Sunday, January 23, 2022

The Shadowed Circle issue 2: A review part 1


 First off, it's a full ten pages larger than the first issue at 62.  The issue #1 lists 49 printed pages, one ad for the Bronze Gazette, a blank and a publication/upc code on the final page.  So, really issue #2 comes in at 13 extra pages.

The first major article is an interesting overview of "1941: Hitler's Astrologer", the graphic novel by Denny O'Neil with artwork by M. W. Kaluta and inks by Russ Heath.  This seems to be the first in a series examining stories in which The Shadow is placed in actual historical events.  I recently reread this for the umpteenth time and so it was great to read Malcolm Deeley's take on the story and how accurate the weaving of fact and fiction was achieved.  A nice read and a good way to start the second issue.

We then move to "Shadow Play" by Will Murray.  This is a fun and fascinating look at how he and Anthony Tollin paired up novels for the epic (and nearly complete) run of The Shadow reprints.  A lingering look at the dive into finding the link between The Shadow and the first appearance of The Bat-Man is great fun.  Mr. Murray brings the reader into the room as he and Tollin make plans, tear up plans and have a few disagreements.  We all know that it turned out okay in the end.

"The Shadow's New York" brings together vintage photographs by Berenice Abbott and words by Steve Donoso, giving us a look at what the city looked like during The Shadow's reign as dark avenger of the mean streets.  You can see one of the photos on the cover at the top. 

I'll post more about this issue in a later post.  If you haven't gotten yours please subscribe.  Keeping the legacy of The Shadow alive is every agents responsibility.

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