If that image to the left doesn’t obliterate any preconceived notions you have of a new series starring Rob Liefeld’s Glory, then you don’t know what preconceived notions are. Joe Keatinge’s and Ross Campbell’s Glory would beat the ‘90s “Bad Girl” version of the character with her own bloody stump of an arm. And convince her she’s doing it for her own good. And if you keep looking at me like that for talking about Glory in 2012, she’ll do the same to you.
Alright, alright. Everybody just calm down. Things are getting way out of hand. GLORY #23 is the first issue in the Extreme Relaunch of the title (last published in 1997). However, this is essentially a #1 issue, marking a nice clean start for readers new and old. All you need to get started is right here. Glory was born of another realm to bring peace to two warring factions and to bring her fury down on whoever tries to break it. Tired of a life she didn’t choose, Glory makes her way to Earth to make her own path.
Much like this review, GLORY #23 starts off in your face, retelling Glory’s origin, with all blood, guts and, well, Glory. Then things slow down as Keatinge and Campbell set the stage to re-introduce Glory into modern times. The change in pace is a bit jarring, but a re-introduction does seem appropriate for a… re-introduction issue. It also leaves readers wanting more, which is something a first issue should shoot for.
Campbell’s art is a bit rough around the edges in places, but it gives the book a raw feel that meshes well with his brutal action. Every page is full of detailed panels and the story flows easily. And there’s no mistaking how bad ass his design of Glory is. It’s easy to believe she could go toe-to-toe with Superman (or, more appropriately for the Extreme Universe, Supreme).
All in all, Keatinge and Campbell have created a worthy revitalization of a stalwart member of the returning Extreme Universe. Glory is set to be a major player and it all starts here. Read it or she’ll punch your face in.
GLORY #23 hits shelves February 15th and is available for pre-order now at Philadelphia area comic book stores. To find a shop near you go to www.comicshoplocator.com.
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