FX #1 – Review

By: Wayne Osborne (story & script), John Byrne (pencils & inks) & Greg Cordier (colors)

The art and story of FX feels like I’m reading an 80’s comic book. All the characteristics are here: the art looks dated (well it is John Byrne we’re talking about here), and the colors have that four-color feel. The story is similar, in some ways to the Mark Millar / John Romita Jr collaboration, “Kick-Ass”.

FX #1 is your typical superhero origin story. What makes it a bit different is the story doesn’t do too much explaining how he gets his powers; he’s just hit by a bright light and that’s all we know. To use his powers need only think and make the sound effect of said power with his lips and it happens! If he wants a laser he points his finger, says “zzzt” and a laser shots. If he wants to fly, he thinks of a jet and a force field type glows over him, making a jet shape and off he goes. Because it’s imaginary based, it’s reminiscent of what Green Lantern can do – only Tom Talbot, our protagonist, doesn’t need a ring.

His first nemesis is a giant gorilla who escapes the zoo (who the hell transfers a giant gorilla into a zoo while it’s packed full of visitors?!). It seems that “Silverback” is a cousin or some other relative from Flash’s gorilla, cause it can talk as well.

I’m not big into hero books, but I gotta admit, this book is a fun read. I’m sure many people will like it because of John Byrne’s nostalgic feel. Now, back to my usual poor guy rant. Why the $3.99 tag? It’s not licensed, and I don’t want fancy paper stock if I can pay $1 less. I know that IDW is an independent publisher, but some people can’t afford that extra buck on the cover. (Grade: B+)

-Daniel Yanez