Science fiction can sometimes be just too “clean” when it comes to war. After all, when technology makes things happen nicely and neatly, war can be pretty easy to take care of.
However, one series that I’ve always felt was more realistic when it comes to soldiers and war was called Alien Legion. The first issue of a new miniseries is now available in local comics shops.
ALIEN LEGION UNCIVIL WAR #1 of 4
Writer: Chuck Dixon
Pencils: Larry Stroman
Inks & Soul: Carl Potts
Color: Marta Martinez
Publisher: Titan Comics
Cover Price: $3.99
Previously in Alien Legion Uncivil War: “In a galaxy savaged by strife, torn by civil war, boiling with spilt blood, the Alien Legion is a cosmic military force doing its damnedest to keep the peace by being always ready for war.
“At the tip of the Legion’s multi-species spear is Force Nomad – the worst of the worst fashioned on the white-hot forge of battle into the best of the best. Now the squad’s grizzled veterans are on what should be a boring milk run; shepherding refugees fleeing a civil war ripping apart their system. Could be a good chance to to toughen the newbies of Nomad into soldiers… until straight-up peacekeeping descends into full-scale war!
“This brand-new series brings together the creative giants behind the legendary original Alien Legion stories: Chuck Dixon (Punisher War Journal, Savage Sword of Conan, Batman and the Outsiders) and Carl Potts (The Punisher, The Incredible Hulk) with fantastic art by Larry Stroman (Wolverine, The Punisher).
“Originally created by Carl Potts, Alan Zelenetz and Frank Cirocco, Alien Legion first saw the light of day as a comic book series published by Marvel Comics’ Epic Comics imprint. The comic’s initial nine year run at Marvel/Epic sold approximately 2.25 million copies in North America. It has been published in at least five languages: English, Spanish, French, Italian and Portuguese and parts of the series have been collected in trade paperbacks from Epic Comics, Titan Books and Checker Book Publishing Group.
“A must-have for any fan of the original run, Alien Legion: Uncivil War is also the perfect point for new fans! Get to it, ya bospors!”
WHO BETTER TO SCRIPT ALIEN LEGION THAN CHUCK DIXON!
Chuck Dixon is one of my favorite writers because he can not only tell a powerful story, he can make us care about the people inhabiting a comic like very few others can!
Dixon has been very well known for his run on G. I. Joe, another military book, so I came to this miniseries with high expectations. I wasn’t disappointed!
For fans like me who have read Alien Legion previously, Mr. Dixon brings all the great characters and their entertaining faults and foibles with them. I particularly enjoy the word “bospor,” which in this universe has become a derogatory term for people one doesn’t care for. Also, the nasty and aggressive Harkilons are back, but with a twist I didn’t expect. Who would have ever dreamed that this aggressive race had a religious group among them? (Or are they really up to something else?)
My favorite member of the Legion remains Sarigar, the blue-skinned leader of Force Nomad who may not like the rules, but he makes sure they’re followed. Then I like Tori Montroc III, his second in command. But when it comes to action, green-skinned Jugger Grimod is the veteran soldier you want on your side!
When things are at their ugliest, expect the Legion to be called in to help. And that’s just what’s going on in this new story.
GREAT ART INCLUDES ‘SOUL’ FROM CO-CREATOR POTTS
Stroman’s art is strong and is particularly good during the battle sequences. This includes both soldiers and space ships. Be they human or alien, the members of the Legion are clearly identified in both facial expressions and appearance.
One thing that made me very happy was to see Carl Potts, one of Legion’s co-creators, inking the issue and providing “soul,” which I interpret to mean maintaining quality in both story and art. Very cool!
BOTTOM LINE: Alien Legion is back with a vengeance!
Titan Comics, of course, is the British comics company probably best known for their upcoming Doctor Who comics, but this kickoff to Alien Legion is a strong debut issue!
If you’re looking for action, adventure and drama, pick up this book! I can’t wait to see how things progress, and am seriously hoping for more Alien Legion once this miniseries has been completed!
