Calling the Roll is a character-by-character look at the latest issue of THE LEGION.
Let the roll be called!
SHIKARI: It's taken me a while, but I can now say I really like the masked/armored up look for 'Kari-- esp. when she isn't 'showing her claws'. Without them, she visually interests me. With, she's a bit too 'would-be Wolverine' for me.
Kari performed as would be expected in the 'intersticial space' scene-- cajoling the disoriented Sensor with some harsh truth, keeping her focus and accomplishing the '100% impossible' transfer. Now if we could just see how she'd team-up with Gates...
I liked her as the comforting friend cradling Sensor on page nine. I'm not sure if we've seen her demonstrate emotion physically before?
I LOVED the scenes between 'Kari and the Kid and Andy and Sensor. The pairings were exactly opposite of what I would've predicted... and were all the better for it. Page 10... Shikari and her questions-- she's quite the inquisitive little Legionnaire, isn't she? I like how she subtly/not so subtly digs a bit as she works with various 'new' (to her) Legionnaires. She not only gets exposition in, but serves as a sort of identifying figure/voice for new readers. Superboy was used in a similar way, in eras past. Hmmmm.
Page 17... I trust that a fully aware Lyle Norg wouldn't be so easy to take down. I like 'Kari and her battle-competence, but I think Lyle shouldn't be such an easy target.
SENSOR: Poor Jeka-- how much disorientation can one sentient stand? Good thing 'Kari was there to remind her to 'sprocking use her hands'... though wouldn't those robot arms have accustomed her to the 'limbed lifestyle'? I still think it'd be funny if Jeka decided to wear the robot-arms occasionally... a serpintine/robotic Kali.
Sensor is quite pretty on page eight in the panel where she's projecting her 'old' self-- though shouldn't there be the suggestion of nostrils? Unless she no longer respirates aerobically...
I suppose the 'deformed' connection between Sensor and Ferro is an obvious one, but still I enjoyed their scene. I'm not sure what it is, but I liked them together. The snake-princess and her knight in frozen armor? I like it, does anyone else?
Page 13 to the end... Sensor is the senior Legionnaire in this little group and makes a decent enough leader. If she had a plan in place for the scenario in which the issue ends, which will be played out next issue, then I'd say she's a darn good one. If not, then at least she shows potential. Once acclimated to her 'new' form (assuming it's a final one...), I wouldn't mind seeing her campaign for Legion Leader and even end up deputy.
FERRO: With his first line, I thought maybe the old daredevil Ferro I miss from SW6 Legionnaires (preboot) was back. As the story developed, he isn't... quite. He *does* seem more confident and poised, but doesn't seem out to prove anything, like the Andy of old.
Now stuck in living 'biometal', Andy's observation of the irony of his situation indicates a good bit of growth from the last time we saw him. His matter-of-fact "I *can't* take it off." on page 11 (while tapping his helmet "tang tang") was endearing and certainly gave Sensor pause. I liked her pose as she looks at him in the panel after he delivers this line without pathos... then immediately and calmly greeting the pashassi-master. I could 'feel' her empathizing... perhaps beginning to view her transformation as not as horrible as she had.
It was... odd reading Ferro give Karate Kid battle instructions on the bottom of page 17. Just what have these two been up to the past few months? His lines during this concluding battle do sound the echo of SW6 Ferro... as does his emerging from the fire to knock out Wildfire. (Symbolic, huh?)
I'm very curious about how Ferro'll be handled in the immediate future. DNANB have made a good impression so far.
KARATE KID: Intriguing expression on Val's face on page eight when he utters 'Sensor?" with Ferro's iron hand on his shoulder. Just what is he thinking? Val's dialogue throughout is minimalistic-- utilitarian, even. Reboot, he's been a puzzlement, and DNA continue the trend. There is a calm quality to his statements-- matched in his facial expressions-- that could border on frozen and robotic. I think he comes across as just this side of that border, but it's a tricky characterization to convey. At least his 'zenness' seems internalized, rather than revealed in platitudes. His every sentence seems to convey more than the words within them. Confounding and fascinating. For now, anyway.
Page 18... "I should not talk so much." Tee-hee. I would've liked a longer battle with Triad, in particular. I think there's a lot of potential there that we didn't see. Then again, we shouldn't have... since it's Universo acting through Triad.
Hopefully, next month's cover depicting Karate Kid will have more of Val... unlike this month's cover featuring Dreamer, who didn't really receive focus in this month's story (well- Universo sure focused on her- the creepy monocled lech).
I liked this quartet-- 'Kari, Jeka, Val and Andy. I wouldn't mind if they began an often-seen subset within the Legion. There are currents going in several directions among them.
How do readers feel about the 3/4 page featuring a group shot with the exposition paragraphs appearing on the first page? My initial reaction was that it was wasted space in a title that needs every panel in every issue. But the art has been quite nice... and this storyline *has* been indicated as one for readers to 'jump aboard'. Do we want to see this continue- after Dream Crime?
