Lobo #2 – Skottie Young, Writer; Jorge Corona, Artist; Jean-Francois Beaulieu, Colorist
Ray – 9/10
Ray: In an action-packed first issue, Lobo faced a fate worse than death – mass marketing. He found out that his bounty-hunting business had been taken over by a massive corporation, which now controlled his services. They still wanted him to hunt and kill for them – they just wanted him to do it in a more image-friendly, commercial way. So Lobo is now the star of a bounty-hunting reality TV show – whether he wants to be or not. That means a makeover to give him a very 90s-influenced suit of armor, as well as a whole lot of canned lines he’s supposed to repeat when claiming a bounty. Not only does he hate all of this, but he keeps ruining takes when he quickly kills his bounty instead of bringing them in with TV-friendly tactics. It’s pretty clear the partnership isn’t working – and Lobo wants everyone to know that. So it’s no surprise when the dreaded retooling comes down the pipe next.
It’s pretty clear Lobo isn’t a good hero or even an antihero, so there’s only one thing to do – pit him against a hero. And that’s how Emperor Aquaman winds up with a bounty placed on his head. Reading this issue after an issue of Jeremy Adams’ title is a bit of a head-trip because…this is not the same character. This version of Aquaman is a boastful bruiser clearly inspired by some of his cartoon appearances, but thankfully not the most infamous one. That’s the thing about this title and most of Young’s work in general – it’s best understood as a comedy and a bit of a parody. This is his first attempt to write a comic in the main line of the DCU, and because of that, it’s going to be a bit rough when it comes to characterization in places. But despite that, it’s a really funny take on Lobo with some fantastic action, and any fans of I Hate Fairyland will continue to have a great time.
To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week.
GeekDad received this comic for review purposes
