Saturday, June 27, 2009

USAGI YOJIMBO #121 Review



THE HIDDEN FORTRESS
Created, Written and Illustrated by: Stan Sakai
Front Cover Colors: Tom Luth

I first remember this character as an action figure that was attached to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle toyline back in the 1980s. He always stuck with me as something special, almost a tragic yet noble figure. He remains that way today.

This series has always been well remembered yet under appreciated at the same time. I rarely pick up an iassue but when I do I'm always left feeling like it was worth it and this story is no expection.

The book picks up with Usagi running across a failed attempt by some bounty hunters to capture a powerful, local bandit. Usagi finds a lone survivor and offers his assistance. It turns out though, that things aren't quite what they seem.

The joy of this book for me comes in its simplicity and how easy it is to pick up. While the character is steeped in continuity and a rich history, Sakai always allows for new readers to jump on. This trait is certainly a positive but it does hurt the book, by keeping it from being memorable. The art is wonderful as always with clean, strong lines and suspenseful action. Nothing is lost in the translation from written word to the printed page.

Regardless of its quick story this is a great read and one that I would suggest picking up every month.

B+

No comments:

Post a Comment