King of Spies is the newest comic book from Millarworld. Mark Millar on writing duties while Matteo Scalera provides the art. As you can guess from the title, King of Spies is about a spy. This isn’t Mark Millar’s first foray into the spy genre. For those who don’t know, Mark is behind The Secret Service, the comic that became the Kingsman franchise directed by Matthew Vaughn and starring Taron Egerton.
However, if you’re expecting this to be similar don’t worry. Where The Secret Service is an origin story, this one focuses on an aged spy. To create two stories in the same genre while making them completely different is only a testament to Mark’s genius. Unlike his other books currently releasing, this is only a four-issue series.
King of Spies #1 starts off with a bang as it introduces Roland King, a spy who sacrifices everything for the apparent good of his country. The first time we see him he’s a young man but it quickly becomes apparent it’s a flashback. Since most spy stories focus on the younger generation it’s good to see someone at the end of their business. When we first see the present-day Roland he’s coughing up blood.
As the story progresses, his reason for the blood is revealed and it acts as the crux of what comes next. Realising his past sacrifices were for nothing, Roland sets out to make things right with the little time he has left. Putting a time limit on the character only serves to raise the stakes.
The art is by Matteo Scalera. Full disclosure, this is my first experience with his work. If King of Spies is anything to go by I don’t think it’ll be the last. Everything is defined and detailed to a tee. From facial expressions to random characters in the background. It helps to make the location and characters feel just as important to the story as Roland.
The attention to detail is nothing short of incredible. Roland’s tartan waistcoat is detailed to the point you’re forgiven if you think it’s real. There are moments where the art looks rough but it seems like a stylised choice as the character is also rough. I can’t wait to see what Matteo does with the rest of the series.
King of Spies #1 expertly sets up a new character and a story we haven’t seen much of. It’s good Mark is putting his talents into an aged spy out for blood against the corrupt system. If his previous work on The Secret Service or even Kick-Ass is anything to go by then we’re in for a real treat.
Furthermore, fans of James Bond are going to enjoy this one. If you thought Daniel Craig had No Time to Die you’ve seen nothing yet.
The first issue hits the shelves on the 1st of December.
