New year, new comics! Even though I’m pretty sure I used that exact same line last year. At any rate, January 2020 will kick off several new comic runs, mini-series, and events. So many, in fact, that I’m honoring the first month of the year by choosing nothing but #1 issues for Marvel’s top ten. Do they all deserve a place on this list? Heck yes they do, read on and see why.
10. The Kids Are Alright
Every now and then, comic book time actually moves forward. In those rare moments, we get to see young characters grow and take their own place in the comic book universe. In this case, Normie Osborn and Dylan Brock are getting their mini-series, after they found themselves more or less teaming up in “Absolute Carnage.” So how will these kids perform in the spotlight? It will be interesting to find out.
Web of Venom: The Good Son #1
Written by Zac Thompson
Illustrated by Diogenes Neves
Cover by Philip TanWHILE VENOM’S AWAY, THE CHILDREN WILL PLAY!
Dylan Brock and Normie Osborn have survived the trials of ABSOLUTE CARNAGE, but what’s next for the Goblin Childe and the Son of Venom?
40 PGS./ONE SHOT/Rated T+ …$4.99
9. Great ReSMASHability
Spider-Hulk. I know this isn’t the first time that’s happened, but now we have Spider-Hulk with the dark, twisted horror of “Immortal Hulk” mixed in. How will that play out? I don’t know, but whatever Tom Taylor has in store, it should certainly be worth checking out.
Immortal Hulk: Great Power #1
Written by Tom Taylor
Illustrated by Jorge Molina
Cover by Jorge Molina
Variant cover by Max FiumaraWhen Bruce Banner wakes up in the middle of the night without the Hulk, he thinks he’s finally free. But the Hulk is immortal — and the night’s not over yet. If you thought he was dangerous in the body of mild-mannered Bruce Banner, wait till you see him now. Peter Parker is a man with the proportional strength and agility of a spider, capable of lifting trains on his bad days. And he’s about to get a big, green power-up — with a temper to match.
40 PGS./ONE SHOT/Rated T+ …$4.99
8. Just When You Thought it Was Safe to Go Back in the Water…
Did you think “The Invaders” is as far as Namor’s aquatic assault was going to go? Nope, it’s not over yet! This time, instead of Namor and his Atlantean forces facing the Avengers or his old WW2 allies, it’s time for Agents of Atlas to shine. The team has been slowly growing on me, but this will be a major threat for them to fight, and I look forward to seeing how they fare.
Atlantis Attacks #1
Written by Greg Pak
Illustrated by Ario Anindito
Cover by Rock-He Kim
Variant covers by Ron Lim and Jeehyung LeeWAR WITH THE WATER KINGDOM!
The armies of ATLANTIS face ATLAS in a showdown destined to shake allegiances and break hearts! AMADEUS CHO, SILK, WAVE, SHANG-CHI, and all the heroes of the Atlas have bonded with each other after the challenges of WAR OF THE REALMS. But when a terrible secret incurs the wrath of KING NAMOR, who’s the true friend — and who’s the true enemy? A titanic tale of love and betrayal, heroes and monsters, gods and underdogs — plus the shocking return of JIMMY WOO and the original AGENTS OF ATLAS!
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
7. But Do They Still Want Pictures?
The Daily Bugle has always been an important aspect of the “Spider-Man” comics, as well as the overall Marvel universe. While typically the characters there are more background characters as the action takes place, sometimes they get more involved with the plot. In this case, the plot is about them. This will be a look at the people behind the Bugle, and how business is going in a world where Wilson Fisk is the mayor. Comics focusing on side characters and their personal struggles and victories can be great looks at another side of a superhero story, so it’ll be great to see what life is like at the Daily Bugle.
Continued belowAmazing Spider-Man: Daily Bugle #1
Written by Mat Johnson
Illustrated by Mack Chater
Cover by Mark Bagley
Variant covers by Declan Shalvey, Ron Lim, and Logan LuberaSPINNING OUT OF AMAZING SPIDER-MAN!
