Post by Meriades Rai on Jul 2, 2016 6:38:06 GMT -5
GHOST RIDER # 3 by Travis Hiltz
There's a change of pace to this issue, and although Travis half-apologises in his Author's Notes for the lack of full-on Ghost Rider action, I have to say it was my favourite chapter of the series so far precisely because it took its time a lot more. Whereas Johnny Blaze is well-known enough to need little introduction, Robbie Reyes is more of a blank slate and that allows Travis opportunity to craft the character with his own touch. I think Robbie is all the better for that.
I especially liked how the connection between Robbie and his car was explored, both through Robbie's thoughts and then the action of his two races against the mysterious demon driver Asuka. It didn't need GR to manifest; it was enough to learn about Robbie's personality, and to see that he's actually pitched midway between Blaze and Ketch, which is a good place to be.
Asuka and Seer are both intriguing characters, and I'm looking forward to reading them both as they develop in future issues. I also like the idea of a hero whose first responsibility is towards a dependent brother rather than the traditional girlfriend/partner; in fact, a lot about Robbie reminded me of a 60s/70s Peter Parker, with his worries about Aunt May, school, money, keeping his powers in check, etc. Again, that's a great place to pitch a character.
So far, then, my favourite GRs are Robbie and Slade, and not the traditional pair of Blaze and Ketch, so well done to Travis for that. Just goes to show that fanfic is an excellent medium for fleshing out the more obscure characters!