Go-Bots #5 // Review
Working on pencils, ink, colors, and lettering is just another day in the life for the man with many hats, Tom Scioli. Bringing this one man mini-series to its finale in grandiose fashion, Scioli proves to be a real cartoonist and a creator to watch out for. Without a single delay, Scioli worked month in and month out to deliver a charming love letter to an obscure toy line from the ’80s. Whether familiar with the franchise or not, the series never takes itself too seriously and wholly owns the retro aesthetic it aims for, and it aims high.
The final showdown between the good and evil Go-Bots over the fate of humanity is underway. As the antagonist forces begin to see the error of their ways after the death of their leader they realize they are not better than the previous ruler they despised. Gobotron, the robot planet and home of the Go-Bots, releases its control over Earth and leaves the atmosphere. With the surviving humans left to teach the underdeveloped cavemen the ways of the future, the series takes a dramatic turn before finally closing out.
Having worked on Transformers Vs. G.I. Joe previously, he is no stranger to the licensed toy comics market. His cartoonist sensibilities shine through with his attention to detail and his ability to fit so much into one page without it feeling overstuffed. As a former student at the Joe Kubert School, his bag of talents, as well as his signature style, are on full display. With an almost minimalist yet still detailed style alongside a silver age motif, this series adds a unique flavor to the market.
Although a very niche title, the art is by far the talking point but Scioli’s taste for silver age comics shines through with his chipper more light-hearted dialogue. Saving the more colorful language for only two instances, both taking place in this final issue, Scioli keeps the series tasteful and entertaining. The cold exterior of the Go-Bots is juxtaposed by the carefree humans.
The series never takes itself too seriously, and with Scioli fitting so much into each issue, every chapter lasts much longer than the typical modern comic book. With an ominous ending, it’s unclear as to whether a sequel is in the works, but one could easily be made from the finale. Scioli has yet to talk about his next project, but fans will be waiting with bated breath in anticipation.
Grade: B+