The journalist must speak truth to power—whether or not it’s wielded responsibly. Helmed by Peter Parker’s mentor, Robbie Robertson, the Daily Bugle staff is at last chasing stories that matter. And in a city under Mayor Wilson Fisk, keeping the public informed is as essential as it is dangerous. Weaving between events in AMAZING SPIDER-MAN and DAREDEVIL, Mat Johnson (Hellblazer Special: Papa Midnite, Incognegro, Loving Day) and Mack Chater (BLACK PANTHER AND THE CREW, Briggs Land) are following a lead into Kingpin and Spider-Man’s past that will change the way you look at the webslinger now, and as his story continues.
32 pgs./Rated T…$3.99
6. ‘Cuz I’m Free! Free Falling!
I’m a sucker for Hawkeye comics. Whether it’s Clint Barton or Kate Bishop, we’ve had some incredible stories about the world’s greatest archers and how they fight to keep up with their super-powered allies. Now it’s Matthew Rosenberg’s time to write for Clint, and after seeing what he can do writing “The Punisher,” I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Hawkeye.
Hawkeye: Freefall #1
Written by Matthew Rosenberg
Illustrated by Otto Schmidt
Cover by Kim Jacinto
Variant covers by Otto Schmidt, Elizabeth Torque, and Don HeckWhen a mysterious and ruthless new Ronin starts tearing a destructive path through the city, suspicion immediately falls on Hawkeye, but Clint has more to worry about than who’s wearing his old costume. After a clash with the Hood ends badly, Hawkeye gives himself a new mission that will place him in the crosshairs of one of New York’s most dangerous villains. Hawkeye’s mission and Ronin’s secret plans will set them on a collision course that only one of them will walk away from. Fan favorite Clint Barton returns in a brand new series from Matthew Rosenberg (UNCANNY X-MEN, THE PUNISHER) and Otto Schmidt (Green Arrow).
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
5. And in the End…
A character’s story rarely ends in comics. Story arcs end, yes. Comic runs, too. But true finalities? They’re much less common. In January, Marvel is running a series of “The End” comics designed to provide possible future conclusions to a range of characters. So why “Captain Marvel,” of all possible endings? Mostly because of Kelly Thompson and Carmen Carnero, who have brought new life to the character. However, any and all of the “The End” issues should be read and enjoyed.
Captain Marvel: The End #1
Written by Kelly Thompson
Illustrated by Carmen Carnero
Cover by Rahzzah
Variant cover by Carmen CarneroTHE FINAL CAPTAIN MARVEL STORY!
Fifty years ago, Carol Danvers went into the deepest reaches of the cosmos to spread peace and justice and she hasn’t seen a familiar face since!
Whatever happened to the planet she once called home? Reuniting CAPTAIN MARVEL superteam KELLY THOMPSON and CARMEN CARNERO!
40 PGS./ONE SHOT/Rated T+ …$4.99
4. A Room is Ready for You
In addition to “The End,” we’re also getting a series of comics set in an around the Ravencroft Institute, another “revolving door asylum” that comics are known for. Following the events of “Absolute Carnage,” there’s a lot of damage to repair and a lot of stories to explore, but it’s all centered around Ravencroft. So the comic focused on its reconstruction (and John Jameson’s redemption) should make for a good story.
Continued belowRavencroft #1
Written by Frank Tieri
Illustrated by Angel Unzueta
Cover by Kyle Hotz
Variant covers by Ryan Brown and Kim JacintoRAVENCROFT REOPENED!
After the hellish horrors of ABSOLUTE CARNAGE, the Ravencroft Institute has received a much-needed facelift and is open for business with a new staff, including JOHN JAMESON, looking to atone for the part he played in ABSOLUTE CARNAGE. But will Ravencroft return the mentally unstable villains of the Marvel Universe to upstanding citizens and give John the redemption he’s looking for, or will they fall prey to the hospital’s seemingly sinister nature?
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
3. Come and Get Your Love
Yep, one “Guardians of the Galaxy” run ends for another to begin. Now it’s Al Ewing’s turn at the elm, mixing in Olympian mythos to the cosmic chaos that is the “Guardians” comic. We’ve got a new team (including Nova and Rocket in a suit) in action and a new story to follow, and it should be quite the entertaining time.
