Action, Aliens and Mumm-Ra. Welcome to Wednesday Comics. Each week, we will highlight our Comic of the Week, along with other notable releases, classic favourites, and industry news. Please note the links to Forbidden Planet are not affiliate links, and we receive no revenue from them. They are provided as an alternative if you don’t have access to a local comic shop. You can also pick up most of these books digitally from a number of online sources.
If you want to send any comics for review or details of any comic related events we should feature, feel free to reach out to me at keith@geekybrummie.com or comics@geekybrummie.com
Now on with the comics…
Action 50th Anniversary Special
REBELLION · 2000AD
By Garth Ennis, John Higgins, Steve White, Staz Johnson, Mike Dorey, Rob Williams and Patrick Goddard
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Action 50th Anniversary Special (Link)
Before 2000AD there was Action!
Action was always ahead of the curve… and sometimes pushed its luck just a bit too far. Celebrating 50 years since the first issue of the original series which inspired readers across the country, we’re publishing an all-new oversized Special which brings back all the shock and awe of the original series!
Featuring a powerhouse lineup of writers and artists including Garth Ennis, Rob Williams, John Higgins, Staz Johnson and more, Action presents a brutal lineup of its heaviest hitters. Hook Jaw the killer shark takes on a gang of international drug-dealers; no-nonsense cop Dredger seeks vengeance against the men who killed his partner; and footballer Kenny “Lefty” Lampton has a memorable meeting with the King of England. Action is back, and more controversial than ever!
This Anniversary Special lands like a controlled detonation—fierce, unapologetic, and true to the DNA of the original Action comic, the once‑infamous 1976 title that terrified tabloids and reshaped British comics. This new special channels that outlaw energy as a host of contemporary talent resurrect the brutal worlds of Hook Jaw, Dredger, Hellmann and Lefty Lampton. It feels less like nostalgia and more like a reclamation of rebellion itself, proving that Action’s legacy of provocation still bites.
Resident Alien: One More for the Road #1
DARK HORSE COMICS
By Peter Hogan and Steve Parkhouse
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Resident Alien: One More for the Road #1 (Link)
Former federal agent Jones and the alien representatives from Harry’s home planet are inviting nations beyond the U.S. to work with them in helping Earth join the Circle of Worlds.
Meanwhile in Patience, Harry covers for Ethan at the clinic, but danger is closing in. Will Harry’s secret finally be revealed? Find out in this one-shot finale, as Hogan and Parkhouse’s hit sci-fi series comes to a close!
One More for the Road is a gentle, bittersweet farewell to one of Dark Horse’s most quietly affecting series. Hogan and Parkhouse guide Harry Vanderspeigle toward a final chapter that balances mystery, warmth, and the reflective tone that has defined the title since 2012. This one‑shot is a last visit to Patience—familiar faces, lingering secrets, and Harry’s ongoing search for belonging all converge with understated emotional weight. An emotional story and expressive art gives the finale its tender resonance, making this closing story a thoughtful, dignified send‑off to a truly singular comic.
Mumm-Ra the Ever-Living #1
DYNAMITE
By Declan Shalvey, Rapha Lobosco, Roshan Kurichiyanil and Jeff Eckleberry
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Mumm-Ra the Ever-Living #1 (Link)
THE SECRETS OF MUMM-RA REVEALED! Mumm-Ra the Ever-Living has been a sinister enigma to the ThunderCats ever since they first set foot on Third Earth. Now, in the second chapter of author DECLAN SHALVEY’s epic 15-part ThunderCats X SilverHawks crossover event, the infamous devil-priest’s ancient and tortured history will finally be unveiled!
It all begins in a pyramid — but not the sinister black fortress that haunts Lion-O’s dreams. This is Earth during the reign of the pharaohs, and for one nameless slave a chance discovery and a selfish act of cruelty will open a pathway to both freedom and power — for a price!