Universo's a nutso. I imagined him singing his opening lines 'and so are you... and you... and you' in a fiendish patter-song surrounded by all those beautiful, blank-faced Legionnaires. I don't take him seriously, yet. Maybe because I don't know what he's after. Is it just the unfettered use of his power?
His stroking Dreamer's face was creepy--- and effective. I sometimes think that there has to be a bit of a sexual element in the best super-villains. There's certainly one apparent in the Joker... and Doctor Doom... and Magneto. I don't think Universo is near *that* list... but perhaps he could be.
I wonder if all male telepaths manifest their power in purple... as Saturn Girl and Shikari have pink power signatures. What color would a gay telepath manifest? Or an alien? I don't associate any particular color with Jeka-- have I missed anything?
I liked the glimpses of Steeple-- I hope we get to 'visit' it again sometime fairly soon. I enjoyed seeing the 'windsteeds' (forgot their 'official' name from WORLDS...) Now *there's* a potential Leigon of Super Pets member...
I have to say that the depersonalized Legionnaires as an opposing threat is beginning to get old. On it's own terms, it's used fairly effectively here. But I can't help but think of DAMNED and the Emerald Legion (not to mention Zoe's multiple decharacterizations). Let's not see this plot pattern for a *long* while.
That said, I'm eager to see the conclusion of this storyline. It seems that Darkseid is waiting in the wings-- which has made 'Dream Crime' somewhat anticlimactic. Perhaps there'll be surprises and 'rock and roll' next issue. I *do* like the way each 'storyline' has progressed into the next one since THE LEGION began. It has flowed quite nicely, for the most part. Again, the success of Dream Crime is going to hinge upon its conclusion.
posted
Nice and comprehensive job as always, Todd. To riff on some of your comments: -- I would like Shikari's armored look more is she showed more skin like the outfit she had in "LL" -- Her Legion outfit only allows her face and fingers to show her armoring up. -- While you thought Lyle was taken out a little easily, I thought Karate Kid was. One blow from a brainwashed Apparition? I dunno ... at least Lyle has an excuse since he's under Universo's control. -- I really like how Batista handled the visuals on Universo throughout. -- The Val/ Andy/ Jeka teaming was a nice nod to the past without being obvious. -- Is Shikari under Universo's control now? She didn't need any enhancements to resist him before, so the overloaded do-hickey shouldn't have rendered her susceptable to his influence, I would think. -- I don't mind the 3/4 page recaps for this storyline, but I don't expect them to stay, and I kinda hope they don't. -- Ferro and Jeka? I don't see it -- not from this issue anyway.
From: New York, NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad: SHIKARI: I liked her as the comforting friend cradling Sensor on page nine. I'm not sure if we've seen her demonstrate emotion physically before?
Page 17... I trust that a fully aware Lyle Norg wouldn't be so easy to take down. I like 'Kari and her battle-competence, but I think Lyle shouldn't be such an easy target.
Shikari's personality is furthered along quite a bit in ways I had not thought. That she would show this compassion is consistent with the tight social structure of her society but is it consistent with her lonestar status? This shows there are some openings in her personality to be explored, that is good.
Her powers continue to be defined mostly by expansion. Soon, I think they should start to considered the limitations of those powers.
Actually I would consider that Lyle would have been an easy target FOR SHIKARI. His error was in which Legionnaire he chose to attack. This could have as much to do with Universo's unfamiliarity with Shikari, as Lyle's.
quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad:
SENSOR: Poor Jeka-- how much disorientation can one sentient stand?
I suppose the 'deformed' connection between Sensor and Ferro is an obvious one, but still I enjoyed their scene. I'm not sure what it is, but I liked them together. The snake-princess and her knight in frozen armor? I like it, does anyone else?
I love these observations. I like the connection between Jeka and Ferro. It is romantic but not in a love relationship way and reflects back to relationships that were not invested pre-boot.
quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad: FERRO:
I liked her (Sensor's) pose as she looks at him in the panel after he delivers this line without pathos... then immediately and calmly greeting the pashassi-master. I could 'feel' her empathizing... perhaps beginning to view her transformation as not as horrible as she had.
I completely missed this, though it was well drawn. Simply putting that hand across her body gives displays emotions that might be going through her. Still some things that can be developed here.
Is she feeling guilty for feeling sorry for herself?
Is she just feeling bad for Ferro?
Is she just realizing a new way to see herself, without the comparison to someone she feels is "worse off?"
I am MUCH happier with Ferro's depiction, both as written and as drawn. He has shown growth out of some of what were to me obnoxious weeny ways of dealing with himself, but without totally growing up. He's still a kid.
