Brain Boy: The Man from G.E.S.T.A.L.T. #4 (of 4)

   This series has been a good example of how to effectively revive an old character in the modern world.

   Brain Boy was a short-lived pseudo superhero in the '60s (though one without a costume), and now he's been revived by Dark Horse as a modern-day spy.

   Since his powers are mind-based (telepathy, telekinesis), he makes the perfect spy - but in this series he may be (you should excuse the phrase) in over his head.

   He's up against a powerful Hive Mind that has a deadly plot to take control of the government - and it will take all of Matt Price's abilities to stand against it.

   The story by Fred Van Lente is a bit convoluted, and it would be difficult to start up with this issue - but the collections would be a good place to catch up.

   The art by Freddie Williams II is strong, though I don't much care for the super costume Brain Boy sports in this issue - it seems pretty generic.

   The best thing about the issue, though, is the last page, with a shocking turn that should lead into the next mini-series.

    This series isn't for everyone - it takes the roundabout path to get the story told - but it's a smart and clever take on a classic concept.

Grade: B-

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Brain Boy #1

   This is one of those titles I never thought I'd see again.

   When I was a kid I picked up an issue of Brain Boy, little realizing that it was the last issue in the series (#6) - it was odd, a bit creepy, but compelling (in fact, I reviewed that issue right here).

   Now Dark Horse has revived the title. It stars Matt Price, a young man who has telepathy and limited telekinesis abilities. Not the most visually exciting powers, but he works as a security specialist, and uses his powers to keep people safe.

   The story by Fred Van Lente is a cracking good yarn, with political intrigue, action sequences, humor, plenty of surprises and an interesting take on the lead character's personality.

   The art is by R.B. Silva and Rob Lean, and it's quite good, bringing real-world characters and situations to life - no long underwear outfits here - all with great character designs and strong action sequences.

   I had no idea what to expect here, and it's nice to find the series is a pleasant surprise - it stays true to the original concept, but builds it into a story that is modern and a heck of a lot of fun.

Grade: A-

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