Batman #2

So if there is one thing that encompasses all that The Bat-Man is (besides Christopher Nolan's ongoing masterpiece cinematic trilogy) it is Scott Snyder's run at the helm of DC's Batman. #1 Established Batman as the clever detective that he really is, but it also established the city of Gotham as a dark, deviant character. #2 hit shelves on the 19th of October and is better than the first installment. I am a huge fan of movies that start at the end and then go back to the start and trace the steps up until that climactic moment. #2 starts with what looks like the impeding death of Bruce Wayne, then goes back to the time prior to explain the story and make you think hard. The end of the book will make you revel in the awesome-ness that is Batman. I love how DC has embraced Gotham in the "New 52" with All Star Western and Batman. They have breathed new life into the city. I've always loved the degeneration of the city and to give it a predominant role in their books is so awesome.

Batman #2 is amazing, the art is amazing, and the story is amazing. You have NO reason to NOT go pick it up.

Animal Man

Of all of DC's relaunched "New 52" Animal Man is by far the best. It's about Buddy Baker who is able to channel the power and ability of any animal at any time. He can channel the lightfootedness of a bee to creep slowly, or the bark of a dog to intimidate, basically he is awesome. The story is extremely catchy, its hard to wait for the next months issue. Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth) is the perfect author and Foreman's art is the perfect amount of disturbing. My favorite frame from this series so far is during our hero, Buddy Baker's nightmare; his son is running towards him as his guts are pouring out of his stomache.. its gnarly, unsettling, and completely awesome. #2 came out last week and its completely great. Pick it up and get into this amazing story.

The Best Western in a Long Time

If you don't read comics, you should, if you do, you should read this one. All Star Western #1 is one of DC's final installment in their new 52 this last month, and let me just say... its 100% badass. I've heard it compared to what would happen if "Clint Eastwood hunts down Jack the Ripper". It is so awesome. Jonah Hex ends up in Gotham set in the 1800's and searches to find a guy who is brutally murdering prostitutes. It's super rad to read about the early roots of Gotham and see who Arkham mental institution was named after and get a glimpse at the twisted upper class society of Gotham. Needless to say, it is beyond awesome! Read it.