Welcome back to another edition of Fantastic Five, where we shout out the very best comics of the week! This week was a week of new beginnings, as every issue in the top five was a #1. Let’s get to the books!
The best comics of the week of December 11, 2024
#5: Alien: Paradiso #1
Yes, there’s a lot going on in this first issue and not much in the way of full-on Xenomorph action aside from the opening and the cliffhanger, but this is still a compelling opening chapter. The stakes have been established for both the alien threat and the criminal element going on in the background, and I’ve already taken a liking to some of the characters. I’m excited to read more of this, which feels like a new type of Alien story from Marvel. It’s like Aliens crossed with The White Lotus with just a dash of Casino Royale, and all of those ingredients working together should no doubt produce something special as this miniseries unfolds.
Read Nathan Simmons’ full review!
#4: EC Shiver SuspenStories #1
Shiver SuspenStories #1 is a merry little massacre, combining nostalgic EC Comics vibes with fresh takes that are perfect for horror lovers. Whether you’re cozy by the fire or hiding from Krampus in the shadows, this anthology is a must-read.
Read David Brooke’s full review!
#3: Doll Parts: A Lovesick Tale #1
Doll Parts: A Lovesick Tale #1 is another Luana Vecchio masterpiece, filled with existential dread and real-world horrors all wrapped in magnificent artwork.
Read Kevin Clark’s full review!
#2: Laura Kinney: Wolverine #1
Laura Kinney: Wolverine #1 gives its heroine a new mission, while also providing all of the action, blood and adrenaline you’d expect from a Wolverine book. Judging from the final page, the creative team only intends to keep up this level of energy which means it’ll probably be one of the X-Books to watch out for.
Read Collier Jennings’ full review!
#1: Batman: Dark Patterns #1
Batman: Dark Patterns #1 is a stellar kickoff to a promising maxiseries, blending intense detective work, fresh character dynamics, and haunting visuals to captivate fans of the Dark Knight. Though it lacks an iconic foe, the introduction of a chilling new villain and a grounded, early-years Batman make this an unmissable start for any Batman enthusiast.
