Written by Derek Fridolfs (Hoodrinked) & John Rozum (Fright Ride)
Art by Walter Carzon; Horacio Ottolini; Silvana Brys; Saida Temofonte (Hoodrinked) and Fabio Laguna; John J. Hill; & Heroic Age (Fright Ride)
Cover Art by Derek Fridolfs; Horacio Ottolini; & Silvana Brys
SUMMARY:
Published by DC Comics for July 2016, this issue features the 10-page roller derby-themed “Hoodrinked” and the 11-page “Fright Ride.”
“Hoodrinked” has Mystery Inc. attending a women’s roller derby pitting the Boothville Battle Babes vs. the Spooky City Sensations. A mysterious ‘Roller Ghoul’ interferes, injuring two players. Tangling with this ghoul are second-half substitutes Daphne & Velma. Meanwhile, Freddy, Shaggy, & Scooby search for clues in the locker room.
“Fright Ride” has a skeptical New Kirk City journalist named Ryan observing Mystery Inc., to see what one of their cases is really like. Their investigation of some missing jewelry and an art gallery’s enigmatic painting that seemingly steals stuff isn’t the hot scoop Ryan is after.
Note: “Fright Ride” might be a reprint, as artists Fabio Laguna & Heroic Age are credited for an unseen cover image.
REVIEW:
The issue’s above-average artwork is definitely its best asset. However, the storytelling is a split decision. Aside from a few amusing roller rink nicknames, the superficial “Hoodrinked” is a premise in search of a mystery. Writer Derek Fridolfs should have tried harder on this tale, as he turns the Mystery Inc. gang into forgettable caricatures. Implying that an excited Velma uses an expletive in the dialogue is about the only surprise he offers. The issue’s cover image pun is better than this story, and that’s not saying much.
The intriguing concept writer John Rozum conjures up for “Fright Ride” is better than that less-than-terrific title. Though the first page isn’t promising, balancing Ryan’s journalistic narrative with Mystery Inc.’s detective work makes for a good caper. Despite a bland cop-out re: the culprit’s motive, Rozum’s twist ending honors the spirit of vintage Scooby mysteries. For undemanding Scooby fans ages 10 and under, this issue might briefly hold their attention. Its potential interest for adult fans, however, is negligible.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
A two-page maze features DC Super Hero Girls’ Harley Quinn, Vice Principal Gorilla Grodd, and gym teacher Wildcat. A two-page color spread depicts a DC Super Hero Girls line-up: Wonder Woman; Katana; Batgirl; Harley Quinn; Bumblebee; Supergirl; and Poison Ivy, as their primary super-powers and skills are listed. The last page has cover reveals for Scooby-Doo Team-Up # 16 (guest-starring The Shazam Family) and Batman ’66 Meets The Man from U.N.C.L.E. ’66 # 6.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 5 Stars
