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Star Wars: Shadow of Maul #1 – Broken Law

An ex-bounty hunter turned police officer has his hands full as he tries to transition into his new role. Will he ever out-run his bounty hunter days?


Creative Team

Benjamin Percy (Writer), Madibek Musabekov (Artist), Luis Guerrero (Colorist),
VC’s Joe Caramagna (Letterer), Derrick Chew (Cover Artist),
AKA, Bjorn Barends, Dan Panosian, Elena Casagrande & Bryan Valenza (Variant Cover Artists)

Carlos Lao (Designer), Mikey J. Basso (Assistant Editor), Mark Paniccia (Editor),
C.B. Cebulski (Editor-in-Chief)

Publisher: Marvel Comics


Broken Law

Issue one of Shadow of Maul not only starts a new comic book limited series, but it is also a prelude to the new Disney+ show (Maul-Shadow Lord) airing in April 2026. This debut issue is written by Benjamin Percy and an amazing creative team! Benjamin is no stranger to Star Wars titles and brings his talents to yet another.

Star Wars: Shadow of Maul #1, Credit Marvel Comics. Cover by Derrick Chew.


Issue one takes you to the planet Janix, where an ex-bounty hunter turned police officer (Brander Lawson) is working a case. But there is more to this case that everyone seems to want to overlook. So much so that Brander gets assigned a whole team just to keep him on the straight and narrow. Begging the question, has Brander stuck his nose into something that he shouldn’t? Or does Brander’s reputation as a bounty hunter precede him, and the department is trying to tame him?

Brander is going to be an interesting character! This is just the first issue, and I like him already! He gives off this no-nonsense, play by my own set of rules vibe. Which starts from the very first couple of pages. As an ex-bounty hunter, you can absolutely sense that he has no patience or respect for someone of “authority”.

As this story unfolds, you get to witness various law enforcement-type situations. Interrogations, good cop/bad cop, shoot-outs, dirty cops, and the good old “bait and switch”. If you enjoy watching shows like Chicago PD or even Law & Order, you will enjoy this first issue!

Now you may be asking yourself, “Where is Maul?” And you would be justified! Our title character makes his debut for this series in the final three pages. Strangely enough, he is trying to secure a ship to… Janix. It is unknown what trouble lurks ahead for the people of Janix, but with Maul on his way, things do not look promising…


The Writing

I am a fan of Benjamin Percy’s work; therefore, I am not surprised by how GOOD this issue is. The amazing dialogue and narration guide the reader through the story effortlessly. Reading this felt like a television drama coming off the pages. There hasn’t been a Benjamin Percy book that I haven’t enjoyed. The no-nonsense mixed with dry humor is so satisfying!

The Artwork

Madibek Musabekov and Luis Guerrero did such a good job with the art for this first issue. The pencil work is very smooth and defined, which creates a great presentation of the story. The coloration is amazing as well. One of the pages that is so captivating to look at is the major appearance of Maul towards the end! Dual lightsaber in hand and a hooded cloak draped over him while in a combat stance. Pure Star Wars aura!

My Thoughts

This first issue of Shadow of Maul gives so much story development, but also leaves so many doors left open for curiosity. Which really hooks you into this story. I look forward to seeing what trouble Brander gets himself into as well, and the intentions of Maul on Janix. Maul fans from Episode I to the Clone Wars need to get in their speeder and head to your local comic shop, and add this series to your pull list! Then thank me later in the comments!

Grade: 10/10



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One response to “Star Wars: Shadow of Maul #1 – Broken Law”

  1. Liam Avatar
    Liam

    Darth Maul is goated

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Power Rangers Prime #15- The Final Countdown Is On

We’re almost at the endgame now. Writer Melissa Flores, Artist Federico Sorressa, Colorist Joana Lafuente, and Letterer Ed Dukeshire have created a beautiful issue.

Read Power Rangers Prime #14 Review Here

Power Rangers Prime #15 Cover F By Ito (Credit: BOOM! Studios)

The issue kicks off with a flashback to 11 years prior in Texas. We see Lauren, her brother, and their dad, and Lauren and Jayden then proceed to attack the Eltarians. We then see the 3 of them in the car, talking. 

