Comics / Comic Reviews / DC Comics

Review: Scooby Doo, Where are You? #79

By Philip Schweier
March 15, 2017 - 07:23

A spooky castle might very well be a cliché, but for Mystery Inc., it’s another day at the office. In the latest issue of Scooby Doo, Where Are You? both stories feature tales of ancient castles supposedly haunted by the spirits of previous owners.

In “Magic Hassle,” the Scoobies are invited to investigate the tricks of Ricky D., a young magician performing at the Mystic Mansion, home a society of stage magicians. The centerpiece of his performance is a handful of props form the collection of the nearly-forgotten magician, Prestini. But when the props are stolen by what appears to be a vampire ghost, Mystery Inc. is on the case.

In “The Blackest Knight,” Lord Geoffrey has invited the team for a visit, in the hope they can get to the bottom of a black knight who has been terrorizing the castle for weeks. The armored apparition keeps demanding a ring, but the only ring Sir Georffrey knows of was lost by his great-grandfather a hundred years ago.

I really enjoyed the story, as not-so-subtle references to the Green Lantern franchise come fast and loose. It’s a fun read for long-time DC fans. Kudos to Sholly Fisch for creating the kind of story both kids AND adults can enjoy.

Also in the issue is an invitation to readers to submit their own monster creations. Velma tells the tale of a plat-eye, a creature capable of appearing as any number of gruesome match-ups, and readers are invited to send in their own variation. I remember back in the early 1970s, when comic fans had the chance to see their costume designs for Supergirl and Robin in print. It was always a fun project, coupled with the hope of seeing your idea published by DC.

Artwork this issue is cartoony fun. Not to realistic, not to serious, but a happy blend of both. In some ways, it reminded me of the artwork of Kurt Shaffenberger, who drew Lois Land and Jimmy Olsen stories in the 1960s and early ‘70s. He was one of the under-appreciated artists of his day, and if more artists aspired to his level of talent, the comic book industry would be the better for it.

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12