shadowy figure that unleashed these ghosts upon the Rulk knows this baptism suggested by Dr. Strange will work most effectively to stop the dead from attacking… so through deception convinces a team of the living (or rather undead) to dispatch and make sure the Red Hulk never reaches the pool alive.
Like its predecessor, Part Two of writer Jeff Parker’s supernatural tale is a pretty enjoyable ride. The army of haunting apparitions of numerous fallen soldiers along with the villain Abomination all return, now accompanied by the fallen ex-Colonel William Krugauer (a death he tried to avenge in the “Hulk of Arabia” story-arc). The dead continue their goal to try to penetrate the impenetrable psyche of Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. Albeit less horrific than the previous issue, their ghostly words are penetrating, and resonates deeply when they finally threaten to haunt his daughter Betty as well.
Will Krugauer Returns!
Yet unlike its predecessor, this issue’s installment digests with an underlining flavor of being somewhat insubstantial to the pressing story at hand. Dr. Strange is still in the United States, working feverishly with an unnamed assistant for a cure to the Red Hulk’s plight (or at least to uncover the identity of the shadow that severely has it out for Ross) and Strange already has proven in the last issue he has the power to keep the dead “haunts” away from the crimson giant in the good doctor’s proximity. Yet Dr. Strange strangely sends the Rulk out of his protection anyway to a legendary (possible fictitious) pool that may or may not drive the spirits away. What will not be resolved by this quest however is the reveal nor the ability to conquer the evil entity that unleashed the vengeful spirits on the Rulk in the first place. It all slightly feels like a forced plot device to simply make room for an appearance of the vampire reborn clan The Forgiven, which all becomes mildly distracting.
And Jeff Parker’s coolest creation, a monstrous guard that protects the Penance Pool (summoned into action by an eerie screaming skull) was delightfully grotesque and chilling, yet unfortunately appears only briefly. And its gruesome battle with the Red Hulk (resulting with one of its heads ripped off) was only left to our imagination. This battle unfulfilled feels like it would have been much more rewarding to witness than the sparring we were served featuring a street gang like of renegade vampires (that found their redemption in the very same pool.) However frustrating, Jeff Parker’s writing is still sharp and leaves you looking forward to the next installment.
The next panel we see featuring this awesome creature, it unfortunately has been long since dead.
Artist Carlo Pagulayan, the talent who also superbly drew the Planet Red Hulk story-arc, continues to impress. His rendition of the Red Hulk is pure genius, not merely for the sheer massive, raw and powerful frame (which showcases maybe Carlo’s greatest gift), but for his uncanny ability to give the red hot monster such a recognizable look facially, which is unique to every other character in the Marvel Universe. And when the Rulk is in the heat of battle, Pagulayan’s art explodes with all the crushing dynamic one could hope for in a book like this, with panel layouts incredibly easy for the eyes to follow. And whether grabbing his chin after the Rulk is slugged with a weapon or reacting to the ridiculous offer the vampires make in their half-assed apology, the poses Carlo draws makes Jeff Parker’s sharp Red Hulk dialogue even that much more impactful… as only great artists can do.
It will take much more than ‘The Forgiven’ to bring this Rulk down!
The grotesque guard monstrosity was amazingly realized, drawn beautiful yet horrific… leaving me even more disappointed we saw such little of it. And Val Staples did a decent job coloring it, but the pallet (especially the chronic pink skies) felt like a disservice to the “Haunted” tone Parker established and was trying to maintain. The cover however was pure brilliance by all talents involved. Simply stunning, and one of the best we have seen in a while. Outstanding!
3 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK PREVIEW : Artist and Red Hulk Co-Creator Ed McGuinness returns to drawing Rulk in AVENGERS vs X-MEN : VERSUS # 3!
RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 50 by talents Jeff Parker and Carlo Pagulayan!
*CONTAINS SPOILERS*
This is truly an achievement. When a comic title reaches a 50 issue milestone it is a really big deal. For over the past twelve months we have seen plenty of casualties in Marvel comics, where other well known title properties struggled to find an audience and ultimately (and rapidly) were met with cancellation. Alpha Flight was cancelled after 8 issues. Moon Knight survived only 12. Ghost Rider was axed after 8. So it is quite an accomplishment for a new character… a Red Hulk title… in a marketplace where even the famous Green Hulk historically struggles with readership longevity to begin with… has flourished, reached and will certainly surpass the 50 issue benchmark. It’s even more astonishing when one reflects upon the protagonist of this comic is actually a 50-something gray-haired stubborn, arrogant ex-military man who has embraced and cherished the right to bear arms more lovingly than his own flesh and blood. There is simply no one else like General Ross in comics today, which makes this success a direct testament to the great character Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross himself as much as the great writer Jeff Parker who expertly channels him time and time again. So once again, this is truly a great achievement… and a medal of legitimacy and success that Red Hulk fans can wear proudly.