We then cut to the present day, and most of the team is together in the Belly. We see Lauren, Jayden, and their dad having a conversation, and then Jayden and Lauren head to meet with Trey of Courage. 

Meanwhile, Orion and Rita are with Trey of Heart, and we learn that the Triforian are Warmongers. A fight then proceeds to break out between them. We then cut to the Eltarians, and they are fighting off an enemy in space. Jun and his mom are trying to figure out a plan for what to do next. 

We then cut back to Lauren and the others, and the mutants are attacking the citizens in the Belly. Lauren and Val morph and then proceed to help everyone. Back with Rita and Orion, they are still trying to deal with the Ravager, who has now morphed. Orion and the Ravager then proceed to fight. 

Back at Mark and Orion’s place, Jun shows up, and they get working on the team’s zords. While that is happening, Orion and Rita are still with the Ravagers, and it is not going well for them. We go back to the apartment, and the guys are finishing up with the zords. 

Back in the Belly, Lauren and Val are still trying to evacuate the citizens. The 2 of them then see Orion and Rita fighting, and the final panel shows Jayden and Lauren getting ready to jump into the fray. 

Overall Grade: 10/10 

We are almost at the final issue, and this sets up for an explosive final issue. I cannot wait to see what Melissa and the team have in store for the final issue.

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ICEMAN: OMEGA #1 – Love and Acceptance

Creative Team – Luciano Vecchio, Vc’s Joe Sabino, VC’s Travis Lanham, VC’s Ariana Maher

Published by Marvel Comics

MORE FROM NERD INITIATIVE HERE!

The Story

This comic is reviewed by Nerd Initiative’s Shawn, and your truly, Megan!

Shawn – I really love that Marvel is starting to make some of these Infinity Comics available in print form. I’m especially grateful when it’s ones like Iceman: Omega where Luciano Vecchio gets to step out of the lines and into the words.
Admittedly, I am not as well-versed on Iceman as I am on other mutants, but I felt like Vecchio really captured not only Bobby’s youthful spirit but also his conflict. I enjoyed getting a look at how a character who has often been a background character in his own story handles being front and center after his exploits in the Krakoa arc. Bobby’s conflict with his own parents will hit home for a lot of people who pick up this comic, as they see their own strained relationships in the one between Bobby and his parents

Megan – I cannot even begin to explain how much I loved Iceman: Omega #1! Luciano Vecchio proves time and time again that his talents are all across the board. His writing, his artwork, all of it shines very loudly in this comic.

Cover art by Luciano Vecchio. Published by Marvel Comics

Iceman: Omega #1 is split into chapters, and each chapter is an example of showing strength and courage despite past baggage that you carry with you. Vecchio explores the life of Bobby Drake, AKA Iceman, who is an Omega Level Mutant. Bobby carries past traumas with him that tend to weigh him down, but gets proven time and time again that he is stronger than anything holding him back, whether it be a broken heart or the lack of acceptance from his parents. In this comic, the themes of LGBTQ+ are displayed loudly and beautifully. This is the kind of representation the world needs and the communities deserve. Luciano Vecchio made something beautiful with Iceman: Omega #1 in more ways than one.

The Art

Shawn – Of course, the art is going to be fantastic. Vecchio does an amazing job while pulling triple duty on this issue as the writer, artist, and cover artist. The interaction with Loki leads to Vecchio crafting what may be my favorite look for Bobby Drake, where he feels and in a way looks more like Treebeard from The Lord of the Rings than the young hotshot Bobby Drake we’ve all come to love.

Megan – When I said Vecchio’s talents are all across the board, I meant it. In Iceman: Omega #1, you’ll see art that is as beautiful as the message of the comic. Along with some jaw-dropping panels showcasing Iceman in his Omega-Level Mutant glory, we get to see other iconic characters and their abilities on full display. There’s a gorgeous amount of vibrancy brought to the pages of the comic in the colors that make each page a work of art.

Alongside Vecchio are Joe Sabino, Travis Lanham, and Ariana Maher, who bring their lettering talents to the comic. Each letterer brings their own magic to the comic in terms of lettering, and you can see their talents clearly. The dialogue of the comic captures the varying tones that take place and the heightened emotions of Bobby, and allows the reader to put themselves into the story.

