Comic Vine Review

2 Comments

Robocop #6

4

Killian has some new technology on his side and RoboCop isn't allowed to use his gun. This isn't going to be a very fair fight, is it?

The Good

The best part about BOOM! Studios' ROBOCOP is it feels like it's the RoboCop sequel we deserve and we're getting to experience it one little piece at a time. As a huge fan of the original movie, it's awesome to see writer Joshua Williamson is nailing the tone and giving these characters new developments with each and every issue. This book has yet to disappoint and this latest chapter is full of interesting and thrilling plot points.

We've been getting bits and pieces of Killian's plan and a look at who he is, but this issue finally gives us a better look at the character. Sure, the way he reveals his past doesn't feel organic -- something which is even joked about later on -- but it was definitely needed and really allows us to appreciate the bigger picture and the kind of threat RoboCop's facing. This isn't just another goon who wants to mess with Old Detroit, there's a much bigger operation going on and it's a worthy challenge for the classic hero. Yes, odds are you'll think the cliffhanger's predictable, but that doesn't prevent it from grabbing your attention and it will leave you wondering what'll happen next and how everyone will respond. It probably won't blow your mind, but it'll definitely have you thinking about what it means for the next issue.

RoboCop is outclassed, but Williamson is taking steps to rectify that and what happens is pretty much pure fan service. It's a great teaser and I'm beyond excited to see how these new factors will come into play. Will they be permanent changes? If they make him too powerful, I hope not, but that probably won't be the case. They'll likely be just enough to make this iconic character a tad more formidable without going totally over-the-top. Or at least that's what I'm hoping for!

We're now six issues in and ROBOCOP has been doing a great job giving us insight into the titular character and the new big bad. However, what's a very nice surprise is the amount of attention Anne Lewis is receiving. She doesn't have a critical scene here yet it still does a thorough job reminding us just how ugly Old Detroit has become and how much of a role fear plays in their daily lives. I'm sure this isn't the last we've seen of the interactions between these two and I'm left wondering is Lewis' firm stance will have any influence on the other detective. Looks like we'll just have to wait and see, but this was a solid way of showing her character.

The Bad

Artist Carlos Magno and colorist Marissa Louise create pages that feel like a proper return to RoboCop's world, but sometimes, the artwork doesn't give the characters and locations any real sense of depth. Sometimes, environments or characters feel flat and that can be a little distracting and it takes you out of the moment. There's some great panels to enjoy, like a look at RoboCop smirking, but sometimes it's a little tough to tell the characters and locations aren't connected.

As for the story, I'm just going to have to assume they let RoboCop live out of sheer arrogance? I understand the point is to prove they have technology that can humiliate RoboCop, but why not show it can destroy him, too? You know, aside from the fact they really shouldn't kill off the main character in issue 6. Or ever, really. Seriously, never kill RoboCop! Totally minor critique: I know Murphy can't have his iconic weapon, but it's a little odd he's heading out there completely unarmed. I mean, he would have been outclassed either way, but it's a little surprising he doesn't at least have a baton equipped. It may not seem like much, but he certainly proved he can use it well in the last issue.

The Verdict

ROBOCOP is consistently good and always leaves me wanting to see more and more of Old Detroit. The people in there would love nothing more than to escape the depressing place, but BOOM! Studios is making it so I constantly want to visit this corrupt and twisted city. Yes, sometimes the artwork takes away from the experience, but aside from those few moments, this series has been consistently great and does the original movie justice. I especially love how Williamson is giving plenty of focus to other characters -- most notably Lewis and Killian -- without ever really neglecting RoboCop, the dude we're all here to see. Seriously, you need to give this series a chance if you like the classic movie. It's doing an awesome job continuing the franchise's story.