Coming at the apex of the Guardians of the Galaxy hype, this story book take on everyone’s favorite Procyon lotor is an irresistible breath of fresh air for mainstream comics.
Written by Skottie Young
Illustrated by Skottie Young and Jean-Francois BeaulieuALL-NEW, IN-CONTINUITY SERIES!
As defenders of the cosmos go, Rocket Raccoon has faced his fair share of galactic battles. He’s been a hero to the weak, a champion of good, a protector of the innocent, a heartthrob to the many intergalactic female species and now–a raccoon on the run?! ( I’m sorry, I’m sorry, a “formidable-and-expert-Guardian” on the run. Rocket is NOT a raccoon, okay?) Rocket’s high-flying life of adventure and heroism may soon be a thing of the past when he becomes a wanted man—and the authorities are not the only one on his TAIL! (We’ll definitely be overusing that pun!)
Superstar creator Skottie Young brings his A-game as writer and artist on the series we’ve been waiting decades for. Because let’s be real, this is the only Guardian of the Galaxy you actually care about. Am I right?
When most comic fans think of Skottie Young, chances are their minds instantly go to infant themed variant covers. However, I’m more reminded of the artist’s eye catching work on Marvel’s various “Wizard of Oz” comics. Young’s unique style brought a life of its own to the classic series, so much so that his iconography rivals that of the Victor Fleming film (ok, maybe only in my mind). That ability to take such thorough ownership of a property makes his work extremely compelling, but doesn’t always play so nice in a shared universe.
Skottie Young once did a very memorable variant cover for the DnA penned “Annihilators” series, prominently featuring Rocket Raccoon and Groot. Since seeing that cover, this book has been a personal pipe-dream of mine. Now that it actually exists, the potential of that single cover is allowed to grow and bloom in full, and the result is truly spectacular.
There’s an odd disconnect brought on by this book. How can these whimsical figures be the ones prancing through Bendis’ “Guardians of the Galaxy?” How is this representative of the upcoming film? Is this for kids? Adults? Both? Neither? That conundrum is part of what makes “Rocket Raccoon” #1 so special.
On the surface this issue feels very much like a young reader/all-ages take on the Guardians, albeit one with copious amounts of censored swears and innuendo. While Rocket takes center stage, the rest of the Guardians make appearances as well, even Angela. While the characters are played with a more comical bent, they certainly mesh with what we’ve come to see from the team’s current incarnation.
In fact, this book is rooted deeper in current continuity than most would likely expect. Fans might recall the series of “Guardians of the Galaxy” Infinite Comics, written by Bendis and illustrated by a number of talented artists, that accompanied the launch of the current series. In a Rocket-centric issue by Ming Doyle, it was heavily implied that the one and only talking space raccoon may not be so unique in the cosmos. “Rocket Raccoon” picks up on this thread directly, even referencing key scenes from the issue for those who haven’t read it. This is a surprising foundation for a book that seems readily geared towards continuity-lite romps.
However, that’s not say the book isn’t a ton of fun, because it most certainly is. The truth behind Rocket’s sinister doppelgänger is more punchline than revelation, a joke subtly established over the course of the issue. Young’s bright and vibrant figures are full of character and charm, emoting with cartoon-like exaggeration. Rocket is especially well suited for Young’s unique brand of artistry, coming to life on the page. Nothing is more fun, however, than seeing Groot go toe to toe with a giant slime monster in the ring.
From a design sense, “Rocket Raccoon” follows in the footsteps of fellow trendsetter “Moon Knight” in establishing a unique and unrivaled identity. Colorist Jean-Francois Beaulieu crafts a technicolor dream, saturated with otherworldly greens, violets, and oranges. His absolutely gorgeous palette contributes greatly to the issues “story-book” quality. Likewise, the book’s lettering effects are instantly distinctive and memorable. The thinly drawn, highly accented letters make the sound effects truly become part of the art, contributing to the overall ambiance of the page.
Continued below“Rocket Raccoon” is arguably a success on nearly every level. The issue itself is technically strong. The dialogue and tone are extremely fun, the characters are memorable, and the artwork and design are stunning and unique. The book captures the spirit of the Guardians of the Galaxy and presents it in a terrific all-ages format. By focusing the action on Rocket, the book gives younger readers a mascot with which to identify, and gives older fans more of what they want: Rocket and Groot being absolutely awesome. The book is arguably a “Guardians-lite” book, telling enjoyable and relevant stories without the sense of angst and urgency found in “Guardians of the Galaxy” proper. This makes the book a perfect read for the more casual comic fan, or for those less invested in the vast web of Marvel continuity.
Final Verdict: 9.3 – “Rocket Raccoon” is arguably the best type of book to take advantage of the interest generated by the upcoming film, and another innovative addition to Marvel’s expanding line of artist driven books.
P.S., if you love this issue, or just Rocket Raccoon in general, be sure to check out our Guardians Month feature here on Multiversity. Some truly terrific artists have come together to create some truly special pieces of original art for auction, the proceeds of which will go to Bill Mantlo, creator of this wonderfully spunky space mammal. Be sure to check out the art pieces, and read more about Mantlo’s story here on Multiversity!