"If you're fond of the way your vertabrae are currently arranged." Glad that he's getting some snappy dialog.
quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad:
How do readers feel about the 3/4 page featuring a group shot with the exposition paragraphs appearing on the first page? Do we want to see this continue- after Dream Crime?
Yes I do, because it gives me a splash. Art is a HUGE reason I buy comics. I like the idea of at least ONE page where the Artist gets total freedom, this would be the page.
quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad: I liked the glimpses of Steeple--
This is magnificent and to my knowledge a very unique creation. Like my comments above about artists being allowed to create, I like the writers to also have that opportunity without slaving to continuity. Creation of new worlds is where they get to do that. Steeple works on SO many levels.
The next arc set-up is working well for me. Any bet Universo learns to regret a few words here? While the manipulated Legionnaire trick is getting old, DnA curved into the mind manipulation by using the Darkseid distraction. In the past he waived an amulet and hey, took over Australia or some such.
Another great mind wrap Todd. Thanks
From: East Toledo | Registered: Jul 2003
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quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad: SHIKARI: Now if we could just see how she'd team-up with Gates...
I wonder if she's put Gates "out of business" - it depends on how many thresholds there are . Could there be some eventual friction there?
Do you need a threshold at each end? Why did Brainiac send a threshold kit to Steeple, with assembly instructions and, one assumes, batteries included? They didn't need one at each end to get to Shangalla, Trom or Winath. And KK and Ferro would have to wait for a Kwai escort wouldn't they? How did Brainiac's robots get through?
I liked the information that there's a grinding sound in the Warp Way. It's the first time we've been inside one - resembles the timestream with the swirling colors.
I liked her as the comforting friend cradling Sensor on page nine. I'm not sure if we've seen her demonstrate emotion physically before?
I don't believe we have - and it's a good sign that Sensor didn't whack her out of the room for that friendly hug.
I LOVED the scenes between 'Kari and the Kid and Andy and Sensor. The pairings were exactly opposite of what I would've predicted... and were all the better for it. Page 10... Shikari and her questions-- she's quite the inquisitive little Legionnaire, isn't she? I like how she subtly/not so subtly digs a bit as she works with various 'new' (to her) Legionnaires. She not only gets exposition in, but serves as a sort of identifying figure/voice for new readers. Superboy was used in a similar way, in eras past. Hmmmm.
Either Brainiac 5 didn't explain to Kari why KK and Ferro were on Steeple, or she's double-checking what he told her, or just making conversation. I wonder why she doesn't have a name for him, like Kicking Legion or something.
Page 17... I trust that a fully aware Lyle Norg wouldn't be so easy to take down. I like 'Kari and her battle-competence, but I think Lyle shouldn't be such an easy target.
Very nice the way she "saw" him behind her and took him out without turning around. But how did Val see Lyle? Did he sense him, hear him or just deduce where he would be? The light that encircles Kari's head and seems to burst from her "third eye" as she's about to "find the way" is a cool visual touch.
SENSOR: Poor Jeka-- how much disorientation can one sentient stand? Good thing 'Kari was there to remind her to 'sprocking use her hands'... though wouldn't those robot arms have accustomed her to the 'limbed lifestyle'? I still think it'd be funny if Jeka decided to wear the robot-arms occasionally... a serpintine/robotic Kali.
Sensor is quite pretty on page eight in the panel where she's projecting her 'old' self-- though shouldn't there be the suggestion of nostrils? Unless she no longer respirates aerobically...
It's a good illustration of how disoriented Sensor was, since she has been using her new hands - in the panic, however, she forgot about them. Interesting that she hasn't protected herself with an illusion of how she used to look, since she seems sensitive about appearing before others. Perhaps she appreciates that illusions are just that and one had better get on with acceptance - or doubts that her illusion will fool the other Legionnaires since they already saw her when Ra's finished "curing" her.
I suppose the 'deformed' connection between Sensor and Ferro is an obvious one, but still I enjoyed their scene. I'm not sure what it is, but I liked them together. The snake-princess and her knight in frozen armor? I like it, does anyone else?
Ferro had a way of looking up to the others, almost like a puppy - a bit too much. But perhaps he'll just develop a genuine admiration for Sensor and even feel that she can relate to him or confide in him since they both suffered from how they look. I'm glad that we saw them together but didn't get hit over the head with the deformed connection. It made sense that KK and Kari would go to examine the threshold, since Kari knows thresholds - so that left, logically, Sensor and Ferro to tend to other tasks.
Page 13 to the end... Sensor is the senior Legionnaire in this little group and makes a decent enough leader. If she had a plan in place for the scenario in which the issue ends, which will be played out next issue, then I'd say she's a darn good one. If not, then at least she shows potential. Once acclimated to her 'new' form (assuming it's a final one...), I wouldn't mind seeing her campaign for Legion Leader and even end up deputy.
