Comic Review: GI Joe: Sssilent Missions Crimson Guard

Sometimes all you need are good, cohesive visuals to tell a captivating story. That’s what you get with Image’s GI Joe: Sssilent Missions – Crimson Guard.

Gabriel Hardman’s art is action-packed and dynamic, with just the right attention to detail. It’s a great example of show, don’t tell. Coupled with Matt Hollingsworth’s colors, each scene shifts from dark and mysterious to bright, glorious firefights and explosions. Honestly, what more could you want from a battle between the Joes and Cobra? No politicking or pandering here to weigh down a good time.

Somewhere in a jungle temple, Cobra Commander and the Crimson Twins are overseeing what appears to be an induction ceremony for new Crimson Guard members. Just as it concludes, the temple comes under full-scale assault by the Joes. Flint, Scarlett, and even good old Shipwreck are there. Were the snakes betrayed? Is repelling the attack even possible? Escape is the only plan, and the new guards must get their leader to safety.

As short as it is, this story is concise and never wastes a panel on fluff. It’s beautiful and to the point, but I can’t help imagining the dialogue between the characters. It’s a great exercise in using your imagination. If only more pop culture offerings trusted audiences that much.

The comics always did a great job fleshing out the inner workings of Cobra and making the mundane life of a grunt more interesting. It definitely makes you wonder why these guys choose to put their lives on the line for the big snake. I mean, besides the cool uniforms and gear. This entry hits all the right marks for me. The Joes feel competent but human, while Cobra feels like a mix of ideological nightmare and Saturday-morning lunacy.

It’sss a great little short story filled with loyalty, perhaps undeserved, and improvised covert ops in what seems like a no-win situation. The Joes are no slouch either. The art alone is worth the asking price. Definitely a recommend.

Cobra!

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