What's Happening?
Image Comics has announced a new ongoing superhero series titled 'The Forgotten Five,' set to launch in December. The series is a collaboration between Los Angeles Times Book Prize-winning writer Alex Segura, acclaimed writer and podcaster Sara Century,
and fan-favorite artists Pat Kennedy (known for his work on Archie) and Dean Kotz. 'The Forgotten Five' will offer a fresh perspective on superheroes, blending elements of long-running series with simmering subplots, teen angst, and terrifying powers. The narrative will explore the lives of five teenagers who, decades ago, escaped a shadowy organization called The Contingency and became a team of freedom-fighting outcasts. Years later, with The Contingency seemingly defeated, the former heroes have moved on, but rumors of their old foes resurfacing force them to consider rejoining forces. The series will also feature variant cover art by Nickolej Villiger, Michel Fiffe, Inkpot Award winner Jerry Ordway, and Dean Kotz.
Why It's Important?
The launch of 'The Forgotten Five' by Image Comics signifies a continued trend in the comic book industry to explore new narratives within the superhero genre, often with a focus on character-driven stories and a blend of indie and mainstream sensibilities. The involvement of Pat Kennedy, an artist with a background in the iconic Archie Comics, brings a unique artistic perspective to the superhero world, potentially attracting a broader audience. This series aims to delve into the psychological and long-term impacts of having superpowers, moving beyond traditional heroic portrayals to examine how such abilities might 'derail' characters' lives. This approach could resonate with readers looking for more complex and nuanced superhero tales, reflecting a growing demand for diverse storytelling in the comic book market. The collaboration of established and acclaimed creators also highlights the industry's effort to bring together diverse talents to create compelling new intellectual properties.
What's Next?
The first issue of 'The Forgotten Five' is scheduled to be available in comic book shops on Wednesday, December 16. Following its print release, the series will also be accessible across various digital platforms, including Amazon Kindle, Google Play, Apple’s iBooks, Barnes & Noble’s Nook, Scribd’s Everand, Kobo, Overdrive, Hoopla, Sweet app, and Comic Plus. The creators have indicated that the series will feature non-linear storytelling to explore the characters' lives over decades, suggesting a rich and evolving narrative. The initial release will include multiple variant covers, which are often used to generate collector interest and boost sales. The reception of the first issue will likely determine the series' momentum and future trajectory within the competitive comic book market, potentially leading to further story arcs and expanded universe content if successful.
Beyond the Headlines
The series' premise, focusing on former heroes who must confront their past and potentially resume their fight, touches upon themes of legacy, the burden of extraordinary abilities, and the challenges of transitioning from a life of heroism to civilian existence. This exploration of 'outcast teen angst' and the long-term psychological effects of being a superhero offers a deeper commentary on the genre itself, moving beyond simple good-versus-evil narratives. The creators' intention to infuse the series with both indie comic sensibilities and superhero DNA suggests a desire to bridge different storytelling styles, potentially appealing to a wider demographic of comic readers. The emphasis on 'drama even more' than superhero fights indicates a focus on character development and interpersonal relationships, which can lead to more emotionally resonant and thought-provoking narratives. This approach could contribute to the ongoing evolution of superhero storytelling, pushing boundaries and exploring more mature and complex themes within the genre.
