Bridging the gap between the bombastic “Infinity” and the impending ‘Trial of Jean Grey,’ legendary artist Kevin Maguire delivers a fun done in one starring Gamora and Angela. Eyes up, guys.
Written by Brian Michael Bendis
Illustrated by Kevin Maguire• Angela and Gamora go hunting.
• Special guest artist Kevin Maguire (Justice League, Batman Confidential, X-Men)
The done in one story has become a rare art from in the current “write for trade” climate. For that reason, it’s always a treat to see one, especially one as well assembled as “Guardians of the Galaxy” #10. It’s not a game changer, but Bendis and Maguire deliver a terrific mix of fun diversion, worthwhile character development, and even some juicy plot advancement.
The crux of the issue involves what Peter Quill deems a “spa day” for Gamora and Angela. This, of course, consists of blasting some nasty slaving Badoon badies. There’s some slight explanation involving the search for Thanos and what not, but this issue is truly a vehicle for Kevin Maguire to draw a couple of super-ladies beating on alien scum.
And boy does he deliver. Filling 20 pages with glorious widescreen action, Maguire gives each of these leading ladies their due. The artist masterfully transitions from dense 18 panel pages filled with Bendis’ signature talking heads and snappy banter, to a gorgeous double splash page. Maguire demonstrates a fantastic sense of perspective, making his fight scenes a joy to behold. The sequence involving a battle between Gamora and an alien golem is particularly impressive. Perhaps even more impressive, however, is the fact that Maguire never exploits the characters for a cheap cheesecake moment. Look what you’re missing out on, “Justice League 3000.”
Not to be shown up by his prestigious guest, Bendis brings his “A” game as well. The writer’s trademark “Bendis speak” is on display in the quick witted and sarcasm laced conversations of Gamora and Angela, or the musings of a late-coming Rocket Raccoon. There are a few story beats, like the ingrained helplessness of the slaves, that get lost in the shuffle of the issue’s more pressing plot lines. This doesn’t negatively affect the issue, but it almost feels like the writer intended to make a point, only to get sidetracked before the issue’s abrupt ending. The issue ends with several interesting questions left lingering, questions that are likely to pique the interest of even the most casual passerby.
Overall, “Guardians of the Galaxy” #10 is a fun, brisk detour with only moderate bearing on the book’s overarching plot-lines. However, thanks to strong characterization and even stronger artwork, the issue is arguably the best of Bendis’ run thus far. Strangely, the issue does a poor job of building up excitement for next month’s crossover with “All-New X-Men.” In fact, I’d argue this issue actually diminishes interest in ‘The Trial of Jean Grey.’ In many ways, this almost feels like the beginning of an arc, rather than a bridge or a standalone issue. Why derail this story that is just starting to get rather interesting?
Final Verdict: 8.3 – Buy. Kevin Maguire, you’re welcome here any time.