All in all, the artists really put their all into Iceman: Omega #1, and the readers will benefit from it.

Final Thoughts

Shawn – 8.5/10. Iceman: Omega is another instance of Marvel reminding people why they shouldn’t sleep on the Infinity comics. They’re good, experimental, and creative as can be. This was a really solid issue that had good writing and good art.

Megan – 10/10. Iceman: Omega #1 is a beautiful tribute to Bobby Drake, an iconic character that should be given this kind of respect. This comic speaks on so many levels and gives representation to the communities that deserve it. This was nothing short of spectacular!

Overall Grade – 9.3/10

Let us know in the comments below what you thought of Iceman: Omega #1!

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DAREDEVIL/PUNISHER: The Devil’s Trigger #5

Creative Team – Jimmy Palmiotti, Tommaso Bianchi, Mario Santoro, Bryan Valenza, VC’s Joe Sabino

Published by Marvel Comics

Catch up with Daredevil/Punisher: The Devil’s Trigger #4!

The Story

This comic is reviewed by both Megan from the Vigilante Vibes Podcast and Matt from the Hops “Geek” News podcast!

Matt – Fans who have been looking forward to Frank andDaredevil going all out and kicking some serious butt in this run, this issue is for you! Jimmy has made this run incredibly fun while capturing Frank’s “doesn’t play well with others” mentality and Murdock’s do-good mentality. Watching them go to work as they close in and come to blows was nothing short of exhilarating as Punisher is taking no prisoners. There are still a great number of funny moments, such as Matt hearing Frank telling him I told you so in the back of his mind at the end, and of course, our favorite lawyer putting the moves on as always. However, something that stood out to me was Frank saying so much while not saying a word. He comes to an agreement with Daredevil regarding the judge, which honestly surprised me and showed how excellent a storyteller Jimmy is. This run was everything I could have asked for.

Cover art by SKAN. Published by Marvel Comics

Megan – Standing on the rooftop, the Punisher and Daredevil see what they can’t believe. The judge they tracked was actually the supposedly dead husband of Ma Gnucci under an alias. Of course, the Punisher already has his plan in his mind, and Daredevil knows he has to come between him and his targets.

Jimmy Palmiotti made this short series a ton of fun and showed the best parts of each character. Frank Castle sticks to his guns and does what he thinks is right, and Matt Murdock is the same way. Both have a different set of morals and handle things the way they see fit. This was a fantastic story that showcases who these characters are to their core and their similarities, while showing just how different they are in what they think is right. If you’re a fan of the Punisher or Daredevil, then this comic is definitely made for you.

The Art

Matt -As I mentioned above, there is a moment where Frank concedes to doing thing Daredevils way, which is putting the Judge in jail. The ability of the art team to paint the words across Frank’s expression does far more than any words could have done. We can see him in the panels remaining stoic, his eyes and the subtle changes show he was truly thinking it over. It isn’t a flashy page; the way this team detailed it still did so much for the relationship these two vigilantes have. There are moments in the fights as well where the shading and the line work really stood out to me, leaving an impression.

Megan – What I’ve loved since the first issue is that the artists can grasp the street-level tone of the comic and bring that to life through the art. Tommaso Bianchi and Mario Santoro bring panels that are wonderfully detailed and show the emotions of the story perfectly on the faces of the characters. Bryan Valenza sticks to more muted colors, which work perfectly for the story. Joe Sabino harnesses the emotions of the characters and brings new depths to their dialogue. Together, the artists made this mini-series an absolute pleasure to read!

Final Thoughts

Matt – 10/10. This run was nothing short of amazing from start to finish. The way Jimmy fleshes out their relationship, showing two sides of the coin and the art team detailing in subtle ways, hits home for me. This is Daredevil and The Punisher at their best, and everyone needs to read.

Megan – 10/10. Daredevil/Punisher: The Devil’s Trigger was spectacular all the way through. The story ended very well and I can’t wait to see what the creative team brings next! If you’re a Daredevil or a Punisher fan, then this comic is for you. Having this on your pull list is a must!

