Flash awakes on a secret prison planet somewhere in the galaxy. Upon learning that Dale Arden is the subject of an assassination plot, he’s forced to break out and make his way across the galaxy to save her. Along the way, he encounters old friends, new threats, and a greater mystery surrounding WHO is pulling the strings of this universe. Flash Gordon #1 delivers a debut that has the DNA of the classic adventures with a slightly darker, but fun, tone.

Written by Jeremy Adams, Flash Gordon #1 is a fun start to the new series starring the classic character. I’m a fan of Flash Gordon, in particular the campy 80s film which I could watch over and over (and have). I’ve read some of the different comic takes over the years, and some of the classic comic pulp adventures. To me, it’s generally a fun read and when I think of “pulp adventure,” Flash Gordon’s style is what comes to mind. So, it’s interesting to read Adams’ take which has at its core, that vibe of the classic adventures. But, its visuals and tone feels a bit more modern, a little more dark. This isn’t some “dark and moody” take though, just a more modern voice and look than an attempt to copy the classic style.

Adams delivers an interesting mystery in the first issue as it builds towards the action that peppers the latter half of the issue. Flash is captured by unknown individuals on Planet Death having defeated Mongo and saved every one of us. Now, can he save himself? In walks a mysterious individual, also a prisoner, who talks about a federation that includes Earth and Dale who might be in danger. This gets Flash to promptly act and begin his escape and latest adventure.

When I say the comic is “dark and moody,” that’s partially due to the art of Will Conrad, which looks fantastic. It’s not a knock at all in the style and look, the comic just has a more modern look to it all. This isn’t an attempt to produce a style that mimics what has come before. Color is provided by Lee Loughridge and lettering by Taylor Esposito and all together, the comic looks fantastic with a great flow to the action and excitement on every page. The visuals capture the tense unknown of it all and feature some solid fighting action when things get rolling.

Flash Gordon #1 is a great start to the update on the classic series. It feels like something fresh and new while also building on decades of history and love of a franchise. You don’t need to know what has come before, but if you do, what’s teased will raise a lot of questions and get readers excited to see where this modern pulp adventure goes next.

Story: Jeremy Adams Art: Will Conrad
Color: Lee Loughridge Letterer: Taylor Esposito
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy

Mad Cave Studios provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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