EYE LIE POPEYE #1 / Script and Art by MARCUS WILLIAMS / Colors by RODNEY VALCHEZ / Published by MASSIVE PUBLISHING

In Eye Lie Popeye #1, Popeye makes a triumphant return in a way that’s as unexpected as it is exhilarating. For anyone who grew up with the iconic spinach-chomping sailor, this latest incarnation is like stepping back into a familiar world, but with a high-octane twist that absolutely catapults it into the 21st century. Thanks to Marcus Williams, the creative genius behind this manga-inspired reimagining, we get a Popeye that is still rooted in his classic charm but now drenched in explosive energy that feels fresh and electrifying.

Right from the first page, the visuals absolutely pop. Williams has poured his heart into the art, and it shows. The character designs pay homage to the original while cranking the style up to eleven with vibrant colors and dynamic poses that practically leap off the page. The art grabs you immediately and doesn’t let go. Each panel brims with life and captures the playful chaos that Popeye’s world embodies. The linework is crisp, the colors are bold, and the visual flow is smooth, drawing your eye seamlessly from one action-packed moment to the next. There’s a clear anime influence here, reminiscent of shōnen staples like Dragon Ball and One Piece. But it’s never derivative. Instead, it feels like the natural evolution of a character who’s always been larger than life. 

As a Gen X’er who grew up watching the classic cartoons, I could practically hear Popeye’s gravelly mumbling, Olive Oyl’s high-pitched quips, and Bluto’s booming bellows as I read the dialogue. Williams has done a phenomenal job of capturing the essence of these beloved characters, and he makes them feel instantly recognizable yet refreshed for a new era. It’s a tricky balance to strike – honoring the past while still pushing forward – but this comic does it effortlessly. Every line, every piece of banter, is infused with the same energy and humor that made the original series a classic.

Now, let’s talk about the story. The plot kicks off with a fun premise: Judy P’tooty, a tenacious reporter, is on a mission to uncover the truth behind how Popeye lost his eye. This setup gives us the issue of its structure, as we’re treated to a series of flashbacks and tall tales from various characters, each with their own wildly exaggerated version of events. These early scenes are packed with text, but they’re never a chore to read. Instead, they’re brimming with wit and charm, pulling you deeper into the mystery while showcasing the cast’s unique personalities. It’s a slow burn at first, but once the pieces start falling into place, the narrative shifts into high gear.

And when the action hits, it hits hard. This isn’t just Popeye throwing haymakers – we’re talking about bone-crunching, earth-shattering battles that feel straight out of a top-tier shōnen anime. Think Popeye creating tornadoes with his fists or Bluto tanking blows that would level a building. It’s ridiculous, it’s over the top, and it’s an absolute blast. The final showdown in this issue is pure spectacle, leaving you on the edge of your seat and hungry for more. Williams manages to blend the old-school fisticuffs we love with a modern sensibility that cranks the excitement all the way up.

This book  balances its bombastic action with moments of genuine heart. Amidst the chaos, there are quiet beats that remind us why we love these characters in the first place. Popeye’s unwavering determination, Olive’s feisty spirit, and even Bluto’s begrudging respect for his rival – they’re all here, making these cartoon icons feel grounded even in the midst of their wildest adventures. This emotional core is what keeps the comic from being just a visual spectacle. It gives the story weight and depth, making it more than just a fun ride – it’s a story that resonates.

What really seals the deal for me, though, is how the comic manages to be both a love letter to the past and a bold step into the future. It’s a celebration of everything that made Popeye a cultural icon while also being unafraid to try something new. This is a comic that’s bursting with creativity, taking risks, and pushing boundaries while staying true to the spirit of its source material. For old-school fans like myself, it’s a nostalgic rush, but it’s also a perfect jumping-on point for new readers who’ve never experienced Popeye’s world before.

In the end, Eye Lie Popeye #1 is a knockout. It’s a comic that delivers on every level, from its jaw-dropping art to its pitch-perfect writing. Whether you’re a die-hard Popeye fan or just someone looking for a fun, action-packed read, this issue is sure to impress. Marcus Williams has pulled off something special here, crafting a story that’s both timeless and timely. If this first issue is any indication, we’re in for a wild ride, and I, for one, can’t wait to see where it goes next. It’s got enough heart and humor to remind us why Popeye has endured for nearly a century. Here’s hoping this is just the start of a whole new chapter in the Sailor Man’s legacy.

Eye Lie Popeye #1 arrives in comic shops on August 28. 2024.