In 1962 the world was introduced to a female hero who broke all the rules. Whether it was because of language, sexuality, or just because she was a woman in a time where women’s empowerment was just taking off. She was criticized for things her male counterparts just weren’t. Despite all of this, she has gone on to conquer movies, books, and comics for the last 60 plus years! Now Dynamite Entertainment has relaunched an icon of the genre for her latest incarnation. Yes, it’s time for the return of Barbarella!

Barbarella: Escape from Planet V! Part One

Written By: Blake Northcott

Art & Colors By: Anna Morozova of Magnus Arts

Colorist: Werner Sanchez

 Lettering By: Carlos M. Mangual

Edited By: Matt Idelson

Published By: Dynamite Entertainment

***Minor Spoilers Possible***

A Legend Returns!

Barbarella #1 opens with our hero on a much-needed vacation, although she seems to still be putting in some work, if you will. As Barbarella and Maxus enjoy one another’s company on Planet V, they discover they are not alone. In fact, they have become the unknowing stars of a reality tv show. Now Barbarella, Maxus, and Barbarella’s “pet” Vix must figure out what’s going on.

In the meantime, Artem is manning the computer boards on Earthgov Deep Space Monitoring Station MWG273-18. He gets an emergency signal from Alpha Prime and breaks protocol to contact Jury Quire instead of Central Security. Jury is busy dealing with a space criminal Nito Fleck. But upon hearing about the distress, instantly asks for Barbarella.

“No One Has Ever Escaped That Planet Alive”

Barbarella #1 is an awesome ride, reintroducing the audience to an iconic hero, at the same time introducing her to a new generation of readers. Blake Northcott does an excellent job of staying true to the character while still updating her for the modern era. The focus is on the story & action, well the sexually charged innuendos and humorous banter we expect from the character is still there front and center.

The art for this book is amazing! Anna Morozova’s art reminds me of an updated version of the cartoon Aeon Flux from the 90’s. Anna along with Werner Sanchez picked a color pallet that is very vibrant and appealing. This book looks incredible and matches the story perfectly.

Check Out My Review of Babs #2

Final Thoughts

Dynamite Entertainment deserves a giant pat on the back for this relaunch of Barbarella. For a first issue it checks all the boxes. We get great character development, well building a story and universe that is not only appealing, but also makes you want to find out what’s next. If you are a fan of heroes that give you action filled stories with a lot of “inappropriate” humor, then add this book to your Pull List ASAP!

Final Grade: 10/10

For more of my content, make sure to check out 3fnpodcast.com and Subscribe to Nerd Initiative YouTube for episodes of Turn a Page and Wrestling Night Live! Later! Comic! Fans!