Written by Shalvey and illustrated by acclaimed ThunderCats Lost artist RAPHA LOBOSCO, Mumm-Ra the Ever-Living #1 takes a deep dive into one of pop culture’s greatest villains — enhanced by appropriately atmospheric covers from SHALVEY, DANNY EARLS, JOHN AMOR, and ERICA D’URSO, as well as a special piece of classic ANIMATION ART. This debut issue also features three spectacular incentive editions, including an original cover from Shalvey, a special Mumm-Ra portrait from the WBD Library, and an autographed edition of Shalvey’s main cover signed by ThunderCats original series voice actor LARRY KENNEY!
Mumm‑Ra the Ever‑Living erupts with dark, mythic energy as Shalvey and company reforge one of the most iconic villains in 80s animation. This debut issue leans into ancient horror and cosmic ambition, exploring Mumm‑Ra’s rise with a tone that’s equal parts operatic and sinister. It’s a bold, atmospheric reintroduction that promises a darker, more expansive vision of Third Earth.
The Toxic Crusaders #5
AHOY COMICS
By Matt Bors, Tristan Wright, Lee Loughridge and Rob Steen
Buy from Forbidden Planet – The Toxic Crusaders #5 (Link)
EPIC CONCLUSION, from Toxie master Matt Bors and new art sensation Tristan Wright! When the Smogulans launch their siege of Earth in Tromaville, the Toxic Crusaders will need all the snot NoZone can make, Fungirl can infect, and Major Disaster can throw! SPLAT!
The Toxic Crusaders keeps this gloriously messy revival humming with sharp satire and radioactive charm. This issue pushes the eco‑mutant mayhem to new extremes as the team faces corporate corruption, toxic sludge, and their own dysfunctional dynamics. Blending slapstick absurdity with pointed commentary, this promises a chaotic, clever, and surprisingly heartfelt continuation of a series that embraces its Troma roots while carving out its own comedic identity.
Gatchaman #17
MAD CAVE STUDIOS
By Sam Humphries, Chris Batista, Carlos Lopez and Buddy Beaudoin
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Gatchaman #17 (Link)
A NEW ARC BEGINS! An alien signal in Antarctica ignites a brutal battle with Galactor and the arrival of the Phantom Ascendency—evolved scientists whose towering Spire promises salvation, power, and a future the Science Ninja Team may not be able to stop. The future of the world changes forever in this bold new chapter of Gatchaman.
Gatchaman #17 launches a fresh story arc with a burst of urgency and style, throwing the Science Ninja Team into a new phase of danger that immediately raises the stakes. As the mission shifts, tensions flare and trust is tested, giving this arc a sharp emotional edge alongside its fast, cinematic action. Bold visuals and striking colours heighten the sense of momentum, making each moment feel like the start of something bigger. This issue sets the tone for an arc that promises escalating threats, deeper character conflict, and a renewed sense of purpose.
The Complete 2000 AD by Alan Moore Vol. 1: Future Shocks & Other Stories HC
REBELLION · 2000AD
By Alan Moore, Dave Gibbons, Alan Davis, John Higgins, Bryan Talbot, Brett Ewins, Ian Gibson, Eric Bradbury, Dave Harwood, Tom Frame, Joe Eckers, Steve Dillon, Ron Tiner, Robin Smith, Paul Neary, Jesus Redondo, Jose Casanovas, Alan Langford, Boluda, Brendan McCarthy, Garry Leach, Jim Eldridge, John Cooper, John Richardson and Mike White
Buy from Forbidden Planet – The Complete 2000 AD by Alan Moore Vol. 1: Future Shocks & Other Stories HC (Link)
Alan Moore is a legendary comics writer credited with transforming the medium and how it was seen through his seminal works such as V For Vendetta, From Hell and, of course, Watchmen.
But, before any of that, he cut his teeth at 2000 AD, the “galaxy’s greatest comic”. It was there that Moore honed his craft in preparation for the accolades that would follow.
