Dark Horse Comics
Mild Spoiler Alert
Although Phoebe isn’t afraid of no ghost, she has a lot more to fear when being the odd girl out at school in the second series of the comic book continuation of who makes up the team. Two issues into Ghostbusters Dead Man’s Chest, readers like me get to determine what this key tale is about instead of seeing pirates take over Manhattan! As this continuation is more concerned about how well the Spengler family adjusts to having a father figure around, perhaps mom is worried about losing control. After all, this is New York!
To let them loose in a big city might seem dangerous, and as long as they don’t venture into certain neighbourhoods, they are safe. While the young girl has enough to deal with at school because everyone recognizes her, she’s at least able to make a friend–Sammy. Meanwhile, Trevor has trouble figuring out how to advance his relationship with Lucky. They are friends, but it’s easy to know he wants more!
The setup is quick, and the act does not really take off until Sam finds a sword and accidentally awakens the spirit of Captain Kidd! I won’t say too much more because that’s all huge spoiler territory, and I’m glad I waited to do a review amid the action rather than too soon. The expectations for what this short story can offer are enormous. What’s presented as a comic is very underwhelming when considering the narrative has to deal with franchise juggernauts like Pirates of the Caribbean. When this work takes place before Frozen Empire, (movie review) what’s presented feels like a natural development of the characters without causing continuity problems.
In comics, unless we’re treated to a true tale to swab the seas with the scab off a crusty sailor’s chest, to get certain ideas across can be tough. I want more than another family drama who faces one of Pirate-dom’s most dangerous felon! Here, writer David M. Booher keeps the action flowing. This four-issue release, like many others, breaks down its narrative into acts, with each comic representing a part of the overall story. Just what the second act offers as a cliffhanger is worthy of Pirates of the Caribbean tale. I can’t wait for the epic showdown!
Hopefully, the Spengler family will have a proper challenge on their hands. I don’t need an adventure similar to the animated series from the 80s. Although the creators designed most of those episodes tongue-in-cheek, they presented stories with a strong familial vibe that must continue.
I love Ghostbusters, and I’m not too concerned about who is headlining. The only surprising element with this illustrated continuation is with Dan Aykroyd not selling his likeness to get converted into sketches. Ray Stanz’s lack of resemblance to how old he looks in the film puzzled me. This supporting character’s appearance stands out as off, especially since everyone else’s appearance transferred well. Or he’s a doppelgänger and the redesign is intentional. Aviv Or is a great artist, but Ray’s image is not like the others.
Only time will reveal if my theory is correct. While illustrators may put their creative stamp on designing characters, sometimes to identify why they don’t match needs to be asked. While this never bothered me with the cartoon because it got explained within the series, it was a terrific meta moment. When IDW had the license, what they followed up on was obvious. Also, when I met the artist in real life and looked at his portfolio of works. He has a distinct style that carries over in all the big titles he illustrates for.
4 Stars out of 5
Ghostbusters Dead Man’s Chest
Variant Cover Gallery
Discover more from Otaku no Culture
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
