Zones, Starships and Vikings. 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 affilate 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 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…
The Twilight Zone #1
IDW Publishing
By Dan Watters, Morgan Beem and Sandy Tanaka
Buy from Forbidden Planet – The Twilight Zone #1 (Link)
Return to the Twilight Zone in this all-new anthology series featuring stories by some of the best creators in comics today! Each issue is a new tale in the vein of the iconic original television series that’s captivated audiences for over 60 years. And like the show, these stories will be revealed in terrifying black and white!
THIS ISSUE: Writer Dan Watters (Batman: Dark Patterns, Home Sick Pilots) and artist Morgan Beam (Swamp Thing: Twin Branches) present “Blank.” A terrified citizen regales a detective with a story about people suddenly frozen like statues. A once-bustling metropolis becomes quieter by the minute as people are replaced by featureless versions of themselves. Where one would have found hopes, laughter, tears, and struggles, one can now only find BLANKS… here in The Twilight Zone.
IDW Publishing’s The Twilight Zone #1 is a sharp, unsettling debut that honours Rod Serling’s legacy while feeling urgently modern. Written by Dan Watters and illustrated by Morgan Beem, the issue—titled “Blanks”—dives into themes of hubris and the dangers of unchecked ambition, focusing on a billionaire’s quest for immortality. The story’s moral tension and eerie atmosphere echo the original series, with the black-and-white art style evoking the classic TV aesthetic. Beem’s visuals, featuring subtly unnatural character designs and tense layouts, amplify the unease and even deliver a rare comic book jump scare. Overall, this is a strong reintroduction to The Twilight Zone, blending nostalgia with fresh, thought-provoking storytelling. Keep an eye out for the absolutely stunning variant cover by Francesco Francavilla.
Universal Monsters: The Invisible Man #2
Image Comics/Skybound
By James Tynion IV, Dani, Becca Carey and Brad Simpson
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Universal Monsters: The Invisible Man #2 (Link)
Jack Griffin’s ambitions will not be limited by the small minds of his rivals. So now he must strike back…
Universal Monsters: The Invisible Man #2 from Image Comics and Skybound continues its chilling exploration of Jack Griffin’s unraveling psyche. Writer James Tynion IV and artist Dani deliver a masterclass in psychological horror, focusing on Griffin’s growing paranoia and cruelty as he spirals further into madness. The issue excels at character study, with Dani’s stark, rustic visuals capturing Jack’s disturbing detachment and the innocence of those around him. This issue cements the series as a standout in modern horror comics, blending classic monster lore with a deeply unsettling, slow-burn approach.
Viking Moon #1
Image Comics
By Joe Pruett and Marcelo Frusin
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Viking Moon #1 (Link)
In 1003, Leif Erikson established a Viking settlement in Vneland (present day Newfoundland), a strange new world of plenty but populated by an indigenous people and something else… something UNNATURAL. Twenty years after the original expedition ended in disaster, a new attempt to settle this wilderness is made. Ulf and his hardened tribe of Vikings soon discover that the whisper of creatures who are both human and beast are not primitive legend, but death-bringing reality.
VIKINGS versus WEREWOLVES! The real reason the Vikings fled North America! A tale of blood-curdling horror and barbaric adventure from Eisner Award winner Joe Pruett (Voices In My Head, Cable, Domino) and legendary artist Marcelo Frusin (Hellblazer, Loveless, Kick-Ass: The New Girl).
Viking Moon #1 from Image Comics is a brutal, atmospheric debut that delivers exactly what it promises: Vikings versus werewolves in a blood-soaked clash for survival. Writer Joe Pruett and artist Marcelo Frusin set the stage in 1023 Newfoundland, where Ulf and his tribe attempt to settle a new land, only to discover that the real threat isn’t the indigenous people, but the supernatural predators lurking in the shadows. The story wastes no time plunging readers into savage battles, with Frusin’s art capturing both the raw violence of Viking combat and the terrifying menace of the werewolves. The blending historical adventure with horror works in a way that feels fresh and exciting. Fans of both genres will find plenty to enjoy in this gory, action-packed opener.
Star Trek: The Last Starship #1
IDW Publishing
By Jackson Lanzing, Collin Kelly, Adrián Bonilla and Heather Moore
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Star Trek: The Last Starship #1 (Link)
The Federation has fallen. Hope is fading. One last starship remains to fight for the future… unless a resurrected James T. Kirk dooms it first.
Fresh off the run Screen Rant calls one of “the greatest eras in the history of Star Trek comics,” writers Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly along with rising star and artist Adrián Bonilla (Alkaios, Let Her Be Evil), now bring you a new mission the likes of which comics have never seen before.
For seven centuries, the United Federation of Planets brought together the entire Galaxy with peace, stability, enlightenment, and the promise of mutual protection. And then, in one terrible moment, it all crumbled in an event known as THE BURN, a Galaxy-wide disastrous event in which dilithium has gone inert, causing the detonation of every active warp core. The only ship remaining is a hack-and-slash Enterprise-Omega and its ragtag crew. Facing a true Wild West in space, the crew will need to make use of what few resources they have to uphold Starfleet’s mission of unity across the universe… and Captain Kirk will have to face a future without the Federation he loved so dearly…
Star Trek: The Last Starship #1 from IDW Publishing is a bold, thrilling reinvention of the franchise, taking the Federation into uncharted, darker territory. Set hundreds of years after familiar Trek history, the story introduces a fractured galaxy where only one Federation ship remains, and peace is a distant memory. Writers Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing craft a gripping narrative, balancing rich world building with tense ideological debates as Captain Sato and a diverse crew struggle to uphold Starfleet’s ideals in a universe now ruled by conflict.
