Written by: Malachai Nicolle
Art by: Ethan Nicolle
Publisher: Dark Horse
Axe Cop’s final issue in the American Choppers arc is just as good as ever. Issue 3 picks up from the surprising end in issue 2, and packs a powerhouse of a story to conclude American Choppers on a satisfying note. Axe Cop’s origin is told in (yet) another different manner, and it is just as hilarious as ever. Quickly paced, the story also features some dynamics between the Choppers. The story also shows some of Axe Cop’s past and the planet he comes from, and pits his team against Satan(s).
The humor of Axe Cop is of course its strongest suit, so it comes as no surprise that issue 3 seems to rely much more heavily on it than normal. I asked myself “Am I really reading this?” many times, not only because of the ridiculousness of the panels, but because the issue did not disappoint at all.
One of the many things that Axe Cop does so right, is the lightness of the tone. Axe Cop is a pleasant read for most people who enjoy a story that isn’t bogged down by details and characters. It is also a great place for new readers to dip their toes into the water. The current Axe Cop volume was my gateway into the world of Axe Cop, and I have to say that it is a wonderful universe to experience. I’m sure that readers would appreciate the departure from hackneyed themes and tones used by many stories these days.
While most of the jokes contained within are literal and hits you hard, there are however some more subtle jokes. The story also riffs on popular franchises; Axe Cop’s origin were very reminiscent of Superman’s, except Axe Cop was seemingly born with a mustache.
The issue also introduces many elements involving our team of The American Choppers. Malachai and Ethan Nicolle are adept at creating Axe Cop material, but I am still amazed at their propensity to innovate. The younger brother definitely has a bright future in the industry.
The jokes also keep coming; one problem with such stories is that the humor tends to thin out over time. Axe Cop: The American Choppers really hit its stride in this issue. Although it may be too early to say, I think I may have found my new favorite series. I can’t wait for a new volume of Axe Cop, and I am truly disappointed to see this volume end. Don’t forget to pick up Axe Cop: American Choppers Issue 3, and of course, issues 1 and 2.
