Scarlett #1: Step Aside Duke

Scarlett #1 continues the Energon Universe’s G.I. Joe saga, introducing yet another element to this rapidly growing continuity. Much like Duke and Cobra Commander before, Scarlett sees a notable character from the G.I. Joe franchise takes the spotlight in a tale that has huge ramifications for the Energon Universe as a whole. This introductory issue feels very reminiscent of the Duke series, mixing an 80s action movie feeling with the scope of an espionage thriller. Coupled with a tragic backstory and plenty of lore, Scarlett #1 is a joy to read, an excellent jumping on point for readers who may have missed out on what has come before.

First and foremost, props need to be given to writer Kelly Thompson, who makes Scarlett instantly feel recognizable and down to earth, within only a couple of pages. Yes, the action can jump the shark at times, scratching that classic 80s cartoon itch, but the character moments always feel personal and sincere. Scarlett feels like that kind of book that will make a reader feel nostalgic for the G.I. property even if it is not something they grew up with. The world feels so lived in and familiar, and very cohesive with what has come before. Skybound is working on a slow build to a new main G.I. Joe series, and with strong series like Scarlett and Duke in the belt, the excitement is building like with the pre-Avengers MCU.

Part of that 80s action vibe comes from the art, with pencils from Marco Ferrari and colors from Lee Loughridge. There is a lot of high-flying action here, with Scarlett taking down groups of baddies in throughout pages of kung-fu. This book is such a blast to read as the action is very cohesive and easy to follow. The way that Ferrari choreographs the action makes it feel very cinematic, with everything flowing in such an elegant manner.

Loughridge’s colors are equally as breathtaking, giving a special gravitas to all the explosive action, especially when the action takes a turn to a snowy white background. This section helps highlight the pencils, keeping the action character focused.

One of the most intriguing parts of Scarlett #1 must be the ending, a cliffhanger that sets up a character that longtime fans have been itching to see. No one would have anticipated that this character would be showing up in a Scarlett book of all things, and it is this kind of unpredictability that makes this universe so much fun to explore.