Some characters are classic right out of the gate. That was true of The Rocketeer, created by Dave Stevens, who unfortunately passed in 2008 after a battle with Hairy Cell Leukemia. A film was based on the character, which has become a cult favorite. And recently, IDW has been creating new adventures for the hero in miniseries’ by some celebrated talents.
What’s the Rocketeer about? It’s the story of Cliff Secord, a stunt pilot who discovers a prototype rocket-pack in 1938 and uses it to fight crime. The love of his life is Betty. The books are set in the past and have a strong nostalgic feel.
The latest comics miniseries is The Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror, with issue 1 in comic shops everywhere as of February 27, 2013! It’s written by Roger Langridge, with art by J. Bone.
Here’s the description: “You wanted more Rocketeer… and you’ve got it! Missing scientists! Plucky girl reporters! Betty and Cliff on the rocks! The mysterious Church of Cosmicism! And who is the sinister Otto Rune? Pulp thrills the way you like them as the Rocketeer comes up against a brand-new adversary in… ‘The Hollywood Horror!'”
I often see these comics being compared to classic movie serials, and that makes a lot of sense. You get a rocket-full of action, adventure and romance, making for a fun romp.
This time, Cliff’s late for his date with Betty because he’s saving people left and right along the way. When he finally catches up with her, she has a big surprise for him. No, she doesn’t want him to give up being the Rocketeer … that would be too predictable. She has another idea in mind, something I can’t spoil here. You have to pick up the book to find out.
The pair get pulled into a mystery that will keep them busy and us gripped for months to come … well, as long as the current miniseries lasts, anyway!
Hats off to IDW for continuing the legend of the Rocketeer so strongly! If you haven’t read these stories before, don’t worry … you’ll pick up what you need to know along the way.
In the coming months, we’ll see that mystery unfold interlaced with shocks and surprises, so don’t miss it!
Below you’ll see the cover!
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