By: Miguel Acedo

IDW Publishing and DC Comics have joined forces to pair two of the most iconic and visionary teams in the history Science Fiction: Star Trek and the Legion of Super-Heroes.

Writer Chris Roberson has found a way to unite classic versions of both teams and put them in a momentous and collective peril. The first issue of this six-issue mini-series proves that the unlikely pairing is as uncontrived as a crossover can be. Roberson demonstrates that the natural parallel between the teams is found within the optimism of the futures they represent.

Roberson features six heroes from each team. From Star Trek, Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Sulu, Chekov, Uhura and Scotty are introduced. Although, it seems as if Scotty may not factor much into the story as Kirk leaves him in charge of the Enterprise when the crew takes shore leave, however, Scotty, ever the loyal crew member, is recognizable in characterization and serves a function within the story itself.  And from the Legion, Roberson has chosen to focus on the classic lineup of Cosmic Boy, Saturn Girl, Lightning Lad, Chameleon Boy, Shadow Lass, and Brainiac 5.

With a time-spanning plot that finds all these adventurers stranded in the 23^rd Century on an Earth and Universe not of their own, Roberson showcases his affection for these characters and their respective histories. He has no trouble finding the voices of these beloved and nuanced characters that are enriched by Jeffrey Moy’s pencils which ultimately capture classic physical movement and facial expressions that have become irrevocably linked to these characters.

What makes this mini-series so intriguing is its potential. Both Star Trek and the Legion of Super-Heroes have explored socio-political themes; hence their stories, histories and journeys have made them relevant and allowed them to stand the test of time. Roberson, clearly respecting the continuity of both teams, infuses heart into the mini-series. This heart poses the question: Seemingly relegated to a permanent dreary existence, how can these two teams remain optimistic?

There is no doubt Roberson will put these iconic characters through their paces, but along the way, he will make sure the histories of both teams are serviced. This is one book that will make you look forward to the future and the story that shall unfold. It gives you plenty of reasons to be optimistic that this mini-series, and more importantly that these much-loved characters, are is in good hands.

Comments

comments