Title: The Ultimates, Volume 1: Super-Human
Author: Mark Millar
First published October 1, 2009
160 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780785109600 (ISBN10: 0785109609)
Rating: 4.09
Overview
Mark Millar’s The Ultimates, Volume 1: Super-Human introduces us to Nick Fury, the mastermind behind an exceptional agency that is responsible for safeguarding the world from all kinds of threats. To achieve this, Fury brings together a team of extraordinary individuals known as the Ultimates.
From battling alien invasions to thwarting evil masterminds, the Ultimates are the world’s first line of defense. But as they start to unravel the mysteries behind their own powers, they realize that they may be the greatest threat to humanity.
Join the Ultimates as they fight to save the world from the most incredible dangers in this thrilling and action-packed adventure.
About the Author
Mark Millar is a renowned writer who has authored several best-selling books, including Wanted, Kick-Ass, The Secret Service, Jupiter’s Legacy, Jupiter’s Circle, Nemesis, Superior, Super Crooks, American Jesus, MPH, Starlight, and Chrononauts. Many of his books have been adapted into successful feature films, such as Wanted, Kick-Ass, Kick-Ass 2, and The Secret Service (known as Kingsman: The Secret Service).
Additionally, Nemesis, Superior, Starlight, War Heroes, Jupiter’s Legacy, and Chrononauts are currently in the works at major studios.
Mark has also made significant contributions to the comic book industry. He created The Ultimates, which was selected by Time magazine as the comic book of the decade.
He also authored Wolverine: Old Man Logan and Civil War, which became the industry’s biggest-selling superhero series in almost two decades. Mark has been actively involved in the film adaptations of his books, serving as an Executive Producer on all of them.
Currently, he is a creative consultant to Fox Studios for their Marvel film projects.
Editoral Review
The Ultimates, Volume 1: Super-Human by Mark Millar is a gripping graphic novel that is sure to delight fans of the superhero genre. Millar, who has previously penned other popular comic book series such as Kick-Ass and The Authority, demonstrates his prowess in this first volume of The Ultimates, which was originally published in 2009.
Set in an alternate universe, The Ultimates takes place in a world where superheroes are a relatively new phenomenon. The plot revolves around a team of superheroes, led by Captain America, who are brought together to protect the world from a host of threats, both internal and external.
Along the way, they clash with each other and wrestle with the moral implications of their powers. One of the strengths of The Ultimates lies in its rich and diverse cast of characters.
Captain America, Thor, Iron Man, Black Widow, and the Hulk all have distinct personalities and backstories that make them compelling protagonists. Additionally, Millar’s writing deals with complex issues such as politics, war, and ethics, making the story engaging beyond just the flashy action scenes.
The artwork by Bryan Hitch is also a standout feature of this book. His detailed illustrations and dynamic action sequences are a sight to behold, and they bring the story to life in a way that words alone could not.
However, The Ultimates is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the book’s treatment of gender and race to be problematic.
Female characters such as Black Widow are often sexualized and objectified, and characters of color are underrepresented. Additionally, the book can be unnecessarily violent and gorey at times, which may be off-putting for some readers.
Despite these issues, The Ultimates remains a thrilling read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Fans of the superhero genre, as well as those who appreciate complex storytelling and stunning artwork, will find much to enjoy in this first volume.
Overall, I would give The Ultimates, Volume 1: Super-Human a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. While it has its flaws, the strengths of the book far outweigh the weaknesses.
Its well-crafted characters, intricate plot, and stunning artwork make it a must-read for comic book fans.
