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THUNDERBOLTS #1:
Writers: JACKSON LANZING & COLLIN KELLY
Artist: GERALDO BORGES
Colorist: ARTHUR HELSI
Letter: JOE SABINO
Publisher: MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT
“Justice…like Lightning”
It has been the motto of one of Marvel’s most controversial squads. Under the helm of Baron Zemo, the Thunderbolts rose through the ashes of post Onslaught to deceive the people of the Marvel Comics Universe into thinking they were true heroes.
With countless stories since, the team has carved their own spot into the history of Marvel. Now with a brand new incarnation debuting with The Winter Solider at the helm, fans have much to be excited about. Considering the creative team, expect nothing but fireworks from here on out.
That’s why for this monumental occasion, its an N.I. Bullpen joint review with Matt (N.I. Assistant Comics Editor/Hops Geek News and Ken (N.I. Comics EIC/ODPH Podcast) breaking down the first issue of this incredible story.
The Writing:
Matt: Look , there’s a reason the Hivemind are two of the best writers out there and continue to be chosen for Marvels heavy hitting characters. The two bring about the Marvel fun quips along with building a world and excitement for the story at hand. They understand the characters they’re playing with in this world and build upon their lore excellently.
Ken: The Hivemind cook up something special for fans with this first salvo. The unlikely pairing of Bucky and Val works to create instant tension to the dangerous game they’re going to play. Knowing how personal Bucky is making the mission, it gives readers a version of the Winter Soldier that is more locked in to succeed than in recent memory.
The rest of the team creates a strong impression as they enter the playing field. Each makes their marks with big action, driving the story into the final stretch. The closing moments tie up all the action while ending with a haunting message. Rest assured, the Hivemind are setting the stage for one hell of an explosive journey.
The Art:
Matt: Geraldo and Arthur bring a bright element to AJ exciting first issue. The character costume designs stand out to me as old familiar while adding fun new age additions to each of them. I’m excited to see them expand upon each characters costume and the action this series is sure to bring.
Ken: GERALDO. BORGES. NUFF. SAID! Being a big fan of his work in No/One, I knew the action was going to be loud and intense. The art team doesn’t disappoint as each panel continuously raises the bar. The sequences feel big and never a forgettable moment. Even the ones driven by dialogue carry a certain weight with them.
While on their mission, the art team gifts an excellent two page spread to kick the event off in style. The following images reflect the dangerous path the characters have chosen. The resolution comes via a full page shot that feels like it’s right from a Hollywood blockbuster movie. The parting shot is a lasting panel that will only fuel the demand to see where things lead from here.
Overall Thoughts:
Matt: This serves as a prequel of a larger story that is upon the horizon. Each character gets a fantastic introduction into the story while teasing more to add. Bucky being the leader makes sense and his beef with Red Skull is promising to be a fun ride until the end. I’m very optimistic about where this story is headed.
9/10 Cigars
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Ken: With the legacy of reformed villains doing heroic acts, the creative team behind this new series aim for the stars with an ambitious mission. The Hivemind creates a new stat quo for the team with its’ superb writing. Fueling this assault is the dynamic art of Geraldo Borges and the team, which bring excitement to each panel of the story. Buckle in for an explosive journey of action and espionage!