Written by: Ted Naifeh
Art by: Ted Naifeh & Warren Wucinich
Publisher: Oni Press
When I last reviewed Princess Ugg, it was all the way back in its third issue, and the comic was just beginning to overcome some of its initial missteps. Now, in the sixth issue of the comic, Princess Ülga has really come into her own as a strong, kickass, female character.
The comic starts with action and maintains it throughout the issue. Princess Ülga is all about beating the living out of the bandits who have attacked the Princesses’ carriage, but she doesn’t stop them from taking all of the ladies hostage. This comic is well paced, with ass-kicking and character development happening hand in hand. The other princesses are starting to trust, and even enjoy Princess Ülga, and she is becoming a more confident character with every issue.
Naifeh keeps the plot fresh. Princess Ülga is never a damsel in distress, and she’s always able to come to the rescue. There is gossip and controversy among the princesses, and their relationships are evolving as Ülga becomes more of a leader in the group and less of a follower who is doing everything she can to fit in.
Naifeh’s art paired with Wucinich’s coloring is phenomenal, and it has been consistently awesome from the start. The action scenes in this issue are awesome, especially the panels where you can see the fire in Ülga’s eyes as she is fighting. The more she fights and becomes comfortable in her own skin, the closer she comes to truly accepting herself, and Naifeh makes sure you can see it in her facial expressions as well as in her dialogue.
Princess Ugg is becoming a must read comic for any girl or woman who is into comics. There are only a handful of really great female centered comics out there, and Princess Ugg is definitely one of them.