Protectors Inc. is the third release of the re-launch of Joe’s Comics, published through Image. The previous two releases were for Ten Grand and Sidekick (Please feel free to check both reviews here at Comic Bastards). Protector’s Inc. is the brainchild of writer J. Michael Straczynski and the line art is created by Gordon Purcell. Issue one was an introduction into the world of the Protectors. Where modern-day wealthy super heroes have sprung up providing protection (and entertainment) to the masses rendering whatever their idea of justice is. For all of the others rendering “real” justice the old-fashioned way… well they just have to deal with it right now as the Protectors get all the glory and praise (whether they are doing anything or not). We were also given some back story of The Patriot who ended World War II with his powers and is believed to be the first of the superheroes. He is not associated with The Protectors however. In fact, he disappeared some time ago; “off the grid” it is believed.
Issue one was one that I was looking forward to reading, but was surprised once I read it, as it was nothing like I expected it to be. I was pleasantly pleased however and thought well of the story that was brought to life by the flowing writing of J. Michael Straczynski as well as the excellent artwork by Gordon Purcell enhanced with the excellent coloring of Michael Atiyeh. All three worked together to provide a strong and entertaining tale. The middle and the end likewise provided small “bombs” that delivered as the readers were left scratching their heads wondering how everything ties into the complete story.
Issue two takes place directly after one and we get to view how actual persons of the law still deal with crimes, including the two “occurrences” that happened in issue one. They use good old-fashioned detective work and don’t seem to have a very high opinion of the Protectors it would seem. Once again, issue two is straightforward in its presentation with an excellent mix of dialogue and narration that helps to propel the story forward.
One real nice touch in this issue is an incident that occurs between one of the actual lawmen and a super. We see the arrogance of the hero compared to the seriousness of the police officer. It is a nice touch and sets a tone for how things are going to play out regarding the Protectors, and everyday folk. Things are happening around us, but we as of yet know what it means. We are given some clues, but still, everything is quite foggy at the moment that brings a little more clarity with each page turn that is very cool.
Straczynski's writing continues to deliver here and the renderings of Purcell and Atiyeh are just wonderful. They capture the old school stone jaw look of the classic superhero with the more modern dark shadowy feel of the modern heroes. Somewhere here, the two are going to collide and I for one can’t wait to see where. I find Protectors Inc. to be classic good comic entertainment that hits its marks at all the right places the way a good comic should. Bravo.
Score: 4/5
Writer: J. Michael Straczynski Artist: Gordon Purcell Publisher: Image/Joe’s Comics Price $2.99 Release Date: 12/11/13