Packed with an interview “Catching up with Jeff Parker”, a Red Hulk timeline, a Rogues gallery, a reading chronology and “The Objective” bonus story written by Parker and illustrated by the talented Dan Brereton that fleshes out Ross’s road to the rank of General, the 50th issue of HULK is a stellar book even without the meat and potatoes headliner storyline. But in the excellent feature story “Haunted Hulk Part One“, the Red Hulk has come to the home of Dr. Strange in dire need of assistance for a problem that is supernatural in nature. It appears after the events of Las Vegas being totally overcome by Hell itself (see the VENOM “Circle Of Four” story arc), some sort of apparition has latched on to Ross and wants to see the Rulk’s demise by any means necessary. And if those means requires unleashing any dead vengeful soul that has died at the hands of Ross (directly or indirectly) so be it. Will the Red Hulk be able to stop this retribution of the dead before they make him join the dead?
Writer Jeff Parker returns to stellar form in this celebratory issue, masterfully channeling the true essence of classic General Ross. And how much more classic can you get than the Rulk muttering “I hate magic“… or in response to Dr. Strange’s induced misty seance in attempt to probe key memories from Ross’s mind, the Red Hulk remarks “I knew this would turn into some hippie smoke-up.” Simply wonderful.
After perfectly setting up the father daughter reunion in the conclusion of issue 48, Jeff Parker also finally treats the readers to a slice of the Thad and Betty reconnection that fans have hungered for, yet was missing from the previous issue. Parker shines the brightest at these quieter poignant moments, and the tender discussion about Betty’s inheritance of the old Ross family home struck all the right chords. We can only hope, after shockingly finding out the L.M.D. Annie and Ross are now sleeping together (literally and assuming figuratively), that Parker explores their relationship too and how it reached the next level. Considering we never saw them even kiss, it would be fascinating to learn the details of their courtship. It certainly must have been awkward, with Ross naturally struggling with the fact she is a L.M.D. and not human. And can an L.M.D. feel sexual arousal, let alone love? Enquiring minds want to know.
Even with all this Red Hulk goodness, the best part of this comic (especially for readers who have been there since Issue #1) was to see the 50th issue come completely full circle and mark the return of the Abomination in spirit form, taking the opportunity to seek revenge for his murder at the hands of the Rulk. It’s one of those moments where you can feel the adrenaline shoot through your veins, and I only wish the battle (or more precisely torture) the transformed Emil Blonsky began dishing out could have lasted longer than a single page. Alas, it’s a minor complaint… one that could be compared to wishing you had a little more whipped cream on top of your ice cream sundae, but it’s not enough to forget what a damn good sundae it is.
When it comes to the art, Carlo Pagulayan is a master at drawing both the Banner Hulk and the Red Hulk. Pagulayan’s art is fantastic across the board, but his ability to capture the sheer power of the Hulks is simply amazing to behold and a true feast for the eyes. And unlike many other talented artists before him that have drawn the red behemoth, Carlo Pagulayan actually draws the Rulk significantly different. Not just drawing the Red Hulk trademark pupil-less eyes, the hairless brows and the spiked out hair (which is all important)… but readers can really see Thad’s age in Carlo’s Red Hulk rendition. You see, facially, Pagulayan draws the Red Hulk tremendously different from the Green Hulk, so much so that you can view his art in black & white and still immediately recognize which Hulk you are looking at. And who can ask for more than that? Pagulayan puts so much care and integrity in his work and this character that it is simply a privilege to have him do art duties in this book.
It can not be stressed enough that Pagulayan also draws a wonderful Red She Hulk… and the emotions he skillfully conveys when she looks back at Ross one more time before leaving him is as powerful as any balloon of dialogue could provide. Bravo Carlo!
What a great time it is to be a Red Hulk fan!
4.5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
VARIANT COVERS:
RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 49
“The road to hell is paved with good intentions” – Saint Bernard of Clairvaux
The god like powerful Eternals have been watching us since the beginning. Self-declared custodians of Earth, they have monitored humanity with a protective eye for thousands of years yet would rarely interact with humans except for times when the Deviants (the Eternal’s evil counterpart) surfaced with their threatening ways. However, after witnessing The Incredible Hulk time and time again leave a horrific path of utter devastation and destruction in his wake (regardless of the quality of the monster’s heart or intentions)…. and the multiple new Hulks that have now appeared as of late… the Eternals now feel strongly unsettled. These gamma charged beasts of carnage are very similar to the Deviants they have sworn to destroy in the name of preserving humanity. And their numbers are growing. Should they step out from behind their hidden veil of secrecy and intervene?
Like with Machine Man, in Hulk Issue # 49 “The Incident” the ever gifted Jeff Parker once again displays his talent of successfully resurrecting underutilized characters of the Marvel Universe and delights readers with their return… this time being The Eternals. Parker creates an intriguing premise that explores how these god like entities struggle with the growing “strongest there is” population and how they should react to them, all within the prism of the Hulks ultimately do more harm than good to humanity.
Unfortunately, while the premise is great, it’s the execution that suffers. While it could have been a terrific opening to a four or five issue story-arc resulting in an all-out Eternal versus Hulk war, the way this story unfolded feels somewhat incomplete and underperforms as a one-shot, ending with a splintered finish considering the next issue begins an entirely new “Haunted Hulk” story-arc. Plus, based on the conclusion of the previous issue ending with a reunion between father and daughter, it’s highly probable that many readers were expecting Betty to have a presence in this story, with a chance for Ross to sit down with his daughter and discuss the impact of their new crimson alter egos in their lives. The potential to relish in some intense character development was great, and would have likely been better suited for a filler issue between arcs such as this. Instead, we are left with no clue what happened to Betty and why she was desperately trying to seek out her father. It all feels like a missed opportunity and a gentle reminder that all issues can’t be winners… even with Jeff Parker as the writer.
While issue 48 remains her best work to date, artist Elena Casagrande delivers a mostly pleasing and unique art experience yet again. While the Red Hulk’s facial appearance seems to change from issue to issue, I can’t help but adore her aquatic beasts and the fluid way she draws a Red Hulk struggling with those menacing monsters and their tentacles. Those panels are full of enjoyment. And with the Eternals, Elena does a solid job, with her drawing of Zuras being the best out of the bunch.
2.5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J. A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK REVIEW and ANALYSIS : WHAT IF GENERAL ROSS HAD BECOME THE HULK!
In 2008, the mysterious Red Hulk burst onto the comic scene with a vengeance.
The premiere issue debuted at #1 and left the comic community guessing exactly who was the man inside the crimson red beast! Based initially on an idea by then Marvel Editor-in-Chief Joe Quesada and fleshed out by co-creators Jeph Loeb, Ed McGuinness and arguably Jeff Parker (see Fall of the Hulks : Alpha), it took 22 issues to finally reveal Rulk’s identity as no one other than the General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. It created shockwaves among Marvel fans.. yet most readers were unaware that writer Peter David realized an idea to also turn General Ross into a rampaging Hulk three years earlier in 2005’s WHAT IF GENERAL ROSS HAD BECOME THE HULK.
The story begins with Uatu The Watcher. Testing a theory that his mere presence of observing an event can change an outcome of that very event, the Watcher observes a tragic alternate reality unfold when he revisits the one in a million gamma bomb explosion that turned the mild mannered Bruce Banner into the raging Hulk! However, in this new string of time, it is Ross that calls off the countdown and attempts to forcefully remove Rick Jones from the testing area. Yet before Bruce can call it off, the notorious spy Igor successfully incapacitates Banner leaving no one other than Ross to absorb the life altering gamma rays! 
Like separating the story into parts, veteran writer Peter David does a terrific job emulating the tone and feel of the legendary first issue of THE INCREDIBLE HULK fifty years ago. The feeling of excitement David gives Ross is infectious as he realizes he’ll no longer require any military hardware to defend his homeland. He will be America’s best weapon! And the poetic tragedy that results from his new thunderous form is terrific… except for the final action of Bruce Banner.
The way Bruce handles the tragic finale is shocking and severely out of character. Especially considering the agitated history between the two (nor the battle over Betty) has yet to even take place, one would expect this man of science would opt to cure the General Ross of his hulking condition, rather than speaking so incredibly cold and harsh and taking the heartless action that he did. However, the great artwork by Pat Olliffe mostly makes up for the story’s one deep shortcoming. Olliffe effectively draws characters that feel both fresh yet appropriately (and pleasantly) dated.
ROSS HULKS IN COMPARISON :
Now that Ross has become the Red Hulk, it’s inevitable that new readers of this one-shot will find it impossible not to make a comparison between the Rulk and his alternate reality counterpart. Fortunately for continuity sake, both Ross Hulks are logical and consistent variations of each other… the biggest factor being neither transformation of Ross (Gray nor Red) results in an alternate personality.
Neither Rulk nor the Ross Hulk has that common multiple personality disorder that seems to be a reoccurring side effect of Gamma over-exposure. Lacking that disorder is due to Ross simply never having a suppressed aggressive, dark and violent side. Violence was never suppressed… as a soldier he acted on it. Lived it. Used it to make him stronger. So satisfyingly, it makes sense that neither of the Hulks Ross had become were stricken with that duality.
However, much like a stroke victim, the Ross Hulk does lose one of his motor skills during his transformation… the ability to speak. The Red Hulk suffered from no such affliction. It’s possible that losing the power to verbally communicate was a one in a million result that occurred during gamma saturation, unable to be duplicated. Or maybe the gamma energy reacts to a genetic defect in the General, or simply caused a minor stroke, which results in the speechless outcome. Either way, it is not at all a stretch to believe the great minds of the Leader and Modok (who created the Red Hulk) would detect whatever caused this debilitating side affect and easily compensate for it and eliminate it
The color difference between the Ross Hulks is the easiest to explain. While the Gray Ross Hulk was created under the same exact variables as the Banner Hulk which is solely exposure to gamma energy, the Red Hulk was constructed with both gamma and cosmic power, which ultimately created a Hulk transformation that mimicked a radioactive core.
Finally, the disappearing mustache is the hardest to explain. Obviously, where the Red Hulk is concerned, the removal of the trademark Ross mustache was first and foremost a necessary plot device to conceal the Rulk’s identity from readers until Marvel was ready to make the big reveal. Fortunately though, the creators gave it enough thought to consistently make the General’s eyebrows disappear too, allowing readers to conclude that all short hairs on the body of Ross withdraw within his swollen red transforming flesh. So why didn’t this occur with the gray Ross Hulk transformation? All one could hypothesize is that reaction is only produced as a byproduct of cosmic energy absorption or a mix of the two (both cosmic and gamma). It’s not solely a gamma energy exposure trait.
Have any further input or insight to offer? Feel free to put them in the comments below.
3.5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 48
Jacob once had a dream… a dream now replaced with a living nightmare.
The horribly burned and disfigured Jacob, assistant to the formerly brilliant and beautiful project leader Parul Kurinji, once fantasized spending a romantic life with Parul. But in the fantastic, action-packed HULK Issue # 48, Jacob never could have imagined the macabre reality that would come to pass, ever since Parul changed into the threat to humanity known as Zero/One. Her creations… twisted acts against nature like horrific aquatic beasts, reanimated corpses and a juiced serial killer… were all manifested to extinguish lives for the woman he once loved. It had to stop before it was too late. So Jacob risks everything to bring Ross and his team the data needed to finally stop Zero/One.
Writer Jeff Parker continues to be on fire, this time delivering a spectacular thrill ride in Part Two of the “Red Sky At Morning” story-arc . In contrast to the final confrontation of the “Hulk of Arabia” climax between the Red Hulk and Dagan Shah that left a feeling of unquenched satisfaction, Rulk’s pulse pounding assault on Zero/One’s base (with the help of the Red She Hulk and Machine Man) ends with such gratifying results that it feels like the battle has been won… regardless if one eye must still remain perpetually fixed on the war.
Zero/One’s demise would have not been possible without the efforts of Jacob. Her reluctant and terrified assistant that has seen enough horror to push him into the fray of insanity, became not just a victim… but a savior… quite possibly for the entire human race. And Parker fleshes out his ironic circumstance so masterfully, it feels deeply tragic when it becomes evident that Jacob may never be able to escape the devastating fate that has befallen him. Ever.
While it would have been icing on Parker’s oh so delicious cake to witness the Red Hulk’s thunderous blows successfully sink the synthetic island of vessels down to the ocean floor… as well as relish in Zero/One’s betrayer not holding back and watching him actually stick it to her… this hearty dish was simply a feast for the senses and concludes Jeff Parker’s most gratifying story-arc yet!
With the artistic talents of Elena Casagrande and Rachelle Rosenberg on the job, there is some serious Girl Power in this issue, which is fitting for a story filled with such powerful women. Where the drawing is concerned, it seems the work and ability to dazzle the readers by the best Zero/One artist hands down Elena Casagrande increases with every panel. From her eye catching unique aquatic beasts to her downright impressive sinister Black Fog, and her uncanny ability to draw a natural female form to a robust Red Hulk that keeps on getting better and better, Casagrande’s delightful imagery has developed into a wonderful unique style.
Now with coloring, unfortunately a colorist can sometimes have a thankless job. But if anyone is deserving recognition in this department it’s the beautiful work by Rachelle Rosenberg. Talking about it doesn’t do it justice. Let’s let some of her wonderful brilliance in coloring speak for itself. Take a look:
I would love to see this creative team work full time together. This is an excellent, excellent comic.
5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REVIEW : AVENGING SPIDER-MAN Issue # 3!
“They’re going back to their home. We worked out a treaty. You’re a military man.. you like treaties, right?” – Spider-Man
“I guess…” – Rulk
“Yeah, sure you do” – Spider-Man
While reviewing the previous AVENGING SPIDER-MAN Issue # 1 and 2 (which can be read here), the series was simply proclaimed as “pure fun”. It’s a compliment harder to achieve than one might think, and fortunately for comic fans everywhere, the 3rd and final issue of the Spider-Man / Red Hulk team-up continues that trend… and does not disappoint.
When we last left Spider-Man and the Red Hulk, the Rulk was slain by Ra’ktar, the King of the underground dwelling Molans who possibly possess the sharpest substance on… or underneath… the Earth. Slain with a sword crafted by this dangerous substance, Ross lay defeated…. and Spidey took that distraction as an opportunity to flee with the imprisoned Jonah Jameson. But to Jonah’s surprise (which may finally spur a shred of understanding and admiration towards the arachnid hero that saved him ) Spidey can only show Jonah the way out before his strength of honor, code and conscience compels the web-head to return to the side of the Red Hulk… regardless if he will ultimately meet the same deadly fate.
Writer Zeb Wells strikes gold again and expertly highlights the stuff that these two mismatched heroes are truly made of. From Spider-Man’s honorable refusal to leave without his partner… to the Red Hulk’s refusal to give up and let his enemy get the best of him, all the right chords are struck. And who could not appreciate the Rulk trailing a pool of blood, forcing his body to move all while giving himself a rigged military pep talk… “On your feet Ross!” “Buck up soldier!”
In the perspective of solely Red Hulk fans, sure the time spent on Rulk in this issue was a little short changed, but the unorthodox yet classic way Spidey defeated Ra’ktar served the story well… including the revenge-denying truce that enraged Ross much more than any punch or sword stroke ever could.
Joe Madureira’s art is purely insane, in the utmost complimentary way. With the brilliant coloring of Ferran Daniel, Madureira’s talent produces stunning upon stunning images that are so very unique, surreal and tantalizing. His gift is truly a special one… and who could not love his thrilling use of silhouettes! It’s simply wonderful.
This is a comic book that will remind you why you like the Superhero genre. Pick it up!
4 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
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RULK REVIEW : KING-SIZE HULK Issue # 1
It’s been my experience that Giant Size issues (or in this case King-Size issues) are more often miss than hit. Rather than getting a worthy addendum to a character’s current story arc, readers were too often “treated” to pointless new shorts that felt like useless filler surrounded by a sea of reprinted stories… leaving one at best unsatisfied and at worst with a feeling that the reader has just been “had” by a publisher’s money grab. Fortunately, for Red Hulk fans, this is neither.
Beyond the classic comic reprints including the overplayed first appearance of Wolverine with the legendary villain Wendigo, KING SIZE HULK Issue # 1 features three new stories written by Jeph Loeb, two that are very good reads which actually flesh out the first half of the Red Hulk story arc.
It begins with “Where Monsters Dwell” drawn by the one of best artists in the business: Arthur Adams. Six miles beneath the surface in a gamma base reinforced cell, Bruce Banner is drafting a report on a dossier S.H.I.E.L.D. asked him to review. They have been tracking a mysterious new Hulk… a Red Hulk… heading west through Canada on his way to Russia. No one knows at that point he was on a path to murder Emil Blonsky a.k.a. the Abomination, but Red ran into some trouble along the way in the form of a Wendigo and apparently there is more than one. So Banner hypothesizes what happened that lone night with the details and evidence that was provided to him.
If any penciler could match Red Hulk’s sheer power conveyed by artist Ed McGuinness, it would likely be Arthur Adams. The over abundant muscled frame he creates joyfully oozes a raw power few talents can match. You can almost feel the Rulk’s core radioactivity simmer off the page.
Jeph Loeb finishes the tale at the offices of General Thaddeus Ross. Sitting at his desk, Ross finishes Banner’s analysis by reading a postscript that seemingly is a heavily nuanced warning to the General himself. It’s very well done.
The second story is the weakest of the three. “Wait until dark” explores what happened to She-Hulk between the moment she was ripped from the bridge of the Helicarrier by the Red Hulk until she was thrown back at Iron Man’s feet in a state of unconsciousness (in the beginning of HULK Issue #2). The problem is not with the story selection, but with Jeph Loeb’s odd need to interject an overdose of humor in She-Hulk’s narration of the event. I know a witty sense of humor is not out of place with her character, but it feels severely out of place here. All the appropriate fear and emotional impact in recounting the crimson hulk state he could kill the She-Hulk at any time, and her realization he was truly capable of that feat, is immediately dulled by the attempt at humorous narration. Like when the Red Hulk makes this threat while pressing close and choking the life out of She Hulk, we read her comment “I wanted so badly to make a joke, like “worst breath, ever”.
Artist Frank Cho does a serviceable job in this story. He is truly gifted at drawing a sexy female form, but many of She-Hulk’s erotic poses he draws feel forced. Often a loss of subtlety is interpreted by some as gratuitous, but his gifts (and hers) show never the less. Unfortunately Cho’s Interpretation of the Rulk is less inspiring. Undoubtedly it’s well drawn, but his Red Hulk looks less like a Hulk and more like a linebacker who plays professional football.
In Loeb’s third and final entry “The Death and Life of the Abomination”, we return to the lonely underground cell of Bruce Banner for a quieter, more poignant moment. On the edge of his bed, Bruce sits and reads an analysis that was drafted by his nemesis, General Thaddeus Ross. Ross was asked to render this opinion as an envoy of S.H.I.E.L.D. on the brutal murder of Abomination. Under the premise that the more one understands a person’s life… the more one will understand their death… Ross delves into the life of the Abomination, the monster that murdered his daughter, his one and only child.
Understanding that he never lets a weakness (a.k.a. his true emotions) show, Ross and his cold and guarded analysis actually makes his words that much more touching because of it. And unbeknown to the cold and war hardened father, the writer General actually shares a tender moment a thousand miles away with the reader Bruce.. the only other man his daughter ever loved. It’s all a credit to Jeph Loeb, who teams up with the legendary classic artist Herb Trimpe who returns to drawing the Hulk after fifteen years.
Anyone who felt the Red Hulk’s first story-arc was lacking depth and needed a little more emotional resonance, should be pleased with what they find here. This collection is not a complete delight, but contains enough enjoyable addendums to warrant a read.
3.5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
VARIANT COVERS :
RULK REPORT : Red Hulk goes hunting for a Symbiote in VENOM Issue # 11!
In the latest 11th issue of VENOM, no one other than the Red Hulk himself is tasked by Captain America to hunt down the black symbiote wearer, in a prelude to the upcoming “Circle of Four” event that begins with Issue # 13.
The story at this point indicates the current Venom, soldier Flash Thompson, who had been performing operations wearing the symbiote for the U.S. Government, has suddenly gone A.W.O.L.. Not only did he disappear without a trace, but Flash took the symbiote with him and now he has become enemy of the state… all obvious sore points for a former General now Hulk who served the military and country so honorably. But what Rulk doesn’t know is…. Flash is being blackmailed by some very dangerous criminals and if he doesn’t come through with what they’re asking, his whole family’s welfare is at risk.
Here is the brief Red Hulk’s recruitment scene:
The great thing about this issue is, while Red Hulk fans will consider this an essential pickup as a precursor to the “Circle of Four” storyline, it is simply a great comic… nicely drawn (except for Rulk’s beady eyes) with a well paced story. And if the upcoming VENOM Issue # 12 is anywhere near as enjoyable, you may find yourself following this comic long after the “Circle of Four” has ended. Pick this one up!
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
NEW RULK : AVENGERS (7-12) Trade Paperback out now!
It’s history in the making! Read how the Red Hulk continues his path to redemption and joins the mighty AVENGERS! Originally released in a hardcover format, this trade paperback is out now and comes highly recommended! It’s a terrific read!
Here are the details:
AVENGERS Volume 2 (Issues 7-12)
Published Date: January 11, 2012
Format: Trade Paperback
Retail Price: $19.99
The Story: One of the greatest secrets in Marvel history is laid bare – and it just may reignite the Civil War between Tony Stark and Steve Rogers! The Illuminati thought their days as the world’s protectors were over – until the Hood escaped from prison and embarked on a quest to gather the all-powerful Infinity Gems, which the super-secret brain trust had taken responsibility for safeguarding. Now, Iron Man, Professor X, Mr. Fantastic, the Sub-Mariner, Dr. Strange and Black Bolt will face a reckoning like never before when Steve Rogers learns of their years-long subterfuge. Will even the combined might of the Avengers, New Avengers, Secret Avengers and Illuminati be enough to take down a cosmically powered Hood? And did somebody say “Thanos”? Plus: What is the mystery of the Spaceknight?
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REPORT : The RED HULK is General Ross… or is he?
*SPOILERS*
Writer Jeph Loeb and artist Ed McGuinness (the talents that gave birth to the Red Hulk) are the creative team behind the new miniseries AVENGERS X-SANCTION that marks the time-travelling return of the former mercenary mutant Nathan Summers… otherwise known as Cable. One by one members of the Avengers are finding themselves between Cable’s crosshairs and before the night is over… Falcon, Captain America and Iron Man have all become his prisoners.
Enter the Red Hulk to the rescue.
When Rulk secretly enters Cable’s lair in Issue # 2, Red Hulk puts the mutant down with the help of some major artillery. But as Cable seemingly undergoes his death throes… he recognizes Rulk not as General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross…. but as no one other than Major Glenn Talbot! Here is their exchange:
So what does this all mean? Why does Cable think the Red behemoth is Glenn Talbot? Is it simply just a wink and a nod from writer Jeph Loeb to all the Marvel readers that thought the Red Hulk was Major Glenn Talbot prior to the big reveal that it was General Ross? Or does this have deeper meaning?
Cable did come from the future. Could it be that Talbot becomes some sort of a Hulk in our distant future? Or could Talbot have become the Red Hulk in an alternate timeline instead of Ross… and the future Cable returned from was not our current timeline?
It is an intriguing mystery, which hopefully will shed more answers within the upcoming issue # 3.
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 47
“Where IS HE?? Come on out, old man! I KNOW this is where you stay! Come out and face ME!” – Red She Hulk
What a fantastic read. In HULK Issue #47 “Red Sky at Morning“, the Life Model Decoys stationed at Gamma Base : Death Valley, Nevada pick up a signal that indicates there’s an incoming Hulk on his way back to base. “About time!” Annie rejoices with almost giddy excitement. “Let’s go welcome back our Hulk” But as she surfaces to greet her incredibly missed, favorite Big Red guy, the Red She Hulk is the what she finds… demanding that her father shows his face… or else!
Writer Jeff Parker pens an outstanding reunion between the estranged father and daughter Ross, who haven’t seen each other since the events of “World War Hulks” one year ago. It’s fascinating to see them interact while adjusting to their still relatively new transformations… something Thaddeus clearly has a better handle on. And when the Red She Hulk violently runs from Ross (or rather runs from her emotions), it’s incredibly touching to watch her secretly return and hide near his presence… not in an eruption of battle… but seemingly compelled just to be close to her Dad.
Annie is charming as ever. Between her excitement to welcome Ross home and her intuition and understanding of exactly what makes Ross happy is a pure delight. From not forcing Ross to dwell on the “touchy-feely stuff” to allowing Ross to finally be the captain of the ship, it’s these little moments that somehow become the biggest… and shines a spotlight on how Jeff Parker is truly gifted at making these characters feel real, like flesh & blood. He makes you care so much… and what is a better compliment than that? Add the return of the refreshingly now more menacing Zero/One, her intriguing Lab 7, and what she is doing to every ship that crosses her path (which is so cool) and there’s no debate: Jeff has outdone himself!
After reading this issue, who wouldn’t become an official fan of artist Elena Casagrande. While previously impressive with her rendition of M.O.D.O.K. in her earlier contributions to HULK, her talents shine extremely bright in this issue. Elena is extremely gifted in drawing women in a very natural way. And she excels in facial expressions so well.. whether it’s anticipation, anger or joy.. you can tell what every character is feeling before reading a single word of dialogue. Plus she is now the creator of my favorite rendition of Zero/One. And after Patrick Zircher’s artistic run, Casagrande has returned the Red Hulk to his true form: Eyebrow-less.
Finally, a special nod must be given to artist Carlo Pagulayan for his amazing cover of this issue. It’s a stunning eye-catcher, that enjoyably incorporates the HULK logo into the scene’s action. It may just be the best HULK cover yet! Bravo!
Buy this Issue and read it at least twice!
5 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REPORT : CBR recommends HULK # 47 as a great jumping on point!
Not only did Comic Book Resources give the latest issue of Jeff Parker’s HULK a glowing review recently, but they also recommended HULK Issue # 47 as a great jumping on point! Here are the highlights:
“This book is consistently a treat. Jeff Parker not only delivers fun, adventure-filled stories with believable characters, but he finds a voice for every character and, every single time, it’s the right voice. The string of issues that Parker has delivered is the longest I’ve read any Hulk title. While Parker has been crafting a continuous story all the way through that run, he’s accomplished enough to make every issue a decent spot for newer readers. This issue is more than simply a decent entry point: it’s the best spot since “Hulk” #42. The story is just going to continue to ramp up from here, so you may as well give it a go right now”
Click on the link to read the entire review : http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=user_review&id=4330
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REPORT : Artist Gabriel Hardman offers insight on why his acclaimed HULK run ended!
Last week on Twitter, artist Gabriel Hardman commented on the possible reason why his critically acclaimed run on the Red HULK comic series ended… as some readers feel… prematurely.
Here is what he had to say:
“Lately I’ve seen complaints about artists (like me) not staying on comics for longer runs. Thing is, most Marvel books double ship now.
“Double shipping means the book comes out twice a month. It’s not feasible to draw two books a month.
“I would have loved it if the 12 issues of Hulk I drew were consecutive. I’m not in this to draw disconnected parts of ongoing stories.
“Double shipping is just the economic reality of freelance comics right now though, I’m not disputing that.
“Everybody is tweeting Silver Age artists who drew multiple books a month. It’s not a direct comparison.
“Most of them penciled multiple books a month. I pencil and ink my work. There’s also a different expectations for the level of detail now.”
And there you have it. Will Gabriel Hardman, the best artist to ever draw General Thunderbolt Ross, ever return to the series that brought him so much praise? Not likely with HULK’s current ship schedule, but maybe he’ll have a story-arc or one-shot left in him just yet.
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK HONORS : More accolades for Jeff Parker’s Red HULK !
Comic Book Resources released their annual complete list of the “TOP 100 COMICS OF 2011” yesterday recognizing Jeff Parker’s HULK as the 36th best comic of the year. While 36th might not sound as prestigious at first glance, it certainly has weight when you consider the HULK was ranked against not only all the other Marvel Comics titles… but the massive catalogs of DC Comics, Image/Top Cow, Boom! Studios, Dark Horse, Oni Press, IDW, Fantagraphics and all the rest. Here is the write up:
36. Hulk
Written by Jeff Parker
Drawn by Gabriel Hardman
Published by Marvel Comics
“Name another modern day superhero in which the writer works in a moment where the lead character expresses his admiration for George Washington, Ulysses S. Grant, Teddy Roosevelt and Dwight D. Eisenhower. Parker remains one of the strongest writers working at Marvel with the Hulk being his best runs to date.”
— Robot 6 Writer Tim O’Shea
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REVIEW : HULK Issue # 46
This is it. This is the final battle between Red Hulk and the all-powerful Sultan Magus, ruler of the mysterious city of Sharzhad and the man indirectly responsible for the demise of ex-Colonel William Krueger.
When the confrontation begins, the Sultan clearly has the upper hand, empowered by being in close proximity to the alien technology that transformed him from the rebel Dagan Shah into the unstoppable titan of the Middle East. But as the battle rages on, the Red Hulk eventually has his enemy on the ropes and is one breath away from putting Magus out of commission… permanently. Then, suddenly, the magic carpet is pulled out from underneath him.
In HULK Issue # 46, writer Jeff Parker writes a frustratingly good conclusion to his “Hulk of Arabia” story-arc. It’s satisfying to see the end of the Sultan’s rise of power within the Rulk’s grasp, yet frustrating that he can’t squeeze the life out of it, especially when it doesn’t require a fortune teller to foresee the city of Sharzhad will not stand quietly.. but will likely cause terror in one form or another for years to come. But sometimes, things just don’t end clean and that’s reality… and Jeff Parker’s point. At least readers get to relish in the devastating blow the Arabian Knight deals to the Sultan Magus, albeit brief. Either way Parker does a bang up job here, and will make it that much more pleasureable when Red finally is able to pluck one of the thorns from his side (M.O.D.O.K., Zero/One, Black Fog, Sultan Magus) and be able to deliver that gratifying knockout punch.
It’s been such an enjoyable feast for the eyes ever since illustrator Patrick Zircher took over the art for this book. Paired with the unique coloring of Rachelle Rosenberg , the realism Zircher puts in each and every character has been a grand dose of brilliance, perfectly matched with Parker’s very mature storyline. As other artists take over the next few chapters of the HULK book, Zircher’s work will certainly be remembered by Red Hulk fans everywhere with the utmost delight… and as the best artist to grace this series’ pages since Ed McGuinness.
Thanks Patrick. Amazing work.
4 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK HONORS : IGN awards the Red HULK Comic Series as one of Marvel’s “Best of 2011” including “Best Art Team”!
As the 2011 year comes to a close, IGN has begun announcing their annual “Best Of” awards for 2011, with none other than the Red Hulk getting some much deserved recognition. IGN broke down the “ten absolute can’t miss comics” that Marvel had to offer, celebrating Jeff Parker’s HULK series at #6. Here is the write up:
THE BEST OF MARVEL COMICS 2011
#6 “HULK” – IGN: “We’ll be honest. We never thought Hulk would bounce back from its first couple of years. And yet, courtesy of Jeff Parker, Gabriel Hardman, and Patch Zircher, Hulk has skyrocketed in quality and entertainment to become one of Marvel’s must-read titles. 2011 saw the introduction of General Fortean, a formidable foe for Thunderbolt Ross with a twist of irony; just as Ross used to hunt down Bruce Banner’s Hulk with ferocity, so too does Fortean hunt the Red Hulk. Even amidst a Fear Itself tie-in, Hulk stayed its course and managed to be one of the few tie-in books that successfully furthered its own narrative as well as the larger event at hand. With a vast array of intriguing characters, new villains, and downright gorgeous artwork, this is the clear winner of Marvel’s two Hulk titles.”
Now if that wasn’t great news on it’s own, we’re happy to report the talented work of artist Gabriel Hardman and colorist Bettie Breitweiser were awarded as “Best Art Team” of 2011 for all comics (not just Marvel). Here is the write up:
BEST ART TEAM 2011
GABRIEL HARDMAN & BETTIE BREITWEISER – IGN: “Of all the categories, this was the most difficult to nail down a winner for. With so much great comic book art being produced this year, it was a truly tough call. However, the work of Gabriel Hardman and colorist Bettie Breitweiser ultimately placed second to none. Hardman’s explosive page layouts, defining ink work, top-notch storytelling, and devotion to capturing the cinematic qualities of Jeff Parker’s Hulk story combined with the expressive, brilliant color palette of Breitweiser resulted in not only Marvel’s consistently beautiful book, but a shining achievement of superhero art across the board. It’s not easy to make a Hulk book full of emotion and subtlety when your main characters are rage-fueled giants, robots, and aliens. Yet here we are.”
Congratulations to the entire creative team and a big thank you for making a Red Hulk series fans can be proud of!
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
RULK REVIEW : AVENGING SPIDER-MAN Issue # 1 and 2
Pure fun. Sometimes, comics are at their best when they are just pure fun. Not extremely deep nor heavy handed, a comic can be a wonderful experience simply equipped with a light story, clever humor, great art and a boat load of action. AVENGING SPIDER-MAN Issues #1 and #2 are both great example of pure fun.
The story begins with the Avengers putting the finishing touches on their latest battle to save humanity. Upon wrapping up a team victory against some AIM Agents and assorted riffraff, Spider-Man announces he needs a lift back to New York City, a request essentially met with moans and groans. Since no one wanted to lend a hand, the entire lot of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes humorously took a figurative step backwards, leaving the Red Hulk in the forefront to unofficially “volunteer” as Spidey’s ticket home.
So begrudgingly, Rulk allows Spider-Man to hitch a ride as he leaps towards the East Coast. But when the heroes arrive, they find the city of New York at a crisis, overrun with Mole Man’s army of Moloids who have crept up from the depths of Subterranea and declared war on the shinning city. Looks can be deceiving though as this massive attack on the “Big Apple” turns out not to be an act of war… but an act of desperation… a recruitment effort by Mole-Man to help him reclaim his fallen city, a realm now invaded by a race called Molans and taken over by their King… Ra’ktar. Will the heroes be able to stop them?
Writer Zeb Wells does a bang up job penning the first two issues of AVENGING SPIDER-MAN. The pace is refreshingly brisk and the humor is spot on, certain to make the most discerning reader chuckle with delight. Wells recognizes and takes full advantage of the wellspring of comedy that comes from the pairing of Spider-Man and Red Hulk. It’s the classic funny guy and straight man routine, and the Red Hulk is one hell of a straight man… someone who sets up the joke so that Spider-Man can deliver the punch line.
Zeb Well’s high octane writing tempo is well complimented by Joe Madureira’s insane art. Finally returning to comics, his illustrations are bold, intense and brimming with excitement. Madureira’s work is just plain gorgeous to look at, inspiring one to simply drool over his art… especially the splash pages. And with the brilliant coloring of Ferran Daniel (a perfect fit for Joe’s penicls) the Red Hulk hasn’t looked more massive or awe inspiring.
A WORTHY NOTE : RULK (a nick-name for Red Hulk only ever used within the “previously in HULK” intro pages of the Jeph Loeb HULK books as a tool to catch readers up to speed) was used for the first time by an actual character of the Marvel Universe, referring to the Red Hulk as “RULK” in-story. In the cliffhanger end of Issue #2 when Ra’ktar’s blade pierces the chest of the Big Red, Spider-Man calls out towards Red Hulk as “Rulk” with great concern. Let’s hope we see more of that.
[ ISSUE#1 ] 4 out of 5 Stars
[ ISSUE #2 ] 4 out of 5 Stars
-A.J.
A general falls. A red monster rises. Stay tuned.
Follow the RED HULK BLOG on Twitter @ RedHulkBlog
In joyful celebration of the landmark 50th issue of writer Jeff Parker's critically acclaimed HULK Comic, superstar Jeff Parker has graciously and enthusiastically agreed to answer questions from the people who count the most: the loyal fans! Click here to 
REDHULKBLOG.com 