Guardians of the Galaxy #1
Written by Al Ewing
Illustrated by Juann Cabal
Cover by Juan Cabal
Variant covers by Belen Ortega, Ivan Shavrin, Ron Lim, Pepe Larraz, Juann Cabal, Mike McKone, and SkanOnce, they were a team of misfits. Now they’re a family, and they’ve earned their peace. But the universe is not a peaceful place — and it’s only getting worse. The Great Empires are in turmoil. The rule of law is dead. And amidst the chaos, the Gods of Olympus have returned — harbingers of a new age of war, reborn to burn their mark on the stars themselves. Someone has to guard the galaxy – but who will accept the mission? And will they survive it? Al Ewing (IMMORTAL HULK) and Juann Cabal (FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN) bring you in on the ground floor of a whole Marvel Universe of action and suspense!
40 PGS./Rated T+ …$4.99
2. Return of the Revenge of the Comic
Speaking of comics that are coming back: “Star Wars” continues! We’re jumping between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi with Luke and the Rebellion reeling after the events of the second movie. (Yes, I know there was an entire book about that back in the day, but that’s no longer canon.) The franchise is in Marvel’s hands between movies (thanks to Disney owning them both) so they’re going to milk this franchise for all it’s worth, and I am totally cool with that.
Star Wars #1
Written by Charles Soule
Illustrated by Jesus Saiz
Cover by R.B. Silva
Variant covers by Mahmu Asrar, Chris Sprouse, Jen Bartel, Adam Hughes, Art Adams, and RB Silva“No…I am your father.”
In the wake of the events following The Empire Strikes Back, it is a dark time for the heroes of the Rebellion. The Rebel fleet…scattered following a disastrous defeat at the Battle of Hoth. Han Solo…lost to the bounty hunter, Boba Fett, after being frozen in carbonite. And after being lured into a trap on Cloud City and bested in a vicious lightsaber duel against the evil Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker…learned the horrible truth about his past. Vader did not kill Luke’s father Anakin–Vader is Luke’s father! Now, after narrowly escaping the dark lord’s clutches, and wounded and reeling from the revelation, Luke, Princess Leia, Lando Calrissian, the Wookiee Chewbacca and the droids C-3PO and R2-D2 must fight their way back to the Rebel Alliance—for the fate of the entire galaxy is at stake! After so many losses is victory still possible? But, what Leia, Luke and their ragtag band of freedom fighters do not realize is that they have only traded one Imperial trap for another! Enter the cunning and vengeful Imperial Commander Zahra, at the helm of the Tarkin’s Will!
Writer Charles Soule (DARTH VADER) and artist Jesus Saiz (DOCTOR STRANGE) are taking us all to the galaxy far, far away next year! With covers by RB Silva (POWERS OF X)!
THE GREATEST SPACE ADVENTURE OF ALL TIME BEGINS THIS JANUARY!
40 PGS./Rated T …$4.99
Star Wars © Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All rights reserved. Used under authorization. Text and illustrations for Star Wars are © 2019 Lucasfilm Ltd.
1. Can’t Keep a Good God Down
One more comic starting a new run. Donny Cates has very big shoes to fill after Jason Aaron’s spectacular run, but I have full faith in his ability. There’s a lot going on in the “Thor” comics, with Thor as the new king of Asgard and the aftereffects of the War of the Realms still being felt, but it looks like the new run is going to hit the ground running with “The Black Winter.” Also, look at that outfit! Let’s see where this goes.
Continued belowThor #1
Written by Donny Cates
Illustrated by Nic Klein
Cover by Oliver Coipel
Variant covers by Artgerm, Mr Garcin, Ryan Stegman, Jack Kirby, Nic Klein, Olivier Coipel, Matt Scalera, and Jen BartelA BRAND-NEW, SUPERSTAR CREATIVE TEAM TAKES THE KING OF ASGARD TO NEW REALMS OF GLORY!
The prince is now a king. All Asgard lies before Thor, the God of Thunder. And after many months of war, the Ten Realms are finally at peace. But the skies above the Realm Eternal are never clear for long. The Black Winter is coming. And the God of the Storm will be powerless before it.
40 PGS./Rated T+ …$4.99
Check out the full solicitations over at CBR.com.
