Weird Worlds #1
Published and © by DC, September 1972
Title: “The Arena of Sudden Death!”
Synopsis: In a savage world at the Earth’s core, David Innes beats back a hyaenodon before being captured by gorilla-men.
Writer: Len Wein
Artist: Alan Weiss
Review: When reading Edgar Rice Burroughs’ comics like this one, it becomes apparent just how derivative Mike Grell’s Warlord (see reviews) was. But Warlord had a spark that was largely missing from DC’s ERB adaptations. Alan Weiss’ art is above average, but this story lacks the imagination required of entertaining fantasy.
•••
Title: “Trail of Fear”
Synopsis: Earthman John Carter’s prowess in battle earns him both clout and enemies as he defends the beautiful Dejah Thoris.
Writer: Marv Wolfman
Artist: Murphy Anderson
Review: Growing up on Marvel’s John Carter, this version feels a bit static. Murphy Anderson’s art is nice, but lacks dynamism.
Grade (for the entire issue): B
Second opinion: “Some fine art.” – Frank Plowright, Chain Reaction #1, Winter 1982-83 … “Brilliantly adapted.” – Hassan Yusuf, FantaCo’s Chronicle’s Series Annual #1, 1983 … Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: This short-lived series would provide an artistic proving ground for several Bronze Age up-and-comers.
Not-so-cool factor: Despite this being a first issue, these stories are continued from other places (DC’s Korak, Son of Tarzan and Tarzan).
Character quotable: “Isn’t that carrying gratitude a trifle too far, my boy?” – Abner Perry (because warlord types shouldn’t be kissing other boys, apparently).
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on Aug. 11, 2009.
