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The Atom Project #1 dives into DC’s most unpredictable and volatile power source—the atom—crafting a story filled with intrigue, danger, and scientific ambition. Written by Oscar-winning storyteller John Ridley and Rogue Sun co-creator Ryan Parrott, this debut issue promises an atomic-fueled thriller with ramifications for the DC Universe. But does it deliver on its explosive potential? Our Editor in Chief Ken and Marty are here to break down this new #1 from DC!
Creative Team: Ryan Parrott and John Ridley (Writers), Mike Perkins (Artist), Adriano Lucas (Colorist), Wes Abbott (Letters)
The Writing:
Marty:
Ridley and Parrott aim high with an intricate narrative, blending heavy exposition with world-building. While this level of depth may appeal to long-time DC fans, new readers might find the issue daunting. The abundance of dialogue slows the pacing, making this debut feel less like an action-packed thrill ride and more like a dense textbook on DC lore.
However, the core concept—the redistribution of powers and the Justice League’s role in ensuring order—is undeniably compelling. Captain Atom emerges as the enigmatic lynchpin, but his portrayal feels muddled. His internal monologue (or possible off-panel conversations) creates confusion rather than intrigue, making it hard to connect with his character.
Despite these drawbacks, the issue sets up potential for future installments to explore the moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding superpower allocation—a premise with plenty of promise.
Ken:
This story has a very interesting concept at its’ core. Knowing what Waller’s actions have done, there are still lingering effects to be had on the DCU. Pitting Palmer and Choi as the main protagonists is a big win. Their partnership provides many scientific aspects with the occasional one-liners mixed it. It provides a solid counter to Nathaniel Adam aka Captain Atom.
Adam’s stance leads into a few directions. The time jump leaves many questions as to what’s happened. Being the first issue, there is plenty of groundwork to be set. Readers get a hefty fill of build-up on the project. Knowing the writers previous work, its safe to say there will be a solid pay-off. Judging by the final page, the fireworks look to be lit and ready to pop. There is a great deal of promise to be had here.
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The Art, Colors and Letters:
Marty:
Mike Perkins’ art elevates the story, using shadow and depth to create immersive, dynamic visuals. Action scenes, particularly explosions, radiate intensity and a sense of three-dimensional space. The detail in underwater perspectives and outer space landscapes adds variety and richness to the book’s aesthetic.
Adriano Lucas’ color work shines, blending bright but soft tones that enhance the overall mood. Explosions and energy surges feature beautifully blurred transitions, using layered shades to add emotion and vibrancy. The visual cohesion between art and color keeps the narrative engaging, even when the writing stumbles.
Wes Abbott delivers a clean and efficient lettering job. However, the dense dialogue often feels visually overwhelming, and a stronger balance between word balloons and panel composition might have improved the pacing.
ABSOLUTE BATMAN!
Ken:
Perkins and Lucas start events off with a manhunt. It’s capped off with a great one page image of Palmer crashing the scene. From here, the time jump back is built via a two page spread. The Atoms at work showcases their skills to new readers. Once back at the watchtower, Palmer and Choi’s reactions to their research creep out.
This is countered by Adam’s reluctant compliance to assist. The panels indicate he’s not fully on-board. A full page image of him being worked on Justifies his body language. Readers watch as the wear builds to the closing act. There’s little action scattered into the close. It provides a good lead into the final page. A full image of a hero on the run sends this tale forward into the unknown. Without question, there is much left to witness unfold in this story.
OVERALL GRADE: 7.5/10
Marty 7.5/10
The Atom Project #1 is a mixed bag. While the creative team introduces an intriguing premise with strong visuals, the overly dense exposition and slow pacing may alienate newcomers. Longtime fans of DC’s atomic characters might appreciate the groundwork being laid here, but for casual readers, this issue struggles to fully deliver on its potential. It’s a decent start with room to grow. Whether or not The Atom Project reaches its full potential will depend on how the creative team builds on this foundation in future issues.
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Ken: 7.5/10
In wake of “Absolute Power”, two heroes challenge the events fallout. The writing focuses on a detailed build without revealing too much. Perkins, Lucas, and Abbott construct the tension along with the search for answers. There’s enough here to bring readers into the chase for powers.
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Thanks for checking out our review for the NI Comics Bullpen. Let us know what comics you’re reading and hit us up on any social media platform – Marty and Ken
