Publisher: Image Comics (Skybound Imprint)
Writer: Kelly Thompson
Artwork: Marco Ferrari
Colourist: Lee Loughridge
Lettering: Rus Wooton
Release Date: 3rd July 2024

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The first issue of Scarlett, one of the first “wave” of character-focused Energon Universe miniseries, introduced our leading lady with a real flair as she turned a human trafficking intel mission into an all-out firefight and rescue, much to the chagrin of her commanding officer.  It also casually dropped in the first EE appearance of Storm Shadow on the final page, making it an absolute certainty that I was going to pick up issue two as soon as it went on sale.

This latest chapter opens with Scarlett as a prisoner of Clan Arashikage after offering herself up as a potential asset – an undercover ruse to get herself closer to her former friend (and possibly more?) Jinx, who went dark years ago during her own espionage mission. Series writer Kelly Thompson scripts some wonderful scenes between our heroine and Storm Shadow as the latter ‘feels out’ the former, while also giving Scarlett ample opportunity to show how physically capable she is.

Series artist Macro Ferrari continues to do a stellar job, not only with the expressiveness and sleek designs of the characters but also with the all-out action sequences which erupt sporadically throughout each issue. He also helps deliver some of the more memorable moments of the issue – including Scarlett gruesomely removing a stashed razor blade from beneath her skin to help facilitate her escape – with a real flair.

The final pages see miss O’Hara off on another potential suicide mission to prove her worth to the Arashikage, and promises more slick espionage action from Thompson and Ferrari in the issues to come. Delivering a heady blend of spycraft, ninja action and familiar G.I. Joe faces, this series gives the fan-favourite character a fresh coat of paint an exciting new direction.  Highly recommended.

Rating: 4/5

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The writer of this piece was: Craig Neilson-Adams (aka Ceej)
Article Archive: Ceej Says
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