FLASH GORDON #4, by Mad Cave Studios on 11/20/24, finds Flash, Ming, and Daranek flying out of one sticky situation and winding up in another when their ship lands for repairs near an Outlaw Outpost.
Credits:
- Writer: Jeremy Adams
- Artist: Will Conrad
- Colorist: Lee Loughridge
- Letterer: Taylor Esposito
- Cover Artist: Will Conrad, Lee Loughridge (cover A)
- Publisher: Mad Cave Studios
- Release Date: November 20, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $4.99
- Page Count: 32
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of FLASH GORDON #4:
First Impressions:
Jeremy Adams picks up the pace with a classic adventure tale that forces Flash Gordon to look for supplies and repair assistance in a wretched hive of scum and villainy. Fans of classic adventure stories will get a kick out of the pulp adventure antics, and this issue takes one step closer to connecting with the surprise reveal of Dale’s fate at the end of issue #1.
Plot Analysis:
When last we left the galaxy’s greatest hero in Flash Gordon #3, we learned the secret origin of Ming the Merciless’s upbringing, turning him into the ruthless dictator he is today. In the present, Flash’s tentative partnership with Ming almost fell apart when Ming betrayed Flash in the gladiator ring, but a sly bit of maneuvering forced Flash to partner with Ming once again to escape Planet Death.
In Flash Gordon #4, we begin with Flash piloting the shuttle at breakneck speed away from Planet Death with pursuers hot on his trail while Daranek and Ming hang on tight. After expert maneuvering from Flash and dead-on shooting from Ming on the ship’s laser cannons, the fugitives get away, but not without taking heavy damage that forces a landing.
Writer Jeremy Adams starts the issue on a high adventure note with a space-faring dogfight reminiscent of The Empire Strikes Back. Ming, the eternal opportunist, knows when to cooperate and when to backstab with the best of them, so the constant air of mistrust keeps readers on their toes.
The ship receives heavy damage during the fight. In response, an android with a similar design to the Planet Death guards emerges from a compartment in the ship’s wall and begins repairs. After the excitement dies down, Flash questions the droid about the repair work, and the droid replies that it needs components that can be found in the nearby Outlaw Outpost.
It wouldn’t be fair to say Jeremey Adams is aping Star Wars plot points, but the parallels are hard to ignore. In this case, the structure is executed so well that you don’t mind. Part of the charm of Flash Gordon is his ability to adapt and overcome any circumstance, so what better challenge than to go undercover with his most hated enemy in a dangerous town on the edge of the galaxy?
Flash, Daranek, and Ming find someone at the Outpost willing to point the way to a group calling themselves Ming’s Mercenaries, who have the parts our hero needs. When the trio scouts the safehouse from a distance, Mind conks Flash on the head and tells Daranek he’ll need Flash to save him if his choice to infiltrate the safehouse alone goes haywire.
The issue ends with a grand entrance, laughter, and a backup plan activated.
Overall, Flash Gordon #4 will get your pulp science-fiction-loving heart pumping with thrilling action, dramatic tension, twists, and turns. Jeremy Adams is delivering one of the best comic adaptations in the market.
Artwork and Presentation:
The success of this issue is partly due to Will Moss’s fantastic art delivery. Moss’s detailed panels, imaginative alien designs, and effective use of shading and highlights bring the story to life. Plus, the space dogfight scene is a hoot in the best way.
Art Samples:
Final Thoughts:
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FLASH GORDON #4 is another winning chapter in the modern homage to classic pulp sci-fi action adventure storytelling. Jeremy Adams nails the pace and atmosphere of the original serial, peppering in fun homages to Star Wars Original Trilogy plot points, and Will Moss’s art looks fantastic.
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