Comic Review: Atomic Robo: Savage Sword of Dr. Dinosaur #1
Posted By Leo Johnson on June 26, 2013
Atomic Robo is a robot made in the early 20th century by the eccentric genius Nikola Tesla. Over the next century or so, Robo goes on to not only be a scientist, but an action scientist, fighting monsters and supernatural phenomenon worldwide, and somehow making sense of it all with the aid of math and science. Over his years and adventures, he’s made many an enemy, but none as insane or unique as Dr. Dinosaur, who’s back in the eight volume of the “World’s Greatest Science Adventure Magazine”! Creators Brian Clevinger and Scott Wegener mix science, action, comedy and more to bring one of the most unique comics around.
Atomic Robo: Savage Sword of Dr. Dinosaur #1
After the events of “8/11″, Robo is a bit in the dumps. He’s been a branded a terrorist by the common people, instead of the monster-punching hero he’s often been seen as. When he gets a report of strange cryptid sightings in Venezuela, Robo assembles a team of his Action Scientists and heads down to investigate. What they find, is none other than the dastardly Dr. Dinosaur, and it seems he has a few friends. While Robo is away, acting CEO Jenkins must deal with a surprising package that shows up on the doorstep of headquarters.
Atomic Robo: Savage Sword of Dr. Dinosaur #1
Brian Clevinger consistently writes one of the smartest, funniest, funnest books on the stands. While Atomic Robo has its moments of genuine seriousness, as is shown in this issue, it’s also a hilarious book filled with recurring gags and smart, fun dialogue. Plus, you know, there’s science stuff. Clevinger plays with the trope of a “science hero” and makes that hero not only a scientist, but a robot and much, much more. In a comic market where every other book is a grim and gritty tale of revenge, it’s nice to see a book where the character have fun, laugh, but still get to punch a monster or two.
Atomic Robo: Savage Sword of Dr. Dinosaur #1
Scott Wegener’s art is perfect for this story that isn’t all about violence. The character often look simple, visually, but there’s a lot of work that goes into each one. Each character is distinct and has their own personality. Character like Jenkins, who have been around for decades in Robo-verse time, still are instantly recognizable even after all they’ve aged and changed. The art brings it all together, making things like talking dinosaurs, invincible robots, and Action Scientists all look like they exist in the same place as more mundane things.
Atomic Robo is consistently one of the best indie comics. It’s fun, smart, a visual treat, and often features talking dinosaurs. It does things that so many other books don’t, and it does them effortlessly. It speaks to a time when comics were more fun and does that era justice. This issue, as always, was a treat and is sure to lead into a crazy, fun, smart, science-y eight arc.
Comments
Leave a Reply
Please note: Comment moderation is currently enabled so there will be a delay between when you post your comment and when it shows up. Patience is a virtue; there is no need to re-submit your comment.