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Kang the Conqueror #1 exposes the tragically true origins of Marvel’s most famous time-traveler in an explosive read by Lanzing, Kelly, and Magno.
As Disney slowly reveals the multiversal mayhem that will plague the Marvel Cinematic Universe throughout Phase 4, fans everywhere find themselves asking one question — Who really is Kang? Luckily, Marvel has provided the answers in the pages of Kang the Conqueror, a new mini-series by Jackson Lanzing, Collin Kelly, and Carlos Magno that explores the mysterious origins of the time-traveling warrior. The series is an exciting look at one of the Avengers’ great villains. Filled with action, heartbreak, and timey-wimey shenanigans, it is a great introduction to Kang that offers surprises even long-term fans won’t see coming.
Kang the Conqueror #1 tells the story of a young Nathaniel Richards, who may or may not be related to Fantastic Four’s Reed Richards. There is little to challenge Nathaniel in the 31st Century, so he grows bored and yearns for adventure. One day, Nathaniel discovers the lost library of Victor Von Doom. Entering the library triggers its defenses and Nathaniel is nearly killed before his adult self, aka Kang, steps in to save his life. Kang explains that they’re the same person and he has traveled back in time to find Nathaniel and teach him how to conquer the world. Unfortunately, as Nathaniel spends more time with his future self, he discovers he doesn’t want to grow up to be Kang and has to find a way to escape his own destiny.
Writers Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly make their Marvel debut with Kang the Conqueror #1. The pair have worked together on multiple books, so they’re a well-oiled machine and produce a truly riveting script. The issue is told from the perspective of the future Kang as he reflects on his life, which allows him to provide commentary on the story as it unfolds. This enhances the heartbreak of key moments, as it’s clear that he lives with a lot of regret over his past. Even though this is technically about multiple versions of the same person raising himself as his own child (it hurts just to think about that), Lanzing and Kelly use this as an opportunity to explore abusive relationships between parents and their children, and the unfortunate lessons kids learn in dangerous environments. All the while, the pair sprinkle in key moments that explore Kang’s continuity, such as the harrowing meaning behind his mask.
The art team of Carlos Magno and colorist Espen Grundetjern craft the visuals in Kang the Conqueror #1, guiding readers through scenic landscapes and sci-fi wonders. Magno is a veteran who recently drew Marvel’s robot-themed Avengers Mech Strike, so he is well-equipped for this series’ range and depth. He frequently uses splash pages and double-page layouts to grab the reader’s attention and applies tons of details to the issue’s sprawling action. Grundetjern is the perfect compliment for Magno and enhances many scenes. The forest landscape comes to life through Grundetjern’s colors, as the beautiful wash of greens and browns mixes to create a natural look that contrasts well with Kang’s sci-fi equipment.
Perhaps most importantly, Kang the Conqueror #1 carefully balances the line between being friendly to new readers and rewarding to long-term fans. As Marvel continues to try and grab the attention of MCU viewers and bring them towards the comics themselves, it’s important that the niche properties are handled with care and reflect the history of these characters. This series brings readers along for Kang’s first journey through time, using his own inexperience to make Nathaniel a surrogate for the audience. This is a great way to guide the adventure and is reminiscent of Kang’s role in forming the Young Avengers.
Marvel’s Kang the Conqueror #1 is essential reading for fans looking into the villain’s backstory. With a dynamic script, incredible art, and a villain worth rooting for, the series is a great addition to Kang’s storied catalog. Lanzing, Kelly, and Magno are all in top form as Kang the Conqueror #1 fires on all cylinders towards the villain’s inevitable, tragic future.
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