This issue quickly settles into an atmosphere of decaying hope. Will Robinson, his father John, Robot, and Major West have lost their way as the mysterious observers from issue one lay on more pressure. Our heroes are inexplicably and increasingly lost in dire, inhospitable wastes. And the planet seems to be changing to keep them trapped. You might expect that this is where the men turn against each other. But that would be unnecessary, predictable, and cheap. Issue two is thankfully devoid of forced conflict. Maybe it's a sign of the television show's time. Maybe things were politer then. West and Dr. Robinson, the only two adults trapped with young Will, disagree in regard to how to fix their precarious situation. But, being intelligent men, they address each other with respect and logic. Even as the inescapable nature of their predicament dawns on all three wanderers they are all focused and reasonable. Isn’t it kind of unfortunate that reason needs special mention?

Though inconsistent across the entire issue, the art has improved. Faces are softer and more natural than in the first issue. The more dramatic tone helps bring out illustrator Kostas Pantoulas’ strengths. In particular, his creature art is excellently creepy.

The material has yet to do much with the other half of its cast of characters. Doctor Smith and the three remaining Robinsons haven’t impacted the story at all. Smith was, along with the Robot, a major appeal for the television series, so his absence is notable. Similarly, the ladies show up to remind you they exist. And just as quickly they disappear.

On one hand I want to give the script the benefit of the doubt because of its roots as a show from the Sixties. On the other hand, I expect and hope the writing will make better use of its remaining characters. As of issue two they just sort of wait around and fret over the men folk. It isn't particularly interesting to watch, especially in an issue devoted to people standing confusedly in front of a rock wall. Hopefully things will pick up in that regard.

A slight improvement on an already solid series.

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Irwin Allen's Lost in Space: The Lost Adventures #2 Writer: Carey Wilber and Holly Interlandi Artist: Kostas Pantoulas Colorist: Patrick McEvoy Publisher: American Gothic Press Price: $3.99 Release Date: 4/27/16 Format: Mini-Series; Print/Digital

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