In 1983, a G.I. Joe story was released that was unlike anything fans had seen prior. Issue #21 of the Marvel Comics series led by Larry Hama released “Silent Interlude”. The Snake-Eyes focused tale is legendary. It was the first appearance of Storm Shadow. As impactful as that moment was, it is not the main takeaway from fans.
The story had no dialogue.
Fast forward 42 years later and G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero is having a renaissance under the Skybound Entertainment Banner. The series has restarted in continuation under Hama in 2023. Going in on that success, the line is revisiting this creative style of story telling with “Silent Missions”.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero – Beach Head #1 by Phil Hester, Travis Hymel, and Lee Loughridge launches this new initiative.
Let’s take a closer look & see if this new mission is a success.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero – Beach Head #1 by Phil Hester, Travis Hymel, and Lee Loughridge (IMAGE COMICS/SKYBOUND)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Hester throws Beach Head (literally) into a demilitarized zone when a COBRA helicopter crashes. The full page image sets a tense pace for this mission. Two orphans find him and help him escape. The dire situation reflects the war torn landscape. Hester and Hymel spare no expense on the gritty ordeal. Readers watch as the orphans struggle to survive. This touches a chord with Beach Head. They helped save him. He intends to return the favor.
Once COBRA catches wind of survivors, the issue hits the gas petal. Hester unapologetically brings the brutality of war to this issue. Beach Head must act quickly to survive. Readers sense the mood change when he dons his mask. The mid page panel resonates with readers. Loughridge’s coloring compliments it well when the action starts. It thrusts the survival instinct into the spotlight. Even when one of the children try to get involved, Beach Head acts valiantly.
The fallout plays into a solid finish. It also gives a definitive thought to the readers. Beach Head’s gesture to one of the kids is subtle but reflects change. Sometimes, the past should stay in the past.
OVERALL GRADE: 8.8
The modern take on a classic Joe storytelling style hit a direct bullseye in its debut mission. Hester, Hymel and Loughridge craft an exciting tale with heart and action. It’s a creative take that speaks volumes in silence.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero – Beach Head #1. Thanks for reading!