Does treason make a sound? That is the question posed in the final mission of a G.I. joe series that has made a lot of noise. The “Silent Missions” series from Skybound Entertainment has challenged the way readers follow the Joes in action. It has been a perfect homage to 1983’s “Silent Interlude” issue. With one mission left, it is only right the face of the franchise gets their turn in this format.
G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO - DUKE #1 by Wes Craig & Jason Wordie takes readers behind enemy lines in pursuit of a traitor.
Let’s take a closer look at how this chapter wraps up.
G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO - DUKE #1 by Wes Craig & Jason Wordie (Image Comics/Skybound)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Events open up with a covert raid on a Cobra base. Craig gifts readers with a striking near-quarter page image of Duke. The wait isn’t long before the bullets tart flying. Pacing hits the gas petal and Duke treads through a group attack. Once a main competitor stands up, drastic measures are taken. The images reflect the violent matters at hand. Once that round is over, the book slows down enough to let readers catch breathe.
A full page image of the base conveys a strong message to the hero. Running through a chemical plant leads to a wild melee. The art showcases another wild brawl leading to its’ explosion. The full page hallucination isn’t one to miss. After it wears off, the main event arrives. Craig and Wordie bring out the emotional rage of Duke during this. It leads to more brutal images for its’ close. Readers watch the pull it has on Duke heading into the finish. Events come full circle as the mission closes with a fitting parting shot.
OVERALL GRADE: 9
Duke’s hunt for a traitor gives a strong finish to the “Silent Missions” initiative. Craig and Wordie flood the pages with grit and sheer willpower against the odds. A true glimpse into storytelling at a difficult challenging point. “Silent Missions” proves actions speak louder than words. Don’t miss this run at the LCS!
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