Overall Grade -10/10

Let us know in the comments what you thought of Daredevil/Punisher: The Devil’s Trigger #5!

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Moonstar #1- Walking Side by Side With Death

Dani is back in Moonstar #1. After the fall of Krakoa, Danielle Moonstar was aimless and looking for a place to fit in. She found her purpose in the Society of the Eternal Dawn. The group, founded to ensure humanity’s survival by any means, eventually proves to be more than they claimed. After some help from Magik, Dani is free of the Eternal Dawn and once again listless. She’s at a crossroads, as she returns home to her mother and father, until a couple of unexpected visitors put her on a date with destiny.

This review is brought to you by the dynamic duo of Megan and Shawn!

Creative Team

Writer: Ashley Allen
Artist: Edoardo Audino
Colorist: Arthur Hesli
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Cover Artist: Germán Peralta
Published by Marvel Comics

Writing

Megan: Ashley Allen started Moonstar with a banger of a first issue! Moonstar #1 follows Dani Moonstar, the iconic mutant, after the events of the Magik comic run. After leaving the Society of the Eternal Dawn, Dani returns home to her parents house. She’s already on edge after leaving the Society, but to add even more complications, she has trouble talking to her parents about her past as a Valkyrie since no one remembers Asgard. Trying to voice her frustrations about how she feels, there’s a knock at the door. Surprisingly enough, it’s Yanisa and Kian from the Society of the Eternal Dawn. The last two people Dani wants to see are at her door and they need her help. What follows is a dark and mysterious new tribulation that seems to be a problem only Dani can fix.

Shawn: What a great first issue from Ashley Allen! One of the things I have appreciated about Ashley Allen is that she “knows” her characters. When I read her work, it never feels like she’s meeting a checklist. It feels like she spent time with the characters and got to know them before she put down a script. This is as true in Moonstar, as it is in her other Marvel projects like Magik. I love that she gives us a glimpse of important past stories that have shaped Dani. This is critical because someone who has no idea who Dani Moonstar is, can pick this comic up and within the first few pages understand what they need to know about her.

In the process of properly introducing Dani, Allen never makes it feel like an exposition or tedious. The writing flows, and Allen crafts a very interesting first issue that has me looking forward to more. I love that Allen tied in some current lore as well, such as most folks forgetting Asgard ever existed (you can check out a Nerd Initiative video review of Immortal Thor #25). With the experiences Dani has had in her history, I really loved the choice by Allen to have Dani come back home to Boulder and be with her family at a time when she is trying to figure out what is next.

Moonstar #1 Cover by Germán Peralta. Image from Marvel Comics

Art

Megan: The artwork is absolutely spectacular all throughout the comic thanks to Edoardo Audino, Arthur Hesli and Clayton Cowles. Audino ensured that the artwork matches the dark and mysterious tone that comes from the story. The coloring of the panels was handled beautifully by Hesli, who increased the vibrancy as the story went on, which created an incredible build up. Cowles captured the emotions of the comic and portrayed it perfectly through the dialogue. Each of the artists brought something beautiful to the pages of the comic and created something very special.

Shawn: The art for this issue blew me away. Whether it is the small details on armor or the major details like the Demon Bear. Every single line from Audino feels perfect. There’s such a wide variety of art that happens in this issue from flashbacks, to portraits, to scenery and background and Audino nails it all.

Arthur Hesli chooses just the right tones and shades throughout the issue. There’s a particular panel where Dani is recounting a memory, and Hesli seamlessly blends the colors without creating separation. This makes the “memory” feel more like a memory the reader is experiencing rather than a retelling of an old event.

Clayton Cowles does a superb job of lettering on this issue as well. There are a few word-heavy panels that had the potential to create chaos or block the art. Cowles handles this perfectly allowing my eyes to flow along the conversation well and know exactly where to go next.

Final Thoughts

Megan: 10/10. Ashley Allen gave Dani Moonstar an incredibly strong start and the proper introduction into her first and very overdue solo series. With a story as strong as Dani Moonstar herself, this was a slam dunk!

