Writer: Peter David
Art: Alan Robinson, Mike Spicer, VC’s Joe Caramagna, Nick Bradshaw, and Morry Hollowell
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $4.99
Release Date: June 22nd, 2022
When the FANTASTIC FOUR were abducted, a unique improbable group of heroes was organized to step in and fill the gap Marvel’s First Family left behind. Enter SPIDER-MAN, WOLVERINE, HULK, and GHOST RIDER. But, how we’re the FF captured? And why these four? Let’s dive into the NEW FANTASTIC FOUR #1 by Peter David to see if we can get any of these answers and so much more!
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, then simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon as you read the New Fantastic Four #1 Review.
THE DISPATCH
Marvel Readers who have been paying attention these past couple of years have seen a recent uptick of past stories resurfacing. From MAESTRO to X-MEN LEGENDS, writers have been adding in stories from reminiscent eras to snag older fans while simultaneously grabbing new ones in the process. Easily enough, these writers have been either extenuating the older stories or adding to them. Enter the NEW FANTASTIC FOUR and Peter David, who might I add is the writer behind MAESTRO as well. Overall, these continuation series fill in gaps while finding a way to reignite new and old fans alike. And that’s exactly what David does in this week’s NEW FANTASTIC FOUR #1. Yet, fans searching for answers to how and why this NEW FF is together won’t find them this week. But if you’re feeling curious, take a look at FANTASTIC FOUR #347-349.
Is the story mind-blowing? Nope. Does this story show the original team up or even make reverence to it? Nope. However, what this story does is quickly introduce the cast and find an almost “villain of the week” approach to getting the band together. David provides an easy-going, lighthearted tale involving demons (I know… I know) to get this NEW FANTASTIC FOUR together. Readers will find some comedic hints mixed with some minor action that enrich the narrative with this almost cheesy tone that was actually quite refreshing. There is no pressure in reading this book. It’s a simple escape that is fun and entertaining. NEW FANTASTIC FOUR #1 is a book anyone can pick up, follow, understand, and find humorous. What more could anyone want?
ART
Alan Robinson gives fans the classic feel but with an updated, modern look. Plus, Robinson understands situational flow and movement causing the comic to read like it’s a TV Show. I especially love Joe Fixit. The gargantuan size of Joe alongside the other heroes dwarves them in comparison causing his mere size and stature to give him this almost menacing demeanor. Moreover, I can’t shake how reminiscent this style is to the early 90s and how he amazingly hits the mark. I simply can’t stress enough how well Robinson helps pull this story together.
FINAL THOUGHTS
NEW FANTASTIC FOUR #1 wasn’t what I expected at all. My initial thought was that we’d see the formation of the team or at least a reason for getting them together. Additionally, I expected more action, heavier material, and highly volatile situations with these dynamic character personalities. However, that was quite the opposite… and I liked it anyway.
NEW FANTASTIC FOUR #1 was incredibly easy to read, comfortable, calm, and felt like a sitcom with so many of my favorites. It’s a stress-free comic reliving a time in comic history where stories carried little weight and were created simply to be entertaining and not life-changing. David hits the nail on the head this week and creates a comic I wasn’t expecting but couldn’t help but love. Give NEW FANTASTIC FOUR #1 a shot but keep an open mind with your expectations. Let me know what you think, have a great week, and God Bless!