Kamandi, the Last Boy on Earth #5
Published and © by DC, April 1973
Title: “The One-Armed Bandit!”
Synopsis: Captured by tiger leader Great Caesar, Kamandi must first survive arena combat, then mediate a peace between warring animal forces.
Writer: Jack Kirby
Penciler: Kirby
Inker: Mike Royer
Review: Kamandi, the character, is a little more likable this issue, thanks largely to his budding bromance with Prince Tuftan. The tiger prince is a fine addition to Kamandi’s supporting cast, and the friendship between the two teens rings true. It’s a shame the pair parts way by story’s end. After just five issues, Jack Kirby’s post-apocalyptic world is becoming a madcap, larger-then-life place that could only spring forth from the mind of the King. The stories and dialogue often lack subtlety, but are always a good deal of fun. And Kirby’s art – with excellent Mike Royer inks – continues to shine.
Grade: B+
Second opinion: Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: The concept of using a game of chance from the ruins of Las Vegas to end the gorilla/tiger dispute is brilliant …
Not-so-cool factor: … the use of a slot machine – a game unlikely to produce winners – not so much.
Notable: First appearance of Flower.
Character quotable: “Life will surely be dull now that Kamandi’s gone.” – Prince Tuftan, after being kicked to the curb … for a girl!
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on Oct. 8, 2010.
