Godzilla: Rulers of Earth #2 Review


The third Godzilla Ongoing is finally back. The first issue was a fun start promising us a very cool battle. Does Issue #2 deliver? If one’s complaint is that these monster fights are too short they’re in for a treat here.

Here’s the official description from IDW:

While the growing monster population continues to take its toll on Earth, an ambitious student named Lucy is ready to set out on a world-wide adventure to unravel the mysteries of the great kaiju…that is, if she can survive the battle between Godzilla and the upstart kaiju, Zilla!

When Zilla was announced to be in the series, the shock echoed throughout the fandom. It was shocking enough when this monster appeared in Final Wars. For a brief history lesson, Zilla is the creature from Tristar’s Godzilla movie, whom went on to battle the real title character in Final Wars. (It’s the most epic 30 seconds to be seen in a movie.) People didn’t think he would actually come back in another media. Well, he’s here and we have another fight between the two. That is the main part of the comic, and it doesn’t disappoint. Rulers of Earth is starting out fresh and exciting, something the previous Ongoing lacked. The only real complaint I have is the human characters.

Chris Mowry crafts a rather light-hearted but fun story. The series is obviously aiming for a more ‘fun’ tone than the rather rather satirical Kingdom of Monsters and grim Ongoing. Obviously the primary reason why people are interested is the fight between Godzilla and Zilla. It’s really great stuff, each monster gets to showcase their unique abilities. Steven Woods is a solid character, though not quite as well written as his Kingdom of Monsters self. Maybe these battles has changed him, but his character just isn’t the same. It’s really good to see a female star, in this case Lucy. She’s not annoying, but has yet to become a solid protagonist. Now with this team of odd people, I’m very interested in seeing where the character part of the story goes. Of course, we’re only two issues in, so I think a few more issues and the writing will cement itself with the characters.

Matt Frank’s art is the most interesting part of the comic. You can tell he’s having a blast drawing everything. Godzilla has some fantastic expressions, but it’s Zilla that shines. That complete shocked look when he notices Godzilla is gone was hilarious. You will have some great chuckles, which I think is a good thing. Reminds me of the Showa days when you would be smiling more often during the fights. The battle itself is greatly drawn, with plenty of attacks being felt and is overall very dynamic. It’s truly a fun thing to behold on-page. His humans however are a bit more cartoony than I’d like. The main cover by Frank features Godzilla and Zilla, a fantastic piece that’s sure to attract even the non-fans. (The very concept of Godzilla battling his American counterpart should be enticing enough.) Jeff Zornow does a pretty awesome RI however, featuring Gigan and the Millennium UFO. (Orga.) Gigan is drawn with a stylistic look , but pretty cool all around. Can’t go wrong with either cover.

Overall, Rulers of Earth #2 is the definitely the most fun comic you’ll read this week. The battle between Godzilla and Zilla is amazingly done. Since it’s pretty much one-sided, you’re going to wonder how it was pulled off, but it’s handled very well. Characters are a bit weak, but nothing bad. It’s a fun story that can be enjoyed by all ages, Godzilla fans, and newcomers.

4/5


Daniel is the biggest Godzilla fan on Unleash the Fanboy. Besides the Big G himself, his favorite monster is Rodan and you can follow him on Twitter:@Destroyer_199

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