Just got a copy of the 14th issue, which ties up to Marvel's mega-event SECRET INVASION, and like the past 13 issues and an annual, it's mind blowingly brilliant!

I've been saying it this past year and I'm gonna say it again - Avengers: The Initiative is more an Avengers book than the New, the Mighty or the NEW New Avengers are. Probably the only good thing to come out of the Civil War.

Short premise: The Initiative takes place after the Super-hero Registration Act is enforced and the super-powers now have Camp Hammond to train would-be heroes, as well as formerly-introduced heroes with the intent of placing them on 50 teams covering all 50 states.

Some fans liken the series to DC's Legion of Superheroes considering its large (and expanding) cast. Speaking of the cast, Slott and Gage does a good job of maintaining the diversity of their characters - both old and new. Aside from introducing new characters (Cloud 9, Hardball, Komodo, Trauma) into the Marvel universe in the initial story arcs, which comprise about 12 issues and an annual, the series also delves into Marvel's half-a-century worth of stories, plucking both obscure (Gargoyle, Bengal) and widely-popular-but-underused (Constrictor, Taskmaster) characters, and giving each enough time in the spotlight for fans to care for them. AM I RIGHT, BUTTERBALL FANS?

My only gripe is that there isn't enough emphasis on the Camp Hammond staff who ARE genuine Avengers of the old guard. Would love to see more of Tigra, Hellcat and Stingray. Although, I did pick up the title back when it was announced as a 6-part mini-series because of War Machine who hadn't seen light in any Avengers title since the Heroes Returned way back in 1998.

Art is better in Casselli's hands than in part-timer Steve Uy's, I'd have to say.

Haven't seen the movie myself.
Will see it tonight (May 22) with a lot of friends.

To those who have seen it, gimme your ratings!

*Will update my rating when I do see it!

Need this for Fandom Live's review on Iron Man,
Sorry, quick post. Will add to this later.

Meanwhile, for those of you who've seen it, rate it and lemme know what you think of the movie!

Watch the special Iron Man episode of Fandom Live:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/377054