Quantum and Woody #1 (Valiant)

writer: James Asmus
artist: Tom Fowler

via Valiant Universe

I've wanted to read Quantum and Woody for a long time.  The original version launched in the '90s and was created by Christopher Priest and M.D. Bright.  This update comes from Valiant, current home of a bunch of other heroes who've been relaunched repeatedly across, as I've implied, a variety of publishers over the years.  As far as I'm concerned, Valiant unquestionably chose right at least with Quantum and Woody, and I'm glad to have finally read at least some of it to confirm that it's worth the hype.

Priest and Bright have been replaced by James Asmus and Tom Fowler, although presumably the new team has done an excellent job of translating the original creative team's ideas, because in either incarnation this has always been a cult sensation and critical darling.  Basically, Quantum and Woody would make an excellent TV series, or even movie.  It's the story of dysfunctional brothers, although one of them was adopted.  You see, the one in the actual superhero-looking costume is black (I have no idea why so many black superheroes are conveniently completely encased in their costumes, from Black Panther to the original Spawn).  It's his father whose work led to their becoming superheroes.  Woody, the white adopted one, is the classic screw-up.  They're a dynamite combination.  Just reading their interactions alone carries things along brilliantly.

This is a reprint of the relaunch debut priced at a dollar, in case you didn't look at the cover closely.  That's why I bought it.  I'll admit that.  But I won't be so hesitant in the future.  Did I mention that other issues feature a third member of the team, and it's a goat?  I love goats.  That was always another reason why I knew I'd eventually sample these guys.