The first issue of this new ongoing series begins a multi-part story
with Angel and the gang investigating a suspect fertility clinic. More time was spent
setting up the characters and story than actually delving into the plot but Im
hopeful that future issues wont have to contend with. The inclusion of the
obligatory history of Angel to date segue broke into the pacing of the story
but I can see the necessity for it. Christopher Golden has a good feel for the
characters dialogue and Im looking forward to less vamp heavy tales than we
see in the Buffy comic.
The artwork by Zanier and Owens was adequate. They did a much better job with their Buffy the Vampire Slayer #12 fill-in issue. The likenesses in Angel #1 werent as spot-on but perhaps with time theyll improve. The less vivid coloring of the Angel comic compared to BTVS might also have had an effect on the art. I know the Angel television show is full of muted colors but it sure makes for a boring comic visually. Lightening up the colors and adding a more variable color palette would help the bland look of the comic.
Angel #1 should still be on your local stores shelves but if its not you can order direct from Dark Horse Comics, Inc. 10956 SE Main Street, Milwaukie, OR 97222 or visit their web site at www.darkhorse.com.