Indie Comic Review: Buck Rogers 2425 #1

One of the great things about comics is that passion can come through fairly easily in the storytelling. When creators really want to put their all into a book it shows, even if the quality of the book itself isn't up to snuff. There's a lot to be improved upon in Buck Rogers 2425, but it's pretty clear that it's a labor of love. This is a character with a long history, and someone doesn't try to update a long standing character without having some connection to him. So although there's a long way to go to making it perfect, sometimes just being created is enough.

Book Rogers 2425 starts in the future as Buck emerges from a mine. He's a teenager from the early 20th century and completely a fish out of water. He's stuck in the middle of a futuristic war and has to get his bearings in a land that's completely alien to him. The first issue is largely exposition as we are introduced to the characters and the setting. But there is some action as we get to see some sci-fi explosions and flying. The issue ends as Buck will start to get some allies. 

There are many ways the comic could have improved. The writing was fairly exposition heavy and the lettering didn't help with that. Also, the art felt a little stiff compared to most polished comics. But there's something to like about the attempt. I'm not familiar with Buck Rogers, but he definitely feels like a pulp hero similar to Flash Gordon, Indiana Jones, and Doc Savage. There's a real grit and DIY feel for just taking a beloved character and making your own book with it. That love definitely comes through regardless of the ways the issue could have improved. Those looking for a polished comic may be frustrated with the reading, but Buck Rogers fans can appreciate the character's revival.