The 80s were known for some of the corniest movies ever made. The decade churned out some interesting subgenres along the way. It perfected and somehow bastardized the teen movie genre. The other genre that it was also known for was the urban horror genre.

The best known movie to come out of this genre is Candyman. The film touched upon many of the issues that still affect people who dwell there. One of my favorites, purely because of how crazy the concept is, is They Live. The one that forever stands out because I grew up on those same streets, are The Warriors, and things like what happened, is more than entirely possible.

In the debut issue of Savage Avengers, we find Conan returning to the Marvel Universe with a gang of misfits, as he is hunted much like the protagonists in the iconic film The Warriors, but by the invincible Deathlok. It feels like those classic 80s movies, a fun twist on the superhero genre.

We find Conan in New York City  the modern era, as he uncovers the lair of the snake clan he once fought  during the Hyborian Age. But, these present day disciples are no match. As Conan finishes off the last of these sycophants, an unlikely foe emerges, Deathlok, who acts as judge and jury, looking to erase the Cimmerian from the timeline. This battle gets the notice of the other heroes in the city, including Cloak & Dagger, Black Knight, Weapon H, Anti-Venom and Daredevil, while a mad bomb gets unleashed, releasing everyone’s darkest desires and deepest rage. By the issue’s end, the team is brought together and thrust into an interesting situation.

Overall, Savage Avengers #1 is a fun debut issue that perfectly blends high fantasy with urban fantasy. The story by Pepose is masterful. The art by the creative team is gorgeous. Altogether, it’s a wonderful re-introduction to the original Savage Avenger.

Story: David Pepose Art: Carlos Magno
Color: Espen Grundetjern Letterer: Travis Lanham
Story: 9.6 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.7 Recommendation: Buy

Marvel provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: comiXology/Kindle – Zeus Comics – TFAW