Written by: Jason Aaron
Art by: Mike Del Mundo
Publisher: Marvel Comics
It’s always a pleasure to read something that you have never read before, especially when the hero is someone that you have never really come across. Weirdworld #1 has introduced me to a fearsome warrior and a vast, exciting world where nothing is beyond the realms of possibility. I’m not familiar with Arkon or Polemachus; I’m aware of his existence in the Marvel Universe but I’ve never followed his adventures before. As soon as I started to read Weirdworld #1, it was quite clear I’d missed out. As mentioned, it follows the adventures of Arkon, a barbarian who is lost in in a strange place called Weirdworld. The multiverse was destroyed and Battleworld is all that remains—a familiar reminder if you’re following the aftermath of the Secret Wars, but in Arkon’s case, all he wants is to return home to a time before the great collapse. He is on the brink of suicide and has almost given up hope of finding it until something happens that sees his faith restored and his life appreciated once more
One thing that is clear whilst reading Weirdworld #1 is its immersive writing style and art direction. I’m a big fan of Jason Aaron and his current take on Thor is nothing short of exceptional. That’s why I knew within seconds that his ability to develop characters in such an interesting and personal way was going to help make Arkon a flawed, yet heroic warrior. Jason has made Arkon vulnerable—even with his strong and intimidating demeanour. On first glance, Arkon reminds me of Conan. The likenesses may be noticed by its readers but it is only in appearance that these similarities are prominent. Arkon is a much more interesting character and it is rare for a hero to not believe in himself—there is always a kind of arrogance and self-belief, but that is not the case here. I was also automatically involved emotionally in his story and this is a rare thing in issue ones. With the other issues in Secret Wars, you are already familiar with the protagonists, mainly because they are already known and already have established histories. Arkon isn’t a familiar hero, but I can’t tell you how much that shouldn’t matter. People need to take a chance with this one.
Mike Del Mundo’s artwork is gorgeous. The pastel-like colouring gives Weirdworld #1 a sense of life and makes the floating islands and the vast array of creatures fly off the pages. As much as the story deals with despair and loss of hope, the light in the panels juxtaposes what the writing is saying; I think this is a great idea whether it was deliberate or not, Jason and Mike work well together and have fused each other’s talent perfectly to make Weirdworld #1 an exciting story with underlying charm and a whole lot of potential. Also, one of the best things about the issue is the Map of Weirdworld—when you get to it you’ll know, but all I’ll say is Mike Del Mundo is a genius!
I don’t want to spoil the story for you, but the reveal of a familiar villain at the end made me happy and fearful at the same time. It gives #2 a lot of promise and Arkon a difficult mountain to climb. I for one will be buying a copy when it hits the stands and so should you. Give Weirdworld #1 a chance and you won’t regret it. I have no idea where the comic is heading and that’s always a good feeling to have.
