Towards the end of last weeks iFanboy audio podcast, the gentlemen
discussed the Eisner Awards. Specifically, they bemoaned the removal of
the best single issue category. I bemoan in sympathy, as I believe that
the ability to draw, write, and produce a great single comic issue is a
rare ability. This week’s Guardians of the Galaxy is such a great
single comic issue.

It is beautiful from cover to final page. Each character is drawn
expertly. Especially impressive is the ability of the penciler, Brad
Walker, to draw distinct human faces amid all that “crazy cosmic jive”.
Of course, the action sequences, which are always fan favorites, look
great. And despite all of the negative talk directed at Marvel’s
coloring style, the colors on this book are spot-on. The is a scene in
which Cosmo, the telepathic dog, tells the team to “try not to come back dead”, and the pale blue glow of his eyes conveys a sadness almost
hard to believe.

Also fantastic from cover to final page is the narrative. Essentially,
the story begins with a bar fight, proceeds with the reunion of Adam
Warlock and the Guardians, and ends with the team dividing in two in
hopes of stopping the War of Kings between the Shi’Ar and the Kree. The
reason that this is imperative will not be revealed here, but makes
good sci-fi sense. Obviously, enough praise has been lavished upon the
Abnett and Lanning team that little more is needed here. However, it is
impressive that additions to the team are so easily accomplished – this
truly motley crue seems to be integrated. And the Groot jokes are
really funny.

War of Kings is proceeding brilliantly, but this issue is a standout in
every way. I thank Marvel for bringing back the cosmic stuff I love so
much. Excelsior!