Sud666's Reviews > Cosmic Odyssey

Cosmic Odyssey was originally written in the late 1980's as a 4 part mini-series. While most '80s comics do not stand the test of time, this deluxe edition which collects all 4 issues into one, I really enjoyed this cosmic blast from the past. Written by Jim Starlin and illustrated by Mike Mignola, I was surprised as to how well Mignola's signature art style melded with this comic story. Starlin's story is also impressive in its scope and the consequences of the heroes actions.

Metron has found the Anti-Life Equation. But the equation is an entity whose mere knowledge turns Metron comatose. Now the entity is loose and Darkseid wants its power. But, the entity is so powerful that help will be needed. Darkseid approaches Highfather of New Genesis for an alliance. Highfather reaches out to the Justice League and an epic partnership is formed.

It appears the Anti-Life Equation has split into 4 parts and a team-up of heroes is sent to reign in the aspects of the Anti-Life. Orion and Superman team up to go to Thanagaria; Batman and Forager go to Earth; Martian Manhunter and Green Lantern to Xanshi; and Lightray and Starfire to Xanshi. The teams have an interesting balance in their makeup.

Without spoiling anything there are some rather interesting conflicts within the team dynamic. I particularly liked the Green Lantern-Manhunter conflict, as well as the philosophical differences between Superman and Orion. I also think the moral dimensions of the differences are quite vast and the consequences severe. Whether it is Orion's sheer bloodthirstiness or GL Stewart's sheer hubris I was impressed with the actions and their consequences.

Starlin's story is well done and seems superior to a lot of the crap in the current comic market. Mignola's art seems out of place for this setting. But, it just seems to work for this story. The bright colors of this story, mated with Mignola's art style, make for a visual treat. I was impressed by how much I liked this style.

In short- this classic tale still has an impact. The story is epic in scope and Mignola's art style all work together to make a truly cosmic odyssey. From the usual characters like Superman and Batman to the New Gods and finally with the more magical characters like the Demon Etrigan-this has a large cast of characters. The team-ups of the various characters also worked well to illustrate the differences in their personalities. The GL/Manhunter, Batman/Forager and Superman/Orion match ups were the most interesting.

A truly wonderful effort, especially considering the time. Starlin's script still has emotional resonance today, his points about hubris and differing viewpoints between the characters also work very well and have a rather important role in the story. Finally, Mignola's art style does a great job with this story and the bright colors also complement his style.
I am glad I added this deluxe edition to my library. A great cosmic story.