Elijah Williams
Flash Gordon, a character who first graced the comic strip scene in 1934, quickly skyrocketed to multimedia stardom. From a football star to a space-traveling superhero, Flash Gordon has been the star of radio plays, movie serials, cartoons, television shows, and most notably, a feature film in 1980. Despite his pulp origins, Flash Gordon’s popularity has endured, thanks to his ability to adapt to changing times. This adaptability is brilliantly showcased in Flash Gordon Quarterly #1, a new anthology by Mad Cave Studios that catapults Flash into the multiverse.
The inaugural issue features three distinct stories, each set in a different reality. The focus is on the beloved franchise characters in unfamiliar forms. The series also promises character-centric stories that spotlight various members of the Flash Gordon supporting cast.
The first story revolves around the noble hawkman leader Vultan and his son, Talon. As they face the mercenaries of Ming, father and son must overcome their family disputes to survive. This action-packed tale is beautifully illustrated by artist Pasquale Qualano. Dennis Culver adds depth to the story by exploring Vultan’s complex emotions as a father and a king, as he watches his son grow up.
Flash Gordon Quarterly celebrates the timeless appeal of classic characters
The other two stories in Flash Gordon Quarterly #1 reimagine the classic characters in new realities. Termed as Flash Fiction, these What If…? style stories present these characters in genres beyond space opera. The second story, “The Battle of Little Mingo,” is a space Western, featuring Flash as the courageous sheriff, Dale Arden as his deputy, and Ming as a corrupt governor. Louis Southard masterfully adapts the classic characters into this world, while Nuno Plati’s artwork adds visual intrigue, with unique elements like Ming’s giraffe/horse hybrid mount.
The final story, “Flash Detective Services,” by Jordan Thomas and Russell Olson, immerses our hero in a Noir mystery. As in the second tale, the classic characters retain their essence, even when adapted into new roles. The genre shift allows for some clever twists on the classic formulas. For example, Princess Aura effortlessly assumes the role of the femme fatale, hiring private investigators Gordon and Zarkov to locate her missing fiancé.
Ultimately, Flash Gordon Quarterly #1 is a fascinating exploration of adaptation. It’s sure to captivate existing fans of the King Features hero and genre enthusiasts. However, it also serves as an inviting entry point for new readers unfamiliar with the thrilling worlds of Flash Gordon.
Grade: 4/5
Flash Gordon Quarterly #1 will be available in comic shops everywhere from September 4, 2024.
