Godzilla Rivals: Mothra Vs M.O.G.U.E.R.A #1 is published by IDW Publishing, written by Johnny Parker II and illustrated by Winston Chan.
Issue #1 is available now either online or from your local comic book store. Digital copies will be available to download from the usual content providers.
Synopsis
Mothra is a great protector and friend to humanity, but not everyone believes the monster is always going to be on our side. When an anti-kaiju group controlling the powerful robotic Mechagodzilla and M.O.G.U.E.R.A. attacks Mothra’s home, it’s up to a few brave souls, an injured Mothra, and a little extra robotic help to save the day!
Review
In this special one shot we are back with Mothura in modern day Tokyo as he goes about his routine of protecting the citizens of this vibrant community from the collosal threat of the Kaiju monsters. Normally Mothura can be counted on to fend off any attack but since the loss of Mechagodzilla leaving the city vulnerable to attack as the feeling of attack is never present.
After Mothura is badly injured we are introduced to Lupe who has made it her life’s work to follow and study Mothura after it saved her village many years previously giving Lupe an emotional attachment to the colossal beings which gives her the driving force to develop a fondness for the Kaiju.
A chance meeting with elite member of the Japanese Air Force, Nick Young, takes the duo on a dramatic journey as they try to stop the now terrorist operated Mechagodzilla destroying Japan and killing countless civilians, Nick takes the Mechagodzilla falling into enemy hands personally and blames himself as it was under his operation when it was stolen due to a misjudgement on his part so now it’s almost a personal vendetta for him to get redemption but all Lupe is interested in is saving her hero Mothura.
When the battle begins to sway in the terrorists favour a hero returns to balance the battle and it’s one that will prove a worthy helping hand in the form of Jet Jaguar, but even Jet Jaguar is coming up against a formidable opponent. The reader is left unsure of the outcome that is until a suprise return tips the scales back in the favour of good.
It’s definitely an epic battle of a colossal scale where there can be only one winner, the future of Japan and the Earth depends on the outcome.
Johnny Parker II writes a unique story that feels deep in tradition but also fresh and impactful. The unique blend of the storyline gives the reader a powerful reading experience that fixates you to the pages. What feels like a Saturday action packed explosive film, the ones I adore, translates perfectly to the pages and gives a well balanced overall read.
The impacting style of the story needs illustrations that provide the same level of power and that’s exactly what the creative team have done, Winston Chan provides illustrations that explode off the pages and gives a visual experience that takes your breath away. The visuals of the epic fight scenes between the Kaiju are probably some of the best I’ve seen in comics.
Verdict
A genuine modern day classic, a fun filled almost retro style action ride that will take your breath away. A thrilling action adventure that keep you engaged from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