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 Runaways
Published by Marvel Comics
144 pages
$7.99
It's great to see Marvel Comics finding success in a series of digest comics, and wonder
of wonders, in retail outlets other than comics shops! I'm speaking of the series entitled
Runaways, (of which five volumes have been published at the time of this review) the
continuing story of a group of teenagers who are trying to learn about their super powers
and cope with their often-clashing personalities, both while on the run from good guys
and bad. The worst part? The bad guys are their own parents. I won't reveal anything
else story-wise, but will instead let you discover for yourself the wonderful sequential
entertainment that is Runaways.
Written by Brian K. Vaughan, this is a work in which superheroics is secondary; the icing
on the cake for superhero fans or an endurable aside for those who carry a torch for
spandex-free tales. What takes front and center stage is characterization. Vaughan has
captured the average American teenager in an impressive manner. Whether reflected in
anger, bliss, resentment, joy or what have you, the characters are believable in both action
and dialogue.
The art work is provided primarily by Adrian Alphona, with some by Takeshi Miyazawa.
I have to admit to being partial to Alphona's work, as I believe it more detailed and a tad
more realistic. Not to mention that, as the original artist for the first several issues of the
series, she gave the characters their life, their "zing." Miyazawa's work has a much
heavier Manga influence, and is less my "cup of tea." But, Manga fans be advised.
If I had a suggestion, it would be that Marvel keep it's mainstream characters out of this
series, that it might maintain it's own unique "flavor." The "no tights in sight" rule, if
you will.
Runaways is recommended for all but the youngest readers (12 and up, according to
Marvel's rating system). Find it at comics shops, bookstores and online retailers and
auctions.
Mark Allen
Get information on the exciting Oklahoma Cartoonists Collection and Toy and Action Figure Museum
Any statements made, expressed or implied are solely those of columnists or persons interviewed and do not represent the editorial position of the administration, who does not accept responsibility of such statements. All characters and artwork shown are trademark and © of their respective owners.
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