Marvel Unleashed #1 features a not-so-new concept, but one that has been used sparingly over the years: a team of pets and animal sidekicks teaming up to save the day.
Written by Kyle Starks (Where Monsters Lie, Peacemaker Tries Hard) with artwork from Jesus Hervas (The Approach, The Empty Man), colors by Yen Nitro, and lettering from VC’s Joe Caramagna, this thrilling comic delves into a world where animals are heroes, and the fate of the world rests on their furry shoulders. Marvel Unleashed #1 has perfectly balancing humor, excitement, and heart.
At the core of Marvel Unleashed‘s success is the stunning artwork by Hervas. His style is a refreshing departure from the cartoony and bubbly illustrations that often dominate pet-centered stories. Instead, his artwork is equal parts whimsical and dynamic, capturing the essence of each animal and their personalities.
Kyle Starks’ writing is another highlight of Marvel Unleashed. He strikes the perfect balance between humor and excitement, never letting the story become too serious or too silly. While the story centers on pets and animal sidekicks, it never feels juvenile or simplified. Instead, Starks weaves in real danger and high stakes, making the narrative engrossing and unpredictable. There are more serious threats than your typical superhero animal story, but the lighthearted tone ensures that it never becomes too intense.
Marvel Unleashed has a nice mixture of pets we all know and love with some new characters. Throg the Frog of Thunder, Redwing the Falcon, Chewie the Cat Flerken, Lucky the Pizza Dog, Bats the Ghost Dog, and their new ally D-Dog each have unique personalities and powers. It’s exciting to see these animals team up, and readers will certainly have their favorite characters. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, making their teamwork all the more impressive.
Marvel Unleashed is a brilliant comic book that is sure to delight animal lovers and Marvel enthusiasts. The artwork is stunning, the writing is clever and lighthearted, and the characters are all unique and charming. It’s a refreshing departure from the usual spandex-clad superheroes, and it’s clear that Starks and Hervas poured their hearts and souls into this project.
Marvel Unleashed #1 hits local comic shops on August 23, 2023 from Marvel Comics.
Kyle Starks joined the Capes and Tights Podcast for Episode 100 to discuss his creator-owned work and more!
Marvel Unleashed #1 Preview
