Writer: Derek Landry
Art: Salvador Larroca, Guru-eFx, and VC’s Cory Petit
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $4.99
Reviewed by: Anonymous
Release Date: June 26th, 2024
Welcome to INFINITY WATCH! The Annual Event of 2024 starts here as Thanos, after the events of his series, goes off to find the INFINITY STONES! He’s in for a shock when he discovers that the Infinity Stones have been incorporated into actual people like STAR, QUANTUM, OVERTIME, PRINCE OF POWER and MULTITUDE! But wait, there are six Infinity Stones but only five people listed?! You don’t want to miss this Marvel Universe-shaking saga!
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 Thanos Annual #1 Review
THE DISPATCH
This year’s Thanos Annual #1 ditches the familiar creative team, with Derek Landy, known for his darkly comedic “Skulduggery Pleasant” series, taking the reins. This unexpected choice leads to a unique exploration of the Mad Titan’s psyche, but the tonal shift might leave some fans divided.
Landy throws Thanos on a bizarre odyssey. Instead of the usual hunt for cosmic power, the Mad Titan embarks on a quest to understand the concept of chaos itself. This introspective journey features Thanos debating with personifications of entropy and order, encounters with obscure cosmic entities, and even a visit to a cosmic therapist.
Landy’s signature dark humor permeates the issue. Thanos’ internal monologue is filled with sardonic observations and existential dread. The comedic elements might land for some readers, but others might find them clashing with the traditionally epic portrayal of Thanos.
ART
Salvador Larroca’s art style perfectly complements Landy’s script. The cosmic landscapes are desolate and dreamlike, reflecting Thanos’ internal turmoil. The character designs are appropriately strange and unsettling, particularly the abstract representations of cosmic concepts.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This introspective Thanos is a far cry from the power-hungry villain fans know. While Landy’s writing is sharp, the slow-burn narrative and lack of action might leave some readers wanting more. The ending is ambiguous, leaving the true purpose of Thanos’ bizarre journey unclear. That said, Thanos Annual #1 is a bold experiment. Landy’s comedic take and philosophical exploration offer a fresh perspective on the character. However, the tonal shift and lack of traditional action might alienate some fans. This issue is best suited for readers who enjoy quirky humor and introspective character studies, even if it comes at the expense of the usual Thanos bombast.