DC Comics And Beyond: ‘Lord Of The Jungle’ #1
This week, another classic story invades the comics universes, and it’s a powerful one that’s well told! And it only costs $1.00 U.S.!
Lord Of The Jungle #1. Here’s the description: “The original Lord of the Jungle returns! Dynamite’s Lord Of The Jungle is true to Edgar Rice Burrough’s original tale, savage, violent, and uncensored for the first time in its 100-year history! Based on the classic Edgar Rice Burroughs adventure story, Tarzan Of The Apes, the first of his famous series, which initially began publication in All Story Magazine in 1912. The saga of Greystoke begins, written by Arvid Nelson and illustrated by Roberto Castro, and featuring covers by Alex Ross, Lucio Parillo, Ryan Sook, and Paul Renaud!”
“Tarzan’s DNA is in everything from super heroes to space epics,” said Nelson. “But I was surprised at how little I knew about him, because the many adaptations wander very far from the original character. His true story is so much deeper and more interesting — that’s we’re trying to bring to life in Lord Of The Jungle.”
I found that quote very interesting because, like many others, I know Tarzan’s name, but not necessarily much about his story. There have been many different re-tellings of Tarzan’s tale, from motion pictures to animated television shows. Often the details are watered down, like the recent Disney cartoon. After all, many of us look at nature with a lot of fondness and are very surprised when we encounter the brutality that exists there.
Nelson’s Warlord Of Mars books have been a great series, obviously helping him do a great job of breathing life into Tarzan.
In the first issue of Lord Of The Jungle, the Greystokes endure harsh treatment first by humans, then by the denizens of the jungle those people force the family to try and survive in. It’s quite an interesting comparison being shown to us. Sadly, the Greystokes don’t fare well as a result.
The pacing is quick and interesting, the art and coloring strong and stunning, including many beautiful scenes that contrast to the danger that lurks inside. The dialogue advances the plot well, and the book’s creators know when to switch from words to art to produce the most effective storytelling.
Two things struck me most. First, the top panel on the final page harkens back to the first panel on the first page, explaining how that skeleton came to be there. Second, the touching illustration that concludes the issue is very heartwarming, again comparing human love to that of other species. We’re not that far apart after all!
If you’re a life-long fan of the character or don’t know much at all, this is the book for you! You’ll learn a lot and get pulled into the story immediately, just as I was! Don’t miss this great chance to jump in on the ground floor with Lord Of The Jungle!
You won’t want to miss my interview with Nelson during the latest episode of my Wayne’s Comics podcast. Talking with him is always an entertaining and informative discussion! Then I review this week’s comics, followed by Dave Romeo from Comics On The Green in Scranton, PA, who talks with me about what’s going on in his successful store and the comics industry. Finally, Gianluca Glazer and Ian Cullen join me for this week’s ‘News & Previews.’ We discuss several interesting news items, including the DC’s ‘New 52′ Second Wave. Be sure to listen in by clicking here!
More New 52 Reviews: Here are more quick thoughts on the DC books out this week. Batman #5 was truly amazing! Batman’s world literally turns upside down as the core to his universe has been shattered by the Court of Owls! I love Batman continuing to fly this high, so kudos to Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo! Wow! What a fantastic read! Next, I again truly enjoyed Nightwing, as Kyle Higgins has Dick Grayson in wayyy over his head. Birds Of Prey is in the middle of an interesting storyline that includes Batgirl! Then came Green Lantern Corps #5 by Peter J. Tomasi as we continue to explore just what the Guardians have been doing for all these centuries! Wonder Woman continues to delve into the Gods of myth! Captain Atom starts a story dealing with a being much like himself. Supergirl learns more about her past. Red Hood And The Outlaws was once again better than I expected, so I enjoyed that. Also, Catwoman #5 has her ending up with a lot of money, which is the beginning of her troubles. Legion Of Super-Heroes featured art by Walt Simonson, which was fun to see. Blue Beetle has put his friend in a life-threatening situation, and the aliens after his armor have to take a detour. DC Comics Presents has Deadman’s multi-part tale come to an interesting conclusion. Good material all around!
Other books worth picking up this week included Batman: Odyssey Vol. 2 #4 of 7, Thunder Agents Vol. 2 #3 of 6, and Young Justice #12 from DC Comics; Daredevil #8 and Venom #12 from Marvel; the fun book Steed And Mrs. Peel #1 of 6 and Planet Of The Apes #10 from Boom! Studios; Morning Glories #15 and Near Death #5 from Image; as well as Green Hornet #21 from Dynamite!
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