There is a danger in updating a classic franchise for the modern age. If you change too much, you risk breaking things that didn’t need fixing. It’s a trap that Johnny Quest happened to me once before when I shot the VR-based “Real Adventures of Jonny Quest” in 1996. Thankfully, Dynamite Entertainment’s new comic series is a welcome throwback to the classic Hanna-Barbera cartoons, but subtly updated for 21st century audiences.
In this issue, which picks up where this year’s Free Comic Book Day special Jonny Quest #0 began, the Quest family returns home. But all is not well, as their Palm Key estate seems to be strangely haunted. Not by actual phantoms, but by a strange feeling that, despite all appearances to the contrary, it is not their home. This leads them to investigate the strangely alien estate and make a shocking discovery.
Ben 10 co-creator Joe Casey’s script is suitably tense and exciting. He does a great job of creating a creepy atmosphere and capturing the voices of the characters from the cartoon. Still, Casey subtly keeps the series away from the more offensive cliches of atomic-age science fiction.
Jonny Quest’s comic captures the spirit of the show
Particularly notable in this regard is the character Hadji. The original cartoon relied heavily on the classic image of the Hindu mystic and adopted son of Dr. Quest with magical powers. Later adaptations varied on whether Hadji was a real sorcerer or just a talented stage magician. In any case, this version of Hadji summons real Hindu deities rather than chanting “Sim Sim Salabim!” It’s a subtle but welcome change that ironically brings the franchise up to date, even though it’s still firmly set in the 1960s.
Sebastián Píriz also does a great job of capturing the essence of the original Jonny Quest cartoon. Although the artwork doesn’t mimic Alex Toth’s style, it has the same aesthetic as his classic character designs. The action flows smoothly from panel to panel and is well paced.
Jonny Quest #1 is another success for the partnership between Dynamite and Warner Bros. Entertainment. It’s also one hell of an exciting story. It’s sure to please fans of the original cartoons and any pulp fan who appreciates a thrilling adventure story.
Degree: 4/5
Jonny Quest No. 1 will be released in all comic book stores on August 14, 2024.
