The tagline to this title has a disclaimer..."Danger", it says, "Reading this comic will make you smarter". That's a pretty bold claim from this Top Cow publication, but it is merited as I believe that I actually did learn something. Not only did I learn something, I discovered a new title that entertained me, educated me, and made me mad that there will just be one more issue before this season ends. Fortunately, it does look like Think Tank has gained some traction and will return in the spring of 2014 for a one-shot, and then in the summer for its Season 2. Whew, that is good to know, as I discovered after reading issue elven that I desire to read more. Think Tank is the creation of writer Matt Hawkins and artist Rahsan Ekedal. The story or "Season 1" as it is being called, follows the adventures of Dr. David Loren, a once boy genius who was brought in at age 14 to design a wide range of destructive weapons. As an adult now, David has decided that he doesn't want to do it anymore. He wants to live life and enjoy it. Sounds like great idea, but his military handler doesn't share the same view and now David is running for his life, hitting interesting locales along the way. Jason Bourne he is not (he seems more laid back), but David does okay for himself and as far as adventure is concerned, Dr. David Loren gives old "JB" a run for his money.
This comic was an enjoyable (and scary) read. Matt Hawkins litters the story with factoids that will enlighten and possibly worry you. All of the scenarios here are based on fact (with websites listed to prove it) and the story itself, though extreme, is plausible. It also completely entertains.
Think Tank is part spy story, part political drama, part hipster with money tale, and all enjoyable. I had fun. The action is fast paced, but not breakneck where you get over stimulated. Hawkins delivers a top-notch script with snappy dialogue, interesting facts, and sound suspense. A lot happens in this issue and it sets things up for what should be a rousing conclusion next month. Without spoiling too much, I will just say that a plan for war and death has been enacted utilizing some of our very own Doc's creations. Only he appears to know what is happening and he may just be the only guy to stop it. His advantage? He is believed to be dead. His disadvantage? It may be too late.
Rahsan Ekedal is a gifted artist and his drawings are solid. Dr. David is a hip and cool guy dealing with pasty big shots in the government. Explosions, drone jets, missiles, aircraft carriers, deadly viruses, Ekedal draws all well. And despite the lack of coloring, Think Tank #11 is a colorful story, including the black and white art. All I can say is that I am going to be looking for the previous ten issues this week. I have some serious catching up to do.
Score: 4/5
Writer: Matt Hawkins Artist: Rahsan Ekedal Publisher: Image/Top Cow Price: $3.99 Release Date: 12/4/1313