Written by Mike W. Barr
Art by Terry Dodson; Andrew Pepoy; Dave Lanphear; Tim Divar; & Family Fugue
Cover Art by Terry Dodson & George Cox
SUMMARY:
Published by Malibu Comics for December 1993, this story is entitled “One Giant Leap for Mankind!” On Christmas Eve, the sorceress Mantra returns to Eden Blake’s home. Awkwardly leaving Eden’s disappointed family behind, Mantra senses she is needed by her ancient mentor, Archimage, on the Moon. Utilizing a lunar rock, Mantra’s magic transports her there. Taken captive by the alien Amber, Mantra is haunted by the spirits of lives she’s stolen over the years, Further, her powers may not be enough to keep her alive without air on the Moon.
Note: Mantra is an immortal, 1500-year old male warrior Lukasz presently trapped inside modern-day woman Eden Blake’s host body.
REVIEW:
Veteran writer Mike W. Barr musters a decent effort pitting Mantra again her prior sins ‘stealing’ other people’s lives. Unfortunately, capable artist Terry Dodson’s work sabotages itself, as his solid imagery is overshadowed by efforts (i.e. the cover image) to play up the series’ overtly sexist elements. Despite excessive ogling of a scantily-clad Mantra’s busty figure, Barr’s storyline hints at more depth than expected.
For instance, Lukasz’s self-absorbed yet stumbling adjustment impersonating Eden Blake (and neglect of her family) is an intriguing sub-plot. One might even further wonder if Lukasz’s now-troubled conscience is partially attributable to a compassionate Eden’s latent personality. By making good use of the series’ gender-bending concept, Mantra # 6 mostly proves a decent read.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Malibu Comics’ fan liaison, Diane Botta, handles a full-page “Mantra Mail” letters-and-answers column. There is also a two-page “UltraFiles” column. Included with this column is Mike Barr’s tedious story of how he and fellow Malibu writer Steve Gerber pitched their work in-flight to a new fan.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 5 Stars
