Racer X #1: An Autobiography

Speed Racer’s first two issues aren’t required reading to enjoy Racer X #1, but they are beneficial. Racer X #1 is loaded with exposition to the point of being autobiographical. Speed Racer readers will better understand the power behind Racer X’s identity reveal. For other readers it will likely come across as a pointless mystery.

That said, Racer X #1 is a fast paced read. A significant part of that owes to Plati’s art, especially during the race sequences. Rather than lean into the spectacle of the race, Plati delivers more visceral sequences. A multitude of long lines extend behind and around the cars in each panel, the emphasis on the cars’ speed clear. So excessive is Plati’s use of this technique that the lack of any detailed background ceases to be a problem. The cars appear as though they are inside a wind tunnel, isolated from the world.

Russell’s script contributes to the power of Plati’s art. There are no car device gimmicks in Racer X #1. The races are traditional which means there is nothing in panel to distract from the power Plati is trying to imbue the cars with.

Marchisio’s coloring is another key component in Racer X #1’s intense visuals. A fiery crash sequence figures heavily in the issue’s second half. The conflagration surrounding the cars is reminiscent of scratch art with a variety of reds, yellows, and oranges filling the space between lines and patches of black. Marchisio chooses particularly vivid shades of the three colors which creates a strong contrast, making the fire appear both bigger and smokier than it might be otherwise.

Most of Racer X #1’s characters have very ramrod straight posture with long legs and a slight to exaggerated V shaped torso. Multiple characters have an appearance reminiscent of Spike Spiegel from the anime Cowboy Bebop.

Racer X is a well developed character. Thanks to Russell’s in-depth character backstory, the titular character is easily sympathetic. This retroactively uplifts Speed Racer while at the same distinguishing this series from that one. It’s a compelling character sketch.

There is a tragic element to Racer X, though it isn’t as effective as Russell seeks to make it. Late in the issue, Racer X is thrown into turmoil thanks to his own actions. Arguably the tragic outcome is the result of Racer X’s own ambition. But the visuals don’t accomplish what they need to. Whether this is the fault of Plati’s artistic choices or Russell’s description in the script, the big tragic reveal proves very underwhelming.

Beaudoin’s sound effect choices play well into Plati and Marchisio’s strong visuals. They feel visually connected to the art around them. When it comes to dialogue bubbles and caption boxes, Beaudoin keeps everything well organized and easy to follow.