Future Quest Presents #6

Writer: Phil Hester

Artist: Steve Rude

Colorist: John Kalisz

Published by: DC Comics

With Birdman taking over as the new protagonist in this series, we get to see a different side of the Hanna-Barbera universe, and it’s been quite awesome up to date.

The issue begins with a look back at how Mentok, this arcs villain, became, well, Mentok. As a telepath, it seems that he has never really any real control over his power to read minds, and because of this, it has driven him a little mad. As a child, all he wanted were the voices to stop and now as an adult, he is trying to do so, but on an international scale using his powers to control old gods to his benefit.

On the other side of the spectrum, we get the continuation of last issues bombshell of a revelation: Birdman may have a son that he has never known with a woman, Jen, whom he does recognize. This leads to some serious questions, but also to a meeting with this alleged son of his.

What has been quite enjoyable from this series, as well as all other Hanna-Barbera series, is that all the stories we are getting could easily fit as cartoons as well as comic books. These stories, though nothing revolutionary, are fun, a little crazy, and are great ways to continue the tradition of these classic characters. It also helps that you can get a legend like Steve Rude to join on art duties and bring everything to life is such a fantastic way - and the title page for this issue has an amazing piece by him.