The classic “Me Tarzan, you Jane” is out the window in Dynamites Annual Lord of the Jungle issue as we meet an intellectually modern Tarzan, though he still clings to a savage lifestyle. I know, I know, this isn’t a straight up horror book, but don’t get your panties in a bunch. This book is full of action, quickly taking a plot twist I didn’t expect, and next thing I knew bam! The lord of the jungle becomes the Lord of the Cage.

WRITTEN BY: Mark Rahner
ART BY: Sergio Fernandez Davila and Santosh Kumar Rath
PUBLISHER: Dynamite

Tarzan starts off the book by taking a nice stroll through his native environment, and I have to admit, it was a little boring at first go. Sure jungle cats are cute, but I tend to enjoy violence more than cuteness. Luckily, Mark Rahner had something else in store. The book takes off quickly with some kills early on, before I knew it the story was utterly engrossing.

Growing up I think everyone dabbled in a little Tarzan heroism, whether that was classic stories, comedy spin offs like George of the Jungle or Disney’s Tarzan. Immediately I felt an odd sense of nostalgia mixed with a thirst to see Tarzan kick some ass. The Annual issue offers some solid background on our savage hero, and not only is the content of this book shocking – flash to an awesome fight with a big ‘ol gorilla, and several wonderful kill shots – but I found myself cracking up at Tarzan’s whit and barbs at other characters. Closing in on the end of the story it becomes clear that Tarzan still lacks a refined civility, which comes into play when he’s forced to battle a big German brute!

Lets get into the nitty gritty, Sergio Fernandez Davila’s art style, I can’t say is overly impressive. He brings a classic cartoony animation that I would associate with most average artists in comics. I’m not saying it was bad, it certainly suited that story, it just wasn’t anything to call home about. Aside from that, Santosh Kumar Rath’s colouring helps to kick things up with lots of bright colours in the outdoor atmosphere, and a darkened element as the situation changes from one of happy freedom to captivity. As a side note, very good job on the blood; if you read the book you’ll know the part of the story I’m talking about.

Lord of the Jungle Annual is fast paced read, and a nostalgic story that I certainly enjoyed. Give the book a try if your up for a little savage adventure!

3/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBasterd