In our first two top five lists, a dark or gruesome cover has taken the number one spot. This week I’ll feature five more covers that really stand out from the rest. Will the macabre reign supreme again or will we see something brighter this week?
#5. Black Widow #1
Marvel Comics
Written by: Mark Waid
Art by: Chris Samnee
Variant Cover by: Skottie Young
As I’ve said before, I’m a Skottie Young fanboy. While I’m not 100% sure I’ll be picking up the new Black Widow title, I’m definitely going to be on the lookout for this Young variant. I love how mischievous he’s drawn Natasha and really like the Black Widow symbol added in her eye. While most of Young’s art is bright and colorful, this cover is a nice contrast to his usual style.
Check out our Preview of Black Widow #1 HERE
#4. Another Castle #1
Oni Press
Written by: Andrew Wheeler
Art and Cover by: Paulina Ganucheau
Another artist whose work shines in all the bright colors is Paulina Ganucheau. I was introduced to her style in the Dark Horse title Zodiac Starforce. While I didn’t really enjoy the comic, I love her character designs and the color palettes chosen. It almost screams 80’s Saturday morning cartoons. And much like Zodiac Starforce, it seems like this is another title that features a strong lead female character. Maybe I’ll give Another Castle a read, if nothing else just to see more of Ganucheau’s art.
#3. A-Force #3
Marvel Comics
Written by: G. Willow Wilson & Kelly Thompson
Art by: Jorge Molina
Variant Cover by: Mark Brooks
I haven’t followed the A-Force title since the end of Secret Wars, but I have pretty high hopes for the series. The Secret Wars title featured several of my favorite female characters and quite a few of them have followed into this series. A-Force #3‘s cover looks like a throwback to the old movie posters of the 70’s. However, its actually a pretty slick designed ad for a roller derby match with cringe inducing pun team names the Gal-Axies versus the Smash-Hers. I think another reason I really enjoy it is because it reminds of the DC Bombshell covers. Even though it might make Marvel look like a bunch of Johnny come latelies, I’d love to see Bombshell versions of their heroes, and this cover could be a good starting point.
#2. Green Lantern #50
DC Comics
Written by: Robert Venditti
Art by: Billy Tan & Mark Irwin
Cover by: Juan Gimenez
Like any superhero, Hal Jordan is a polarizing figure. There are so many members of the Green Lantern Corp that choosing a favorite can be difficult. I’ve always liked Hal the most, even if he has gone through some strange changes in character, either as the Spectre or, as featured on this cover, Parallax. Seeing Hal stand there glowing with that power is an awe inducing image. Again graced with his iconic brown and white hair, Hal seems to be in a void, looking to harness his power at some unseen foe. Gimenez has definitely drawn a powerful picture of Hal Jordan and I really want to get that cover.
GWW Review of Green Lantern #50
#1. Spider-Man #2
Marvel Comics
Written by: Brian Michael Bendis
Art by: Sara Pichelli
Variant Cover by: J. Scott Campbell
Campbell, who is more commonly known for his sexy renditions of various characters, brings us this cover celebrating life, liberty, and 75 years of Captain America. While I’m not a huge fan of title characters not being anywhere on their own book, I’m willing to give this one a pass. Captain America looks amazing, leading a pack of fighter jets into battle. Campbell captures Cap’s stature and power in this amazing cover. Cap’s leadership and fighting spirit have always been his leading qualities, and they shine here.
Number one this week was still a slightly darker colored cover, but nowhere near as grisly an image. I think Spider-Man #2 has dethroned the dark covers. At least for this week. Make sure to stop by next week to see what other new covers are making the rounds. Until then, keep reading those comics!