Jem and the Holograms #21 (2016) – Comic Review 🎶💫
Genre
🎸 Teen Drama, Musical Fantasy, Slice of Life, LGBTQ+, Friendship, Contemporary Fiction
This comic blends vibrant musical energy with coming-of-age struggles, layered relationships, and emotional nuance, appealing to fans of heartfelt storytelling and glam-rock aesthetics.
Main Characters
-
Jem / Jerrica Benton – The lead singer of the Holograms, balancing fame and personal identity through her Synergy-created alter ego.
-
Shana Elmsford – The Holograms’ talented drummer and fashion designer, facing a life-changing decision.
-
Kimber Benton – Jerrica’s sister and keyboardist, known for her impulsive spirit and passion.
-
Aja Leith – Guitarist and tech-savvy member of the Holograms, often the voice of reason.
-
Raya Alonso – A potential new drummer, introduced as Shana contemplates a new direction.
-
The Stingers – A rival band bringing conflict, mystery, and temptation into the Holograms’ world.
Writer
✍️ Kelly Thompson
Thompson infuses the story with emotional resonance, queer representation, and engaging dialogue, staying true to the original animated legacy while modernizing its core themes.
Artist
🎨 Meredith McClaren
McClaren brings a distinctive visual tone, using expressive faces, body language, and dynamic color palettes that reflect the inner turmoil and musical heartbeat of each scene.
Editor Details
🛠️ Sarah Gaydos
As the editor, Gaydos ensures narrative cohesion and character consistency, curating a seamless creative synergy between writer and artist.
Publisher and Brand
📚 IDW Publishing – Under the Hasbro brand.
IDW’s reimagining of this beloved '80s franchise maintains nostalgic charm while evolving for a contemporary audience with inclusivity and strong character arcs.
Release Year
📅 2016
Brief Plot Summary
In The Stingers Part 3, Shana finds herself on the verge of achieving her fashion design dreams as she’s accepted into a prestigious program. Meanwhile, the rest of Jem and the Holograms begin the search for a new drummer—Raya Alonso—who could alter the band’s dynamic. But beneath the surface, tensions rise as choices are questioned, loyalties tested, and someone seems to know exactly what Shana truly desires… and might just use it to shake things up. 🥁🎤
Notable Arcs or Storylines
🔥 “The Stingers” Arc
This multi-issue arc introduces the enigmatic rival band, The Stingers, while spotlighting internal growth within the Holograms. Shana’s journey represents a broader narrative about chasing dreams vs. staying grounded with those you love. Raya’s entrance is a pivotal shift, laying groundwork for future band dynamics.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
🌀 Fans have speculated that The Stingers’ growing influence could lead to emotional manipulation or even a band split, especially with one of their members possibly targeting Shana emotionally. There’s also chatter about Raya becoming more than just a temporary fill-in—potentially forming a new internal conflict or romantic subplot. Shana’s arc is often interpreted as a metaphor for real-life dilemmas artists face when balancing ambition with community.
Review Summary
💬 Jem and the Holograms #21 is a vibrant, emotionally intelligent issue that elevates the stakes for each member of the band. Thompson’s writing is rich with personal conflict and authenticity, while McClaren’s art breathes individuality into every character. The transition of roles within the band, especially with Shana’s possible exit and Raya’s introduction, is handled with sensitivity and grace. This issue doesn’t just move the plot—it resonates.
🌟 Rating: 8.5/10 – A heartfelt, stylish issue with lasting emotional chords.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
