ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #12
Writer: Gerry Duggan
Artist: Rod Reis
Letterer: VC’s Cory Petit
Price: $3.99
Release Date: 10/18/17
Rating: T+
Plot: The Guardians of the Galaxy make a pit stop on Earth so they can find some leads on the Infinity Stones. During their visit, the team picks up Ant-Man, who’s seeking redemption for his betrayal in Secret Empire. Also the Guardians discover that multiple Infinity Stones are missing across other realities.
Story: This is a filler issue, but it’s still entertaining. Gerry Duggan’s dialogue adds humor and fun character interactions that move the plot in a steady pace. One example would be Rocket’s continuous insults about how Earth is a terrible planet. Then we get a great scene where Star-Lord makes the group hot dogs to change their minds. Also before leaving Earth, the Guardians discover Deadpool trying to stowaway. The team kicks him off prompting Deadpool to make a joke about United Airlines. Plus if readers like Duggan’s writing on this title then they should check out his run on Deadpool.
Ant-Man is an interesting choice for this team. While Scott Lang doesn’t have the powers for space, he does fit the character profile for the Guardians. Like most of the Guardians, Scott had some problems with the law that he eventually moved past in order to become Ant-Man. Also there could be some interesting scenarios in space for Scott’s Ant-Man helmet. While we see Scott taking some ants with him, it could be amazing if he discovers another alien species affected by the Ant-Man helmet. Plus Ant-Man can be a fun and humorous character at times and this works with Duggan’s writing style. My only concern is that Scott barely mentioned Cassie and I hope he at least left a note for his daughter before leaving the planet.
My only problem with this issue is Loki’s appearance. After Drax talks with Cable, it’s revealed that he was actually Loki in disguise the whole time. Loki has never had any real history with the Guardians. He’s a more exciting antagonist if he’s fighting Thor or the Avengers because of his history in those franchises. Plus this feels more like a way to build up hype for the MCU’s Loki in Thor: Ragnarok. Hopefully this won’t ruin the Hunt for the Infinity Stones arc.
Art: The cover for this issue is great. It’s an awesome teaser for the Guardians of the Galaxy’s new member. Since the new member is Ant-Man, you have to look closely at Man-Thing’s shoulder to see him. This is a great fake out because Ant-Man can shrink, but it’s ruined if you look at the next issue’s cover.
Rod Reis does an amazing job penciling and coloring the issue. For conversations, Reis shows excellent facial expressions so readers can match the characters emotions with their words. Also the color choices are excellent for the scenes taking place at night. However my favorite page of this issue was Man-Thing showing the Guardians their inter dimensional counterparts. Reis’s designs of the other Guardians are a fun homage to different eras of the team.
Verdict: All-New Guardians of the Galaxy #12 is a great jumping on point for new readers. Plus it’s also a nice break before starting the larger Infinity Stone story arc next issue. Gerry Duggan keeps the issue entertaining with humor and Rob Reis delivers some stunning artwork. Also adding Ant-Man to the team sets up an interesting dynamic for the team.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5