Dick Tracy #1 Review

By Nolan P. Smith
Editor

When you think about the long history of the comic book artwork, Dick Tracy is a name that echoes throughout time. Debuting as a comic strip in 1931, the hard-boiled adventured of Dick Tracy against a motley crew of thugs and gangsters has resonated with fans ever since. Thanks to Mad Cave Studios, we journey back to the man with the yellow trenchcoat as the icon lives again in 2024.

From Alex Segura, Michael Moreci, Geraldo Borges, Chantelle Aimée Osman, Mark Englert, and Jim Campbell, we dive into the seedy underworld of Dick Tracy right from the opening pages. A massacre in The City sends shockwaves through the community as the legendary Dick Tracy lands the case and tries to piece together this bloody puzzle. This is a new take for the character for me, as we get hit with the realism of the visual violence, which makes sense for a story about mobs and betrayals. Tracy shines as the star, and his no-nonsense approach sends him right into the line of fire.

The story is a fantastic introduction or reintroduction for readers- it’s easy to follow yet begins the deeper dives into a world of motives and the most minute details. I loved seeing some of the classic villains, with a fantastic last page that will leave you wanting more. The artwork is impressive as well, giving more realism to a character known for more of a colorful, playful vibe.

They are off to a fantastic start for Mad Cave Studios’ tenth anniversary. Dick Tracy #1 is the two-fisted pulp outing we all hoped it would be. With homages to what came before but breaking new ground in the process, Dick Tracy #1 takes aim as one of the best of 2024 so far.

Rating: FIVE Pastrami Nations out of FIVE