Advance Review – Ottley Shines In ‘Invincible Universe: Battle Beast’ #1
by Tom Smithyman
Overview
After several years, we get to revisit the Invincible universe and one of its best characters. Fortunately, Battle Beast has never looked better, thanks to artist Ryan Ottley’s amazing work. The scripting can use some work, but the visuals will carry this ongoing series for a long time.
Overall
9/10Few independent comic book series have the longevity and creativity to create a robust cast of characters. But with 144 issues – as well as three seasons of an animated series – Invincible’s dramatis personae rivals that of those from Marvel and DC.
Now, seven years after the series concluded, the creative team of Robert Kirkman and Ryan Ottley are back with one of those unique characters in Invincible Universe: Battle Beast. It’s an ongoing series set alongside mainstays Mark Grayson, Omni-Man, Atom Eve, and others.
Don’t expect to see those familiar faces though – at least not yet. Kirkman wisely focuses the story on the jacked-up cat who wants nothing more than to die in glorious combat but keeps finding his opponents lacking. (Don’t worry, though, Ottley throws in a panel with some Easter eggs for longtime fans.)
That panel only scratches the surface of what Ottley offers fans in this premiere issue. It’s really his book, if this opening chapter is any indication. Whether he is in the middle of a fierce battle or devouring the remains of his prey, this beast has never looked better. And with his expressive face, dreadlocks, fur, and complicated costume, it’s no easy task. Yes Ottley makes him look amazing on each page.
Kirkman’s script, on the other hand, borders on the simplistic and overly familiar at times. The ship’s computer plays the sassy sidekick role, which is well done, but still tired. Battle Beast introduces his brief origin story using language far clumsier than we expect from such an experience writer.
The computer, which hates Battle Beast for killing the crew of his ship, enters into a détente with the beast when they realize they both want the main character dead. The machine promises to find world after world with champions that are capable of defeating the monstrous warrior.
That means plenty of action – and even more opportunity for Ottley to shine. Frankly if the entire series were nothing more than Ottley showing the beast in battle with no narration, it would still be worth the cover price.
Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #1 will be available at comic book shops on May 14th, from Image Comics.
