The Actual Roger #1 (Comics) Review

Founded in 2006 by current president and publisher Peter Simeti, Alterna Comics titles are distributed  worldwide in print and digital formats and in several languages.  In January 2011, Alterna’s FUBAR Vol. 2 reached #6 on the New York Times Best Selling Graphic Books list.  Alterna looks to have another hit on its hands with The Actual Roger.

The Actual Roger, by Hank Tucker, is the story of Roger Beaman, a boy who can fly a few feet off the ground.  Roger is at a point in his life which we all arrive at:  the giving up of “childish” things.  In Roger’s case, he gave up comic books and worshiping super-heroes (who are real in this universe).  Tucker does a great job of writing these scenes of the time between being a boy and being an adult.  The author makes a statement about how, as adults, imagination begins to disappear.  Roger just wasn’t into super-heroes anymore.  Until he became one.

The falling star/comet/meteor bit that gives a person super powers has been done to death, but here, it works.  The object that gives Roger his powers also gives his friend Clay powers as well.  But the government agency that comes for Roger doesn’t want Clay, who simply turns to dirt.  Things in the story are meant to be kept simple, almost child-like. Roger’s parents are kind and understanding.  They don’t quite know what’s going on, but support Roger 100%.

Hank’s art suits the script nicely.  The art reminds me of Don Simpson’s Megaton Man (which is a good thing).  Sixties-era comics are a clear influence, as with the heroes fighting the giant monster in the beginning of the story.

Final Thoughts

The Actual Roger is a funny, heart-warming (!), and just plain entertaining read.  If you like comics like Megaton Man (or any comic book satire) you will love this book.