The year is 3026. Items from the past have become valuable artifacts. With the amount of wealth and power involved, acquiring them is life changing. Those in possession of them won’t give them up without a fight. One adventurer wouldn’t have it any other way!
THE ADVENTURES OF ULYSSES MONARCH #1 by Marc Guggenheim, Harvey Tolibao, Mark Englert & Diego Sanches embarks on an odyssey all its’ own.
Let’s take a closer look at how this voyage starts!
THE ADVENTURES OF ULYSSES MONARCH #1 by Marc Guggenhiem, Harvey Tolibao, Mark Englehart & Diego Sanches (Comixology Originals)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Guggenhiem taps into an engaging start for this evolving tale. Monarch comes across with a devil-may-care attitude. Knowing his quest is one with consequence, Monarch brushes any pause to the side. Even when confronted by guards of his prize, readers never see him flinch. This is in large part to his partner/sidekick Glisky.
The dynamic between the pair offsets the speeding danger. Pacing speeds events up to match their desperate escape. It eases readers into their immediate confrontation. The dialogue never waivers from Monarch’s confidence. This leads into a thrilling escape. One the coast is clear, more secrets are divulged to the readers. None might be greater than the closing act. With a clear cut antagonist making a audacious entrance, events start slowly coming into view. The last panel teases much as there is more to Monarch’s moves than the audience may think.
Tolibao and Englehart gives Monarch a proper welcome via half page panel. It mirrors themes from Hollywood adventure movies. This is an instant win as Monarch’s quest starts its trek. Readers watch as he gets himself into a tight squeeze. Luckily, his partner in crime is there to support.
Glisky bursts onto the scene with a heavily shaded panel. This build intrigue behind her quick fury. Once completed, she’s awarded a half page panel before they resume business. Their escape is capped off with an excellent two page splash. This continues a series of the two page formats images. Once in the final stages, Sister Maggie’s eerie presences floods the pages. Readers watch as the brutality is on full display. In its’ aftermath is a closing image which may hold the key to Monarch’s plans.
OVERALL GRADE: 8.8
The price of a forgotten past takes readers on a ride that can’t afford to miss. Guggenhiem blends elements of adventure and sci-fi flawlessly with the writing. Tolibao and Englehart deliver on fast paced action with more clues looming in the air. This is one to keep on your radars for NCBD.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on THE ADVENTURES OF ULYSSES MONARCH #1. Thanks for reading!