It appears you guys have a soft spot for violence because this is now an ongoing feature! But please don't worry, that doesn't make you twisted. We're all suckers for super powered characters in ridiculous costumes beating each other up. Another week of new comics means a whole new set of battles for us to enjoy and there were definitely some good ones on Wednesday.
I know it's tough to believe, but I'm only one man. As much as I'd love to read every new release, I simply don't have the cash for it. I'll do my best at my local shop to flip through the titles I'm not picking up, but ultimately I'm sure some will fly under my radar or one you love might not make my top 3. This means you're more than welcome to share your 3 favorites in the comments section and explain why you had a blast reading them.
There may be some minor spoilers below, so beware. Let's kick-off with my personal favorite, bros and broettes.
Hawkeye #2
A Hawkeye comic simply wouldn't be complete without some amazing accuracy feats, and Matt Fraction's second issue does not disappoint. The Avenger teams up with the young Kate Bishop to stop a group of thieves. Clint, despite training from Captain America and getting hand-to-hand praise from Iron Fist (while he was dressed as Ronin), doesn't have more than a handful of decent unarmed showings. This is especially disappointing for Barton fans seeing as he's appeared in over 2,000 issues. Unfortunately, this isn't an issue where they'll want to make scans of his unarmed abilities. Sure, he slugs a guy or two in the face, but in the end he's taken down by fodder. This is something the likes of Daredevil or even Moon Knight would have effortlessly cleaned up. Not exactly a shining moment for our hero. Thankfully, Hawkeye Jr. saves the day with a brutal shot to the neck, perfectly complimented by David Aja's unique style of art.
Kate's 15 minutes of fame was far from over, though. After fleeing from some gunfire, she takes aim and releases 3 arrows simultaneously. Each arrow meets its target: a soft and squishy eyeball. The bottom panel here is sure to hold a permanent spot in your memory.
It's cool seeing Kate take charge and all, but this is Clint's book, so is there anything that would make Jeremy Renner proud? You bet there is. Check out this trick shot Clint pulls with his final arrow. Ouch.
Only 2 issues in and Hawkeye is absolutely one of Marvel's top titles. Now that the accurate archer has upset the likes of Kingpin and Tombstone, you can bet there's going to be plenty of excellent battles to come.
Action Comics #0
It's amazing how clothing can completely change your attitude. A nice suit can boost your confidence, and in this case, a cape can make you turn into a true hero. Unfortunately, abuse in homes is something all too common in this world. Writer Grant Morrison paints a dark picture of a family tormented by a drunk and violent boyfriend or father (it wasn't specified). The children and mother cower, helpless before his cruelty. However, little Luke, covered from neck to toe in Kal-El's cape (simply adorable), has had his fill of this. Enough is enough, and the cape gave him the courage he needed to overcome the tragic scenario. The scumbag pulls a knife on the brave child, but we quickly learn this is no ordinary cape. Baffled, Luke gives the chump a long overdue gut punch.
The only thing that would have made this scene more inspiring was if Luke yelled "Falcon punch!" Way to go, little dude. We're proud of you.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Color Classic #4
The Turtles are used to kicking Foot butt by now in the classic Mirage run (now with 100% more color!), but alien robots is a whole new thing for them. Randomly spotting the TCRI building brought back vivid memories of their origin, so the ninja team decides to investigate. They find Splinter in suspended animation and, as usual, Raphael flips out (dude is in dire need of a chill pill). Luckily for him, a set of Utroms show up and give him an opportunity to vent.
The dialogue is dated and full of cheesiness, but it's the kind of silliness that'll fill you with nostalgia and put a smile on your face. The battle itself is yet another great display of the green heroes in action. They prove too fast and agile for laser blasts, and each use their respective weapon quite well. A sai through the head and a combo with a bo-staff were the standout moments for me.
Honorable mention: Batwing vs Death Jack (Batwing #0)
Viners, what are your picks this week and what did you think of the scenes I selected? Don't be shy, speak up!
Gregg Katzman is a Freelance Writer for Comic Vine and IGN Entertainment. Follow him on Twitter for even more babbling about fictional characters fighting... because he's mature like that.