Planetary Brigade: Origins

(Boom!, 2006)

Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis return to their latest super-team creation in the first of three sort-of stand-alone issues parodying definitive eras in comics. First up: A freak nuclear accident nearly leads to the creation of the Planetary Brigade. But even after defeating Mr. Master and his army of mutant gophers, Captain Valor, The Grim Knight, and Earth Goddess still prefer to work alone.

In a tale inspired by the early days of Mighty Marvel, Giffen and DeMatteis introduce their cast and play up the “good intentions gone wrong” and “technology man was not meant to have” memes. But, of course, here it’s funny. A smug Mr. Brilliant has invented a new device that will improve the lives of millions all over the world—but, of course, it’s also a bomb. The Fighting Man grouses at every single development—but, then, he would, being the spirit of every American ever killed in battle. It’s a great premise, and the comedy team develops fantastic characters not seen in the first mini-series. On the other hand, the rampant exposition (parodying the feel of old Marvel books) muddies up the humor. Still, Planetary Brigade: Origins is still good for a smile.

— Shaun Manning

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