Comic book revivals can be a mixed bag, but The Blue Falcon and Dynomutt #1 from Dynamite Comics manages to breathe new life into a classic Hanna-Barbera duo in a surprising and gut-wrenching way. The first issue, written by Jimmy Palmiotti with art by Pasquale Qualano, delivers a new series full of action and intrigue, but it’s the shocking final pages that truly set the tone.
Right from the start, the comic hits you with a gritty, intense portrayal of a hero pushed to his limits. The opening scene immediately establishes a more mature tone than the original animated series, introducing Blue Falcon in what he calls an “apocalypse,” a dream or premonition where he’s a lone warrior fighting off an onslaught of enemies.
The plot itself is a classic origin story with a modern twist. The hero, Radley Crown, is an inventor trying to create a silent, crime-fighting advantage for himself. He’s a man of science who trusts his secrets with his four-legged friend, Dynomutt. There’s a palpable sense of mystery surrounding Crown’s motivations, which keeps you guessing.
The artwork by Pasquale Qualano is the backbone of this book. His style perfectly blends modern realism with classic superhero aesthetics. The action is fluid and impactful, especially in the opening pages, and his design for Blue Falcon is fantastic. He nails the iconic beak that serves as the hero’s mask, giving him a dramatic and intense look. The colors by Jorge Sutil are vibrant and moody, shifting from dark, blood-splattered scenes to the bright interiors of Crown’s lab.
But the real heart of the story lies in the dynamic between Blue Falcon and Dynomutt. You can immediately feel the love the hero has for his dog, who he credits with saving his life, which makes the events that follow even more impactful.
The comic’s high point is when Blue Falcon’s new invention is finally complete. He’s ecstatic, finally feeling he has the advantage he’s been looking for. This is his moment of triumph, the culmination of all his hard work.
But then, the shoe drops. In a shocking and brutal turn, a seemingly trustworthy ally is revealed to be working with some thugs. They assault him and take a key card that gives them access to Blue Falcon’s lair. As the hero’s loyal companion, Dynomutt, tries to defend the home, he’s brutally shot and seemingly killed. The final pages are a heartbreaking scene of vengeance, with Blue Falcon cradling his fallen friend. His rage fuels a powerful fight against the men who took his best friend, culminating in the final, gut-wrenching words: “You shot my dog!”
The Blue Falcon and Dynomutt #1 is an effective modernization of a classic character. It takes a familiar premise and grounds it in a world with real stakes and consequences. The plot is compelling, the art is excellent, and the shocking ending leaves you eager to see what comes next.
‘The Blue Falcon and Dynomutt’ #1 Flies, But Not Without a Price
The Blue Falcon and Dynomutt #1 is an effective modernization of a classic character. It takes a familiar premise and grounds it in a world with real stakes and consequences. The plot is compelling, the art is excellent, and the shocking ending leaves you eager to see what comes next.
