As the Great Alpine Race is upon us, the Smart Money is putting pressure on Dante Ferno to take out Speed Racer. They recognize that Racer X is protecting Speed, so they want to make sure he’s off the board first. Can Racer X survive their attack and still save/help his brother?
CREDIT: MAD CAVE STUDIOS
Racer X #3
Written By Mark Russell – Art By Nuno Plati
Colors By Giada Marchisio & Nicola Righi – Letters By Buddy Beaudoin
Edited By Chas! Pangburn - Published By Mad Cave Studios
***Minor Spoilers Possible***
Story Overview:
The Smart Money is very concerned that Speed Racer is going to once again win another big race, costing them more money. So, they put even more pressure on Dante Ferno to take care of this problem by taking out not only Speed, but also his protector Racer X. Unfortunately for them Racer X jukes the would-be killers out with a fake Shooting Star that is remote driven. Now at the Great Alpine Race, Speed is all set to try and take the win, with Racer X firmly in his corner. But as Speed is competing and trying to win, Racer X has a little thing on the course with an old fling, Hellkitten. Will Racer X be able to overcome his past, well protecting Speed?
Writing:
This issue ties a lot of what is going on in the Speed Racer universe together. Mark Russell does a fantastic job of showing all of the moving parts in this arc. The plotting of the Smart Money, coupled with the duty of Racer X to protect his brother Speed leads to some suspenseful moments. At the same time showing a new part of Racer X’s past with the reveal of an old flame, which really adds another wrinkle to the character. The tie into the main Speed Racer story also really makes this issue stand out and shows the importance of this side story.
Artwork:
The artwork in this issue maintains the high standard we've come to expect since the Speed Racer Universe began. Nuno Plati captures the series' anime roots and skillfully adapts them to a contemporary comic style. The racing scenes are dynamic, immersing readers right in the heart of the action. Meanwhile, Giada Marchisio excels with her choice of colors, making every panel visually striking.
Final Thoughts
Racer X #3 is another great installment in the Speed Racer universe. The amazing racing action is only outshined by the awesome dramatic story that is playing out. The revealing of more of Racer X’s past, humanizes him more showing us more Rex Racer. This is a must pickup at the shop this week and if this series isn’t on your Pull List add it now.
Overall Grade: 9.3/10