Written by Fabian Nicieza & Kurt Busiek
Art by Tom Grummett; Gary Erskine; Comicraft; & Chris Sotomayor
Cover Art by Tom Grummett
SUMMARY:
Simultaneously resuming the original series’ numbering as Issue # 82, this standard-length re-launch entitled “One Step Forward” was published by Marvel Comics for January 2005. In the aftermath of Avengers Disassembled, ex-Beetle/Mach IV Abner Jenkins has been released from prison and publicly announces a Thunderbolts reboot. Recruiting Songbird, Blizzard, and a seemingly powerless ex-Goliath/Atlas, Jenkins himself returns as Mach IV, complete with a new team headquarters and a new jet.
The team fends off an attack on the World Trade Center from the renegade Atlanteans known as Fathom Five after Genis/Captain Marvel joins the battle. Atlas commits a shocking act. Meanwhile, Abe’s ominous benefactor is revealed.
Note: Speed Demon, Joystick, and Radioactive Man aren’t in this issue, as they haven’t joined the team yet.
REVIEW:
Taking a more kid-friendly approach than DC’s similarly-themed Suicide Squad and Secret Six, this sequel’s opener suggests some intriguing potential. Sporting strong visual quality, the storyline benefits from two well-played characterizations, specifically Songbird and Atlas. Songbird’s reluctance to rejoin this squad makes perfect sense, considering her past romantic failure with Abe Jenkins. The fiercely loyal Atlas gives this series a welcome sense of volatile unpredictability.
The other cast members, including Jenkins, make a minimal impression thus far, but the egotistical Genis might add some extra spark in upcoming issues. New Thunderbolts # 1 should please the team’s fans and probably add some new ones in the process.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
None.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