She has shown leadership in these last two issues - she could be a contender, especially if she saves the day - or plays a big role. She has already been instrumental in resisting Universo - and we know he will be defeated, don't we?
FERRO: With his first line, I thought maybe the old daredevil Ferro I miss from SW6 Legionnaires (preboot) was back. As the story developed, he isn't... quite. He *does* seem more confident and poised, but doesn't seem out to prove anything, like the Andy of old.
Still a bit quick to play tough, though - a creature arrives, calls you both by name and makes no threatening gestures - and you offer to rearrange her verterbrae? I'm glad to see he got his finger back, though.
It was... odd reading Ferro give Karate Kid battle instructions on the bottom of page 17. Just what have these two been up to the past few months? His lines during this concluding battle do sound the echo of SW6 Ferro... as does his emerging from the fire to knock out Wildfire. (Symbolic, huh?)
I'm very curious about how Ferro'll be handled in the immediate future. DNANB have made a good impression so far.
Very phoenix-like. One would think that KK has been working with him, teaching him some fighting techniques. I would think Ferro would also have some affinity with Wildfire - they're both stuck in their suits. His comment "Some reunion thisturned out to be" sounded like something Wildfire would say.
KARATE KID: Page 18... "I should not talk so much." Tee-hee. I would've liked a longer battle with Triad, in particular. I think there's a lot of potential there that we didn't see. Then again, we shouldn't have... since it's Universo acting through Triad.
Funny that he says he should not talk so much, then starts talking again (with a touch of arrogance - tri-jitsu is a real challenge) - when he's talking, Tinya knocks him out. I guess he'll learn eventually.
Hopefully, next month's cover depicting Karate Kid will have more of Val... unlike this month's cover featuring Dreamer, who didn't really receive focus in this month's story (well- Universo sure focused on her- the creepy monocled lech).
I'm a bit hung up on those covers, still. We have the diagonally-running, mysterious code on #19, 20 and 22 - on this last cover, the code seems to be breaking up? Does this mean Dreamer is affecting it, whatever it is? And what is she looking at? At Karate Kid, who will be on the next cover? Is that her shadow, his shadow or somebody else's? What are those stones, or jewels on her gauntlets, belt and cape clasp? They seem to be glowing. Are they like the torq stones?
How do readers feel about the 3/4 page featuring a group shot with the exposition paragraphs appearing on the first page? My initial reaction was that it was wasted space in a title that needs every panel in every issue. But the art has been quite nice... and this storyline *has* been indicated as one for readers to 'jump aboard'. Do we want to see this continue- after Dream Crime?
I like this, it makes for a nice intro - but I find the font a bit hard to read. What's a telepathic "gestalt" anyways? Does that just mean he's taken over everybody? Everybody together, under his control, is stronger than individuals?
Universo's a nutso. I imagined him singing his opening lines 'and so are you... and you... and you' in a fiendish patter-song surrounded by all those beautiful, blank-faced Legionnaires. I don't take him seriously, yet. Maybe because I don't know what he's after. Is it just the unfettered use of his power?
Universo is a mind-junkie. He wants more, more, more. It may do him in.
His stroking Dreamer's face was creepy--- and effective. I sometimes think that there has to be a bit of a sexual element in the best super-villains. There's certainly one apparent in the Joker... and Doctor Doom... and Magneto. I don't think Universo is near *that* list... but perhaps he could be.
Universo leering at her harkens back to the good girl art of the horror comics - the bound beauty, drooled over by the evil maniac.
I wonder if all male telepaths manifest their power in purple... as Saturn Girl and Shikari have pink power signatures. What color would a gay telepath manifest? Or an alien? I don't associate any particular color with Jeka-- have I missed anything?
I didn't pick up on this color thing at all - interesting idea!
I liked the glimpses of Steeple-- I hope we get to 'visit' it again sometime fairly soon. I enjoyed seeing the 'windsteeds' (forgot their 'official' name from WORLDS...) Now *there's* a potential Leigon of Super Pets member...
The steeds were called Blimp-steeds, not very elegant - but they do look like jellyfish more than horses. I liked the way Val rode one a final time, rather than use his flight ring when he and Kari went to the threshold.
I have to say that the depersonalized Legionnaires as an opposing threat is beginning to get old. On it's own terms, it's used fairly effectively here. But I can't help but think of DAMNED and the Emerald Legion (not to mention Zoe's multiple decharacterizations). Let's not see this plot pattern for a *long* while.
Agreed. This always happens with Universo, and a few other villains (like the Blight).
That said, I'm eager to see the conclusion of this storyline. It seems that Darkseid is waiting in the wings-- which has made 'Dream Crime' somewhat anticlimactic. Perhaps there'll be surprises and 'rock and roll' next issue. I *do* like the way each 'storyline' has progressed into the next one since THE LEGION began. It has flowed quite nicely, for the most part. Again, the success of Dream Crime is going to hinge upon its conclusion.