Shawn: 10/10. I love a good, strong first issue. It sets the tone for where a run is headed. This was as good a first step as Allen, Audino, Hesli, and Cowles could have put forward. If this trajectory continues for the rest of the run, Allen could be responsible for both the quintessential run on Magik as well as Dani Moonstar. From the first page, everything about this comic is executed flawlessly. The narrative builds, the art stuns, and the lettering makes it all flow.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Did you enjoy Moonstar #1? Let us know in the comments below!

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Twilight Zone #5- Silence is Not Safety

What do you do when no one will listen to you, and then suddenly someone finally does? This is the question at the heart of Twilight Zone #5. This nautical adventure takes place as a special team seeks to gain information from a recent meteor crash on Earth. Will they listen to what needs to be heard?

Catch up with the Nerd Initiative review of Twilight Zone #4.

Creative Team

Writers: L. Marlow Francavilla and Francesco Francavilla
Artist: Francesco Francavilla
Cover Artist: Robert Hack
Published by IDW Publishing

Writing

I really enjoyed the writing of this issue. It felt like a fun, enjoyable read. One of my favorite things about this Twilight Zone series is how each issue is a self-contained story. This leads to various settings, styles, and narratives that the Francavillas take full advantage of.

This story feels so drastically different than the last issue, and it’s not a bad thing. Where the last issue focused on a more modern feel, the Francavillas craft an issue that feels very Cold War-like in its execution and storyline. While still being true to the Twilight Zone style, they tell a story of being heard that most people can probably relate to at the base level. At one point and time in our lives, most of us have felt like we had something important to say and no one would listen. With their storytelling, the Francavillas create a character in Dr. Sorensen that most of us can see ourselves in.

Art

Francisco Francavilla does a great job pulling double duty on this issue. In sticking with the Twilight Zone motif, the issue lacks bright, poppy colors that are so common in comics today. Instead, Francisco lets his lines do the talking with creative use of shading, shadows, and varying thickness on the lines to create detail.

Francavilla’s work with the portraits in some of the panels show top notch skills. His ability to emote the characters while using a limited palette of colors is a testament to the quality of work produced. Even with only white, black, and gray, I’m always certain where the light is entering the scene from. Francavilla proves that even SFX words can be well done in black and white, with the sounds of the underwater vessel wooshing through the water standing out.

Twilight Zone #5 cover by Robert Hack. Image from IDW Publishing

Final Thoughts

L. Marlow and Francesco Francavilla crafted another successful entry into The Twilight Zone series. My only critique with this issue that kept it from being a 10 was that the pacing felt a little off. I may reread it later and change my mind, but on my initial impression was that the payoff occurred rather quickly after so much buildup and anticipation.

The artwork and writing quality of this issue are absolutely stunning. The nautical setting and the military tension of the narrative make this a great story that stays true to The Twilight Zone while still feeling different than something you would expect from The Twilight Zone.

Overall Grade: 9/10

Until next time, may your pulls be magical, and your multiverse remain stable

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Avengers #36 – The End is Here!

It all comes down to this for the Avengers. Avengers #36 marks the end of Jed MacKay’s run on the Avengers. Having defeated Kang The Conqueror’s boldest attempts at domination yet, the Avengers find themselves in uncharted territory. Meanwhile, in an intergalactic prison, a new threat is born.

Be sure to check out the Nerd Initiative review for Avengers #35.

Creative Team

Writer: Jed MacKay
Artist: Farad Karami
Colorist: Federico Blee
Letterer: Corey Petit
Cover Artist: Russell Dauterman
Cover Colorist: Rachelle Rosenberg

Writing

What a thrilling ride this has been for the Avengers with MacKay at the helm. MacKay really sets the tone with this issue. While the final issue of this run is also a pretty stark departure from other issues in the series. It’s not often we see such a narrative-heavy issue from MacKay in this run, but this feels meaningful. Every word has value and feels like a farewell to the characters from MacKay.

I think the best part of this issue is that it has something for everyone. If you’re a fan of MacKay’s run and you’re sad to see it ending, you’ll find satisfaction in how this wraps up. If you’re wondering what’s next for the Avengers and what does Armageddon look like for them, MacKay lays the foundation for those moments as well. Simply put, MacKay does a masterful job of crafting a story that bookends his run on Avengers while also telling it in a way that lays out the runway for Chip Zdarksy to take over with Avengers: Armageddon.

