Comics / Comic Reviews / Marvel Comics

1602 # 1

By Kevin Scott
August 21, 2003 - 22:37

This has been the whisper on the wind for the last year. What is 1602? Neil Gaimans first project at Nu Marvel. What would it be like!?! Then the preview art hit. Anticipation was rife, can this live up to expectations. This series (8 Parts) takes place in the year 1602 (hence the name), in the final days of the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. But if the series is set 400 years in the past, how are familiar contemporary Marvel Universe stars like Nick Fury, Daredevil, Dr. Strange and the X-Men exerting great influence over those times? What is 1602? Turn the page and find out!

I've never read anything from Gaiman before but have heard real good things. So coupled with my anticipation, I couldn't wait to open this up. I have to say this was a great issue! The story has been introduced in a manner which has left much up to the imagination and created a sense of intrigue that will draw you, hell, make you pick up Part 2.

This isn't a rehash, this has taken ideas and completely reworked them in such a great way. In this issue we learn of a grave mystery that has engulfed all of England. There is a secret that could change the face of the world, but what is? Oh there's soooo much more, but I don't want to spoil a thing for you all. Gaiman has given us four threads of story and woven them into this wonderful tapestry. The narrative is compelling and all the dialogue fits well with the feel and pace of the book.

Checkout the brand as well, nicely done :)

The whole art of this book is soooo rich & beautiful. The sense of intrigue, fear, determination just jumps out at you! The way Stevens dream trance is captured, was so vivid, but focussed was such a great touch and the Old Mans journey towards the end of the book was just some amazing work. Nothing could be done any better. Lighting, scenery/backgrounds, proportions, it's all spot on. Everything comes together in such a way, you are left in awe!

This is definitely a "Must Have"!Anyone can pick it up. You don't have to be a long term Marvel fan, hell, you don't even have to be a Marvel fan. All you need to be, is a lover of great stories and great art.


Report Card – A (This is the perfect intro to a story. It has it all + great art. WOW)

Last Updated: January 17, 2025 - 08:20