Review – The Mighty Zodiac #2 (of 6) (Oni Press)

Publisher: Oni Press
Writer: J. Torres
Artwork: Corin Howell, Maarta Laiho
Release Date: 18th May, 2016

In the previous issue of The Mighty Zodiac, the gang set out to collect six fallen stars before they fell into the hands of the evil Moon Rabbit Army. Time is against them, as the health of Master Long is deteriorating, with miscreant rabbits standing between them and a cure. Honestly, it was one of the best opening issues to an arc this year, and it continues to gain momentum with the latest installment.

In this issue, our troupe of animal warriors arrive at Twilight’s Bastion to find that their master’s condition is worsening. Elsewhere, it seems like the other members of The Mighty Zodiac might not even make it back to their master in one piece given the dangers they encounter on their journey.

Not for quite some time has a series come along where I’ve found myself rooting for the characters so much. There are moments in this issue that are emotionally hard-hitting and upsetting for all the right reasons. That being said, the best tolling adventures should have that effect on the reader: having engaging characters in an against-all-odds situation that makes us care is the winning formula, and so far The Mighty Zodiac has captured it perfectly.

In addition to the captivating story and characters, The Mighty Zodiac has created a mythology that’s wholly fascinating; steeped in Asian mysticism and folklore along with fables resonant with the western world. It’s a Pixar adaptation waiting to happen should a major studio executive stumble upon it and discover just how perfect it is. This is the type of heartfelt, humorous adventure these films have built themselves on.

Overall, this is shaping up to be a series I cannot recommend enough. With issue number two it has gathered speed and established characters, while weaving a perfect balance of emotion, story and adventure with spellbinding results. Go buy it. Now.

Rating: 5/5.

If you want to find out a little more about The Mighty Zodiac, make sure to check out our interview with J. Torres, Corin Howell and Maarta Laiho by CLICKING HERE.

PREVIEW ARTWORK
[Click to Enlarge]