Big Bang Comics Vol. 2 #1–35 – A Nostalgic Tribute to the
Golden and Silver Ages of Comics
Genre
Superhero, Retro Pastiche, Science Fiction, Crime-Fighting
Adventure
Big Bang Comics Vol. 2 is a loving homage to the Golden and
Silver Age of superhero comics. The series leans heavily into the traditional
superhero genre, evoking the style, tone, and values of mid-20th century
American comics. It features crime-fighters, super-scientists, vigilantes, and
costumed defenders from all walks of life, operating in a richly constructed
shared universe.
Main Characters
- Ultiman
– The universe’s powerful and iconic Superman archetype.
- Knight
Watchman – A grim vigilante reminiscent of early Batman, battling
crime in Midway City.
- Thunder
Girl – A magical girl hero with flight and super strength, akin to
Mary Marvel.
- Dr.
Weird – A mystical figure investigating supernatural phenomena.
- The
Blitz – A patriotic speedster evoking WWII-era Flash vibes.
- The
Beacon – A cosmic-powered hero representing interstellar justice.
- The
Round Table of America – The universe's premier superhero team,
similar to the Justice League or Avengers.
Writer
Primarily written by Gary S. Carlson, co-creator of
Big Bang Comics, who drew inspiration from the storytelling of classic comics.
Carlson’s deep understanding of comic history shines through in his writing,
filled with period-accurate dialogue, creative homages, and thoughtful pacing.
Artist
Notable artists include:
- Chris
Ecker – Also a co-creator, known for his vintage style line work.
- Dave
Cockrum – A guest contributor known for his work on X-Men.
- Shelton
Bryant – Regular artist whose art channels the essence of 1960s and
70s superhero comics.
Each issue maintains a visually distinct, era-specific
aesthetic, often mimicking the illustrative techniques of legends like Curt
Swan, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko.
Editor Details
- Gary
Carlson and Chris Ecker served dual roles as creators and
editors, guiding the line with a clear vision.
- The
editorial approach maintained continuity while encouraging stylistic
variety in storytelling.
Publisher and Brand
- Publisher:
Image Comics
- Imprint/Brand:
Independent Retro-Superhero Universe (not tied to DC or Marvel, but
clearly influenced by both)
Image Comics served as the publication platform, allowing
Big Bang Comics to retain creative independence while benefiting from wide
distribution during its 35-issue second volume run.
Release Year
- Published
from 1996 to 2001
The series debuted in the mid-1990s during a time when comic
books were shifting toward darker, edgier content. Big Bang Comics stood out
for its nostalgic tone and dedication to classic superhero values.
Brief Plot Summary
Big Bang Comics Vol. 2 builds a multigenerational superhero
universe where characters operate across different eras—from the World War
II-themed “Golden Age” to a more modern, tech-savvy present. Through
self-contained adventures, team-ups, and parallel timelines, readers explore
heroic legacies, face interdimensional threats, and uncover dark secrets behind
masked crusaders.
Recurring plot elements include:
- Secret
origins and legacies of major heroes.
- The
rise of villainous cabals like The Outer Circle.
- Government
conspiracies surrounding super-powered beings.
- Cross-era
crises uniting heroes from different time periods.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
- "The
Criss-Cross Crisis" – A multiverse-shattering storyline that
unites different versions of Big Bang heroes across time.
- "Ultiman:
The Atomic Age" – Chronicles the transition from wartime hero to
Cold War symbol, exploring the psychological weight of power.
- "Knight
Watchman: Graveyard Shift" – A noir-tinged mini arc delving into
Midway City's crime underworld.
- "Thunder
Girl: Trouble in Teen Town" – A magical adventure that parodies
and pays tribute to 1950s teenage superhero books.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
- Some
fans speculate that Dr. Weird exists outside of linear time and is
subtly manipulating key events to maintain cosmic balance—essentially
acting as Big Bang’s Watcher or Doctor Fate.
- Ultiman’s
recurring power fluctuations have led to theories that his powers are
derived from unstable dimensional energy, possibly linked to other
universes in the Image Comics multiverse.
- The
Round Table of America’s changing roster over decades has led fans to draw
parallels with real-world political shifts and generational divides in
heroism.
Review Summary
Big Bang Comics Vol. 2 has been praised for its faithful recreation of vintage comic book storytelling. From the panel layouts to the dialogue bubbles, it perfectly captures the feel of 1940s–1970s superhero tales. While some modern readers may find the retro tone simplistic, long-time fans and collectors appreciate the deep love for comic history. The character development, particularly of Ultiman and Knight Watchman, balances homage with emotional depth. Artists involved succeed in maintaining consistency while delivering era-appropriate visuals.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
