Written by: Rodolfo Cimino (Story 1), Alberto Savini (Story 2), Romano Scarpa & Luca Boschi (Story 3)
Art by: Romano Scarpa (Story 1 & Story 3), Andrea Freccero (Story 2)
Publisher: IDW
Uncle Scrooge #1 is a blast. With 44 pages of glorious art (mainly by the Italian mastermind, Romano Scarpa creating the best illustrations by far) and genuinely humorous storytelling, it is clearly a no-brainer as to whether you should buy this or leave on the shelves. As for the three stories selling point, it is more two big stories and a one page anecdote; however, this isn’t a complaint as the value for money is clearly obvious when reading it.
‘Gigabeagle: King of the Robot Robbers’ is the first story and it follows The Beagle Brothers and their efforts to steal Scrooge’s billions right from under his nose with the creation of their giant robot: the gigabeagle. There are some really funny moments in it; when Scrooge passes out after the realisation that his fortune could be stolen, the gang try to wake him up with some smelling salts labelled ‘Essence of Tax Breaks.’ Maybe a joke overlooked by a child but one any adult can enjoy. The artwork is astonishing and it is clear that Romano Scarpa is a master of the craft and the many years creating comics in the Disney universe has helped to hone his talents for our benefit. It reminds me of a time when I was a child, sat in front of the TV watching Ducktales and being engrossed it its world—loving every minute of it. Paired with Scarpa’s genius is Rodolfo Cimino’s smart and witty story. The dialogue is quick and clever, reeling you in and holding on tight. It made me laugh out loud and I really didn’t want it to end; I was also enlightened on what the middle name of Donald Duck (Fauntleroy!) is—worthy of a mention, I think.
The second story is a one-page ‘gag strip’ that is assumedly there to break up the two main stories. ‘Pure Viewing Satisfaction’ is funny, yes but seems pretty redundant in the grand scheme of things and I could have quite easily enjoyed Uncle Scrooge #1 without this being included. Nonetheless, it is there and doesn’t harm the overall appeal of the issue.
The third and final story, ‘Tinker, Tailor, Scrooge and Sly’ is another joyous romp but still not as enjoyable as the first; saying that though, there are still moments that showcase Scarpa’s talents not just as an artist but as a writer as well. There are some great laughs when the loveable miser, Uncle Scrooge is left with no alternative but to put on Minnie Mouse’s polka dot dress (after his coat is stolen) and those around keep calling him Minnie by mistake. The ending feels a little rushed but it is still a magnificent read and an excellent ending to Uncle Scrooge #1, giving real depth to a series with great talent at its heart.
Whilst reading Uncle Scrooge #1, I had a warm feeling inside because it felt so familiar. It is a shame that such a talented man like Romano Scarpa isn’t alive anymore but fortunately we get to revel in his incredible works thanks to IDW. They have reprinted the Italian creator’s offerings in English for the very first time, just so you can enjoy them as much as I did. Over the coming months, you’ll be treated to more Uncle Scrooge so it is definitely worth getting your hands on this before all the subsequent issues get released (they are also releasing lines of Mickey Mouse and Donald ‘Fauntleroy’ Duck so get reading them now). For only $3.99, I’m sure even Uncle Scrooge might part ways with the money to get his feathery little hands on this beautiful piece of fiction—I implore you to do them same.
