Adam Graham's Blog: Christians and Superheroes - Posts Tagged "sandman"

The Golden Age Sandman Archives, Vol. 1 by Gardner F. Fox

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


These contain the earliest adventures of the Sandman, a character who Neil Gaiman would revitalize for the modern era often adapting the golden age stories. This book collects the first few stories from New York World's Fair Comics #1 and #2 and Adventure Comics #40-#59.

Most of the book isn't all that impressive, with its regular run of toughs bent on various mischief. The early parts of the book with the art by Bert Christman were pretty typical of comics from the era. In many ways, the Sandman as a gas-gun using crimefighter thought to be a criminal by the law seems to be a pastiche of the Green Hornet.

However, in this case, I think that as a comic book character, the Sandman is actually a bit more impressive compared to the Green Hornet's Golden Age run that's published by Dynamite as the stories are a little less predictable.

I love the Sandman's original costume which is featured throughout the book which ends 10 months prior to him being issued the yellow and purple costume he wore through the rest of the golden age. While I love yellow and purple, it's not near as good as the costume portrayed throughout the book.

I also have to note the presence of Dian Belmont, the Sandman's girlfriend who is probably one of the best female side characters in the golden age.

The book's art leaps forward when Craig Flessel becomes more comfortable in the role and produces a very good look particularly for the golden age. The last few stories seem to turn a page as in Issue 57, the Sandman goes from fighting typical hoods to dealing with a mad scientist bent on extorting the governments of the Earth or change the planet's orbit. It's a great concept and Issue 58 with Killer Orchids and Issue 59 with a hypnotic ruby. It's a shame, the collection ends on such an enticing note.

Overall, this isn't an essential golden age title, but it is above average and a nice read.



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