So I finally got time to sit down and write up a review for this pretty neat comic called Atomic Robo, and I personally feel like it can lead somewhere if given the opportunity to flush out it’s main character. So let’s get to the chase!
Story
The story is very akin to Indiana Jones, but made into a robot with some comedy to it. It’s about a robot sent to fight the neo-nazis and their crazy leader who’s plotting against America. It’s an interesting take on it because it also reminds me of Captain America: The First Avenger where he storms into the building full of nazis and tries to take on the Red Skull. The main character has a similar humor as Iron Man, but the setting is drastically different. The story can proceed fine if it strayed away from the neo-nazi formula and created something different rather than follow in a premise that’s been touched multiple times by similar recent movies.
Character
The character design is very similar to MK I Iron Man. It’s a bit clunky and plain. I thought the character design could have been better drawn or put together; however, before I go judging its design, it may have a backstory behind it that hasn’t been told yet in the comics. For all we know, there could be a reason why he looks the way he looks. This comic doesn’t explain much of the main character’s background but it does flush out some of its characteristics like how he’s very laid back, corny, and compared to a lot of robots… emotional. For a robot, it displays a lot of emotions, which is kind of odd, and it would be interesting if the future comics tap into its origin and how he became who he is today, but alas, critiquing the given comic, it is slightly lacking in that department.
Overall
To give this comic a proper closure, I must go into detail on how it draws too much of its inspiration from the current movies and blockbusters. In order to draw a proper audience, the character design has to be unique and the story must be either relatable. By building a universe that’s unique in its own architecture and design, it appeals to the audience more because of how it differs from the blockbusters we see today from DC and Marvel. This comic can be targeted towards the demographic of both young teens and adults alike, but it needs to polish its characters more.
For example, the final conflict of this issue was dismissed in a matter of five or less panels. It’s almost like shooting a film where the main villain dies immediately after two hours of waiting. There is less building with the the protagonist and the antagonist because it shows how overpowered the protagonist is compared to its nemesis, and it shows little development for both the villain and the hero. By extending the conversations and actions between the two, we get to dive into more of Atomic Robo‘s character development and background by revealing both characters’ flaws and history.
This comic was a decent first issue, but I’m hoping we get a little more background in future installments. With a little dusting here and there, Atomic Robo could end up being a real hit! For now, you can check it out if you want an entertaining story with a little familiarity thrown in.
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I’m confused. Atomic Robo debuted in 2007, before these movies you claim it takes inspiration from. You also talk about it as if there’s only this one issue, but the comic is currently in the middle of its tenth volume. Perhaps you should do a little more research before you attempt to review something. Thanks!