Superhero stories are usually associated with Marvel and DC comics, but there are other publishers who have produced excellent superhero stories. The Alternates, from the world of Minor Threats, is one such story that introduces us to a group of offbeat superheroes who find themselves transported to a mirror reality after sacrificing themselves in a battle with an invasion from another dimension.
Written by Patton Oswalt, Jordan Blum, and Tim Seeley with artwork from Christopher Mitten and Tess Fowler, The Alternates is a followup and spin-ff to the hit 2023 series Minor Threats by Oswalt, Blum and Scott Hepburn.
The story follows the lives of Mary the Multi-Monster, The Tripper, Crab Louie, Kid Curious, and Persona. These characters were offbeat b-list superheroes whose lives expanded after being transported to a four-dimensional reality. However, after five years they return to Twilight City, where they struggle to readjust to the traditional two-dimensional superhero world, away from the vivid lives they left behind. This new street drug threatens to compromise the superheroes’ attempts to adjust to their old lives, as some are tempted to succumb to its lure, while others band together to destroy it.
One of the strengths of The Alternates #1 is the artwork. The artwork from Christopher Mitten and Tess Fowler is stunning and different from Scott Hepburn’s work in the Minor Threats universe. It sets the comic apart and immediately captures the reader’s attention. The attention to detail and character development is impressive, and Mitten and Fowler’s artwork does the story justice.
The creative team behind The Alternates #1 knocks it out of the park with this story. This super hero universe not based in Marvel or DC is tough, but the creative team does an excellent job. The story has a unique point of view, and the characters are intriguing and entertaining. You can feel the passion for comics throughout the comic, and it’s a fresh take on the superhero genre.
Another exciting aspect of the story is the exploration of the four-dimensional reality. It’s an intriguing concept that the creative team easily handles, and it gives the story a unique edge. This is not your standard superhero story, and readers are in for a treat. The story explores the ramifications of living through an expanded consciousness, and the characters’ attempts to fit in the traditional two-dimensional worldview. The story balances the characters’ struggles to adapt with great action and pacing.
The Alternates #1 is an exciting and unique superhero story that stands out in a crowded market. The creative team behind the story is passionate about comics and brings their love to this story. From stunning artwork to intriguing world-building, The Alternates #1 is a comic book worth reading. It’s a fresh take on the superhero genre that will have readers coming back for more.
The Alternates #1 hits local comic shops on September 13, 2023 from Dark Horse.
Be sure to check out Jordan Blum, Patton Oswalt and Tim Seeley on Episode 123 of the Capes and Tights Podcast on August 23!
The Alternates #1 Preview
