The good news is, even if you're late to the party with the new wave of Valiant books, Quantum and Woody #1 is perfectly accessible. While this is certainly part of this new Valiant universe, it doesn't rely on any advance knowledge of how this family of titles operates, or even anything about the previous incarnations of the characters. The bad news is...well, actually, there is no bad news. Quantum and Woody #1 is a fine, funny superhero comic that is a perfect entry point for fans looking to sample Valiant's wares.
For a book that barely even gets the origin of the title characters out of the way, Quantum and Woody #1 gets quite a lot done. Both of our (ahem) "heroes" are introduced, their relationship is established, we get glimpses of their personal lives, and none of it really feels like needless, hammered-home exposition. As a matter of fact, despite all of the info presented, this is a pretty breezy read. And a funny one too. Tom Fowler's art works the physical comedy on nearly every page, and his comedic command of body language, slapstick, and facial expressions almost rivals Kevin Maguire's days on the "bwa-ha-ha" era of Justice League.
So, what's it all about, then? Woody and Eric Henderson are brothers who have taken different paths in their lives. Eric has gone into the military while Woody is a grifter and a con artist. What brings them back together is the mysterious death of their father, which, of course, they end up in the crosshairs of the investigation for. While this may not sound like "and hilarious hijinx ensue," trust me, it works. James Asmus works flashbacks in just the right places, let's both of their personalities carry the dialogue, and somehow sneaks a traditional accidental superhero science-gone-wrong origin story in without ever slowing things down.
For anyone who has been waiting for an opportunity to get their feet wet in the new Valiant universe, this is the book to do it with. Got a friend who isn't sure about superhero comics in general? This might be a good gateway drug. Need a chuckle? Look no further. Quantum and Woody #1 may be about the "World's Worst Superhero Team," but it might just also be one of the week's best superhero comics.
Story: 8/10
Art: 8/10
Overall: 8/10
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