SPACE GHOST #2, by Dynamite Comics on 6/5/24, unveils the secret origins of Space Ghost when Jace’s reckless joyriding catches the attention of a giant energy monster.
Credits:
- Writer: David Pepose
- Artist: Jonathan Lau
- Colorist: Andrew Dalhouse
- Letterer: Taylor Esposito
- Cover Artist: Francesco Mattina (cover A)
- Publisher: Dynamite Comics
- Release Date: June 5, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $4.99
- Page Count: 28
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of SPACE GHOST #2:
Plot Analysis:
David Pepose goes where no Space Ghost writer has gone before. He reveals the origin of Space Ghost’s mission, spawned as the result of a devastating loss. If you thought a Saturday Morning Cartoon character couldn’t get SERIOUS, you were wrong.
When last we left Jan, Jace, Blip, and Space Ghost in issue #1, the siblings barely escaped a group of space pirates searching for an experimental AI created by Jan and Jace’s father. Little did anyone know that the prototype for the AI rests in the brain of Blip, and their father took that secret with him to the grave. When all hope seemed lost, Space Ghost arrived to stop the pirates and take Jan, Jace, and Blip into his protective custody.
In Space Ghost #2, we begin with a brief flashback to a mining colony on Planet Vector. The colony was set up to excavate the ultra-rare Stiranotanium. A devastating incident destroyed the colony and turned the planet into a lifeless wasteland, dubbed Ghost Planet. The only survivor of the incident, a scientist named Dax who lost his wife and child in the incident, remains on Ghost Planet to this day.
Now, Space Ghost takes Jan, Jace, and Blip to Ghost Planet with a stern warning to stay where it’s safe within his lair, but they’re not to touch anything. Jan and Jace marvel at Space Ghost’s unique collection of alien artifacts and advanced technology, but they’re not too fond of his lack of video games or tasty rations.
Jan grows insistent that she be allowed to leave to get better food and report her father’s death to the authorities. Space Ghost refuses to let anyone leave until he can find out why Robo Corp is after Blip. While the two bicker, Space Ghost’s warning system sends an alert about an approaching meteor storm, so he leaves to take care of the approaching threat.
While Space Ghost uses his power bands to deflect and destroy the meteors, Jan uses Space Ghost’s computers to learn about his painful past. Official Robo Corp records report Planet Vector was destroyed by a massive radiation leak, but Jan can sense no radiation in the area, confirming the Robo Corp report is false.
Meanwhile, Jace gets bored and decides to explore the base, which leads to an ill-advised joy ride in Space Ghost’s ship. The boy has the time of his life until his maneuvering catches the attention of a nearby energy monster. Space Ghost quickly finishes the asteroids and flies to assist Jace. Unfortunately, full-power blasts from his energy bands have no effect on the monster, but the attack makes Space Ghost its new target.
Jan monitors the situation from the base and devises a plan. Working together as a team, Jace and Space Ghost lure the energy monster to a nearby antenna and shunt the creature into the next solar system. The unexpected adventure convinces Space Ghost to take the siblings under his wing as trainees for whatever adventure comes next.
Character Development:
Well, if you ever wanted to know the secret origin of Space Ghost, now you have it. In fairness, Space Ghost’s origin has been told before by other publishers, but this issue gives readers a completely different version that emphasizes motivations fueled by grief, loss, and righteous anger.
Artwork and Presentation:
Jonathan Lau is one of the best artists Dynamite has on deck (when they can afford him), so you can expect a high-quality visual experience. I’m happy to report this issue does not disappoint with bold, dramatic inks, eye-popping space action, and emotional moments that pack a punch.
Art Samples:
Pacing and Structure:
In terms of pacing, plot, structure, and the technical aspects of a script, Pepose nails this issue with a firm foundation. Although the details of the “incident” that gave birth to Space Ghost are intentionally obscured, you get exactly why Dax was impacted and driven to put on the mask.
The scenes are clear, they transition well, and the overall reading experience is smooth.
If you’re looking for any down points, the sudden appearance of the energy monster that eventually convinces Space Ghost to form a team feels forced because it comes out of nowhere.
Thematic Exploration:
Thematically, Pepose’s script leans on the concept of “coming together through shared hardship.” Dax becomes Space Ghost in response to the loss of his family. Jan and Jace share a similar circumstance when their father is killed. The collective ire toward Robo Corp that helps catalyze the formation of the team is just icing on the cake.
The Bigger Picture:
Historical Context:
Readers who only know Space Ghost from the Hanna Barbera cartoon will find several familiar touchpoints.
- Jan and Jace have fun guessing about the nature and capabilities of the power bands, showcasing their above-average intelligence.
- The energy monster is a callback to the monster that appeared in the first cartoon.
- When Space Ghost takes the siblings under his wing formerly, he gives them costume upgrades that look very familiar to longtime fans.
Final Thoughts:
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SPACE GHOST #2 gives readers a new origin story for the titular hero, brings in familiar enemies, and sets a course for high adventure. Pepose’s well-crafted script gives readers plenty of action with strong emotional beats, and Lau’s artwork is an excellent complement to Pepose’s darker, more serious version of the character.
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