THUNDERCATS #4, by Dynamite Comics on 5/22/24, brings Lion-O face-to-face with Mumm Ra for the first time, leading to a shocking revelation about a traitor among the Thundercats.
Credits:
- Writer: Declan Shalvey
- Artist: Drew Moss
- Colorist: Martina Pignedoli
- Letterer: Jeff Eckleberry
- Cover Artist: David Nakayama (cover A)
- Publisher: Dynamite Comics
- Release Date: May 22, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $4.99
- Page Count: 24
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of THUNDERCATS #4:
Plot Analysis:
Oh, what a tangled web we weave. Declan Shalvey teaches Lion-O a cruel lesson about trust and the consequences of giving it too easily in Thundercats #4. Looks like Lion-O’s mind and emotions need to catch up to his body.
In issue #3, Lion-O’s rush to lead the Thundercats doesn’t sit well with Panthro, who takes his job as Lion-O’s mentor perhaps too seriously. When they’re debate gets heated, Cheetara steps in to defend her king in single combat, winning the fight handily. Meanwhile, Snarf arrives from a pocket dimension bearing gifts.
In Thundercats #8, Panthro tinkers in his workshop on a special project to defend the Thundercats, suffering Wilykat’s annoying questions. Meanwhile, Lion-O confides in Tigra about his recent troubles, and Tigra encourages Lion-O to act on his feelings for Calica. Suddenly, their chat is interrupted when Tigra spots something on the horizon.
Inside the base, Panthro’s work is interrupted by Calica, who offers to swear allegiance to the Thundercats. Before Panthro can provide a direct response, an alarm sounds. Panthro races off to investigate and directs Calica to stay inside.
Meanwhile, Slithe gets to know his captives – Mu’Tants native to Third Earth who are led by the conniving Lord Monkian. The Monkians do not accept Lithe as the Lord of the Mu’Tants, but they release him after agreeing that Mu’Tant cooperation is in their best interests.
Elsewhere, the Thundercats assemble to face a crowd of zombified Reptilians wrapped in bandages – like a Mummy. The battle is quick and decisive, but the tide turns when Lion-O is approached by a new enemy, Mumm Ra, who knows Lion-O’s name.
Mumm Ra hits Tigra with an energy blast. Cheetara races in to help Tigra to safety. Lion-O orders the Thundercats to retreat so he can deal with Mumm Ra personally. Without the Sword of Omens, Lion-O is at a disadvantage, but he holds his own. Suddenly, both Lion-O and Mumm Ra feel the power of their attacks dwindling.
Weakened and surrounded by Mumm Ra’s zombified Reptilians, Lion-O nearly falls. Before it’s too late, the ground rumbles and shakes when Panthro arrives, riding in the ThunderTank to snatch up Lion-O and beat a retreat. The Thundercats regroup at their base to heal and regroup. Unfortunately, they find Snarf wounded and the Eye of Thundera missing.
Character Development:
Declan Shalvey gives at least three character points a leg up in this issue. First, Lion-O learns a painful lesson about making wise choices and that having a grown body doesn’t mean he has a grown-up mentality.
Second, Panthro takes the recent beating by Cheetara to heart by doing what he can to keep the Thundercats safe while respecting Lion-O’s decisions, whether he agrees with them or not.
Third, fans of the original material will recognize that a partnership between Monkian and Slithe is a recipe for trouble.
Artwork and Presentation:
Drew Moss’s art style is perfectly serviceable. To be fair, the blockiness observed in the previous issues isn’t as apparent here, so the artwork overall is an improvement. It won’t blow you away, but Moss gets the job done.
Art Samples:
Pacing and Structure:
Pacing and structure are where Declan Shalvey’s story falls short. Except for one action scene, most of this issue involves an assortment of characters standing around and talking with or at each other. No scene overstays its welcome for too long, and in fairness, the information in the scenes creates a maturity and emotional depth to the characters and their relationships.
However, the story is just plain dull in spots, and you’ll find yourself checking out.
Thematic Exploration:
The general theme of this issue centers on trust – giving it, earning it, respecting it, and breaking it. So many changes have happened to the Thundercats and their enemies since the destruction of Thundera that they’re constantly struggling to adapt. Trust is what keeps them going, and trust is the drama engine that drives the issue when it’s broken.
The Bigger Picture:
Series Continuity:
If you’re wondering where this series sits in conjunction with the original cartoon, consider it a reimagined version of the original story. Some characters are different (e.g. Snarf), and some developments are different, but the basic premise is the same.
Final Thoughts:
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THUNDERCATS #4 concludes the first arc with first meetings, new alliances, and painful betrayals. Declan Shalvey pours on the relationship building but at the expense of pacing and excitement. Further, Drew Moss’s art is a serviceable improvement over previous issues.
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