TN [/QB]
Maybe Cub will save the day. He got left behind on Legion World.
posted
Not too crazy about the arc overall. Lacks the "widescreen" quality it ought to have, given the threat and its scope. But the focus on a small number of characters has been very much worth the tradeoff.
SENSOR: I like the new look and attitude. Finally, she seems like a whole character that's truly divorced enough from her preboot roots that we can accept her fully. (I speak as one who didn't hate the snake but thought they idea was silly and ridiculous nonetheless.
SHIKARI: Another character who faintly evokes a preboot analogue, I very much enjoy every depiction of her powers. So often we superhero fans tend to consider only the "aggressive" powers to be "useful" in a fight. But DNA have soon that Shikari's Wayfinding makes her a better warrior than her claws. "This's the way!"
VAL: I agree that his Zen nature comes through well without platitudes. But what I loved best was his respect given to Triad's master of Trijitsu. Fighting her is not like fighting three people at once; that's not so difficult. No, fighting her is like fighting one person who's in three places at once. Truly a challenge for any opponent, whether it's Val or Ra's al-Ghul. Triad is the only Legionnaire short of XS who could truly contain KK. With his hands full dealing with Lu (while trying not to harm her), it's fully conceivable that he could get sucker-punched out by Apparition, another underrated Legion martial artist.
FERRO: I have been waiting for this issue for nine long years. Ever since the SW6 Ferro became the first casualty of Zero Hour. I nearly cheered when reboot Ferro appeared in Final Night back in 1996 and nearly wept with grief at his near-sacrifice in that series. I groused at the wussifying of the character that continued far longer and deeper than I hoped, and sulked at him being punked by Nadir and written out of the new Legion series indefinitely.
Now he's back and in better form than ever. He's not the deathwishing daredevil of the SW6 Legion nor the sacrificial lamb of preboot. He's not the milquetoast sensitive boy of the reboot. He's a hardened trooper who's had more than his share of disappointments but doesn't let them make him bitter. He's confident without arrogance. He is, in short, the quintessential Legionnaire, and one who just reclaimed his rightful spot as my favorite. Thank U DNA.
And see, this is why I love the reboot, warts, Snakes and all. The small team we saw here are the 4 "new Legionnaires" from wayback -- Karate Kid, Ferro Lad, Princess Projectra (sans the false Nemesis Kid) -- at last shown in a major mission together. Without the reboot, we'd never have seen this. Long may Val, Andy and Jeka live -- far longer than before.
More FERRO thoughts: Stuck in his iron form actually could be a good thing for the team. Usually he's considered extraneous due to being strong but still considerably weaker than the team's true powerhhouses. Plus, he's vulnerable to Braalians (and electricity -- but who isn't?). On the plus side, he probably no longer has to breathe or eat (getting his energy from rest cycles, perhaps) and is thus singularly invulnerable to such biological pressures. Even Monel can't claim that. Cool, no?
-------------------- -- Still here to help.
From: ATL, fool!!! WHAT!!! | Registered: Aug 2003
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posted
Hey, welcome to Legion World, Rurouni. I've always enjoyed your articulate insights, such as:
quote:Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: Fighting her is not like fighting three people at once; that's not so difficult. No, fighting her is like fighting one person who's in three places at once
Very interesting! I never thought of it that way before. It adds a whole new dimension to Triad's power.
As for Ferro, he became one of my favorite postboot characters, too, because he was the "uncool" kid trying to fit into the cool clique. Unfortunately, some creators did make him dumb and wussy. But now that seems to have changed. I liked how he immediately offered himself up as something for Sensor to throw. Previously, he might have hesitated.
-------------------- The Semi-Great Gildersleeve - writing, super-heroes, and this 'n' that
From: The Stasis Zone | Registered: Jul 2003
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quote:Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: On the plus side, he probably no longer has to breathe or eat (getting his energy from rest cycles, perhaps) and is thus singularly invulnerable to such biological pressures. Even Monel can't claim that. Cool, no?
The same can be said for Wildfire. Ferro doesn't seem too distressed by his current condition -- will it get to him eventually or did the monks help him adjust? It'll be interesting to see if these two get along, being trapped in their bodies which separate them from the world somewhat.
From: New York, NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- I would like Shikari's armored look more is she showed more skin like the outfit she had in "LL" -- Her Legion outfit only allows her face and fingers to show her armoring up.
I imagine Shikari's uniform could constantly be changing- at least the armored component. While I wouldn't mind seeing her with a new outfit, she isn't at the top of that list.
quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- While you thought Lyle was taken out a little easily, I thought Karate Kid was. One blow from a brainwashed Apparition? I dunno ... at least Lyle has an excuse since he's under Universo's control.
