GATCHAMAN #4, by Mad Cave Studios on 10/23/24, makes G-3, aka Jun the Swan, the star of the show when she has to escape the Galactor base on her own.
Credits:
- Writer: Cullen Bunn
- Artist: Chris Batista, Sabrina Cintron
- Colorist: Carlos Lopez
- Letterer: Buddy Beaudoin
- Cover Artist: Inaki Miranda (cover A)
- Publisher: Mad Cave Studios
- Release Date: October 23, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $3.99
- Page Count: 34
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of GATCHAMAN #4:
First Impressions:
Writer Cullen Bunn delivers another fast-paced, action-packed crowd-pleaser in Gatchaman #4. Jun the Swan is stuck in a situation that would cripple a lesser hero, but Bunn elevates Jun by showing she’s a perfect mix of brains and fighting prowess to escape even the toughest situations. Fans of the Gatchaman series, especially Jun the Swan, will love this issue.
Plot Analysis:
When last we left the Science Ninja Team in Gatchaman #3, Jun infiltrated the Galactor base, disguised as an enemy, to find out where the kidnapped scientists were held. Unfortunately, Jun’s disguise didn’t fool her Devil Star “colleagues” for long, so a recon mission turned into a race to escape the enemy stronghold. Meanwhile, the Science Ninja Team was held back by another Sundew Mecha attack on the city.
In Gatchaman #4, G-3, aka Jun the Swan, fights her way down corridors and around blind corners as she is pursued by Galactor Guards, Blackbird Agents, and Devil Stars. Wounded and cornered, Jun uses her brains and brawn to strike down small groups. When an opportunity comes to rescue the kidnapped scientists, she chooses patience when she realizes the gathered scientists are bait to lure her into the open.
Be forewarned. This comic is an action fest from front to back. Jun races, sneaks, fights, and overcomes challenges on every page. Cullen Bunn gives fans of the original series drama, action, and excitement in one shot.
The Science Ninja Team continue to attack and outmaneuver the Sundew Mecha without much success. They know that Galactor sent the Mecha to keep them from rescuing Jun, but Dr. Nambu has a backup plan. He sends the Beta Team to rescue Jun while the Gatchaman is occupied.
To be fair, Dr. Nambu’s move to send in the Beta Team was telegraphed from a mile away, especially in issue #1. Beta infiltrates the base easily, which speaks well for their training, but don’t be too concerned about the Beta Team replacing Gatchaman just yet.
The Beta team is nearly captured by Devil Stars in disguise when Jun leaps into action to save them, much to the Beta Team’s leader’s annoyance. With greater numbers, Jun returns to the scientists and frees them with the Beta Team’s help. Suddenly, alarm bells sound to indicate the base’s self-destruct is active.
The issue concludes with Jun making a deadly choice, the Sundew Commander getting an undeniable taste of victory, and retreat taken off the table.
Overall, Gatchaman #4 is another thrill ride in the series that mimics the fast-paced action of the source material and expands the cast of characters. Cullen Bunn’s take on the Gatchaman franchise is as faithful as you can get without being Tatsuo Yoshida.
Artwork and Presentation:
Chris Batista and guest inker Sabrina Cintron absolutely nail the look, feel, and visual aesthetic of Gatchaman while incorporating all the modern techniques to give readers clean lines, detailed backgrounds, and dynamic action. This issue doesn’t look like a Manga, but the characters have a classic Manga design seamlessly blended into a modern Western comic setting, and it looks great.
Art Samples:
The Bigger Picture:
Series Continuity:
For longtime Gatchaman readers looking for continuity help, Berg Katse does make an appearance in this issue. Therefore, the point in the Gatchaman timeline where this story takes place is BEFORE Gatchaman episode #105.
Final Thoughts:
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GATCHAMAN #4 is a non-stop action fest that forces Jun the Swan through a gauntlet to escape an enemy base. Cullen Bunn takes the fast-paced adventure of the original anime to heart to keep readers’ hearts pumping, and the art team’s output looks amazing.
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