Astonishing Times Issue #1 Review
I am a little confused about whether to give issue #1 of “Astonishing Times” 4 or 3 stars. The story is just a little over 30 pages long, and it is difficult to discern where it is heading. However, the 5-issue series has fantastic splashy artwork reminiscent of X-Men and Marvel/DC comics that keeps the reader engaged.
The setting is somewhat similar to “The Boys,” set in a world where superheroes are a common phenomenon. But no one cares about them anymore. Protagonist Noah Sans is a young journalist following in his late father’s footsteps, writing about superheroes in a column titled “Astonishing Times.” With declining reader interest in his column, Noah must find something explosive to win over his editor, and a timely suspicious murder might just be his ticket to fame.
Written by Frank J. Barbiere and Arris Quinones, both the plot and artwork (by Ruaire Coleman) will remind comic book readers of dozens of other famous works. And like the creators claim in the blurb, “Astonishing Times” does seem like a love letter to superhero comics. Just the first issue made me think of X-Men, Batman, Superman, Watchmen, Boys and what not! Noah Sans is an energetic, enthusiastic fanboy, and while his reporting skills are yet to be displayed, he is certainly no Lois Lane or even Peter Parker. His character design makes him look like a 70s romantic hero with boyish charm.
Issue one sets ample ground for an intriguing tale, and it looks like Noah Sans will be working with a mystery man to investigate the murder of a superhero.
It’s a 4 on 5 from me.