This first volume in a new series collecting all of Alan Moore’s work for 2000 AD, brings together all of his Future Shocks as well as a host of other one-off stories.
Moore is a master of the short-format story and this collection doubles as the perfect guide for how to write comics to a page limit.
Includes the story “A Holiday In Hell” which has never been reprinted in English since its first publication in 1980.
Moore’s stories are complemented by the works of a string of legendary artists including Dave Gibbons (Watchmen), Ian Gibson (The Ballad of Halo Jones), Eric Bradbury (Rogue Trooper), Bryan Talbot (Grandville), Steve Dillon (Preacher), Brett Ewins (Bad Company) and more.
The Complete 2000 AD by Alan Moore Vol. 1: Future Shocks & Other Stories is a time capsule of raw creative voltage, capturing the moment when a young writer reshaped British comics from the inside out. This collection gathers his sharp, subversive early work for 2000AD, where twist‑driven sci‑fi shorts became a proving ground for ideas that would later redefine the medium. The volume highlights the anarchic spirit of the era—fast, clever, and unafraid to punch upwards.
Across these stories, the artistry is just as electric. A powerhouse roster of collaborators brings each tale to life with styles ranging from gritty futurism to surreal humour, showcasing the visual experimentation that made 2000AD a creative engine. This beautifully put together hardcover promises not just a retrospective, but a vivid reminder of how boundary‑breaking these early pieces remain.
Your Local Comics Shops
Britain has some of the best comics shops in the world. This updated lists features just a few of the shops you can pop in to for your geek fix. Check out you own local shops and if they don’t appear on this list let me know and we can add them.
WORLDS APART BIRMINGHAM (part of FPI)
Birmingham’s premier comic book store and Pokestop.
Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 09:30 – 17:00
Wednesday, Friday: 09:30 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:30 – 18:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00
14-16 Smallbrook Queensway, Birmingham B5 4EN Tel: 0121 643 0143
Website: Forbidden Planet International and Twitter: @WorldsApart_Bir
FORBIDDEN PLANET (BIRMINGHAM)
Graphic novel/comic store with merchandise & T-shirts, plus character figures & toys.
Monday to Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00
74 Bull St, Birmingham B4 6AD Tel: 0121 236 3026
Website: Forbidden Planet and Twitter: @ForbiddenPlanet
GOSH! COMICS (LONDON)
A mean little comics shop in the heart of London.
Open Daily: 10:30 – 19.00
1 Berwick St, London W1F 0DR Tel: 0207 437 0187
Website: Gosh! Comics and Twitter: @GoshComics
OK COMICS (LEEDS)
Twenty Year Old, Eisner Award Nominated Comic Book Shop in the beating heart of Leeds City Centre, UK.
Open Monday to Saturday: 11.00 – 17.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 15.00
19 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LQ Tel: 0113 246 9366
Website: OK Comics and Twitter: @OKComics
PAGE 45 (NOTTINGHAM)
UK Comic Shop created & curated since 1994 by Stephen Holland, Comics Laureate 2021-23.
Open Monday to Saturday: 09.00 – 18.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 16.00
Closed on Bank Holiday Mondays, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
9 Market St, Nottingham NG1 6HY Tel: (0115) 9508045
Website: Page 45 and Twitter: @PageFortyFive
TRAVELLING MAN (VARIOUS)
Travelling Man Is The UK’s Friendliest Comic & Games Shop Since 1991. Shop Online Now! Explore The Rich Genres & Worlds That Games, Comics & Independent Press Have To Offer. Since 1991.
Open Monday to Saturday: 10.00 – 18.00
Sunday: 11.00 -17.00
LEEDS
32 Central Road, Leeds LS1 6DE Tel: 0113 245 0822
YORK
74 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF Tel: 01904628787
NEWCASTLE
43 Grainger Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 5JE Tel: 0191 261 4993
MANCHESTER
4 Dale Street, Manchester M1 1JW Tel: 0161 237 1877
Website: Travelling Man and Twitter: @TravellingManUK
MEGA CITY COMICS (LONDON)
Mega City Comics, was established in 1981, initially as a mail-order business, supplying comics, graphic novels, and collecting supplies. After 6 years of mail-order and trading through the comic marts, we opened our shop in Camden Town in 1987.
Open Monday to Friday: 11.00 -18.00
Saturday: 10.30 – 18.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 18.00
18 Inverness Street, Camden Town, London NW1 7HJ Tel: 020 7485 9320
Website: Mega City Comics and Twitter: @MegaCityComics
MEGA CITY COMICS LIVES
Mega City Comics was aquired by Forbidden Planet in February 2025 and will now continue to be one of the best comic shops in the UK.
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS (VARIOUS)
A trio of comic shops in Bedford, Northampton and Peterborough.
BEDFORD
20 Allhallows, Bedford MK40 1LJ Tel: 01234 270777
Open Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 17.30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
NORTHAMPTON
29 Abington Square, Northampton NN1 4AE Tel: 01604 602311
Monday: CLOSED
Open Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:00 – 19.00
Thursday to Friday: 10:00 – 17:30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
PETERBOROUGH
25 Broadway, Peterborough PE1 1SQ Tel: 01733 892827
Monday: CLOSED
Open Tuesday: 10:30 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:30 – 18:00
Thursday to Friday : 10:30 – 17:30
Saturday: 09:30 – 17:30
Sunday: CLOSED
Website: Close Encounters and Twitter: @CEncountersUK
THAT COMIC SHOP (PRESTON)
Retailers of new Comics weekly, Magic the Gathering Card Games, Board Games, Toys, T-Shirts plus loads more.
Monday: CLOSED
Open Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 21:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: CLOSED
116 Friargate, Preston PR1 2EE Tel: 01772 204287
Website: That Comic Shop and Twitter: @ThatComicShop
PARADOX COMICS (DORSET)
Comic book shop in Dorset, dealing in graphic novels, statues, action figures, card games, limited edition comics and more
Monday: Closed
Open Tuesday to Friday: 10:30 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
19 High Street, Poole, Dorset BH15 1AB Tel: 01202 661346
Website: Paradox Comics and Twitter: @ParadoxComicsUK
WAKEFIELD COMICS 616 (WAKEFIELD)
Comic Book Shop in the centre of Wakefield. Stocking the latest comics direct from the US.
Open Monday: 9:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 9:00 – 16:30
Wednesday to Saturday: 9:00 – 17:00
Sunday: CLOSED
3 The Springs, Wakefield West Yorkshire WF1 1PU Tel: 01924 375234
Website: Wakefield Comics 616 and Twitter: @wakeycomics616
COMIC BOOK GUYS (BELFAST)
Comic Book Guys – Northern Ireland’s newest independent comic book store also stocking movie memorabilia, toys & other collectibles… excelsior!
Open Monday to Saturday: 10.00 to 17.00
Sunday: CLOSED
130 Great Victoria Street, Belfast BT2 7BG Tel: 02890 080169
Website: Comic Book Guys and Twitter: @comicbookguysni
RAYGUN COMICS (RICHMOND)
A welcoming and friendly comic book shop. Comics, toys, books, games and merchandise for all ages.
Open Monday to Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00
26 Red Lion Street, Richmond TW9 1RW Tel: 0208 948 8476
Website: Raygun Comics and Twitter: @Raygun_comics
DAVE’S COMCIS (BRIGHTON)
Dave’s Comics, The Graphic Novel Shop.
Open Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:30 – 18:00
Sunday: 11.00 – 17:00
5 Sydney St, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EN Tel: 01273 691012
Website: Dave’s Comics and Twitter: @DavesComics
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