The return of Captain Kirk is handled with care, adding excitement without undermining his legacy. Adrian Bonilla’s gritty, atmospheric art perfectly matches the story’s raw tone, blending shadowy interiors with awe-inspiring space visuals. The issue mixes classic Trek elements—like the Borg and Klingons—with fresh threats, making it accessible for new readers and rewarding for longtime fans. It’s essential reading for anyone craving a daring new direction for Star Trek.
Orphan and the Five Beasts: Bath of Blood #1
Dark Horse Comics
By James Stokoe
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Orphan and the Five Beasts: Bath of Blood #1 (Link)
The returning kung-fu epic from James Stokoe, the creator behind Orc Stain and Aliens: Dead Orbit!
Orphan Mo is back! After having dispatched two of the five Beasts tasked to her by her late master, the hunt begins for the third. But, Mo isn’t the only one following the trail, as a whole new cast of eccentric and dangerous players arrive to join the fray.
Orphan and the Five Beasts: Bath of Blood #1 from Dark Horse Comics is a kinetic return to James Stokoe’s wild kung-fu epic. Picking up with Orphan Mo after she’s dispatched two of the titular Beasts, this issue launches her on the hunt for the third, but she’s not alone—new, eccentric, and dangerous rivals join the fray, raising the stakes and the body count. Stokoe’s art is as dazzling and hyper-detailed as ever, channeling the energy of Shaw Brothers martial arts classics with a modern, grotesque twist. The action is relentless, the character designs are inventive, and the world feels both mythic and lived-in. Fans of martial arts, fantasy, and Stokoe’s previous work will find this a bloody, exhilarating ride.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: The Sword of Flaws #1
Dark Horse Comics
By Tim Seeley, Freddie E. Williams II, Andrew Dalhouse and AndWorld Design
Buy from Forbidden Planet – He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: The Sword of Flaws #1 (Link)
A legion of Heroic Warriors protects the magical realm known as ETERNIA. They are led by TEELA: Captain of the Royal Guard, MAN-AT-ARMS: weapons master and combat instructor, and the powerful and heroic HE-MAN. These heroes, known as the MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE, keep threats like the evil Skeletor and his minions at bay. But when an ancient and evil artifact is unearthed from the depths, the Masters of the Universe will have to scour the land in search of this Preternian power… or risk it falling into the hands of their greatest enemies.
From New York Times bestselling writer Tim Seeley and Eisner Award-winning artist Freddie E. Williams II comes an all-new He-Man series firmly rooted in the classic world of Masters of the Universe.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: The Sword of Flaws #1 from Dark Horse Comics is a triumphant return to Eternia, blending classic nostalgia with fresh stakes. Williams’ art is dynamic and bold, capturing both the grandeur of the setting and the intensity of the action, whilst Seeley’s script balances character moments with high-stakes drama, making this a must-read for fans old and new. It’s a strong, energetic start to a promising new chapter in the Masters of the Universe saga.
Toxie Team-Up #4
Ahoy Comics
By Tom Peyer and Jamal Igle
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Toxie Team-Up #4 (Link)
Teaming AHOY’s Toxic sensation with the heroes of the critically acclaimed THE WRONG EARTH, in an all-new story by the Wrong Earth creative team! With his sidekick away on a Young Pioneer retreat, Dragonflyman recruits a new partner-in-peril: the Toxic Avenger! Together they face the psychotropic villainy of art criminal King Rembrandt—and a police riot!
Toxie Team-Up #4 from Ahoy Comics is a riotous, inventive crossover that pairs the Toxic Avenger with Dragonflyman from The Wrong Earth in a story bursting with energy and wit. Writer Tom Peyer’s script is sharp and playful, blending superhero satire with the irreverent, gross-out humour that makes Toxie a cult favorite. Jamal Igle’s art captures both the absurdity and action, delivering expressive characters and dynamic layouts that keep the pace brisk and the tone light. The issue stands out for its clever mash-up of worlds, poking fun at comic book conventions while delivering genuine thrills. Fans of either series—or anyone who loves offbeat superhero adventures—will find this a hilarious, action-packed highlight in the Toxie Team-Up run.
Batman / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures TP
IDW Publishing
By Matthew K. Manning, Jon Sommariva, Sean Parsons, Shawn Lee, Leonardo Ito, John Rauch and Matt Herms
Buy from Forbidden Planet – Batman / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures TP (Link)
The animated worlds of the current Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Nickelodeon cartoon and Batman: The Animated Series collide in this outstanding mini-series featuring fan-favorite characters from both universes! Villains start to mysteriously escape Arkham and Batman seeks to track them down, but he discovers that they have left Gotham completely… and gone to the New York City of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
‘Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures is the most fun you’ll have reading a comic book
The first Batman: The Animated Series new material since 2004 when The Batman Adventures concluded.
‘If you like the animated Batman and Ninja Turtles series, this is the book for you. It’s great for all-ages, an easy introduction to both universes, and overall just a fun time.’ – Batman-news.com
Batman / Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Trade Paperback from IDW Publishing is a joyful, action-packed crossover that perfectly blends the worlds of Batman: The Animated Series and the Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon. Written by Matthew K. Manning with vibrant art by Jon Sommariva, the story kicks off when villains begin escaping Arkham Asylum and Batman’s pursuit leads him straight to New York City—home of the Turtles.
The miniseries is filled with fan service, featuring iconic villains like Joker, Harley Quinn, Shredder, and more, while capturing the humour and heart of both franchises. The artwork is colourful and dynamic, matching the tone of the animated shows and making every fight scene pop. Manning’s script balances witty banter, clever team-ups, and genuine character moments, making it accessible for younger readers but nostalgic fun for longtime fans. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves either universe or just wants a fun, energetic superhero adventure.
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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