The Best Revenge Is No Revenge — Reviewing ‘Firefly: The Fall Guys’ #6

Revenge is a powerful motivator. One of the only things more powerful often is the impact of those you love. A desire to not drag them down with you, and still be there for them as time moves on.

Zoe Washburne weighs those choices as Firefly: The Fall Guys #6 brings the ragtag crew’s latest miniseries to a close. An issue from Sam Humphries, Jordi Pérez, Francesco Segala, Gloria Martinelli, and Jim Campbell.

After five issues of running around, framed for an assassination attempt on the Prime Minister, the crew of the Serenity stood their ground. Even without the running there were a lot of the same beats put into play as the previous issues. That being said, the solid character beats and the final page revelation definitely helped boost this installment.

Overall, Humphries approached this story and characters well. He clearly understands them and their unique voices. The banter and movement were on point, keeping that trademark Firefly vibe soaring.

Where things went wrong (not even the best word really), is in the execution. There was little reason for being six issues long. Conservatively, I would wager we could cut out enough excess to peg this mini-series at three to four issues. Not that I want less work for people, perish the thought.

There were numerous moments that repeated, from the chases to the confrontations (and getaways) with the Archambeau gang. Trim that up a bit and give us more time with Zoe and her struggle, making her the clear focus of the run, and we’re cooking with gas.

Speaking of Zoe, having her decide to save the Prime Minister because she’s done letting the war hold onto her was very solid. I wish we had that more time with her I mentioned along the way to really explore how she fully came to this point. Especially with that cliffhanger that sees her decide what is best for her and Emma is to leave the crew.

I assume that moment is one that will be followed up in a new series, because that was just too big to not have plans after.

I’ll never tire of seeing Pérez tackle this universe.

Giving everything the right amount of dusty roughness that fits the sci-fi western vibes we love. Enough action is at hand to let the panels get up to speed and move the characters around. Even in the more static standing around pages, there is just enough crackling energy to make things work. Emotions are so clear; they might as well be shouting at us from the page. Each face really sells what is happening as these beloved characters do what they do best.

Also hitting the right vibes repeatedly are Segala and Martinelli. Keeping colors in that sweet spot of mostly toned-down and natural with the right amount of pop when needed. This duo and Pérez are hopefully tied to whatever is coming next because they 100% understand and own this universe.

Speaking of someone that gets it and should also be around once more, Campbell makes the lettering side look easy, as usual. Making sure that the characters voices are clear, unique, and powerful as they bounce around the page. Giving everything the right flavor so that we play it out accurately in our heads. Taking advantage of the great panel choices to let the words frame and stand firm beside the rest of the artwork.

Firefly: The Fall Guys #6 is now available from BOOM! Studios.