THE ROCKETEER: THE ISLAND #1 (IDW PUBLISHING)
It’s 1938, and Amelia Earhart went missing over a year ago. Now, the government has a tip on her whereabouts but with the state of the relationship between the U.S.A and Japan they have to find someone who doesn’t link to them for a possible rescue mission. Who is better for the job than Cliff Secord, The Rocketeer!
The Rocketeer: The Island #1 – Based on a Story Idea By Dave Stevens – Written & Letters By John Layman - Art By Jacob Edgar - Colors By K.J. Díaz - Edited By Nicolas Niño - Published By IDW Publishing
Credit: IDW Publishing
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
STORY OVERVIEW:
A chance meeting at the Sedgewich County Fair in 1933, made Cliff Secord a huge fan of Ameila Earhart. Fast forward to 1938, and Cliff has now become the hero known as The Rocketeer. Ameila Earhart went missing a little over a year ago, and now the government has gotten intel that she may be on in Island in the South Pacific, possibly imprisoned by the Japanese. Since there are tensions between the two nations, the U.S needs Cliff, rather the Rocketeers’ help. Cliff agrees not just to possibly save his idol, but also to make his ex-girlfriend Betty jealous. As Cliff and his team get on the ship, they meet the rest of the team including the ships Captain Popeye, and intelligence expert TinTin. Will this team be able to find Ameila Earhart or will they just get lost at sea?
WRITING:
This first issue of the series introduces you to the team, the mission, and their quirks. John Layman lays down the groundwork for the series and reveals some pretty cool surprises along the way. The tie in with the historical event, that is the disappearance of Ameila Earhart, bases this story in a familiar reality. This initially draws the readers’ attention to this story. That then gives way to the fun and humorous nature of the original characters’ arc, which is centered around a love quadrant and all of its wacky entanglements. Layman really excels at bringing the fun and entertainment to this tale in this first issue, setting up the entertaining series to come.
ARTWORK:
The artwork in this first issue reminds the reader of books from the past while modernizing it. Jacob Edgar brings this world to life, while also showing the era of the story very well. The design of the Rocketeer is cool and highlights what the character is. Add to that the designs of the surprise characters Popeye and TinTin and this is sure to make readers take notice. The mixture of old-time comic art with a more modern feel gives this book a unique identity. K.J. Díaz adds to the artwork with an awesome color pallet that is very pleasing to the eye. Together the art team does a fantastic job keeping the reader engaged with the artwork.
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Final Thoughts:
The Rocketeer: The Island #1 is a very good first issue that makes the reader want to read more. The story draws you in with a lot of humor and fun, while the art is pleasing to the eye. The surprise characters that show up heighten the excitement and show that there could be much more in store for this series. If you are looking for a fun and family friendly story at the shop this week, pick up this issue and prepare to be very entertained.
FINAL GRADE: 8.8/10
Let me know your thoughts on The Rocketeer: The Island #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
