The Stack: Venom, MAD About DC, And More

The Stack episode dives into a wide array of new comic book releases, celebrating standout titles while dissecting their creative choices and emotional impact. The discussion kicks off with Venom 256, where the death of the beloved but controversial character Paul is lauded as a bold, emotionally resonant moment that redefines stakes in superhero storytelling. The hosts praise Al Ewing’s nuanced writing and Carlos Gomez’s art for making Paul’s sacrifice feel earned and tragic. They then shift to Mad About DC, a comedic anthology that pays homage to Mad Magazine with sharp satire on DC continuity, fan culture, and superhero tropes, with particular praise for Kyle Starks’ hilarious take on second-tier heroes. The episode continues with a mix of genre experiments: a fresh, noir-inspired Daredevil with a law professor Matt Murdock, a poker-playing psychic twin saga in Royals, and a surprisingly grounded Bizarro Year One that feels like a pilot episode. Wonder Man’s Hollywood noir take, Deadpool’s April Fool’s Day meta-comedy, and the emotionally devastating The Sacrificers conclude the review round-up with powerful storytelling and bold artistic choices. The episode ends on a reflective note, questioning the future of the Eternals and celebrating the unique tonal risks taken across the board.