All-New Ghost Rider #2

By Felipe Smith, Tradd Moore, Val Staples

What’s great about these first two issues of All-New Ghost Rider is its fresh approach to the character. Ghost Rider has a convoluted history that goes back a number of years. Smith doesn’t seem to care about that. This Ghost Rider is his and you can feel the passion from every page.

Issue 2 is still more setup. Smith is taking his time establishing the character and letting us know who he is. Robbie Reyes and his disabled brother live in a ghetto full of jerks. With his surroundings and the condition of his brother, you can’t help but root for Robbie. While it would be nice to see some more story progression, Robbie’s life is entertaining enough to keep us going.

Felipe Smith has a slightly abstract style of writing dialogue. Essentially, less is more.  He keeps conversations allegorical, yet simple, while allowing Tradd Moore’s art to do the majority of the talking.  Sometimes, this makes for a very quick read. You might start feeling ripped off, but if you’re a fan of art, it will take you much longer.

The pencils of Tradd Moore and colors of Val Staples are All-New Ghost Rider’s big selling point. Moore’s work on the covers stares right into your eyes and demand your attention. At first, Tradd Moore’s style may throw you off.  However, the more you stare at the pages, the more you’re moved by its unique elegance. Moore’s work has its very own “Penance Stare,” which is quite appropriate.

The other Ghost Riders are cool. Nobody will ever be as awesome as Johnny Blaze. Daniel Ketch was kind of stupid, but he certainly had his moments. None of that matters, though. Robbie Reyes is an appropriate hero for this generation. The best suggestion would be for you to catch up before this series passes you by.