Review: ROCKET RACCOON #1
Words and Art: Skottie Young
Color Art: Jean-Francois Beaulieu
Lettering: Jeff Eckleberry
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Mix one rambunctious talking raccoon with one of the most popular cartoonist in the industry today, and you have the makings of a hit comic book on your hands. Skottie Young pulls double-duty as writer and artist on Rocket Raccoon. The demand for a book starring Rocket is due to the renewed interest Marvel has been giving to not only the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, but to the cosmic side of their universe as well.
Rocket Raccoon finds Rocket checking out a wrestling match with his best friend Groot. Things quickly take a turn for the worst when Rocket learns he’s wanted for murder. As someone who’s taken a lot of lives, this leaves Rocket questioning just who’s murder it is. And is Rocket really the culprit?
What I Liked
I have to admit something. I’ve never read a comic drawn by Skottie Young. I’m only familiar with his many variant cover work. All that said, I was extremely impressed with not only his artistic talent, but his storytelling as well. Young is a master of expressionism. Bodies are animated, faces are full of emotion, and plenty of humor to go around. I knew I was in for a treat when by page 4 I was laughing out loud over the small flex of a pinky finger.
I love satire and humor that doesn’t try too hard, and Rocket Raccoon is filled with this. Each page and panel the reader has to pay very close attention to details in the background, or else miss the next joke.
Guest appearances by the Guardians of the Galaxy only add to the fun, as Star-Lord and Rocket banter back and forth.
What I Didn’t Like
One thing I can gripe about is the use of cuss words (which are bleeped out). Many readers will be coming to Rocket Raccoon after enjoying the Free Comic Book Day comic back in May. From what I’ve read online, a lot of those readers were children. Even with bleeped out words, some parents may find the language or tone unsuitable.
Summary
Overall, Rocket Raccoon #1 is one enjoyable comic. There is no need to know convoluted continuity, or every aspect of Rocket’s past. Just sit back, relax, and savor the craziness. Rocket has to get to the bottom of who has potentially framed him. This adventure is sure to be filled with nonstop action and guns a-blazing.
Rating: 5 out of 5
This review is written in partnership with Pop Culture Network. They can be found at their website http://www.popculturenetwork.com/
Timdogg
#ComicBookChronicles @CBChron founder. Editor-in-Chief of @thekliqnation. Comic book reviewer, podcaster #RABBLERABBLE
