TORPEDO 1972 #1, by Ablaze Publishing on 3/6/24, catches up with the ruthless gangster when an ambitious Wall Street Journal reporter and his photographer girlfriend arrange a fateful interview.
The Details
- Written by: Enrique Sánchez Abulí
- Art by: Eduardo Risso
- Colors by: Eduardo Risso
- Letters by: Vibrant Studios
- Cover art by: Eduardo Risso (cover A)
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $3.99
- Release date: March 6, 2024
Is TORPEDO 1972 #1 Good?
For those not acquainted with Torpedo, he’s the infamous gangster Luca Torelli, a character deeply ingrained in various media, from comics to stage plays. Torpedo has a history of ruthless exploits, committing crimes ranging from murder to robbery. Now, in 1972, we find Torpedo in his senior years, accompanied by his loyal right-hand man, Rascal. A young journalist, James, seeks an interview with Torpedo, aiming to uncover unsolved murder cases.
Torpedo, now a senior figure, is approached by a journalist seeking an interview to unearth unsolved murder cases. In the process, an ill-fated photo shoot with Wendy, the journalist’s fiancée, takes a dark turn, leading to a false accusation against Torpedo. James, incensed by his fiancée’s assault, alters the article, blaming Torpedo for past murders. This sets off a chain of events, forcing Torpedo to defend himself against crimes he did not commit, all spurred by a revenge-fueled article filled with lies.
Here’s an intriguing fact about Torpedo – while inspired by real gangsters, he isn’t a historical figure. The character has appeared in multiple comic incarnations, primarily in European comics translated into English. Some versions of Torpedo’s stories have been adapted for stage plays, with a notable difference between the European and Americanized versions. The Americanized copies often undergo censorship, toning down the violence deemed too extreme for American audiences. For an authentic experience, opt for the European editions to grasp the full, uncensored story.
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What did we like about TORPEDO 1972 #1?
If you’re a fan of the giallo storytelling style – characterized by violent, nefarious main characters – “Torpedo 1972 #1” delivers. The draw here lies in witnessing the monstrous acts of Torpedo from the perspective of the monster himself. Torpedo, though technically the villain, possesses a unique charm as a force of nature, embodying the ugliness of humanity. The story unfolds like a disaster film, a train wreck in slow motion that you can’t look away from. The character’s authenticity to past stories and series adds to the engaging and charming narrative.
What didn’t we like about TORPEDO 1972 #1?
While the overall storytelling impresses, there are a few bumps in the English translation, particularly in the dialogue. Characters like James and Wendy, supposed New Yorkers in 1972, don’t quite sound the part. Some mannerisms and speech patterns come off as oddly robotic, reminding the reader that they are experiencing a translation. While not a major flaw, it’s a slight hiccup that can momentarily take you out of the immersive narrative.
How’s the Art?
Eduardo Risso’s art perfectly complements the gritty atmosphere of 1972 New York City. It avoids hyper-stylization, offering a sensible and fitting portrayal of the characters and setting. The art captures the essence of the story, presenting a unique niche style rather than aspiring to the polished aesthetics of major comic publishers. It’s a perfect match for the tone and vibe of “Torpedo 1972 #1.”
Final Thoughts
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TORPEDO 1972 #1 provides an engaging and unconventional reading experience. If you’re drawn to the darker side of storytelling, where the protagonist is also the villain, this issue is a captivating curiosity. Torpedo’s character, embodying the worst of humanity, serves as a force of nature that you can’t help but be fascinated by. The series of events unfolds with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Despite minor hiccups in dialogue translation, the overall pacing and storytelling make it a quick and attention-grabbing read.
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