Scooby Apocalypse #1 Review

Scooby Apocalypse #1

writers- JM DeMatteis, Keith Giffen

artist- Howard Porter

If you haven't heard of the new Scooby-Doo comic from DC, it's about time you did. The Apocalypse is here and the Scooby gang are on the case. But this isn't the Scooby Gang of Hanna-Barbera's heyday. We're looking at a grittier, more modern version of the old favorite in a world that does horrific experiments on animals and creates deadly viruses in the guise of helping mankind evolve into higher beings. And the Apocalypse we're talking about isn't a bunch of grumpy old men in monster costumes. These monsters are the real deal.

Of course, it begins with an eye roll. Scooby-Doo is a classic and anyone who decides to mess with a classic deserves at least an eye roll. But the concept of Scooby Apocalypse seems to work. Daphne and Fred run an investigative mystery show on the knitting channel, Shaggy is a hipster janitor working for a lab that makes gadgets for the military, and Velma Dinkley is one of the scientists responsible for unleashing the most horrific chemical weapon on the public. And what about Scooby? He's what science calls a smartdog. It's kind of like a smartphone but with a little more bite.

Writers, J.M. DeMatteis and Keith Giffen join forces with artist, Howard Porter on this one. They completely turn Hanna-Barbera's loveable spook chasers into one dark, grimy, and hauntingly awesome horror comic. In fact, to give you an idea, think a pinch of Scooby-Doo Where Are You?, mixed with a scoop of Resident Evil. I'm not kidding, this book is what comes out of the oven. The scripting is great, the art is top notch, and the fresh new take on an old classic icon is beautiful.

Some say, If it isn't brooke, don't fix it. And I agree. But I don't see this as fixing Scooby-Doo as much as offering an alternate version of the Scooby Gang. DC is conjuring up all sorts of Saturday Morning memories. Besides Scooby Apocalypse, readers can enjoy Future Quest, a cross-over story starring the cast of Jonny Quest, Space Ghost, The Herculoids, and a bunch of others many will remember from the late 60's early 70's cartoons. And Wacky Raceland is a dark and violent take on The Wacky Races. You might say, it's what happens when Penelope Pitstop finds her way to Fury Road.

So take a look at Scooby Apocalypse at your nearest comic shop. Issue #2 was just released this week, but you should still be able to find some first issues floating around. If you don't, ask your local retailer to special order a few copies. It's a blast. And for those who like “easter eggs”, see if you can find Scooby-Dum and Scrappy-Doo in their one panel cameos. Just a little more nostalgia for the kid in all of us.