GATCHAMAN #3, by Mad Cave Studios on 9/11/24, sends Jun undercover as one of the Dark Stars to find their secret base and uncover Galactor’s plans. It doesn’t go well.
Credits:
- Writer: Cullen Bunn
- Artist: Chris Batista
- Colorist: Carlos Lopez
- Letterer: Buddy Beaudoin
- Cover Artist: Inaki Miranda (cover A)
- Publisher: Mad Cave Studios
- Release Date: September 11, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $3.99
- Page Count: 24
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of GATCHAMAN #3:
First Impressions:
Cullen Bunn is absolutely nailing the reinvigorated adaptation of Gatchaman, and fans of the original series are reaping the rewards. Gatchaman #3 shifts the current arc into espionage mode for an issue packed with thrills, nail-biting tension, and a killer cliffhanger.
Plot Analysis:
When last we left the Science Ninja Team in Gatchaman #2, our heroes saved yet another scientist from being kidnapped while the city was distracted with a diversionary attack by the Sundew Plant Mecha. With one of Galactor’s chief operatives in custody, Jun, aka G-3, volunteered to take the agent’s place to infiltrate Galactor’s operation and discover his plan.
In Gatchaman #3, Jun dons the outfit and mask of the captured Devil Star and escorts Dr. Aoki to the meeting point. She admires Dr. Aoki’s bravery in volunteering to be captured as a part of the ruse to get Jun aboard their ship. Jun engages in idle chit-chat with her “colleagues,” but Jun’s comments may have raised suspicions, so she activates her homing beacon to give the Science Ninja Team her coordinates.
Writer Cullen Bunn starts the issue with a perfect undercover mission to follow the enemy as one of them to locate their base and the kidnapped scientists. Bunn smartly raises suspicions almost immediately to create tension and elevate the shrewdness of the Devil Stars as formidable enemies.
The Science Ninja Team nervously follows Jun’s signal while they work out a game plan. Meanwhile, Dr. Nambu receives a visit from Mara, leader of the Beta Team, because Mara feels her team is being underutilized. Dr. Nambu tells her she and her team aren’t ready to partner with the Science Ninja Team, but it’s clear Mara doesn’t accept Nambu’s assessment.
Ahh, yes. Impatience is a great way to sow the seeds of conflict. Mara may be right, and Dr. Nambu will be responsible for costly errors by not letting the Beta Team participate, or Mara’s impatience will prompt her to find satisfaction in other ways, which will haunt Dr. Nambu later. Either way, Bunn sets up brewing trouble nicely.
When the Dark Stars ship arrives at Delta Base, Jun follows the crowd after witnessing Dr. Aoki being taken away. However, one of her colleagues attacks when Jun says a phrase a Dark Star would never say, letting slip that she’s an imposter. Exposed, Jun transforms into her G-3 bird costume and races through the base to avoid capture. The issue concludes with a moral dilemma, a painful order, and a hard choice in the name of the greater good.
Overall, Gatchaman #3 is another pitch-perfect issue that respects and continues the original series with high-flying action, intrigue, and drama in copious amounts. Bunn is nailing this series.
Artwork and Presentation:
Likewise, Chris Batista’s art style is a fantastic match for the classic property with faithful costumes, modern-yet-classically-inspired figure work, and outstanding panels. Further, Carlos Lopez’s color palette and application are on point.
Art Samples:
The Bigger Picture:
Historical Context:
This issue doesn’t provide a specific point in the history of Gatchamn to inform readers when it takes place. However, the fact that Berge Katse is alive and in charge affirms this story takes place before Gatchaman Episode 105.
Final Thoughts:
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GATCHAMAN #3 continues the vibrant, faithful adaptation of the classic adventures of the Science Ninja Team with a thrilling undercover mission. Cullen Bunn continues to recreate the themes, atmosphere, and pace of the original series, and Chris Batista’s reverent art looks amazing.
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