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Thor #1
Publisher: Marvel
Writer: Donny Cates
Artist: Nic Klein
Colors: Matthew Wilson
Letters: Joe Sabino
Cover: Oliver Coipel & Laura Martin

“Be careful what you wish for” is what they say and Thor is definitely feeling that weight now. As new series writer Donny Cates begins this adventure, we pick up several months after the War of the Realms with Thor adjusting to his role as All-Father and King of Asgard. A role that is already presenting unexpected challenges like a defeated Galactus falling on your kingdom.

Cates kicks this issue off with an opening that is so Thor. With a decree sent to all of the realms via Mjlonir putting everyone on notice as to the new status quo. A message that is comforting to some and a warning to others. With this, Cates not only captures the voice of Thor but the embodiment of the character as well in a just a few pages. He also shows that for for all of this bravado and power that Thor is an All-Father pulled in several directions that he’s not too comfortable with. The two separate conversations with Lady Sif and Loki both explore this briefly but hit Thor on a level and has him contemplating things he might not be ready to admit. This is probably why he’s also so ready to lead a team of former heralds on a mission to stop an oncoming disaster after Galactus crashes down. Cates also presents a new connections between Thor and Galactus now that really amps up the tension in this issue and makes the last few pages the perfect time to leave us on a cliffhanger!

Klein’s artwork compliments the narrative quite perfectly in some panels and exceeds it in others. This depiction of Thor is one of a man carrying the weight of many on his shoulders as we see a strong, competent, King. However, at the same time the art conveys that he’s tired and might be struggling carrying that weight both in the narrative and in a panel where he’s lifting Mjlonir. The double page spread of Galactus’ less than gracefull landing pops even more due to Wilson’s colors and Sabino’s letters. Everything comes together here to make you feel the iimpact. As you can tell by the cover, our hero is getting a redesign and it’s a very good balance of the classic look with something alltogether new for fans to enjoy. That sequence also shows just how bad Galactus was injured but that he and Thor are packing an immense amount of power.

Cates makes sure the previous series isn’t required reading to enjoy this issue though some context is always nice. He does make sure that everything you need for this particular part of the journey is packed in these pages and worth the time. This is definitely a comic that Thor fans from any era should be able to get into and enjoy.

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