Jut call him Detective Trash Panda.
The prospect of yet another new Rocket Raccoon solo comic may not seem very exciting at this point. How many times has his solo series been relaunched and re-branded at this point? Is there even a need for solo Guardians comics now that the main series has switched to a twice-monthly schedule? Despite these concerns, a strong creative team immediately ensures that this latest Rocket Raccoon comic is one well worth adding to your pull list.
Writer Al Ewing never fails to put a clever spin on whatever corner of the Marvel Universe he happens to be visiting. In this case, he basically thrusts Rocket into an old-fashioned detective noir, complete with melodramatic narration and a dame who broke Rocket's heart. It's a bizarre juxtaposition of elements that works surprisingly well considering Ewing is basically telling a tragic love story between a raccoon and a sea otter. Much of the book isn't actually very humorous in an overt way. Ewing plays its 100% straight in the first half, which allows readers to really connect with Rocket and his tragic background in a way that doesn't happen enough. Right out of the gate, Ewing adds plenty of insight into Rocket's personality and what compelled him to join the Guardians in the first place.
Things do get a little sillier over time as he detective noir format makes way for more of an Ocean's Eleven-style heist adventure. But regardless of tone or setting, this issue has no problem keeping the reader entertained.
At the same time, this straightforward approach yields its own brand of humor, as there's often a charmingly goofy disconnect between the somber tone of the writing and the outlandish visuals. Artist Adam Gorham and colorist Michael Garland strike a very difficult balance between gritty, shadowy noir and larger-than-life space fantasy. Gorham's heavy shadows combine with Garland's neon-drenched colors to create a book that's both moody and psychedelic at the same time. Gorham also deserves a lot of credit for downplaying generic, humanoid creature designs in favor of more unusual, eye-popping creations. And despite the oddball character designs, Gorham has no trouble ensuring that every character expresses clear emotion in their facial expressions and body language.
The Verdict
Together, Al Ewing and Adam Gorham ensure that this series is more than just another Rocket Raccoon comic. It offers a very unique take on the furry hero, one that manages to entertain even as it shines a light on Rocket's tragic past and love life. Suddenly, the question isn't "Does Rocket Raccoon actually need his own comic?", but "When can we get the next issue?".
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