Archie Comics is celebrating it's 80th anniversary. Throughout 2021 and some of 2022, the publisher is releasing a number of 80th birthday specials. Of course, the one I went gaga for was the Christmas Special.
This extensive volume features work from greats such as Dan Parent (my favorite Archie artist!), Dan DeCarlo, and Frank Doyle. Plus tons more!
There's great stories starring favs such as Moose & Midge, Sabrina The Teenage Witch and elven pal Jingles. We even got a couple of L'il Archie stories! But where's Josie and the Pussycats? L'il Jinx? Katy Keene? Okay, I can understand maybe why Katy Keene isn't here. But the other omissions? What's up with that?
Another aspect that I wasn't a fan of is how this book is set up. The editors decided to start with the 2020s and then work their way backwards to the 1940s. Personally, I feel it's more appropriate to go from the early days and show the progression of the characters. Especially as how Archie and Co. looked in those very first issues. Archie has buck teeth. Betty and Veronica look like they need a little meat on their bones. And Jughead looks truly terrifying.
Lastly, what is up with the print? Many pages seemed to have some serious print issues. Things like Veronica's jet black hair were muddled and instead appeared graying and mottled. Thankfully, you can still read the stories without issue. Just the coloring for the black ink was off.
Overall, I enjoyed this thick holiday time capsule. Most of the stories were ones I've never encountered before. Yes, a couple of stories were winter themed and had nothing to do with Christmas. Instead of include them, Archie Comics could have given some love to those missing characters I mentioned. But then again, maybe a supporting cast collection is on the way. I'd be okay with that!
Worth Consuming!
Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.
