Comic Review: James Bond Origin #1

James Bond Origin #1

Dynamite Entertainment

Writer: Jeff Parker

Artist: Bon Q

Despite the popularity of James Bond, we don’t know too much about his past. Sure, this kind of mystery bodes well for a secret agent, but like myself, I am sure there are friends who have wanted to get just a glimpse at the life of Agent 007 before he was given a license to kill. While it is not on the big screen, IDW brings the first look at James Bond during World War II, at the young, young age of just 17.

James Bond Origin follows the titular characters as he goes through school in Scotland. The brash, clever young man quickly finds himself involved in a dangerous scheme that takes the life of man close to him. Before too long, Bond finds himself in the middle of the Clydebank Blitz, a defining moment for Scotland in World War II.

Jeff Parker writes the issue and has a fairly good grasp of Bond as a character. Of course, this a much younger Bond than we are used to, so he not as polished as we are used to seeing. He is naive, brash, and lacks the ability to calculate risks. Even still, Bond is a capable fighter and has the resolve and stamina to pursue his goals. All of this leads to Parker writing what feels like an authentic, but flawed Bond. Never does he quite feel out of character, which is impressive considering the circumstances.

While the characterization of Bond is impressive, the pacing is rocky for a first issue. It feels inconsistent and tugs the reader about. Some sections feel a bit too rushed while others drag on too long. I suspect that these issues will iron themselves out, especially because Parker was able to get the early introductions and most of the exposition out of the way early.

Bob Q handles the series’ art and has a style that perfectly suits both the character and the era. This issue has a Rocketeer feel to it due to the use of shadows and colors. Young Bond is as handsome as expected but still looks slightly unkempt, which is to be expected from the character at this point. The book has wonderful lighting that allows moments of crisis to truly shine

James Bond Origin #1 has some pacing flaws, but mostly hits the mark when it comes to its characters. Jeff Parker has created a young, sloppy Bond, but still makes the character recognizable. It feels like this series will only get better, and I look forward to seeing more.