Warlord #33
Published and © by DC, April 1980
Title: “Birds of Prey”
Synopsis: The Warlord and his latest scantily clad ally, Shakira, are attacked by a race of predatory hawkmen.
Writer: Mike Grell
Penciler: Grell
Inker: Vince Colletta
Review: More than 30 issues into creator Mike Grell’s original tenure on Warlord, it might be time to consider that run for what it is: A consistently solid book from an above-average comic-book creator. So why does that view feel … disappointing? Throughout its first five years, Warlord teased with great promise and seemed on the verge of breaking out as an all-time classic (see reviews). But, in reality, it was simply a series of mostly done-in-one adventures that were enjoyable and well drawn (albeit with subpar inking). This issue offers more of the same. And perhaps that’s just fine.
Grade: B
Second opinion: “I had such high hopes for Mike Grell when he began drawing the Legion some years ago. Surely he can do better than this, a poor man’s Conan.” – Nige Edwards, BEM #28, May 1980
Cool factor: Shakira is an interesting new character.
Not-so-cool factor: This series doesn’t spend much time developing its interesting new characters.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is a Mark Jewelers variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “They’ve got my cat!!” – Warlord, setting off to rescue Shakira
Editor’s note: This review was written Jan. 14, 2025.
