DC Comics

The All New Atom #1

By Hervé St-Louis
Jul 9, 2006 - 22:00:00 PM

DC Comics
Writer(s): Gail Simone
Penciller(s): John Byrne
Inker(s): Trevor Scott
Cover Artist(s): Ariel Olivetti

Doctor Ryan Choi is a prodigy that has been corresponding with Ray Palmer, the second hero called the Atom for years. Now, Choi realizes his most cherished dream of all. He will replace Palmer’s chair at Ivy League. After meeting the geeks in the department, Choi discovers that Palmer has left something special for him. Choi now has what it takes to become the new Atom and continue in the footstep of his idol. But can he survive the giant rat?

This story was a good, although the constant quotes taken from several fictional and real people abruptly interrupt the reading flow. Not much happens in this issue, but as a set up for a continuing series, it seems enough. One issue that begs a question is what are the motivations of Choi as the new Atom and what were those of his predecessor. Fighting crime seems far from their goal. As hinted, science and the exploration of the unknown is what drive these men. It is peculiar but it also makes for humanist humans as opposed to crazy vigilantes.

John Byrne is an action artist. With him telling the story, there is nothing that is unclear. His work is not as polished as it used to be, but still, it makes for a great adventure story. I really like the dynamism of his work. Scott’s inking preserves much of Byrne’s original work - or at least, tries to make it looks like Byrne’s work of recent years.

Rating: 8/10