Eye Lie Popeye #1: It Doesn’t Hold Any Punches
Creative Team
writer/artist/letterer: MARCUS WILLIAMS
colorist: RODNEY VELCHEZ
publisher: MASSIVE PUBLISHING
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Eye Lie Popeye #1 brings the beloved “Sailor Man” back to comic book stands for a fast-paced and entertaining read.
This issue begins with a reporter asking Olive, Bluto, and Wimpy to share their version of how Popeye lost his eye. What begins as an innocent question, soon turns sinister as the eye may hold powers sought by magical forces.
There’s a heavy burden that comes with taking on a classic IP such as Popeye. Fortunately, this series is at the helm of writer/illustrator, Marcus Williams.
It’s evident just how much care went into crafting this series. Whether it is the dynamic art, anime-like fighting scenes, or the rich colors from Rodney Velchez—this issue is visually stunning. It also helps that the story is fun to experience from beginning to end.
Balance is clearly part of the design and the script guides readers through an experience that is engaging and mixes new and old lore. For example, Popeye’s classic tugboat has an appearance and while new fans may not appreciate it being in the story, older fans might feel joy as they see the small, but mighty, tiny ship.
From a narrative perspective, readers should not expect a lot of “why” to be given in this issue. Instead, the script almost treats the story like a video game where each issue acts as a level with a final boss. Regardless, the clever use of characters by Williams is appreciated and ensures this premiere has a solid entrance with a great hook for readers (and great right hook in fight scenes).
While the script is interesting, the visuals are the biggest draw to this series. There are tons of over-the-top fight scenes where anime fans will likely chuckle at how the fighting style fits Popeye’s universe so well. Readers might even wonder why it was never done sooner. The characters have always been about big muscles and big punches, and the art shows the ferocity of the brawling sailors with every WHAMM and VRRMM as arms power up for a mega-punch.
Don’t expect an overly complex story with this premiere—and that’s a good thing. Popeye as a character has always been about succinct and clever writing, fun moments, and action scenes that look best when illustrated.
Final Verdict
This series premiere strikes a balance of new lore while paying homage to the source material. If you’ve never witnessed what a can of spinach can do, then look no further—Eye Lie Popeye is every bit as explosive as it is fun.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 8.75 |
| Story/Plot | 8.50 |
| Art/Line Work | 9.75 |
| Colors | 9.75 |
| Final Score | 9.2/10 |