Comic Book Review: Deadly Class #1

In Deadly Class #1, Rick Remender and crew present us with an opening filled with angst, mystery and intrigue. This book hits all the beats that a first issue should and it’s welcome. I’m glad Remender doesn’t try to get cute and oversell his idea here. In this issue we get an origin story, we get a fleshed out main character with hints of mystery to keep us wondering and we get introduced to a large supporting cast who’s personalities are some of the highlights of the book.

One thing that seemed very noticeable during my time spent with Deadly Class #1 is how much of this book reminded me of other comics and properties. Before I had finished this issue I had already tied it to Akira, X-Men, The Matrix and Wanted. That’s not necessarily a bad thing because all creators borrow from other creations, I’m just wondering what Remender’s angle is and how will it be different from entertainment we’ve already consumed. The hook is only remotely revealed in this issue.

Another question I had about this issue was year it was set in. “Time period” comics baffle me. It’s an uphill battle the second you pick a decade that isn’t the current one. Regardless of the number, a percentage of readers will have no connection to that time period. So now the creator has to sell the reader on the plot as well as the era. The reader has to buy into both for them to work and come across as cohesive. Honestly, any plot can be accepted by a reader but trying to push an era of time that someone has no affection with can be tricky. Deadly Class #1 is a good comic. I’m just not sure why it takes place in 1987. This issue could have taken place today and it wouldn’t have made the story any different. It’s an interesting choice and I’ll be watching to see if it plays a larger role down the line.

If you were wondering – Wes Craig & Lee Loughridge bring the noise on art! Craig’s gritty-realism creates depth and life and gives each panel a real world feel. Whether it’s action packed or a quiet moment all of his layouts and panel choices provide a cinematic aura. On top of that Lee Loughridge’s colors give the book a really cool vibe and feed into the moodiness of the book. I’m a sucker for awesome coloring and Loughridge set’s the bar high with duo-tones and contrasting color enhancements that make pages pop.

All in all, Deadly Class #1 is a solid first issue that promises to build on its mysteries and entertaining personalities.

Score: 6 (out of 7)

Written by: Rick Remender

Art by: Wes Craig

Colors by: Lee Loughridge

Letters by: Rus Wooton