I’ll admit it, I’m not sure if I’ve ever watched The Lion King. I feel like I’ve seen the musical, but the film, can’t really remember. So, going into Disney Villains: Scar #1, I’m pretty blank as far as what to expect. I know the basics, Scar thinks he should be king and has an issue Simba possibly taking the throne “away” from him.

Disney Villains: Scar #1 takes place during the film, a story that’s parallel to it, revealing unknown moments in Scar’s journey. The first issue shows Scar at a low point, beaten, broken, a plan begins to formulate which sends him on a journey to claim the throne.

Writer Chuck Brown does a fantastic job of creating a story that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a bigger story. Scar, grumbling and angry, is a character that’s easy to understand and his journey can be enjoyed even not knowing the main story of The Lion King. While I don’t know them, Scar’s journey has him coming across and meeting various characters who I’m sure are more familiar to those who know the movie. But, prior knowledge isn’t needed at all.

The art by Trevor Fraley is solid. The characters look good and there’s a dark cloud that hangs over the issue without it feeling gloomy. That’s helped by the color by Chiara Di Francia and lettering by Jeff Eckleberry which each adds to the overall vibe of the debut. At moments, the visuals actually make you feel a bit sorry for Scar. But, you’re quickly reminded he’s the villain of the story… as far as we know.

Disney Villains: Scar #1 is a solid start. It does a fantastic job of forging its own path of a story while also weaving that through an established and loved story that has existed for decades. It’s additive in that way presenting a main character we know we’re supposed to hiss at but the comic delivers just enough to feel some sympathy too.

Story: Chuck Brown Art: Trevor Fraley
Color: Chiara Di Francia Letterer: Jeff Eckleberry
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.0 Overall: 8.2 Recommendation: Buy

Dynamite Entertainment provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: TFAW – Zeus Comics – comiXology/Kindle