SilverHawks: The Return of a Cult Classic in the Galactic Arena
The grand return of SilverHawks, a well-loved yet niche gem, looks set to recapture imaginations. Released one year after the iconic ThunderCats, this sci-fi saga was initially poised to shine. The show, however, fell short of attaining the same lasting fame, garnering instead a dedicated, if small, fanbase. Now, history seems ready to echo itself. The anticipation builds as Dynamite Entertainment releases the new SilverHawks comic.
The New Comic Takes Flight on Bedlama
Our story unfolds in the serene expanse of Bedlama in the year 2839. This peace is rare—beat cops like Lieutenant Jon Quick seldom face serious threats. The SilverHawks, an esteemed faction of cybernetic enforcers, are nearly obsolete in this tranquil era. Their illustrious leader, Commander Stargazer, contemplates stepping down into retirement.
Everything changes, though, when chaos erupts after a mass escape from Penal Planet 10. Foremost among the escapees is Mon*Star, a crime lord of legendary infamy. A century ago, capturing him tested every ounce of Bedlama’s police force. Now, amid this unprecedented crime surge, Commander Stargazer springs into action. A new generation of SilverHawks is required, complete with cutting-edge cybernetics—and Quick must rise to the occasion.
A Gritty Evolution of the Novelty Classic
Just like the ThunderCats revival, SilverHawks #1 draws inspiration from its original concept. Yet, the script, by Ed Brisson, ventures into mature dimensions, reminiscent of Space Ghost‘s darker retelling. Violence escalates with real consequences, and themes of existential decay permeate. Characters reflect on their aging cyborg forms, one noting he’s "half metal, half arthritis," a line more fitting for RoboCop thriller than classic SilverHawks charm.
Artistry Meets Storytelling Ambition
Yet, the visual storytelling struggles to align with its narrative intensity. Artist George Kambadais skillfully revisits original character aesthetics, but his playful inks seem juxtaposed against Ellie Wright’s vivid palette. It suggests a deliberate artistic choice, perhaps to contrast Bedlama’s utopian peace with a turbulent shift. Nevertheless, the visual delivery waters down the intended grit.
Despite this artistic discord, SilverHawks #1 emerges as an encouraging debut for Dynamite Entertainment’s latest venture. The storyline sets a robust framework ripe with potential. As the beloved cast reemerges, the series aims to captivate a modern audience. Let’s see if it can soar to heights its predecessor only dreamed of.
Grade: 7/10
SilverHawks #1 is set to arrive in comic shops everywhere on January 29, 2025. Don’t miss this rebirth of a cult classic, where nostalgia meets new-age innovation, promising to engage newcomers and veterans alike.
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