I feel sorry for those four that didn’t get to be superhuge like everyone else.
Dark Horse (August, 2003)
originally published by Jade Dynasty
“Arrival” WRITER: Tony Wong TRANSLATION: Ken Siu-Chong & Michelle Lee DESIGNER: Darin Fabrich ARTIST: Khod Fuk Lung COVER ARTISTS: Alvin Lee, Alan Tam, Arnold Tsang LETTERING: Sno Cone Studios EDITOR: Jeremy Barlow PUBLISHER: Mike RichardsonIn this Hong Kong adaptation of the Japanese TV series, it is the year 2049 (we still have 35 years to be disappointed), and Earth is finally at peace thanks to the Terrestrial Peacekeeping Commission (TCP). At least it was until strange happenings and giant monsters started popping up. The TCP forms the Global Unlimited Task Squad (GUTS), an elite team with the skills to handle these new threats. However, a found artifact from MT. Tiga reveals that 30 Million Years ago Earth had also achieved such peace and advanced technology and monsters attacked then as well. Their salvation came from the sacrifice of three Ultramen, but one of the, Tiga, slumbers until the day he’s called out again. Brash but well-meaning pilot Diago is determined to reawaken him.
What they got right: I haven’t watched the show since Fox stopped airing it but it does feel like a proper adaptation of what I remember of the first half of the first episode. It introduces all important parties well and gives just enough action to hold you for the cliffhanger mystery. The art is beautiful. This is the first Chinese comic book I’ve ever owned so I don’t know how typical it is but I love the art here.
What they got wrong: Nobody has a family name, not even the cast “roll call” on the inside cover. Don’t they have families in the future?
Recommendation: Of the Ultraman series I’ve reviewed thus far this is the only one that doesn’t either require knowledge of the show being adapted or outright tossing it all out the window. It’s the perfect introduction for comic fans to the franchise. If you’re curious about Ultraman and prefer comics this is a good place to start.
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