Review: RASL #6

Are we really only up to issue #6 in one of the most interesting mystery sci-fi adventure stories being produced? The Rasl story takes an interesting turn as readers unlock the next clue to the technology that powers the universe jumping technology.

I’ve talked many a time about my sincere appreciation for Nikola Tesla and everything that he did to further technology and make the world what it is today.  Even though we are just re-discovering his contributions and making use of his ideas, who knows what is still classified and being kept from us.

It’s clear from his writing that Jeff Smith has done his Tesla homework in covering the known facts of Tesla’s life, and I like that he has made the connection between the electrification of the world and how it affected films, and ultimately influenced Rob (Rasl) and his friend and colleague Miles to begin research into the universe jumping technology.

Telsa had always wanted to deliver free energy to the world, but his plan eventually backfired on him when he crossed the wrong person in the form of J.P. Morgan.  That misstep cost Tesla his reputation, turned him into a recluse, who ultimately died alone.  It’s interesting then that Smith takes those events and parallels them with Rasl, who is himself betrayed in this issue.  We won’t know what happens to the hero for another month or two (depending on when the alternating release schedule kicks in), but the climax of the Salamander and Rasl fight scene has me hoping that next issue is sooner than later.

Smith’s art continues to shine, and I love how he’s able to realistically render history’s heroes and villains.

There’s not a whole lot to say in this issue, as most of it is a history lesson. For those in the know, there’s a lot of good information here.  For the rest of us, it’s nice to see Smith giving props to one of the greats.  The moments where we do get to see Rasl go through the actions of stealing yet another Picasso painting are great, and the fact that the entire story – save for a few moments – are told through the narration of the title character are really neat.  I wish the issue would be longer, but that has been one of my complaints from the beginning. Rasl will continue to be on my must read list, and once again earns 5 out of 5 Stars.

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