Marvel Unleashed #1
Illustrated by: Jesus Hervas
Cover Art by: David Baldeon
Written by: Kyle Starks
Release date: August 23, 2023
Marvel Comics
*Minor Spoilers Ahead
KRAVEN UNLEASHES THE BEASTS!
When Kraven abducts Lockjaw at the same time a local scientist mixed up with A.I.M. goes missing, it’s up to Throg the Frog of Thunder, Redwing the Falcon, Chewie the Cat Flerken, Lucky the Pizza Dog, Bats the Ghost Dog and their scrappy new ally D-Dog to save the day. But there’s more to this case than meets the eye, and something infernal lurks in the shadows. Can feathers, fangs and claws stand against one of the deadliest foes in the Marvel Universe?
Marvel Unleashed #1 (of 4) presents a lighthearted and quirky concept that plays with the notion of superhero pets forming an unlikely team to save Lockjaw from the clutches of Kraven the Hunter. Written by Kyle Starks, with art by Jesus Hervas and a cover by David Baldeon, this comic takes a mildly humorous approach to the Marvel universe but leaves some potential untapped.
The central premise of a team consisting of superhero pets is undeniably amusing and brings a touch of novelty to the Marvel landscape. Throg the Frog of Thunder, Redwing the Falcon, Chewie the Cat Flerken, Lucky the Pizza Dog, and Bats the Ghost Dog form a whimsical ensemble that offers a different perspective on heroics. The inclusion of D-Dog as their scrappy new ally adds an extra layer of camaraderie to the mix.
The narrative, however, leans heavily into its comedic nature, and the “Unleashed” aspect, while most likely intended as a joke, might feel a bit forced for some readers. The stakes presented by Kraven’s abduction of Lockjaw are somewhat undermined by the overall humorous tone of the story. While the concept has potential, the execution could have explored deeper emotional or narrative layers beyond the immediate comedic appeal.
Jesus Hervas’ artwork captures the playfulness of the story, presenting each super-pet with distinct personality and charm. The cover art by David Baldeon sets the tone nicely, offering a glimpse of the wacky adventure that awaits within the pages.
One notable absence that might puzzle readers is the exclusion of Cosmo, the telepathic Soviet space dog from the Guardians of the Galaxy. Given the context and the team dynamic, adding Cosmo could have enhanced the interplay between the animals and perhaps even balanced the humor with a touch of seriousness.
Marvel Unleashed #1 delivers on its promise of a humorous and offbeat adventure featuring a team of super-pets. Kyle Starks’ writing keeps the tone light and fun, while Jesus Hervas’ art complements the story’s playful nature. However, the concept’s potential for depth and emotional resonance is left largely untapped.
The absence of Cosmo, an obvious candidate for such a team, leaves readers wondering why this opportunity was missed. If you’re looking for a chuckle and don’t mind a more straightforward comedic approach, this might be an enjoyable read, but it leaves room for more exploration and substance. Even though I feel like Marvel Unleashed would have been better represented as a whole if it were a “one shot” I guess we’ll just have to see what happens in the next three issues.
Marvel Unleashed #1 is available on our weekly new comic wall and it can also be placed on your pull list.
Marvel Unleashed #1: A Humorous Adventure with Superhero Pets, but Missed Opportunities
Colors - 9.4
Design - 7.6
Illustration - 8.3
Narrative - 6.3
Subplot - 7.6
7.8
Marvel Unleashed #1 is a comic about a team of superhero pets who must save Lockjaw from Kraven the Hunter. The story is lighthearted and humorous, but lacks depth and emotional resonance. The artwork captures the playful nature of the story, but some readers may find the "Unleashed" aspect forced. The absence of Cosmo, a potential team member, is puzzling. Overall, the comic is an enjoyable read for those who appreciate a straightforward comedic approach.
