In the words of the famed Road Warriors/Legion of Doom: “Ohhhhh… What a Rush!”
The action becomes a literal fast and furious race for Speed’s very life! From the adrenaline rush of last issue, the action kicks into another gear as Dante Ferno, the nefarious kingpin recruits the services from the lead racer of the Tiger Team, none other than Kim Jugger, the Black Jaguar.
In Speed Racer #4 It seems Speed’s street-style detective skills is making Mr. Ferno extremely nervous, contracting out to another faction while also appearing to have paid off someone within Trixie’s garage. She continues to caution Speed, sensing the closer he gets to the truth about his brother, the number and intensity of threats will also increase. I like this iteration of Trixie, maintaining the concern for Speed’s well-being, however without the over-the-top caution. She knows trying to get in his way will not go well for anyone.
As Jugger confronts Speed as he prepares to race on the very same track which took his brother’s life, the Formula X track. His intimidation tactics do not frighten, but seemingly angers Speed, but also something else, something which seems to begin a sensation of anxiety in the young rebellious racer. The crux of the issue continues to center around the arrival of Racer X who appears to place himself in mentor or guardian-type role, whether Speed likes it or not. Speed continues to reflect on his failures and intent not to lose his father, Pops, who continues to be monitored in the hospital. It appears Speed is gradually feeling the intensity of being overwhelmed, one can only hope he becomes open to accepting the support he so desperately needs.
While famously a victim of tragedy in the original cartoon, the Black Jaguar is a more menacing villain, one who will likely become a recurring thorn in the side of Speed. I enjoy the introduction of new characters with the feel of an established personality, even if we have only just begun to get to know them, it feels like we already do.
Once more, with feeling, David Pepose and his creative crew of Davide Tinto, Rex Lokus, and Buddy Beaudoin, once again bring an intense race to life with brilliancy and a gripping dialogue to match. Tune in next time for the next exciting episode of Speed Racer, brought to you by Mad Cave Studios!
