REVIEW: ‘Antioch,’ Issue #1

We’re killing the planet; that’s no surprise. But in Antioch #1, a king from a lost land enters our world to try to stop us from killing our planet. How effective this cause will be is left to be seen when he finds himself in a superhuman prison where his powers and status are useless. Published by Image Comics, Antioch #1 is written by Patrick Kindlon with art by Marco Ferrari and letters by Jim Campbell.

If you’ve been around the superhero comic block, you’ve probably heard of the series Frontiersman. Hopefully, you’ve read it too because, while this series is a new one, including new characters and a new plotline, the titular character from Frontiersman is still a focal point. And it looks like the Frontiersman will continue to have a big part in future issues. So if you’re a returning fan, then you’ll feel right at home. But it remains to be seen just how much background new readers will need to understand events.

Additionally, while Antioch #1 does well in introducing the estranged king, the end of the issue raises questions about the king’s intentions due to the sudden change in tone. The why of the situation is beyond me, though obviously, it has something to do with the “mission” Antioch purports midway through the issue. But for now, Antioch #1 leaves off with a sour taste because of this confusion. I can only hope this is all explained away in the next issue.

But while the tone feels a tad off, specifically near the end, Antioch #1 instills the rest of the issue with excellent characterization. We get to know Antioch through both his actions and the graciousness of the people who work for him. And the prison the Frontiersman comes to find that home is full of rich characters that range from a severe threat to lackadaisical in nature. The whole issue is just so energized that its 32 pages fly by. Of course, most of this energy is infused by the title character, in part from his aggressive, intense personality. Still, the primary fuel for this fire comes from the amazing artwork.

The action in Antioch #1 hits hard. Every punch and kick has weight and speed behind it. With the unique characters Antioch (and the Frontiersman) goes up against, there’s some fun action and some really eye-popping, full-page spreads. The characters are highly emotive, and the excellent color work only enhances the tone of each panel. With so much focus on the action, how the letters add extra impact with the varied FX is excellent, and the dialogue placement never overshadows the action.

Overall, Antioch #1 is a good start to this new ongoing series. If you enjoyed the Frontiersman, you will enjoy the action and pure energy that makes up Antioch. At the same time, there are some small flaws here and there, but between where the story promises to go and the impressive artwork, Antioch #1 is an enjoyable, easy read.

Antioch #1 is available now wherever comics are sold.