Art

Avengers #36 cover by Russell Dauterman and Rachelle Rosenberg. Image from Marvel Comics

In such a narrative heavy issue, it would be easy for the visual arts side of the creative team to pack it in a little bit but that doesn’t happen in this issue. Karami and Blee combine to give us some beautiful visuals. We get gorgeous views of the flora and fauna of Wakanda,a cameo of Shuma-Gorath, and even a relatively peaceful meal in Central Park.

The lines are all crisp and the colors perfect as Karami and Blee make each local distinct and different. Corey Petit does a really good job with the lettering making it clear to the reader who is speaking at any given time and allowing them to follow the conversation easily

Final Thoughts

Overall I’ve enjoyed this run. MacKay’s Avengers run will go down as a modern classic in Avengers lore. The battles felt meaningful. In typical MacKay fashion every conversation felt meaningful. Ultimately this issue offers a satisfying conclusion. I can appreciate the creativity MacKay, Karami, Blee, and Petit showed in wrapping up this run while also preparing to leave the Avengers in new hands. Oftentimes in my comic experience, handovers can be disjointed or clunky. This however feels both satisfying and well planned.

Overall Grade: 9.5/10

Until next time, may your pulls be magical, and your multiverse remain stable

What did you think of Jed MacKay’s run on Avengers? Let’s chat about it in the comments.

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WOLVERINE #17 – “Cold and Alone”

Wolverine and Silver Sable are trying to do good and protect those who can’t protect themselves. Unfortunately, all it seems to be getting Logan lately is having a nice moment ruined and repeated heart attacks. However, he’s still the best at what he does, and he never goes down that easily.

Creative Team

Writer: Saladin Ahmed;

Artist: Martin Coccolo;

Color Artist: Jesus Aburtov;

Letterer: VC’s Cory Petit;

Cover Artist: Dan Panosian;

Variant Cover Artists: Gabrielle Dell Otto; Sanford Green [Doom Homage]; Puppeteer Lee.

Check out the review for Spider-Man & Wolerine #10.

WOLVERINE #17 Cover. Image by Marvel Comics.
WOLVERINE #17 Cover. Image by Marvel Comics.

The Story for WOLVERINE #17

As Wolverine, Silver Sable, and the other mutants continue to rebuild, the cliffhanger we were left in issue 16 isn’t the main issue…yet. Issue 17 gave us some more day-to-day: build, train, enjoy, and survive. Of course, when it comes to mutants, nothing is so simple. A new threat surfaces. One Wolverine didn’t see coming. However, when an innocent is involved, he’ll do whatever it takes to save the day. What’s coming next, though, won’t be so simple.

WOLVERINE #17 Variant Cover. Image by Marvel Comics.
WOLVERINE #17 Variant Cover. Image by Marvel Comics.
WOLVERINE #17 Variant Cover. Image by Marvel Comics.
WOLVERINE #17 Variant Cover. Image by Marvel Comics.

The Art

This Wolverine run continues to be absolute eye candy in more ways than one. With Wolvie hiding in the woods, the art gives us some beautiful backdrops. Waterfalls, wildlife, trees, and more. All while continuing to show Wolverine in all his glory. Both the softer side and the berserker side. The berserker side came with some gruesome scenes that were colored and lettered in a way that made them gorgeous, despite the darkness of what was happening. Wolverine #17 has the Wolverine art we’ve come to expect and love.

Overall Grade: 9/10

This run continues to be an awesome ride, showcasing the many sides of Logan. What started as a simple day grew into an unexpected villain, all while wrapping up with an ending that shows what’s to come. If you love Marvel’s most favorite short king, then this is the run for you. Whether you’ve read all the past issues or not, now is the time to jump in. SNIKT!

For more from Lauren, check out ‘Hops GEEK News.’

Have you checked out this run of WOLVERINE yet? Let us know your thoughts!

