“Those Left Behind Part 1 (of 3)”

Written by: Joss Whedon and Brett Mathews

Penciller: Will Conrad

Colorist: Laura Martin

It is very difficult to turn a tv show (or film) into a different medium (such as books or comic) and maintain the same feel. Much of the time, it feels like it’s a parallel universe because something is missing.

I’m happy to say that Those Left Behind does a great job of maintaining the feel. I only wish it had been longer. I would guess that by the end of #3 we’ll have enough for a full episode of the show or so, but that only makes me wish for an ongoing title rather than a limited series.

Having the miniseries being written by creator Joss Whedon certainly doesn’t hurt.

Opening on Constance, we see Shepherd Book giving a sermon. Quickly enough we realize that the sermon is serving as a distraction for Mal and company to run a heist.

Only problem is that someone got there first. There is a classic Firefly standoff, with some snappy dialogue and of course the requisite action sequence — easier done in comics than on the television.

Unfortunately, the other crew gets the money and Mal is left holding nothing. Frankly it’s all standard Fireflay fare…

Which of course means it’s all high quality.

The best part of the issue is the ending where we see The Men of Blue return.

The story, while seemingly not too important is a fun ride and the artwork is decent enough to invoke the series.

B+

Next – #2 of 3