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Overanalyzing Anime
Blog Owner & Lead Writer
Released in 2004, “Iron Man: Extremis” served as a soft reboot, wherein the titular characters origin is both altered and modernized. It’s also readers first glimpse at the armor design that would eventually become the basis for the 2008 blockbuster film, “Iron Man.”
“Extremis” presents us with a version of Tony Stark who has been Iron Man for a substantial amount of time - albeit, as he does in most comics, he is still implanting the ruse that the Iron Man armor is piloted by his “body guard.” The first issue focuses on the public perception of both Tony Stark and his company, Stark Industries, while also planting the seeds for the mystery surrounding the surreptitious “Extremis” serum, as well as newcomers Mallen and Maya Henson.
There’s a lot to love about this first issue, firstly, it does a great job at reeling readers in to the story by creating an intriguing mystery that’s just begging to be solved - “What is Extremis?” “Why did Dr. Killian steal it?” “What does Mallen plan to use it for?” These, along with many other questions, will have you yearning to learn what happens next, as well as where the story will go by the end of its six issue run.
Another aspect of the story that makes it worthwhile is Tony Stark (obviously.) The first time we see him he’s asleep in his garage, giving us our first indication that Tony has been working hard on, seemingly, a number of different projects. We also get to see Tony interact with a number of different characters, and in watching him you begin to understand just how complex a character he is; one moment he may be sarcastic and witty, then, just a page later, you’ll see him pensive with just a hint of sadness behind those hazel eyes. Speaking of his appearance, it would be amiss to not mention the level of detail artist Ado Granov puts into each panel. His artwork is some of the best I’ve seen in terms of realism - it’s almost as if he’s snapped a picture of these individuals and just added a comic filter over the image. It’s really rather amazing.
But, I digress, the complexity of Tony’s character really creates for some awesome moments, such as his short conversation with his reflection in the bathroom, his (intense) interview with John Pillinger for Pillonger’s “Ghosts of the Twentieth Century” documentary, or when he bursts into excited laughter as he takes to the skies in his newest Iron Man suit. All of these different perspectives of Tony serve to create a very unique character that’s a genuine joy to follow.
The first issue does an excellent job at setting the stage for what seems to be an intriguing story arc, as well as giving us a taste of the current state of Tony’s personal and professional life. When coupled with its incredible artwork, I cant help but give this first issue high praise.
Stay tuned for my review of issue #2 soon!
My rating: 9/10
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