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Review: Green Hornet ’66 Meets the Spirit

By Philip Schweier
November 28, 2017 - 09:18

This series is set square in the mid-1960s, the heyday of the Van Williams/Bruce Lee Green Hornet era. So of course it harkens back to that version of the characters, as well as other mid-'60s events such as the space race. The Spirit, however, would be somewhat aged, assuming he has aged at all. To his credit, Van Lente has opened the door for a new Spirit to take up the fight.

The three heroes, working from opposite ends of the investigation, have come up against the Octopus, long-time nemesis of the Spirit. While their partnership is reluctant at best, they soon discover they have more in common than initially believed. This leads to secrets being discovered, and the realization they’re on the same side. But no sooner is the bromance about to take off than disaster strikes in a big way. Can our heroes survive the assault of the Octopus? I don’t see how.

I’m a big fan of the Green Hornet, in all his incarnations, and I appreciate the creative team sticking close to what made the TV series so enjoyable for me. Introducing a new Spirit was bold, especially given their approach, but it adds a refreshing layer of depth to the overall story.

Bob Q’s artwork is perfect for the project. It has a simplicity to it, reminiscent of the simplicity of those days during the Johnson administration. Vietnam and Watergate had yet to fill the evening news hour. But the artwork is not so simple as to appear cartoony.

Rating: 9/10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12