Warlord #39
Published and © by DC, November 1980
Title: “The Feast of Agravar”
Synopsis: Warlord and Shakira investigate Atlantean ruins where they encounter ancient advanced technology – and impending doom!
Writer: Mike Grell
Penciler: Grell
Inker: Vince Colletta
Review: This issue is a prime example of why Warlord is a fun and frustrating series. Mixing swords-and-sandals tropes with sci-fi elements, this outing also imbues a strong female character with agency rare for the period. Warlord is at its best when doing these things, but rarely builds on its successes.
•••
Title: “Battle Cry”
Synopsis: OMAC leads International Communication and Commerce fighters into pitched battle with Verner Bros. Inc. troops.
Writer: Jim Starlin
Artist (layouts): Starlin
Artist (finisher): Rome Tanghal
Review: This latest short chapter offers no sense of stakes and less refined art than earlier installments of this serial.
Grade (for the entire issue): B
Cool factor: Shakira is developing into an interesting supporting character.
Not-so-cool factor: This series has no shortage of interesting supporting characters, readers just don’t get to visit with them enough.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “It will never be dead as long as it lives in the heart of even one man who is willing to fight for freedom and justice!” – Travis Morgan, keeping the dream alive
Editor’s note: This review was written Feb. 20, 2025.
