Review: Barbarella Vol 2 #1

Volume 2 of Barbarella are words that I didn’t think I would be typing.  Having read only parts of the first volume, which I found underwhelming, I was surprised to see this second volume  on my review pile.  Still, if there is any company that bring the sexy to the Siren of Space, it will be Dynamite.  After all, Dynamite Entertainment is the home for such vixens as Vampirella, Red Sonja and Dejah Thoris.

Barbarella has a new mission.  She needs to spread her ability to love and be loved to Camelot who an effort to escape the crowded galaxy by enslaving a societal underclass.  Step up Barbarella who has the knack of grabbing people’s attention one way or another.  Armed with her pet and her pet A.I, who is already stepping beyond his programming Barbarella has more than a few challenges to deal with.

Sarah Hoyt has written an intriguing book that at first glance seems like a piece of fluff wrapped up in a red jumpsuit, but in fact, the societal elements add weight to the goings on.  This doesn’t make it a drab read. at all.  Hoyt intersperses the expositional, which can be quite heavy, with the laid back almost 1960’s free love vibe that is raison d’etre for the lead character.  Overall, there is a lot more to meets the eye with Hoyt’s writing and setup.

With a book named Barbarella, you expect a certain level of art; Madibek Musabekov knocks it out of the park.  Firstly, there is an elegance to the cast of characters, so much so, I can forgive the issues with the elbows in places.  When it comes to Barbarella, Musabekov confidence really starts to build.  Strong body lines, blatant sexuality all fit the vibe of the character coupled with excellent facial elements which are massively important for an emotive and impetuous character like Barbarella.  There are hints of photo referencing, but i can live it for now.  Colors are provided by Ivan Nunes who give the book a super polished look that is rich and vibrant.  Carlos M. Mangual supplies a font that is easy to read despite the verbiage.  Finally there are a. number of covers to choose from; it is surely buyers preference at this point.

An interesting first issue, that looks to re-introduce Barbarella whilst simultaneously sets up her next arc.  Its a big ask,  which Hoyt, Musabekov and company handle very well indeed.

Writing – 4 Stars
Art – 4 Stars
Colors – 5 Stars

Overall – 4. 5 Stars

Written by; Sarah Hoyt
Art by; Madibek Musabekov
Colors by; Ivan Nunes
Letters by; Carlos M. Mangual
Published by; Dynamite Entertainment