I can not tell you how long I’ve been waiting for this title. The instant it was announced I knew it would be one I couldn’t afford to miss. It was a dream come true. My love of pulp heroes colliding with one of my favorite writers. Dynamite has definitely carved out a niche for me in their universe, as I am now able to read Shadow, Green Hornet, and Masks monthly. With Flash’s Buccellato hopping aboard their Black Bat launch, and a Miss Fury launch approaching I will most likely be spending a bit of time in the Dynamite end of the business.
Now let’s get back to Green Hornet, I’ll start by discussing what I liked.
1. The art. Daniel Indro rocks the art. The action feels very real, and the people are very full of life. While Dynamite has often had problems with artists falling short of the narrative’s Dynamite’s writing staff offers, this book serves as a pleasant exception.
2. Green Hornet is a bad guy. Well, no he’s not. But fans of the Green Hornet will know that he poses as an underworld boss/enforcer. Witch is in stark contrast to Kevin Smith’s take on the character, which has Britt’s son playing the hero. While that series has been exceptional through it’s run. It is nice to see this book return to its roots.
3. The Shadow was referenced. It is nice to know that Waid is adding to Dynamite’s slowly growing shared universe.
4. The issue is one and done. While it leaves off on a cliff hanger of sorts, this issue’s plot begins and ends within the issue. Which, to me, is a perfect way of introducing the character.
5. It was one part television show plus one part modern super hero narrative. There is nothing wrong with that combination.
Rating before reading: 7
Rating after reading: 9
This issue blew me away. The art and story was dynamic, and exactly what a die hard pulp fan would want to see. The pure understanding of the character allows Waid to deliver an interpretation that feels pure and unchained, pleasing old fans while captivating new fans at the same time.
My one complaint would be the lack of focus or emphasis on Kato. He gets a little bit of time, but not near the time some of the other supporting characters can do. While I’m bugged by it, Kato is a naturally silent character. Thus him getting lost, is kinda what the character wants. He is a ninja.
So aside from that rather nitpicky complaint, this comic was pitch perfect and a stellar start to the series. This is a must read for any Green Hornet or pulp genre fan. Despite this, it is not exclusive. Any one interested in learning more about the character has all they need right here. The story is powerful and moving, and should easily be able to captivate anyone interested in it.
Until the next time,
Rn
Ravingnerd 