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Narco #1 – Serial Killers & Pop-Tarts

Narco is a new comic from Image Comics. It hits the ground running, leaving you instantly wanting issue 2.

Creative Team

Writer: Doug Wagner;

Artist: Daniel Hillyard;

Colorist: Dave Stewart;

Letterer: Ed Dukeshire;

Editor: Keven Gardner

Design: Erika Schnatz;

Narco created by Keven Gardner, Doug Wagner & Daniel Hillyard.

Check out the review for another comic from Image Comics: Geiger #21.

Narco #1 Cover. Image by Image Comics.
Narco #1 Cover. Image by Image Comics.

The Story for Narco #1

We kick off by meeting our main character, Marcus. He trolls trolls and has an interest in serial killers. He is also interested in Jess. Who seems to have a toxic ex and crappy Wi-Fi. Nevertheless, at the encouragement of his friends, Marcus pursues her. However, he also has a condition that tends to present itself at the worst times…or does it?

The Art

Throughout this issue, the art perfectly moves this mysterious story along. From expressions of happiness to anger, to fear, and more. Every emotion is perfectly nailed. However, the art truly shines when Marcus’ condition flares up. The look on his face, the loss of control, the art takes us somewhere else. Only to drop us right back into the story.

Narco #1 Variant Cover from Image Comics.
Narco #1 Variant Cover from Image Comics.
Narco #1 Variant Invincible Crossover Cover from Image Comics.
Narco #1 Variant Invincible Crossover Cover from Image Comics.

Final Thoughts on Narco #1

Narco #1 is a mysterious, thought-provoking story. Serial killers, Pop-Tarts, dating, and more. There was so much going on, yet it seemed so simple. All with a giant mystery that I can’t wait to uncover. The nod to my personal favorite fictional serial killer was just the extra sprinkles on a peppermint milkshake.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Narco is the 6th book in the “Plastic-verse” and after reading Narco #1, I will definitely be diving more into this world.

For more from Lauren, check out ‘Hops GEEK News.’

Did you pick up Narco #1 from Image Comics? Let us know your thoughts.

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BATMAN/GREEN AROW/THE QUESTION ARCADIA #3: Guilty Until Proven Innocent

Rotha’s true colors have been exposed, and his troops on Arcadia have deemed everyone is guilty until proven innocent regarding the recent bombing attack on the station. The situation has devolved into utter chaos as Batman, Green Arrow, The Question, and the surviving workers must fight for their lives if they hope to escape.

Batman/Green Arrow/The Question Arcadia #3. Credit DC Comics. Cover by Gabriel Hardman.

Creative Team: Gabriel Hardman (WRITER, ARTIST, and COVER) and Romulo Fajardo Jr (COLORS).

The Story:

Gabriel has done an amazing job setting up an epic final issue with this book. This entire issue is a slow descent into utter chaos from every angle, and it still finds a way to involve some personal emotional beats as well. We get a taste of Oliver Queen’s guilt with what went down with him and Dinah. The Question also reveals his Kurdish background, and while Gabriel gives us a taste of his past, if you know anything about the Kurdish people, then you know the lifetime of hardship they have faced themselves. Mix it in with Batman, and Gabriel brings in the perfect triangle of heroes.

Meanwhile, there is more that we are given as Oliver exposes Bruce’s face beneath the mask and identity. This is such gripping storytelling that it truly has me on the edge of my seat with every page turn.

The Art and Letters:

Gabriel and Romulo bring the fog of war to the panels in bursts of fiery explosions and impressively stoic moments. Despite The Question having no face, the duo still manages to deliver the emotion out of him. There are moments with Batman that will bring the kid out of you as he stands tall and even delivers classic Batman punches and cleverness. I loved the rugged feeling as we saw the group running for their lives through the snowy mountains of Greenland. All in all, this art is fantastic and gives us so much to love.

Final Thoughts:

Batman/Green Arrow/The Question Arcadia #3 is setting us up for an epic finish to this severely underrated story. There is so much emotion both through the art and the plot, mixed in with a humanistic aspect for our heroes that brings out empathy from the panels. Get this issue and get the other issues because this run has been incredible.

For more from Matt at the Hops “Geek” News podcast!

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