What If…? Donald Duck Became Wolverine #1
Illustrated by: Giada Perissinotto
Cover Art by: Giada Perissinotto
Written by: Luca Barbieri
Release date: July 31st, 2024
Marvel Comics
*Minor Spoilers Ahead
CELEBRATING THE 90th ANNIVERSARY OF DONALD DUCK AND THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF…WOLVERINE? In the most unexpected mashup of our time, we travel to the near future where chaos rules as PETE-SKULL has turned DUCKBURG into a super-hero-less WASTELAND. Only OLD DUCK DONALD can turn the tide but he’s given up his battling’ days and prefers naps and GRANDMA’s apple pie over fighting villains. But when MICKEY-HAWKEYE comes knocking at the door with GOOFY-HULK at his side, WOLVERINE-DONALD has to make a choice! Will a trip down memory lane change his mind to save the world or will the lure of the backyard hammock and a long nap keep him from popping his claws one last time? Featuring some of DONALD-WOLVERINE’S greatest moments!
In the realm of comic books, where the extraordinary becomes the everyday, and just in time for the “Deadpool & Wolverine” movie. “What If…? Donald Duck Became Wolverine #1” stands as a unique entry. This issue, marking significant anniversaries for two iconic characters, attempts to blend the whimsical world of Duckburg with the gritty reality of the Wolverine saga. The concept itself is a daring and imaginative leap, merging the lighthearted antics of Donald Duck with the brooding intensity of Wolverine.
The narrative takes us to a Duckburg transformed into a desolate landscape, a stark departure from the bustling city we’re accustomed to. Here, an aged Donald Duck, who has hung up his superhero cape in favor of leisurely pursuits, is faced with a dire choice. The arrival of Mickey-Hawkeye and Goofy-Hulk presents a crossroads: to embrace the quiet life or to rekindle the fiery spirit of his Wolverine persona.
The artwork by Giada Perissinotto brings a vibrant energy to the pages, capturing the essence of both Donald Duck and Wolverine in a style that pays homage to their legacies. Luca Barbieri’s writing weaves a tale that is filled with potential, hinting at a depth that could explore the complexities of a hero’s journey and the weight of legacy.
However, the execution of this ambitious crossover feels somewhat hurried, as if the story’s development was sacrificed for the sake of spectacle. The pacing leaves little room for the emotional resonance one might expect from such a character-driven plot. The result is a narrative that, while entertaining, doesn’t fully realize the rich thematic material it hints at.
For kids, and fans of either franchise, this comic offers a glimpse into a world that brims with possibility. It’s a celebration of two enduring characters, and while it may not delve as deeply into their psyches as one might hope, it still provides a delightful escape into a world where anything can happen. The comic doesn’t quite reach the heights it could, but it remains an enjoyable read that sparks the imagination and sort of honors the characters it portrays.
“What If…? Donald Duck Became Wolverine #1” is available on our new comic book wall.
Donald Duck's Lukewarm Heroic Tale
Colors - 9.4
Design - 8.7
Illustration - 8.8
Narrative - 8
Subplot - 8.1
8.6
Marvel's latest release, "What If...? Donald Duck Became Wolverine #1," brings a unique twist to two iconic characters, celebrating significant anniversaries. The narrative takes us to a dystopian Duckburg, with retired hero Donald Duck facing a dilemma. While the plot feels hurried and leaves readers wanting more depth, it still offers an entertaining experience for fans of both characters. It's a decent pick for those curious about this quirky combination but might not satisfy those seeking a more developed story arc.
