Upon first glance, this title has a lot in common with the other new super-hero title Robert Kirkman is writing for Image, Tech Jacket. One might even argue they have too much in common. But the one difference here, an element that bucks the teen super-hero archetype, makes for an entertaining read. It's a light read as well, and it's appropriate for all ages, rendered in a light, fun but detailed style by the artist.
Mark seems like a typical teenager. He does well in school, enjoys comic books and has a part-time job at a burger joint that eats up a little too much of his free time. The one thing that makes Mark different from his classmates is his dad. Like many other fathers, he's away from home for work a lot, but his work is that of a super-hero. And after years of patience, that genetic heritage finally kicks in. Mark has super-powers, but first, he's got to master them, get a costume and pick a super-hero name.
Walker's work on the recent Superpatriot limited series turned a lot of heads, and it's easy to see why. This book has a slightly calmer tone to it, though, so the visuals are as extreme. But one can still spot Walker's eye for action and intricate design, especially in the opening sequence. Crabtree's colors are strong as well. I love how the characters' clothing really pop against the more muted tones of the backgrounds.
What I enjoyed most about the script was the relaxed, everyday attitude that Mark and his mother have about his dad's extraordinary life. To them, it's no cause for concern when he fights dragons or super-villains. There's a kitchy, Leave It to Beaver-meets-Superman riff at play in this first issue that's a lot of fun. Kirkman's introduction of Mark's emerging powers was timed wonderfully as well. It's steeped in the mundane chores of his part-time job, and there's a sense of wonder and anticipation.
Now while this was a strong first issue, there's every chance that Invincible could end up being a run-of-the-mill super-hero title. Seeing the title character shift from the ordinary to the extraordinary was fun, but I don't get a strong "what's next?" hook at the end of the book.
