Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Planet Of The Apes #7
Boom! Studios
Gregory & Magno
The war is heating up as the humans and apes continue to jockey for positioning. Voice Alaya is slowly manipulating the apes to serve her purposes while the humans, in various factions, are trying to figure out how to combat the apes on multiple fronts. What's clear with this issue is that the apes are organized and have the capacity to plan whereas the humans are divided and trying to battle in too large of a scope. It's an entertaining read as usual and I like the long-term prospects for this arc and series.
The part of this book that is the most fascinating, theme-wise, to me is how the humans are made to be the underdogs. They are severely undermanned and obviously a notch below in technology. However, the humans presumably destroyed the world as it once was and they created (or helped to create) the age of the apes. Usually when the subordinate turns on the master it's something that is cheered on. But here, the humans are pushed down into the subordinate role and are trying to regain power. And somehow they become the ones to hope for despite all of their missteps. Add in that the fate of the humans, based on the movies, is not a pleasant one and I continue to find the connecting of the dots mystery to be captivating.
The issue takes a slower tone in this issue which is fine. However, I am finding that the constant cliffhangers of teasing war to be a little drawn out. I prefer some more action and field strategy instead of preparation.
However, by using a slower tone here we really get to focus in on the tactics that Voice Alaya is using to turn the apes against the humans. It's very dictator-like and it's all very cleverly done. The question is what is the real grudge that Voice Alaya holds against the humans?
Once again a highlight of the issue is the artwork. There are some nice subtleties, such as the general growth of Sullivan's unborn baby. However, the epic images take this issue over the top. The two scenes where there is rifle action are so brutal and powerful that they really take the issue to memorable level. The comic book presents a terrific visual story.
Planet of the Apes has been a great read since the first issue. It is not too deep yet to jump in and check this series out. Overall, there is a lot in here for a wide range of tastes. Between the political drama, the dystopian future and the strong characters this series is not short on interesting elements. I definitely recommend checking in on this series.
3.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles
