The mere existence of spies has always captured the public’s imagination. As these people who hide in the shadows do the things, that they believe are for “the greater good”. From shows like Mission Impossible to Man from UNCLE, the spy has always been glamorized as a smooth operator, who always wear a sharp suit and always a lady’s man. I would be remiss, without mentioning what the British brings to the genre, with the iconic James Bond and the long forgotten Carpetbaggers.

With the public’s growing skepticism of movie magic, both TV shows and movies started to scale back on what kept the genre both unbelievable and magical. As the standard of realism started to pervade everything that is entertainment, what would be considered entertainment in the spy genre, became a cross between hardboiled detective and analytical spies. This brought on thinking man heroes like Jack Ryan and Piper Perabo ’s character in Covert Affairs. Then FX, brought some nostalgia and good ole spy craft to the game, with The Americans, combining what everyone loves about the spy genre with some realism sprinkled as they dealt with day to day family issues and the general stress from living dual lives.

This world is recaptured in Alex De Campi’s latest effort at Image, Mayday, it is 1971, and the Cold War, has America and Russia, on edge, wondering what will be the next move of their adversaries, which may very well include sending sleeper agents. We are introduced to Felix and Rose, a deadly duo who have more than assimilated to American life, much like the main characters in The Americans. Their mission is to kill a defector, who was cooperating with the CIA, but a pair of CIA agents are hot on their trail. This is where their youthful indiscretions intrude, they find a group of hippies which get them off track and it seems it will be a matter of time before they are caught.

Overall, a strong effort by the creative team, and I can reveal that a key scene has some influences from both Gaiman and Morrison. The story from De Campi, packs a punch and makes you laugh at the same time, which shows how talented a writer Alex is. The art by Tony Parker and Blond, is striking and lucid, which definitely serves a story that takes place in the 70s. Altogether, a fresh take on a spy caper that will keep the reader yearning for more.

Story: Alex De Campi Art: Tony Parker and Blond
Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review