The New Teen Titans #27
Published and © by DC, January 1983
Title: “Runaways Part 2”
Synopsis: The Titans break up a mob plot that utilizes children as drug runners – but things take a tragic turn.
Writer: Marv Wolfman
Penciler: George Pérez
Inker: Romeo Tanghal
Review: While the first half of this two-parter had a whiff of after-school special to it (see review of New Teen Titans #26), writer Marv Wolfman ups the emotional resonance with this issue. In particular, the ending hits hard. Meanwhile, artist George Pérez proves equally adept at action and emotion.
•••
Title: “Liberator Mission: Freedom – or Death!”
Synopsis: An Atari Force pilot commands an advanced weapons system in an attempt to liberate several planets from Malaglon slave masters.
Writer: Gerry Conway
Penciler: Ross Andru
Inker: Dick Giordano
Review: This spinner-rack debut of Atari Force lacks the character work and world-building of the eventual regular series.
Grade (for the entire issue): B
Second opinion: “This issue communicates the surreal, horrific alienation of the runaways with penetrating visual insight.” – David Transue, Amazing Heroes #16, October 1982 … Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: Atari Force is going to be cool …
Not-so-cool factor: … but not quite yet.
Notable: Includes a 16-page Atari Force preview (reprinted from Atari Force mini-comic #4).
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 75¢ Canadian variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “We’re after trash like you – who would poison the whole world if you could make a buck.” – Speedy, who knows a thing or two about drug dealers
Editor’s note: This review was written May 7, 2024.
