Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Review: Challengers of the Unknown 1-6

By Philip Schweier
January 14, 2019 - 16:01

I’ll admit, I never really “got” the original Challengers of the Unknown. Okay, yeah, they were adventurers, “living on borrowed time.” What does that even mean? They were supposed to die but didn’t. Big deal. That can be said for any thrill-seeker. So the whole hourglass concept is rather lost on me.

So I don’t mind that DC has tried to re-invent the concept, first with new characters, and adding the “supposed to be dead” concept by having them whisked away at the moment of their death. Four complete strangers seemingly chosen at random (or are they?) at the behest of a mysterious Prof. – seemingly Prof Haly of the original team.

The new series is launched from events in Dark Knights: Metal, with the Source Wall destroyed and the skeletal remains of one of its Giants having made it way to Earth, where its various bone fragments have the ability to bend reality. And such are the treasures the Challengers are sent to find. But as the story progresses, we learn the Prof’s motives are not entirely altruistic (surprise, surprise).

Each issue also provides the backstory on each of the New Challengers: a doctor, a ex-con, a computer hacker of dubious emotional stability, and an army vet potential suffering from PTSD. The series is also firmly planted in the DCU, as we are treated to cameos from the Justice League, Aquaman, and Skartaris. I can’t say I’m entirely comfortable with that, as I’ve always thought it easier to believe some of DC’s lesser known properties – the Challengers, Sea Devils, Blackhawks, to name a few – all existed on their own Earth.

It’s a story unto itself, and experimental re-launch that may or may not lead to an ongoing series. It’s left open-ended enough to allow further exploration, but if it ends here, I’m okay with that. I enjoyed the story, but wasn’t wowed by it.

The first two issues are drawn by Andy Kubert and Klaus Janson. In issue #3, their artwork is blended with that of V. Ken Marion and Sandu Florea, who take over for the balance of the series. While Marion/Florea provide solid visual storytelling, I believe the illustrative style of Kubert/Janson to be much stronger. But your mileage may vary.

Personally, I was hoping for a straight adventure story free from the super-heroics of the greater DCU, but I understand why/how this version of Challengers was unable to meet those expectations. If you enjoy borderline science fiction adventure tales, this could be up your alley.

Rating: 7 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12