Review: ‘Toxic Crusaders’ #1 is a Trip Down Memory Lane For A Modern Moment
Ahoy Comics has brought back Toxic Crusaders and not only was the first issue an absolutely fun read with sharp, spot-on social commentary ultra-relevant for today’s world, but it was a wonderful piece of nostalgia for. I never watched the cartoon, but I had all the Playmates action figures as a kid. They were some of my favorite toys, behind only my TMNT and Power Rangers figures. Seeing Toxie & (most) of the gang back in action brought me right back to my childhood and memories of late-night toy sessions and endless battles that I’d put on with my siblings and cousins. That alone was enough to make this debut issue worth the read.
Matt Bors’ story sees the team of Toxie, Nozone, Junkyard, Major Disaster, and newcomer Fungirl (who wasn’t part of the OG figures) thrown right into the thick of high-speed train mission as the book wastes little time kicking into high gear. Bors doesn’t leave readers completely without an anchor as flashbacks are used to quickly get newcomers up to speed on how a disastrous chemical spill turned Tromaville into a nuclear community and it’s inhabitants into various forms of mutants. The large cast of characters also allows Bors to introduce competing ideas and views of the world, which very much mimic debates we’re currently having in our own society. They cover everything from leadership qualities to body autonomy to environmentalism. Bors packs a lot into the book without making it feel bloated.
The artwork by Tristan Wright is imaginative and, when needed, grotesque. It perfectly captures the over-the-top vibe that I remember from the back of the action figure packs. Wright’s style brings each mutant to life in detailed fashion, sometimes in ways that make you want to gag a bit — like when Nozone uses his “power.” Lee Loughridge’s colors brought a old, crusty palette to the book. It felt like the book had been sitting on the shelves for a while and might have survived a chemical explosion itself. I might have preferred a more neon approach (similar to the tone of the action figures), but I appreciate that Loughridge and team wanted this book to live on it’s own.
Overall, Toxic Crusaders #1 was a grossly entertaining read that’s perfect for fans of the original cartoon or action figures or who just enjoy a fun team-up comic. It’s got a wild storyline with meaning, imaginative art, and entertaining characters. What more could you ask for?
Rating: 4/5 stars
Creative Team:
Writer: Matt Bors
Artist: Tristan Wright
Colors: Lee Loughridge
Letters: Rob Steen
Publisher: Ahoy Comics
