Quick Summary

Pros: The science fiction in this comic is done very well. All of the characters are great and Plastic Man is hilarious. The book has some compelling mysteries that will ensure fans have a reason to come back. The artwork looks beautiful and enhances the story in just the right way.

Cons: The book feels a bit short.

Overall: This is the comic that fans of the Fantastic Four, or science fiction adventures in general, have been waiting for. It instantly thrusts a team of charming adventures into the midst of a cosmic mystery that is only just beginning to unravel. This is a comic with action, humor, and heart wrapped together in a wonderful balance. If you like science fiction or just enjoy a good adventure, this is the comic series for you.

Story

The first issue of The Terrifics is so good that it instantly propels this series into competition as the best title to come from DC’s “New Age of Heroes”. This issue is the dive into science fiction and cosmic wonder that DC Comics have been sorely lacking. It has unique concepts, far off worlds, and strange characters with fantastic backstories. What was initially pitched as an homage to the Fantastic Four is turning out to be everything fans expected. This is a comic that will pull you in with its cool adventure and charming cast but will keep you coming back with its intense mysteries.

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The Terrifics starts with an instant plunge into the world of science fiction. Mr. Terrific’s T-Spheres are on display, interdimensional travel is a part of the story from the start, and otherworldly travelers are encountered. There is almost a feeling of Star Trek meets superheroes in this comic and perfectly scratches that futuristic exploratory itch that the big two comic publishers have been missing. The pinnacle of this comes with the realization that the “planet” the team lands on is actually a giant, dead being (who bears a striking resemblance to Galactus). It is a great use of science fiction and a nice homage to the Fantastic Four.





The book also succeeds in presenting characters that are likable as individuals and function well as a team. Mr. Terrific is bold and a born leader, Metamorpho is tough but concerned about others, and Plastic Man is just a barrel of laughs. Metamorpho and Plastic Man have also already formed a little sibling rivalry that will be fun to watch develop as the series progresses. The only character who has yet to show their true potential is Linnya Wazzo, though this is simply because she isn’t introduced until near the end of the book. Overall, this is a wonderful grouping of characters that I can already tell are going to provide a ton of fun in the future.

Though the book feels a bit short, it manages to introduce a ton of mystery and intrigue before concluding. Simon Stagg’s goals, the origin of Linnya, the fate of the dead being in the Dark Universe, and the message from Tom Strong all present opportunities for unique storylines as the series goes on. I was already excited for this series before opening this first issue but left it feeling even more excited for the second issue. There are a ton of reasons for fans to come back to this comic and a ton of potential that has yet to be tapped.

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Art

Artwork by Ivan Reis rarely manages to disappoint, and this issue is no exception. This comic is beautiful and full of detail in a way that is sure to delight readers. This homage to the Fantastic Four is also a comic that clearly takes heavy inspiration from Jack Kirby, the artist who created the Fantastic Four. Kirby Krackle and a beautiful splash page (which we won’t spoil here) are clear references to King Kirby’s works and help the book maintain as aesthetic relevant to its inspiration.

The artwork here also does a wonderful job in allowing Plastic Man to be the goof that he is. Visual gags abound in this comic and ensure that Plastic Man’s trademark humor shines through even on pages where he doesn’t speak. It is a small detail but one that goes a long way in showing the dedication this creative team has in making this a quality comic book.

Continuity

The Terrifics #1 is the first issue in a brand new series from DC Comics. Thus far, this team has not appeared in any DC Comic so their origin and history can all be seen in this initial issue.

The story started here will continue in The Terrifics #2.

This issue also makes references to other comic books, detailed below:

The events of Dark Nights: Metal are brought up a few times. Mr. Terrific and Plastic Man are introduced to that series in Dark Days: The Forge (Review), a prelude to Metal.

Metamorpho’s past with Simon Stagg comes from the Legends of Tomorrow series. Metamorpho’s adventures in this series are collected in Metamorpho: Two Worlds, One Destiny.

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