FLASH GORDON #1 Review

Is this a comic book that really needs to exist? Read on to find out.

The official description from Dynamite:

Flash Gordon never fit in on Earth. But on the bizarre planet MONGO, Flash’s thirst for thrills and daring danger makes him the perfect weapon against world-breaking Ming the Merciless and his awful inter-planetary swarms of terror! Can the cocksure Man From Earth funnel his overconfidence into saving worlds, or will the universe fall to Ming? Don’t miss out on THE most exciting ongoing series of 2014 by dream team Jeff Parker (Batman ’66, Aquaman), Evan “Doc” Shaner (Deadpool, Ghostbusters) and Jordie Bellaire (Pretty Deadly, Captain Marvel)!

I have to admit that since my exposure to the franchise and its titular character I’ve been enamored with his exploits. Sure there have been some questionable interpretations but when Kings Watch came about with a sound update I couldn’t help but hope that it would lead to a new monthly series. And here we are, as this creative team begins to spin their own yarn out of the wake of that absolutely excellent crossover.

Jeff Parker pens the opening issue and he keeps his script thick but full of spirit. There’s action, suspense, story and adventure all at play while our hero and his companions explore strange new places. This is exactly the type of interpretation of Flash Gordon fans have been waiting for, as the intrepid author not only addresses our athletic star but also gives weight behind his love interest, Dale Arden. It’s a refreshing take that’s instantly engrossing from the first page to the outstanding cliffhanger.

The illustrations done by Evan Shaner are the high quality that this property demands. Considering that the icon was launched via the exceptional talents of Alex Raymond, it’s fitting to see renditions that are soft and immensely detailed. I especially enjoyed the use of large panels and splash pages, which fit the text while accompanied with exquisite colors handed in by Jordie Bellaire. In short: for a title that carries an innate visual legacy this package certainly fits its calling, with striking images that are simply embedded within a solid reboot that strives to push our players forward.

Flash Gordon #1 is an outstanding beginning to a monthly series that needs to be on your pull-list. Whether you followed Kings Watch or not there’a lot to love in this specific adventure as it comes highly recommended.