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Review: Flash Gordon – Kings Cross #2

By Philip Schweier
December 22, 2016 - 12:18

I was a little uncertain regarding the latest series starring the Kings Feature characters, but the nostalgia factor won me over. I’m pleased that it did. But I shouldn’t be terribly surprised. Dynamite has barely missed a step with its versions of The Shadow, Doc Savage, the Lone Ranger and the Green Hornet. So why should Flash Gordon, the Phantom and Mandrake the magician be any different?

To no one’s great surprise, Ming has survived to terrorize Earth once again. This time he has transported an entire continent of Mongo into the middle of the Pacific Ocean, where it’s mere presence is wreaking havoc on the geologic stability of the oceans. In addition, the assorted creatures that inhabit the land have begun exploring their new planet, much to the dismay of various Earth governments.

Fortunately, The Kings Feature team are on site, ready to find a solution and defeat Ming’s strategy for making Earth the latest jewel in his imperial crown. But how much time does the team have before Earth’s military seek their own solution, before the creatures of Mongo create more havoc?

Issue #2 moves right along, suggesting the series has a definite destination in mind  – as well it should. I say that because too many series these days seem to wander aimlessly, as if waiting for the sixth issue to kick things into high gear, hit a climax, and then wait patiently to be collected into a trade paperback.

I don’t believe in that strategy. Just tell me the story, and if that takes four issues instead of six, so be it. The lower page count could translate to a lower price point, and the publisher in question just might sell more copies.

But as I said, Dynamite knows what its doing, and I am feeling very confident fans old and new of the Kings Feature characters will be satisfied with the story’s eventual outcome.

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12