Written by Jason Aaron
Art by Russell Dauterman; Matthew Wilson; VC’s Joe Sabino
Cover Art by Chris Sprouse; Karl Story; & Marte Garcia
SUMMARY:
Published by Marvel Comics for January 2016, this Battleworld one-shot cross-over is entitled “If He Be Worthy.” Beneath the Norwegian Sea, a Roxxon exploratory craft and its adjacent base are attacked by Frost Giants. The Frost Giants besiege Roxxon and the Atlanteans who have attempted to protect them. On the moon, not even Odin can pick up the now-immovable Mjolnir.
When word reaches Asgardia of the Frost Giant attack on Earth, Odin and his wife, Freyja, argue over whether or not to intervene. Intercepting his old foes, an exhausted and under-powered Thor is easily dispatched. He’s also easy prey for the evil elf, Malekith. Malekith and the Frost Giants have made an ominous bargain to retrieve an unknown item that the Frost Giants want from the Roxxon Corporation. As Thor faces a watery grave, a mysterious woman claims Mjolnir and transforms into Thor: Goddess of Thunder.
Note: This comic is credited as a ‘Hasbro Custom Edition,’ conveying that it is a promo for Marvel Legends action figures. This issue contains a ‘special edition’ of The Mighty Thor # 1.
REVIEW:
Bolstered by top-tier artwork, this issue is an excellent effort in terms of setting up a new Thor storyline. Thor’s intriguing predicaments aside, the best moments pertain to the royal friction between Odin & Freyja, as well as the well-played enigma introducing the new female Thor. Impressively, this comic proves a great read!
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a single-page pin-up of both Thors in apparent conflict vs. one another by artists Russell Dautermann and Matthew Wilson.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
