Invaders Past & Present...
The Good:
The focus in this issue is squarely on the original Human Torch, Jim Hammond. I feel like this was a good move on the part of James Robinson as he is probably the least well known of the four members in this book. Robinson does a great job handling the character as we get a great look at his personality and his own flaws and inner demons. Hammond has settled down for a quiet life but that is quickly interrupted by the arrival of Tanalth the Pursuer.
Tanalth is a brand new character and member of the Kree Empire. I personally love new characters and am glad we not only get a brand new character but a female one at that. She is devoted to her cause and there is an awesome fight between her and Mr. Hammond.
Another thing I greatly enjoyed was the flashback to WWII and the connection between the Invaders, Asgardians and the Kree. I am really eager to see how Robinson ties all of these threads together as they aren't usually associated with each other.
The art is by Steve Pugh and I am a big fan of his work. His recent success on Animal Man carries over to this book. The colors are bright and he makes these characters look larger than life. There are a few weird faces in a spot or two but overall it is very good.
The Bad:
Nothing.
The Score:
I really enjoyed this. I'm very happy to see Robinson on a Marvel title and I feel like he has a great respect for Golden Age characters. It shows here as he writes them very well. Pugh's art is a great match for his writing style and this issue had plenty of action and intrigue. I am very eager to see where this goes with the Kree and Asgard involved.
5/5
