JUPITER’S CIRCLE #1 Review


Is this the prequel that Jupiter’s Legacy fans deserve? Or is it better just to wait for it’s inevitable return? Read on to find out.

The official description from Image:

The most celebrated superheroes in mid-century America seem to have it all— fame, riches, adoration—but tensions simmer beneath the glossy surface, threatening to crack open the secrets behind their public AND private exploits. Before the family dynasty in JUPITER’S LEGACY began, there was JUPITER’S CIRCLE—a story about a team whose personal dramas collide with super-powered spectacle!

Jupiter's Circle #1 variantJupiter’s Legacy was definitely a comic that divided fans, as though most recognised the quality of the story on display, the constant delays in schedule resulted in fans dropping the series. Having stuck with the series through thick and thin, I can honestly say it was worth it, as though I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t frustrated by the delays, I’d be more annoyed missing it completely. That being said, I wasn’t overwhelmed by this prequel series, Jupiter’s Circle, as though it’s far from terrible, it doesn’t quite have the same intensity that Jupiter’s Legacy was known for.

Just as Jupiter’s Legacy was a series that divided the masses, so is it’s writer in general, with Mark Millar‘s work being both loved and detested by fans. For this fanboy, the latter is near nonexistent, as though naturally there’s been some that have disappointed slightly, there’s yet to be one that’s completely alienated me. Millar has however dropped the ball slightly with Jupiter’s Circle, as though I commend his efforts to embrace the setting of the late 50’s (as well as the comic style from that time), it felt too different from the tempo we’re used to in Jupiter’s Legacy.

The artwork also left me rather torn, as though Wilfredo Torres‘ art is beautiful, it’s too dissimilar to that of Jupiter’s Legacy artist, Frank Quitely. This latter statement was always going to be the case, as given Quitely’s unique style, it’d be hard to find someone with an uncanny similar style. That being said, I didn’t expect this level of difference, as though it captures the tone of the late 50’s, it’s just too different. Despite this, it does give great depth to the story, with his bold inkwork, and Ive Svorcina‘s solid colours adding fabulous texture.

Jupiter’s Circle #1 like most Millarworld book is bound to split fans. And all I can say to potential readers entering this comic is, don’t have high expectations. Yes, it was a letdown for me, and yes, it has a lot to prove. But that doesn’t mean that it’s a terrible comic, with there being some signs of promise within this tale. Especially in the final page.

OUR RATING
6.5
  • + Enticing final page.
  • + Captures the tone of the late 50's brilliantly.
  • - Too dissimilar to Jupiter's Legacy.
  • - Wilfred Torres art is good, but too different from Frank Quitely's

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