Though we haven't seen much (if any) of it, I'd have to suppose that the Legionnaires are each others' constant sparring partners. So they'd know the 'weak spots' and the timing in each others' fighting styles. I guess Universo was canny enough to let a little 'muscle memory' flex itself here.
And Apparition might be better off under Universo's control-- no messy marital stuff to distract.
quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- I really like how Batista handled the visuals on Universo throughout.
Agreed.
quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- The Val/ Andy/ Jeka teaming was a nice nod to the past without being obvious.
And I think there's a lot of potential there for the future, too.
quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- Is Shikari under Universo's control now? She didn't need any enhancements to resist him before, so the overloaded do-hickey shouldn't have rendered her susceptable to his influence, I would think.
Except now he's focused tightly upon her.
quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- I don't mind the 3/4 page recaps for this storyline, but I don't expect them to stay, and I kinda hope they don't.
Maybe just for extended arcs? We'll see in 'FOUNDATIONS' in a few months, won't we?
quote:Originally posted by DrakeB3003: -- Ferro and Jeka? I don't see it -- not from this issue anyway.
Well- I didn't mean an honest-to-goodness 'Legion couple' (yet, anyway). More of a jousting knight carrying his lady's 'favor'.
quote:Originally posted by Blockade Boy: Shikari's personality is furthered along quite a bit in ways I had not thought. That she would show this compassion is consistent with the tight social structure of her society but is it consistent with her lonestar status? This shows there are some openings in her personality to be explored, that is good.
Maybe she's just now found people with whom she can share her emotional side- learned from observing her people, but unable to participate because of the 'lonestar' status?
quote:Originally posted by Blockade Boy: Actually I would consider that Lyle would have been an easy target FOR SHIKARI. His error was in which Legionnaire he chose to attack. This could have as much to do with Universo's unfamiliarity with Shikari, as Lyle's.
Maybe so, but I'll bet the Norg will now figure out a way to sneak up on Shikari with impunity-- *if* he remembers once free of Universo's control.
quote:Originally posted by Blockade Boy: I love these observations. I like the connection between Jeka and Ferro. It is romantic but not in a love relationship way and reflects back to relationships that were not invested pre-boot.
Exactly. I think this was my favorite part of the issue.
quote:Originally posted by Blockade Boy: I completely missed this, though it was well drawn. Simply putting that hand across her body gives displays emotions that might be going through her. Still some things that can be developed here.
Is she feeling guilty for feeling sorry for herself?
Is she just feeling bad for Ferro?
Is she just realizing a new way to see herself, without the comparison to someone she feels is "worse off?"
All of the above and more. Her reactions make this transformation readable and keeps me interested. Unlike Zoe's.
quote:Originally posted by Blockade Boy: This is magnificent and to my know ledge a very unique creation. Like my comments above about artists being allowed to create, I like the writers to also have that opportunity without slaving to continuity. Creation of new worlds is where they get to do that. Steeple works on SO many levels.
Yes it does- and I wonder what this new access to the rest of 'society' will mean to this particular world.
quote:Originally posted by Blockade Boy: The next arc set-up is working well for me. Any bet Universo learns to regret a few words here? While the manipulated Legionnaire trick is getting old, DnA curved into the mind manipulation by using the Darkseid distraction. In the past he waived an amulet and hey, took over Australia or some such.
Another great mind wrap Todd. Thanks
Yes, Darkseid's shadow seems to threaten to overwhelm DREAM CRIME. Is this storyline in fact a prologue to darkness?
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: I wonder if she's put Gates "out of business" - it depends on how many thresholds there are . Could there be some eventual friction there?
Maybe one-sided on Gates' part. I think their powers could be used complementarily-- perhaps 'Kari could even help Gates expand his powers a bit. Though he'd be suspicious throughout it all.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Do you need a threshold at each end? Why did Brainiac send a threshold kit to Steeple, with assembly instructions and, one assumes, batteries included? They didn't need one at each end to get to Shangalla, Trom or Winath. And KK and Ferro would have to wait for a Kwai escort wouldn't they? How did Brainiac's robots get through?
Very good point. Perhaps there's some hypnotized Kwai out of view on Titan.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: I liked the information that there's a grinding sound in the Warp Way. It's the first time we've been inside one - resembles the timestream with the swirling colors.
That's what I thought-- and perhaps this adds credence to my wondering about Shikari being able to time travel.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: I don't believe we have - and it's a good sign that Sensor didn't whack her out of the room for that friendly hug.
Yes, Sensor has bigger things to worry about here.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Either Brainiac 5 didn't explain to Kari why KK and Ferro were on Steeple, or she's double-checking what he told her, or just making conversation. I wonder why she doesn't have a name for him, like Kicking Legion or something.
