Defenders of the Earth #1

Mad Cave Studios

Written by Dan DiDio

Art by Jim Calafiore

Colors by Juancho!

Letters by Carlos M. Mangual

The Rundown: After saving the world, its Defenders find themselves blind to a new threat.

The forces of Ming the Merciless have invaded Earth and both Mandrake the Magician and the Phantom are surrounded by the forces of Mongo and not doing well. It will take a miracle to stop the onslaught. A miracle in the form of their friend Lothar who comes to their aid before the battle ends with a dark revelation from Flash Gordon.

Years later, Gordon’s son tries to see his father and finds the way blocked by an old friend. At the same time, Lothar and his son prepare to move while Mandrake makes plans for his future without the Defenders. At the same time, Phantom discovers that he has been replaced and someone close to him is connected to it.

The Story: DiDio crafts an entertaining and thrilling first issue. As a fan of the original animated series, I find myself fascinated by this new take on the world and these characters. The story has a darker edge to it and the relationships between the characters are new and exciting. I’m fascinated by the circumstances that brought the world and the characters to where they are and the way the story is framed makes me excited to see what happens next.

The Art: Calafiore delivers some fantastic art throughout the issue. The story has some great dramatic beats that the art reflects beautifully.

Defenders of the Earth #1

8.5

8.5/10

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