When we last saw Speed Racer in July’s issue #10, Speed and company had just unraveled a sinister scheme of drug pushers and illegal car-enhancing chemicals. Think of it like cars on ‘roids, but then the drivers wind up with second-hand ‘roid rage. It was a major milestone in the adventures of Speed Racer as after a few near-death experiences, a change of pace became sorely needed.
It seems with the beginning of Speed Racer #11, whatever time they had free of conflict, has just run out. Racer X kicks off the issue in a grim, vulnerable state. Readers will be shocked to find ou just what comes next to the renegade racing hero. The only clue presented to both Speed and loyal readers come as a phrase: “Find the Three Roses.”
Speed heads down a path leading to the corporate underworld, one in which the very foundation of the Formula X racing series is questioned. Characters from the original series, such as Tongue Blaggard and Gaff Gunstel make their appearances, as well as an intimidating villain, only known as The Melange. Is this referring to the character, the car, or perhaps both? In garb resembling a fallen pirate, The Melange appears to be driven by one thing and one thing alone, Vengeance.
Also introduced in this issue are Professor Flash Marker, Jr., and his sister Lily. Both also made appearances in the original cartoon.
If all these characters appeared in the cartoon of old, is this a clue to the upcoming arc? Absolutely. Keen eyed fans will surely piece together this mystery of The Three Roses and will likely be curious as to how David Pepose, Davide Tinto, Jao Canola, Buddy Beaudoin, Sarah Brunstad, Chas! Pangburn, and Mike Marts put all this nostalgia in there with an extremely modern twist on the characters but also a major shift from the identities of The Three Roses as well as the characters introduced.
Without spoiling too much now, we are also introduced to a villain who sees this crusade as righteous and unrelenting in his quest. Unrelenting to the point of eliminating anyone who gets in his way. This just might include Speed and his ol’ trusty Mach 5.
Once more, there are some twists and trunks coming, as it appears this opening arc will have another issue and hopefully one more after that. These are the arcs which are definitely worthwhile. Give arcs which have more than the “villain of the week” vibe. This has the feel about being a long-term story, but one will have to wait and see.
