StrongArm: Vol. 2

Reviewed by Von Jared Omo
June 18, 2007

Author: Steve Horton Artist(s): David Ahn Publisher: Image Comics Website: Click Here Review Rating: Recommended

StrongArm Vol. 2 begins with Rob holding Lyndsey against her will.  He’s doing this because the techno-organic arms that have grafted to his body are causing him to become overly aggressive and tap into his killer instinct. Fortunately for Lyndsey, Rob is able to control himself and hold back, and she is actually fascinated by the technology that has taken over Rob. However, they are interrupted as the police break into the room. They’re searching for Rob because he killed a cop earlier, but in self-defense. Rob is able to save himself and Lyndsey by jumping out the window.  Later, Rob and Lyndsey stop at a park only to find out that Rob has been shot.  He then passes out from the pain.  In another part of the city, Rob’s twin brother Nick is creating chaos as part of his role in the resistance group he has joined. Nick and the other members of the resistance believe that the city is corrupt and they intend to end whatever operations the mysterious Overlord is conducting.

The most noticeable qualities of the comic are the illustrations and images. They have an equal amount of gore and freakish detail, which will keep the readers wondering what the thing on Rob’s arm really is. David Ahn does a remarkable job on the art and the cover. Also, the comic has somewhat of a manga feel to it because of the way the images are drawn. As for the story, it may take some time to actually become compelling. The volumes seem too short to include much storyline and character development, and the story itself so far isn’t too interesting or solid.

If the writer, Steve Horton, creates a storyline that can be developed with a solid structure and be entertaining in the following volumes, then I believe that this comic will do well. However, the first two volumes have come up short on this expectation. The art by David Ahn makes up for what the storyline lacks by providing well drawn illustrations and images. However, Ahn’s art alone cannot provide a foundation for the comic and the story must develop as the comic goes on.  But I recommend reading this comic. The storyline may progress and may become more action filled and fast paced in the volumes to come, and the art alone will amaze readers.