Image Comics reviews 2/21/24 – Cobra Commander #2, G.I. Joe #304
Cobra Commander #2
The obvious sign that writer Joshua Williamson and artist Andrea Milana are onto something with Cobra Commander is how quickly each issue zips along. It’s a new era of G.I. Joe and Cobra so there’s a heightened sense of curiosity and impatience concerning how everything falls into place. Granted, comic book fans are known for their patience and desire to let things play out so this shouldn’t be a problem.
Williamson is tackling the Joe mythos like he’s taking the middle lane of a highway — no need to go too fast or too slow. The destination is far enough away that he can sit back and enjoy the ride. Of course, introducing the Dreadnoks into the fold likely won’t quell the excitement of what’s to come next. Or Williamson’s carefully constructed mystery regarding Cobra Commander’s companion from Cobra La.
It’s no coincidence that the first three Dreadnoks introduced are represented in figure form in Hasbro’s G.I. Joe Classified Series line (view on Amazon — paid link). Williamson and Milana seem to be big fans of the new figure line and character designs reflect the Classified Series looks right down to the tattoos.
One of the more intriguing elements of the mini-series is how Williamson merged the cartoon and comic book origins of Cobra Commander together. Fans of either lore can appreciate this take as it allows for the best of both worlds with both being equally valid.
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The Dreadnoks certainly make a memorable impression, but the only thing better than three Dreadnoks is more Dreadnoks. Introducing them early on allows for some compelling new dynamics if Cobra Commander establishes a bond with them before partnering with M.A.R.S.
Milana’s art leans in to a more violent, horrific take on Cobra. It doesn’t feel gratuitous while being a dramatic shift to visually show Cobra is a deadly organization…determined to rule the world. And it won’t be from carving lasers into the moon.
Colorist Annalisa Leoni helps in setting the darker mood for the story with smart shades and lighting. Letterer Rus Wooton gets the appropriate tone and emotion conveyed with the fonts and mayhem with the special effects.
Cobra Commander #2 certainly didn’t start off slow, but this was another issue that breezed by far too quickly. This creative team is creating a must-read where the next installment can’t arrive soon enough. This book probably needs to come with a warning that it contains highly addictive material that’s barely satiated with a 30-day fix.
Rating: 9.5 out of 10