I think people anticipated this issue more than I expected; when I went to the comic book store, I bought the last copy. I thought that boded well for me; it might mean that the issue’s really good. But after reading it, all I have to say is that’s pretty good. Here’s the run-down:
The Plot:
The Archies and Josie and Josie and the Pussycats are co-headlining a tour, but the Pussycats’ manager Alexander feels his band has a much higher profile than to be co-headlining with the likes of The Archies (and I’d have to agree with him). He, along with his scheming sister Alexandra, hatch a plan to make The Archies the opening act, but, needless to say, it backfires. After that, after band rehearsal, Valerie and Archie stay behind to work on a song, and sparks fly.
The Good:
I doubt Archie Comics is listening to me, but they’re listening to somebody, because this issue, along with Jughead #200, includes drawing that pays a lot more attention to detail. There’s depth of space, shadows and highlights-in short, a major improvement from past issues. Also, there’s reference to current pop-culture and lingo, making the book feel like it’s in 2010 instead of the early ’90s, or worse, the mid ’80s. Also, Alexandra is in this issue-I know she’s not everyone’s favorite (I have a love/hate relationship with her, myself)-but seeing her in the book is an added bonus for those of us who grew up with the Josie and the Pussycats cartoon, whether if that was when the show first premiered or, if you’re like me, when the show was on Cartoon Network, and later, Boomerang. Another minor character making a rare appearance-Veronica’s nerdy, business-savvy cousin, Marcy.
The Bad:
The story, while fun, is uneven. The main draw of the issue is the growing relationship between Valerie and Archie, however, almost 2/3 of the book is about Alexander and Alexandra goofing around. Most of that time could’ve been used establishing the Val/Archie dynamic instead of fitting all of it in at the end of the book. However, maybe Issue #609 will alleviate some of the lop-sided quality.
Overall, the storyline seems promising. As much as I rag on them, I’m a fan of Archie Comics, so I’ll keep buying to see where the story goes, but if you’re new to the game, I’d suggest to stick with this story for at least one more issue to fully judge whether you like Archie Comics or not.
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