When Ron Marz took over the Silver Surfer title from legendary writer Jim Starlin, nobody expected the creator to become an invaluable piece of the character's legacy. But Marz continues to experiment with the character, even years later. In 2022, Marz reunited with artist Ron Lim for another cosmic adventure involving Norrin Radd and his trusty board in Silver Surfer Rebirth. That series saw the hero investigate the missing Reality Stone alongside Thanos, taking the unlikely pair across the cosmos. Now, that miniseries is getting a sequel -- continuing Silver Surfer's modern adventures through the past of the Marvel Universe. Written by Marz with pencils from Lim, inks from Don Ho, colors from Romulo Fajardo Jr., and letters from VC's Joe Sabino, Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy #1 is an effective feint, playing on the strengths of the creative team in surprising ways.
Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy #1 unfolds with Silver Silver and Genis-Vell at the helm. The issue opens with the pair discovering a world-destroying device left behind by a long-dead civilization. As it hurls towards Earth, Silver Surfer works to destroy the terrifying machine once and for all. Watching the hero work, Genis-Vell marvels at Silver Surfer's bravery and laments his own shortcomings. Norrin suggests they go into the past using the Time Stone to witness the exploits of Genis-Vell's father, the heroic (and long-dead) Mar-Vell. The Surfer hopes this can instill some confidence in the young hero and inspire him to greatness. But unbeknownst to either of them, this innocent excursion may have major ramifications for the fate of space, time, and reality itself.
Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy #1 does not waste time getting into the thick of things, with the actions of the heroes dictating the story's first act. This is also where the issue establishes the dynamic between the rookie hero Genis-Vell and the seasoned Silver Surfer. Genis-Vell's deep-held confidence issues get the plot going, continually setting things in motion. When Silver Surfer persuades the young hero to travel to the past to check on his father, Genis-Vell gives in to the temptation -- laying the groundwork for the rest of series. Marz's portrayal of Norrin as an empathic figure makes it easier for Genis-Vell to open up, adding an emotional angle to the narrative.
As the issue progresses, a shocking reveal turns everything on its head. Ron Lim's artwork turns the clock back to a bygone era of stylized illustrations and vividly detailed backgrounds. Despite this massive scope, Lim's visuals keep the characters at the center of the perspective view. As a result, the panel work is rigid, with similar patterns emerging across the book. The protagonists are always in clear view but without much wiggle room. Even Don Ho's inks take the visuals back to an old-school style, which can feel constraining in some ways.
Although the shading is precise and articulate, the hatching marks and etching technique give the book a retro look that fits within the context of the story. But the colors are a major disappointment throughout the issue. Romulo Fajardo Jr., typically known for his excellent range of expansive color palettes, eaves the reader wanting more. Luckily, letterer Joe Sabino lets the speech balloons fall into place between scenes and purposefully emboldens words for emphasis. It makes reading through the pages a breezy affair.
Silver Surfer Rebirth: Legacy #1 starts out as a simple story until Marz unveils a major surprise. Silver Surfer is still tormented by the past, making him a tragically sympathetic character. The story uses these elements in conjunction with his softer side to turn him into an effective mentor figure. A chance for Genis-Vell to see his father in action serves as a great jumping point for the series and carries the audience into a compelling and unknown space. It's a solid start to the mini-series and sets the foundation for an intriguing story that will probably be full of surprises.