I think her digging-questions might have been how she gets a 'handle' on the Legionnaires-- she has to hear the answers to give a name? And at this point, she hadn't seen Val in action.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Very nice the way she "saw" him behind her and took him out without turning around. But how did Val see Lyle? Did he sense him, hear him or just deduce where he would be? The light that encircles Kari's head and seems to burst from her "third eye" as she's about to "find the way" is a cool visual touch.
Remember, Val can hear heartbeats. I like 'Kari's 'third eye', too-- I sort of wish she had a color signature different from Saturn Girl's, though.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Perhaps she appreciates that illusions are just that and one had better get on with acceptance - or doubts that her illusion will fool the other Legionnaires since they already saw her when Ra's finished "curing" her.
I love your observation about Sensor's valuation of illusion. Nice insight that makes sense.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: She has shown leadership in these last two issues - she could be a contender, especially if she saves the day - or plays a big role. She has already been instrumental in resisting Universo - and we know he will be defeated, don't we?
Do we?
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Still a bit quick to play tough, though - a creature arrives, calls you both by name and makes no threatening gestures - and you offer to rearrange her verterbrae? I'm glad to see he got his finger back, though.
Or was he warning about Val's lethalness? And we *don't* know what's been happening on Steeple in the interim, do we?
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Very phoenix-like. One would think that KK has been working with him, teaching him some fighting techniques. I would think Ferro would also have some affinity with Wildfire - they're both stuck in their suits. His comment "Some reunion thisturned out to be" sounded like something Wildfire would say.
Or Gates or Umbra. Who would've numbered Ferro among those particular personalities?
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Funny that he says he should not talk so much, then starts talking again (with a touch of arrogance - tri-jitsu is a real challenge) - when he's talking, Tinya knocks him out. I guess he'll learn eventually.
I'd rather see Val teaching...
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: I like this, it makes for a nice intro - but I find the font a bit hard to read. What's a telepathic "gestalt" anyways? Does that just mean he's taken over everybody? Everybody together, under his control, is stronger than individuals?
Good enough definition, I think.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Universo is a mind-junkie. He wants more, more, more. It may do him in.
Supervillain comeuppance #124.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: Universo leering at her harkens back to the good girl art of the horror comics - the bound beauty, drooled over by the evil maniac.
But it worked, I thought.
quote:Originally posted by Fat Cramer: The steeds were called Blimp-steeds, not very elegant - but they do look like jellyfish more than horses. I liked the way Val rode one a final time, rather than use his flight ring when he and Kari went to the threshold.
Blimp-steeds. That's right. I quite liked them and found them elegant in their own way. I wish he'd brought one with him, in a way. Though I guess that wouldn't be fair to the creature.
posted
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB] SENSOR: I like the new look and attitude. Finally, she seems like a whole character that's truly divorced enough from her preboot roots that we can accept her fully. (I speak as one who didn't hate the snake but thought they idea was silly and ridiculous nonetheless.[QUOTE]
I liked her more than you did pre-transformation-- but I did and do understand how Sensor might've riled big-time fans of Projectra. Though I'm liking how things are playing out, I still think Sensor's new form a problematic one.
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB] SHIKARI: Another character who faintly evokes a preboot analogue, I very much enjoy every depiction of her powers. So often we superhero fans tend to consider only the "aggressive" powers to be "useful" in a fight. But DNA have soon that Shikari's Wayfinding makes her a better warrior than her claws. "This's the way!"[QUOTE]
Not me-- I love the more 'passive' powers. Element Lad, Invisible Kid, Cosmic Boy, Umbra, Dreamer, Brainy and Sun Boy are my favorite Legionnaires. Five of them would'nt fit the category 'aggressive'.
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB]
VAL: I agree that his Zen nature comes through well without platitudes. But what I loved best was his respect given to Triad's master of Trijitsu. Fighting her is not like fighting three people at once; that's not so difficult. No, fighting her is like fighting one person who's in three places at once. Truly a challenge for any opponent, whether it's Val or Ra's al-Ghul. Triad is the only Legionnaire short of XS who could truly contain KK. With his hands full dealing with Lu (while trying not to harm her), it's fully conceivable that he could get sucker-punched out by Apparition, another underrated Legion martial artist. [QUOTE]
Your summation of Lu's tri-jitsu is perfect. I've visualized her in that way, but never articulated it. Very nice.
Apparition's a martial artist? Who knew?
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB] FERRO: I have been waiting for this issue for nine long years. Ever since the SW6 Ferro became the first casualty of Zero Hour. I nearly cheered when reboot Ferro appeared in Final Night back in 1996 and nearly wept with grief at his near-sacrifice in that series. I groused at the wussifying of the character that continued far longer and deeper than I hoped, and sulked at him being punked by Nadir and written out of the new Legion series indefinitely.[QUOTE]
Good for you-- I really hope you get to enjoy this feeling for a long time.
