Q2: THE RETURN OF QUANTUM AND WOODY #1 Review

Is the return of the original incarnation something we should embrace? Or should it be left in a museum? Read on to find out.

The official description from Valiant:

The most demanded return in comics is finally here! The original Quantum and Woody are back! Legendary creators Christopher Priest and M.D. Bright return to one of the most acclaimed series of the modern era for an all-new mini-series event!

Whatever happened to the world’s worst superhero team? Twenty years past their prime, the unlikely crime-fighting duo known as Quantum and Woody (not a couple) have long since parted ways…until a middle-aged Quantum suddenly reappears with a brand-new teenage partner. Now Woody is out to break up the all-new, all-different Quantum and Woody and put an end to Quantum’s recklessness…just as Quantum takes on a life-or-death personal mission for national security. Can these former friends set aside their differences…and their age…and their numerous health difficulties…to join forces one last time without driving each other crazy?

The creators of Quantum and Woody return for one more tale, as we see the original incarnation of The World’s Worst Superhero Team return to action. Despite taking a rather different direction than the most recent series, this new mini oozes the classic humour that the original series excelled in. It also brings the timeline forward dramatically, allowing for a rather unique twist to the storyline.

Having done such a great job of bringing this chaotic team to comic fans in the late 90’s, it was awesome to see Christopher Priest return to these characters, and I assume to him this must feel like slipping back into a pair of old comfy shoes. It is however the way the writer shows signs of change that really got me enthusiastic, as though there are plenty of nods to the Quantum and Woody of old, this feels like a new era in an old fashion. In doing this Priest gave some awesome dialogue, with the narration in the middle section being extremely gripping.

M.D. Bright also returns to this crazy world of terrible superheroes, with his art being as awesome as ever. Though the linework proves a little edgy at certain points, the quirky overtones throughout really help bring that magic that these two creators brought in the 90’s, with there also being a very 90’s feel to certain areas. Bright’s layouts also gave a lot of energy to this new tale, with the detail helping enhance the excitement. The inkwork of Dexter Vines and colours of Alex Passalaqua also help bridge the gap between eras, giving a very lively overtone.

Q2: The Return of Quantum and Woody is yet another amazing feather in Valiant’s cap, with the return of Priest and Bright to this fun world being something that old fans will love, and new fans should embrace. It also takes things in a new direction, with the fresh take being very intriguing. Highly recommended.