Warlord #38
Published and © by DC, October 1980
Title: “The Shape of Things Gone By”
Synopsis: A boat from the outside world ventures into the dangerous waters of Skartaris, with the Warlord’s daughter, Jennifer, on board.
Writer: Mike Grell
Penciler: Grell
Inker: Vince Colletta
Review: Another solid issue from series creator Mike Grell. This transitional tale introduces Warlord’s daughter, Jennifer Morgan, to the savage world of Skartaris. Grell’s story hits the necessary emotional notes without getting bogged down, while his art continues to be above average (despite the not-quite-crisp ink work of Vince Colletta).
•••
Title: “The Decision!”
Synopsis: Following the demise of the Global Peace Agency, OMAC tries to bring an early end to the conflict by surrendering.
Writer: Jim Starlin
Penciler: Starlin
Inker: Romeo Tanghal
Review: Jim Starlin’s text-heavy script suggests an interesting direction, but fails to capture the magic of Jack Kirby’s original series.
Grade (for the entire issue): B
Second opinion: “The two tales here have one point in common: In both the pencils are killed off by the inkers, leaving layouts only to remind us what each penciler can do.” – Matthew Moorcroft, BEM #30, November 1980
Cool factor: It’s great to see OMAC back in action (though it would be nice if this serial had more room to breath).
Not-so-cool factor: Vince Colletta’s inks. Grell’s art on this series holds up pretty well, but imagine how nice it could have been.
Notable: First appearance of Jennifer Morgan.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “I don’t understand their language, but it sounds as if you’re some sort of … hero!” – Jennifer Morgan, rediscovering his father
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on April 21, 2009.
