Man’s Best #1: It’s Pets vs. Robots

Man’s Best #1 is an endearing new series starring a cat mech, a bionic golden retriever, and a rocket French bulldog. Filled with adventure and heart, this premiere issue is an instant pick up.

The issue begins with Athos (the mech cat), Porthos (the bionic golden retriever), and Lovey (the French bulldog) in a simulation as they take on a robot known as a “Klanger.” As familiar friends, they bicker with each other on battle strategies as Athos’ nerves get in the way. Before they know it, they’re trapped and the simulation ends as their owner Dr. Winters walks in with Captain Patel. It’s revealed they exist on a spaceship destined for a new planet for humans to inhabit—although uncertainty is all around.

A large part of the story is narration from Athos and it manages to provide insight into what is going on while also showcasing the internal emotions of the cat leader. Writer Pornsak Pichetshote has crafted a captivating story and given each of the animals a unique voice and temperament. While there is lots of mystery as to why the humans are escaping earth, and what happens at the end, this is still a well-balanced script with solid world building.

The concept of “emotional support animals” is rather recent (introduced in the 90s), but it’s a great way to include the little animals in this intergalactic saga. Pichetshote’s script is solid as readers follow the little creatures into unknown territory. There is not a lot of violence in this issue and any themes are rather tame making it almost all ages friendly (parents/adult guardians use your discretion), but Pichetshote still manages to create a sense of unease and tension without needing to be scary or indulgent in violence.

This is all perfectly matched with the art and colors from Jesse Lonergan. Longergan’s style is cartoonish with exaggerated elements, but it works well and gives more personality to the French bulldog in particular. The panels have a lot of close ups of the animals bickering which makes for comedic moments, but once the major hook at the end reveals itself, panels become even more dynamic as Athos, Porthos, and Lovely prepare for a journey unlike any other. Additionally, the color is such a fun design that is sure to stand out on shelves.

While the issue does a great job at hooking readers, some of the pacing gets slowed from world building that seems overwhelming at this point in time. Future issues will tell if it is necessary, but for this first issue, some of the writing could have been a little tighter to focus more on the animals. While this doesn’t take away from the experience, this premiere issue may warrant another read through to fully appreciate what is going on.