Showcase #91
Published and © by DC, June 1970
Title: “Planet of Death”
Synopsis: Starker, a space bounty hunter, leaves his pleasure-satellite vacation to pursue three pirates to the planet Pheidos.
Writer: Mike Sekowsky
Penciler: Sekowsky
Inker: Vince Colletta
Review: Looking back through today’s social mores, “Manhunter 2070” is a strange brew of toxic masculinity and pro-colonialist mythmaking. But even by 1970s’ standards, this strip feels like a played-out kitbash of “Star Trek,” “James Bond” and other 1960s’ franchises. Mike Sekowsky’s Alex-Toth-like art is quite nice, despite Vince Colletta’s inks.
•••
Title: “Space Duel”
Synopsis: Starker sets down on an uncharted planet and soon finds himself battling to the death on a gameshow.
Writer: Mike Sekowsky
Penciler: Sekowsky
Inker: Vince Colletta
Review: While the lead feature is short on concept, this two-pager could have used more room to breathe. Nice art, though.
Grade (for the entire issue): C+
Cool factor: Mike Sekowsky as poor man’s Alex Toth is a good look. (And even Vince Colletta’s inks aren’t bad!)
Notable: Includes a one-page preview of the next issue with Mike Sekowsky art. … Also includes a “So You Want To Be a Cartoonist?” illustrated text feature by Joe Kubert. … This reviewer had never seen the ad for “Moon•Blob” before (Little Me feels so deprived).
Collector’s note: Beware, this issue contains coupons for a New Jersey amusement park.
Character quotable: “I guess I’m still an old-fashioned boy!” – Starker (why yes … yes you are)
Editor’s note: This review was written Sept. 27, 2021.
