SPEED RACER #6 (Mad Cave Studios)

Speed Racer is back and has an even bigger challenge ahead of him. A new foe has emerged and has an axe to grind with Pops Racer. Unfortunately for Speed, the sins of the father will be paid for by the son.

Speed Racer #6 - Written By David Pepose – Art By Davide Tinto - Colors By Jão Canola - Letters By Buddy Beaudoin – Edited By Chas! Pangburn - Published By Mad Cave Studios

Credit: Mad Cave Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

STORY OVERVIEW:

Carl Cranem has finished developing his late father’s G.R.X Engine and is set to unleash it on the world. But what drives him is not money or fame, but revenge on the man he blames for his father’s death and disgrace, Pops Racer. Pops and Carl’s dad Ben were partners until Pops thought the G.R.X Engine was too dangerous. After Pops left, Ben went broke and the disgrace eventually led to his death. Now, Carl wants revenge and he will take it out on Speed Racer and the rest of Pops family. Can Speed step up and defeat Carl and end his revenge before it gets started or will he fall victim to this new foe?

WRITING:

This return issue brings the reader into a new arc for Speed Racer, with even higher stakes on the line. David Pepose writes human drama better than any writer in the industry and this issue is no different. Pepose introduces the new foe and the history with Pops seamlessly and without wasting any time. He makes sure the reader knows that this threat is very real and the biggest challenge Speed has had to face so far. On top of the revenge story, Pepose also shows us the drama between Pops and Speed. Their volatile relationship leads to some real moments that readers are sure to resonate with. As always, the racing action is top tier and has the reader on the edge of their seat. The ending really leaves the reader in disbelief and chomping at the bit for what has happened to our beloved Speed.

ARTWORK:

The art team demonstrates exceptional skill in this issue. Davide Tinto effectively brings the world of Speed Racer to life, offering readers an immersive and visually engaging experience. The character designs are distinctive, and the depiction of the racing scenes is particularly noteworthy. Tinto’s artwork successfully conveys the narrative’s emotions. Jão Canola utilizes a color palette that enhances both the visual impact and the emphasis on key elements. Combined with Buddy Beaudoin's high-quality lettering, these artistic choices contribute significantly to the series’ recognition as one of the best at the LCS.

Check Out My Review of Speed Racer #5

Final Thoughts:

Speed Racer #6 is a great kickoff to this new arc and starts this latest volume off with a bang. The drama and revelations of the past bring some surprising elements to this issue. This first issue of the arc fires on all cylinders and is sure to be the talk of the shops this week. Couple the impactful story with some equally stunning artwork and you have a total package of a book. This is the perfect jump on point if you haven’t been reading Speed Racer. Don’t miss the opportunity to see what makes this series great and grab your copy at the LCS this week!

FINAL GRADE: 9.8/10

Let me know your thoughts on Speed Racer #6 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!