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB]
Now he's back and in better form than ever. He's not the deathwishing daredevil of the SW6 Legion nor the sacrificial lamb of preboot. He's not the milquetoast sensitive boy of the reboot. He's a hardened trooper who's had more than his share of disappointments but doesn't let them make him bitter. He's confident without arrogance. He is, in short, the quintessential Legionnaire, and one who just reclaimed his rightful spot as my favorite. Thank U DNA.[QUOTE]
Quintessential? Hmmm. Not so sure.
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB] And see, this is why I love the reboot, warts, Snakes and all. The small team we saw here are the 4 "new Legionnaires" from wayback -- Karate Kid, Ferro Lad, Princess Projectra (sans the false Nemesis Kid) -- at last shown in a major mission together. Without the reboot, we'd never have seen this. Long may Val, Andy and Jeka live -- far longer than before.[QUOTE]
With that, I can definitely agree. And add on Lyle, Dirk (and Jan.... )
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rurouni KJS: [QB] More FERRO thoughts: Stuck in his iron form actually could be a good thing for the team. Usually he's considered extraneous due to being strong but still considerably weaker than the team's true powerhhouses. Plus, he's vulnerable to Braalians (and electricity -- but who isn't?). On the plus side, he probably no longer has to breathe or eat (getting his energy from rest cycles, perhaps) and is thus singularly invulnerable to such biological pressures. Even Monel can't claim that. Cool, no? [QUOTE]
Don't know about the breathing/eating. I'll have to dig out that issue with the aliens discussing the possibilites around his surgical reconstruction to check.
I wonder if Zoe and her last dollop of hypertaxic energy might be used on Andy...
quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad: I wonder if Zoe and her last dollop of hypertaxic energy might be used on Andy...[/QB]
I'm wondering something else - Zoe's now the last Terrorform, so we know the charge is finite. I'm wondering how she'll react when she's back to "normal". Remember, she's spent a while (call it a month) in a state where, judging from her stilted dialogue, its very hard to think. When her mind's unclouded, will she revert to how she was before?
-------------------- My views are my own and do not reflect those of everyone else... and I wouldn't have it any other way.
quote:Originally posted by Mystery Lad: [QB] I liked her more than you did pre-transformation-- but I did and do understand how Sensor might've riled big-time fans of Projectra. Though I'm liking how things are playing out, I still think Sensor's new form a problematic one.
Yeah, I didn't exactly dislike Sneckie. In fact, I recall reading 'net messages back in her introduction ranting about "She's a snake!" and wondering why folks couldn't let go of the preboot. When I saw that she was literally a huge snake, I was bemused. She wasn't alien *enough* IMO, *and* she was not Projectra. That was two strikes, but not enough to make me dislike her.
quote: Not me-- I love the more 'passive' powers.
That's cause you "SPECIAL."
quote: Your summation of Lu's tri-jitsu is perfect. I've visualized her in that way, but never articulated it. Very nice.
Thanks. Triad's another one of those "passive powered" type whose true potential goes unnoticed and unused by readers and writers who focus on multi-ton benchpressers, adamantium(inertron?) claws and power blasts of all types as the "cool" powers.
quote:Apparition's a martial artist? Who knew?
As a member of the espionage squad, I thought it was established preboot that Tinya was one of the better fighters. I'm more certain that SW6 Tinya was in fact one of the aces. DNA appear to be taking this tack; consider how authoritatively she took down one of the gangbangers in Legion World #6 -- mere hours from giving birth.
quote:[Ferro the] Quintessential [Legionnaire]? Hmmm. Not so sure. [QUOTE]
Well, aside from the founders, of course, no one could be more dedicated to the Legion cause. They're all he's got. And whether preboot, SW6, or reboot, no other Legionnaire has been as willing to lay his life down for his friends.
Gosh...that's almost Biblical.
[QUOTE]With that, I can definitely agree. And add on Lyle, Dirk (and Jan.... ) [QUOTE]
Will we really get Jan back? I refuse to get my hopes high...but I no longer think his return would destroy the climax of Legion Lost, as long as DNA are the ones to do the resurrection.
(Garth, and Gim, OTOH, should stay dead. They died well.)
[QUOTE]Don't know about the breathing/eating. I'll have to dig out that issue with the aliens discussing the possibilites around his surgical reconstruction to check.
Preboot, Ferro Lad didn't need to eat, but required a coma-like period of sleep instead. For some reason, his costume served as a transuit, so apparently he needed to breathe.
And plus, definitely Wildfire doesn't need food or air. Poo. I guess we may have to wait for Ferro to face off against the next magical threat to see him shine brightest, as Magic is Powerless against Cold Iron.
-------------------- -- Still here to help.
From: ATL, fool!!! WHAT!!! | Registered: Aug 2003
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Glad that he's getting some snappy dialog.
