Dan Slott and Michael Allred’s run on Silver Surfer was one of my most anticipated books once it was announced. I loved the idea that Surfer was going to travel around the universe with a human companion as they explore a trippy Jack Kirbyesque version of the Marvel Galactic Universe. And while I’m not disappointed with with this run, I do wish it would pick up the pace a bit. Dan slott has spent the last four issues introducing the audience to the new character of Dawn Greenwood, and while that is not a bad thing seeing as Dawn is a likeable character, let me just say that this book has not quite reached the heights set by the Infinite Comic that Marvel released on Comixology around the time this book started.
Issue #5 begins on Earth as Surfer returns to Dawn with the news that he cannot leave because the barrier that prevented him from leaving Earth for many years has somehow returned. Dr. Strange and Dr. Banner both appear and tell him that everyone’s worst nightmares appear to be coming to life, and Surfer has to find a way to stop it. This all takes place after a heated argument Surfer had with Dawn. It did not end well.
Dan Slott’s script is humorous and flows along at a good pace. The characters are all likeable, with Dawn being the highlight as a person who believes she’s happy where she is, but slowly realizes she craves adventure. Unfortunately, while the presence of Dr. Strange and The Hulk is appreciated, they really don’t do anything in this issue. There only purpose is to provide Surfer information with what’s going on, as well as have a neat little Defenders reunion. Even during the end of the issue, the two characters stay behind and are quickly overwhelmed by the growing chaos. Just let stick with main characters as they deal with the threat, it’s all I’m asking.
Michael Allred’s artwork is top notch throughout. He is one of my favorite artists working now, and I am rarely disappointed by a comic drawn by him. This issue is a good representation of the craziness he’s able to depict, with shattering dream sequences and growing nightmare horrors. His facial expressions are also on point here, showing mixtures of terror, exhaustion, and sadness from scene to scene.
Overall this is a fine issue. While I really like the premise of the book, I like the writing, and I love the art, I wish this book had reached the exploration point I have been waiting for. Granted, this issue wraps up the opening story arc, and we finally reach the point where Dawn wants to explore the unknown with the Silver Surfer. Despite the negativity I seem to be giving off about this series, I still highly recommend this series, especially if you’re a fan of weird realities, trippy images, and just a fun energy to everything.
CBH Score: 3.5 Out of 5
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