Writer: Chris Roberson

Pencils: Jeffrey Moy

IDW Comics, out now

IDW’s Star Trek/Legion of Superheroes crossover event continues in this second issue as the two teams from different universes struggle to find their way after being thrown into a violent alternate reality. As the Legion of Superheroes flee an angry mob, the Starfleet landing party led by Captain James T. Kirk dodge phaser fire from an unfamiliar military force.

Roberson has paced this story well and has masterfully set up the reader’s anticipation of the moment the two teams of heroes will come face-to-face. Resisting the urge to have the two groups team up in the first issue has drawn out the suspense and will make the moment fans are waiting for all the sweeter. Similarly, he’s in no hurry to reveal the mysterious figure who leads the militant regime in the parallel universe. As this is a short run series Roberson is obviously timing the story to peak at just the right moment and so far everything is shaping up perfectly. 

I was very disappointed with Roberson’s characterisation of Uhura in this issue. In stark contrast to her male comrades she is tentative, uncertain and lacks confidence in her own abilities and those of her crewmates – even Kirk! Given that even in the 1960s television series, which was produced during a time when strong female characters were a rarity, Uhura is a highly competent and skilled bridge officer able to take command when necessary I found it very disappointing that she is such a stereotypically meek woman here. I’m even more surprised that Roberson would write her as such given that his main character, Gwen Dylan, in iZombie is far from a weak girl. This misrepresentation of Uhura did somewhat diminish my enjoyment of the story.

Moy’s pencils and Romulo Fajardo, Jr.’s colours continue to work together to create a rich and vibrant visual dimension to this story. Moy’s depictions of the characters are still true to their television likenesses without slavishly adhering to realism at the expense of the overall look and feel of the issue.

Verdict: An enjoyable read by and large that sets up the next issue well. It’s a shame that Roberson seems to have so thoroughly missed the mark with Uhura but hopefully we’ll see some improvement in future issues. 6/10

Bernice Watson

Read our review of issue 1 here

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