1. WIZARD – APRIL ’07
The comic book industry has their glossy, all encompassing magazine and it is this one. They tend to have their formula and stick to it, but sometimes they’ll surprise you.
This issue’s strong points:
- LOVED the secret history of Black Lightning. Had no idea the creators were that attached to the guy.
- The article on DC’s Countdown series was solid even though I’m wary of where this format is going.
- Nice little Gerard Butler interview. Aside from the cinematography, he’s what has me waiting for 300.
This issue’s weak points:
- So very tired of pieces on Marvel’s Civil War and how it will change things FOREVER. Mostly old news.
- Sorry, I don’t care about Buffy and where Whedon is taking that story. I’ve already grown tired of his Astonishing X-Men run much less this.
Overall: 6.5 out of 10
2. 
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY #924
Sure, their film reviews are hated by geeks. Yes, they follow trends incessantly. And yes, music coverage is generally an afterthought. But it’s surely the most fun weekly read out there, and they have television on lock. Plus, they’ll surprise with every now and then with a great piece on overlooked entertainment industry plebs like personal assistants and bodyguards. When it’s on, it’s an incredible value. When it’s not…wait a week.
This issue’s strong points:
- Their post-Oscar coverage was a hell of a lot better than the pre-Oscar coverage. Lots of interesting tidbits on the telecast.
- Liked the piece on ABC’s constant new show development. As other networks are sinking into reality/game show Hell, ABC seems to be taking the best chances on new shows even if they kill them unfairly and prematurely like they did with Daybreak.
This issue’s weak points:
- The Oscar picture/fashion coverage is pointless considering how many US Weekly-type mags are devoted solely to this. If you care about this stuff, you’ll buy those anyway, so it’s a waste of space here.
- Aside from that, it’s a much better-than-average issue.
Overall: 7.0 out of 10