THUNDERCATS: APEX #1, by Dynamite Comics on 12/4/24, sets the stage for the ThunderCats’ most mysterious new character when we learn Apex’s true identity and the great challenge before him.
Credits:
- Writer: Ed Brisson
- Artist: Rapha Lobosco
- Colorist: Roshan Kurichiyanil
- Letterer: Jeff Eckleberry
- Cover Artist: Declan Shalvey (cover A)
- Publisher: Dynamite Comics
- Release Date: December 4, 2024
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover Price: $4.99
- Page Count: 30
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of THUNDERCATS: APEX #1:
First Impressions:
Writer Ed Brisson and artist Rapha Lobosco step into guest creator duties to deliver a one-shot that finally unmasks Apex, gives readers a better look at life on Third Earth, and sets the stage for one heck of a war. Considering the current state of the ThunderCats series, this issue may not convert any naysayers, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Plot Analysis:
Thundercats: Apex #1 began the tale one year ago. Apex rides his unicorn across Third Earth’s wastelands in search of a character named Molemaster. When Apex is accosted by a gang of wayward Mu’Tants, who want his gear and an interesting-looking book he keeps in his pack, Apex cuts them down. He grabs the last surviving Mu’Tant and forces him to point in Molemaster’s direction.
Ed Brisson begins Apex’s tale of woe with strong lone drifter vibes, reminiscent of classic Clint Eastwood Westerns. In short order, the opening scene gives readers a sense of Apex’s personality and skills, as well as establishes Apex’s objective and the lengths he’ll go to achieve it. All that’s missing are the stakes, but those are coming.
Apex soon arrives in the dusty town of Beddeck and heads for the nearby saloon where the Vulture Mu’Tant, known as Griffon, serves drinks. Apex demands information about Molemaster’s whereabouts, but Griffon doesn’t take kindly to demands. Griffon grabs a hidden rifle behind the bar and points the weapon at Apex’s head, ordering him to remove the hood. Everyone is shocked to see who Apex really is, but Apex remains undeterred from his mission. A group of Lizard Mu’Tants attack, but Apex quickly kills them and orders Griffon to give him the knowledge he seeks.
Well, that’s the big question. Who is Apex? It’s impossible to continue the review without spilling some of the beans. Apex isn’t one character but a merging of two characters with a few upgrades. Consider the greatest good and the worst evil on Third Earth, smush them together, and you’ll get the idea.
Finally, Apex arrives at the mining town of Thorburn per Griffon’s instructions. He’s surprised by a sand trap that pulls him underground, where he’s confronted by the cyborg known as Driller and a group of Mole Mu’Tants.
The issue ends with a fight between a sub-boss and the big boss, Apex announcing his intention to stop tragedy before it starts, and preparations for war.
Overall, Thundercats: Apex #1 is a rock-solid way to introduce a new character and set the stage for big things coming down the road in the main Thundercats title. Ed Brisson uses the Old West setting to great effect, and the ending shows loads of promise.
Artwork and Presentation:
Rapha Lobosco’s artwork hits the nail on the head by depicting a dusty barren landscape and a collection of seedy characters that looked like they stepped out of a classic Western, except for the Mu’Tant part. Apex’s final form design is intimidating, as it should be, and Roshan Kurichiyanil’s coloring is excellent.
Art Samples:
The Bigger Picture:
Series Continuity:
Thundercats: Apex #1 introduces readers to a new character (sorta), but the events in this issue occur one year in the past. However, Apex’s existence only makes sense if you’ve read Thundercats #8, which depicts Tygra’s adventure into the pocket dimension that contains the surviving treasures of Thundera.
Final Thoughts:
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THUNDERCATS: APEX #1 is a rock-solid one-shot that unveils the mysterious identity of Apex, but it’s not what you think. Ed Brisson’s homage to classic Westerns carries that same atmosphere of dusty saloons and lone gunmen for a pleasantly unexpected vibe, and Rapha Lobosco’s artwork is strong.
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