Publisher: Action Lab Entertainment
Writer: Vito Delsante
Artist: Steve Walker
Editor: Vito Delsante
Release Date: OUT NOW!
Price: $3.99
The cover of Actionverse #1 Part 6 of 6 is one that comic book readers have seen hundreds of times. The seemingly lifeless bodies of all the heroes lie strewn on the ground as a maniacal villain stands triumphant. The accompanying advertising blurb also contains that old standby: ‘…not a hoax, not a dream, not an imaginary tale… one of our heroes DIES!’
Leaving aside the irony of that image from Actionverse #1 Part 6 of 6, the comic book industry must be one of the few which actually celebrates the demise of a popular character rather than their continued survival along with, presumably, continued revenue streams. We know for a fact that comic book deaths are usually short-lived and triumphant villains are about as commonplace as purple elephants, so what makes Actionverse #1 Part 6 of 6 so different? Partly it’s due to the Action Lab Entertainment ethos.
Action Lab Entertainment is a new company, formed in 2010, with the idea of pooling collective talent and creating a new, vibrant and ongoing comic book universe. With a wide range of subject matter and a willingness to nail colours to the masthead, by publishing a rating guide to each issue. This evokes a wonderful fan orientated feel to their endeavours which makes you feel as though they enjoy creating all these titles as much as the reader enjoys reading them. There is a freshness and enthusiasm about the output from Action Lab Entertainment which makes this reader want to root for Action Lab Entertainment’s continued success for many years to come.
Having said all that, did Actionverse #1 part 6 of 6 live up to all those expectations? You bet. Molly Danger, Virtue and all their friends join forces with the evil Medulla to stop Cascade from destroying the Actionverse. Can they do it and will one of their number really die? Whatever the outcome, Action Lab Entertainment would never steer you wrong. All the classic superhero elements are here with a fresh face and a long term plan making this title and this company definitely one to follow.
Excelsior any one?
Reviewer: Gary Orchard
Reviews Editor: Steve Hooker