A hero that is pure of heart in this age of cynicism? That’s who the character of Huck is in writer Mark Millar and Rafael Albuquerque’s new miniseries. “Huck” #1 begins the tale of a small town super-do-gooder who is unlike most heroes we are accustomed to today.
Written by Mark Millar
Illustrated by Rafael AlbuquerqueIn a quiet seaside town, Huck uses his special gifts to do a good deed each day. His neighbors return the favors by keeping his abilities a secret. But when a newcomer alerts the media, a firestorm erupts, sending Huck on an adventure that will change everything. This brand-new series from writer MARK MILLAR and artist RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE presents a comicbook unlike anything you’ve read before. Featuring a Feel-Good Movie variant cover by RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE.
Mark Millar, who has written books packed with violence in the past, releases an ode to heroism that has a tone of both sweetness and innocence. Huck, who is the hero of his self-titled “Huck” #1, simply lives to commit good deeds and use his superhuman strength to carry them out. Whether the gesture is on a personal or global scale, this is a hulking man from small town U.S.A. who lives only to help others. Huck is reminiscent of Superman, yet has a purity that can’t help but be infectious. Artist and co-creator Rafael Albuquerque assists in accentuating the innocence and goodness of a character that could have lost the nuance he so desperately needs in order for this story to succeed without schmaltz.
The townspeople respect Huck and allow this extraordinarily-powered hulk of a guy live in peace. They allow him to be a hero and, as shown in “Huck” #1, let him perform his deeds “anonymously”. This is a “hero” who doesn’t need the recognition. Millar, with this first issue, is conveying the message that real heroes don’t need to grandstand or “send a message” to the enemies. His message is sent through his selfless actions. The execution of Millar’s story is deceptively and purposefully simple and executed with power and skill without being bombastic and ostentatious. Those looking for over-the-top action and blood and guts will be disappointed. Wholesome, according to Millar and Albuquerque, can be just as exciting as the usual action-packed superhero issue.
Millar’s story and ideas are able to succeed because of Albuquerque and colorist Dave McCaig. From his familiar origin story to the actions he performs for others with gusto, there is a genuineness on the page that is needed for a book like this one. “Huck” #1 is a heartfelt introduction to a hero whose backstory is not yet fully revealed to us or the other characters. Albuquerque depicts a behemoth of a guy who always has a smile on his face and, although and because he may have learning disabilities, is the epitome of the compassion that is possible in anyone. We all have a history and setbacks that have affected us, yet Huck refuses to let those traits define him.
Albuquerque lends a nuance to Huck that is both touching and humble. His posture is a bit slouched and he is far from being bellicose in his demeanor. He helps and protects people as if it’s something natural and to be enjoyed. Millar allows Albuquerque an amazing amount of freedom to tell the story mainly through his art. The simplicity of the story and the lack of verbosity in the script is something that defines the book. The last page of “Huck” #1 shows a man whose life is about to drastically change and the possibilities are exciting for what direction the rest of this series could possibly go.
McCaig’s colors are lush and highlight the painted quality of the issue. The rich watercolor feeling in the ubiquitous use of blue and yellow tones highlight the innocence and simplicity of Huck. When he commits certain selfless acts, they are colored a blue hue. The aftermath of the deed is usually colored bright yellow and are appropriate for this character. Huck has a rosy outlook on life and, even when he is rescuing some people from a heinous act, he retains that glow and self-confidence that McCaig so eloquently bequeaths upon this mysterious hero.
“Huck just likes making people happy.” That’s a refreshing quality for anyone, superpowered or not. Millar, Albuquerque, and McCaig punch the audience in the gut with kindness and humanity. The only complaint I have with “Huck” #1 is the brevity of the issue. It could have had more pages, but it was still an impressive feat of a first issue and introduction to an endearing character. Let’s hope Huck survives a world that can, at times, be scary.
Final Verdict: 8.0 – Millar and Albuquerque set up a character and plot that are rife with joyful possibilities. “Huck” #1 reels you in, hoping the titular character’s obstacles are going to make for fun and intriguing storytelling.
