Unpacking the Thrills of 2000 AD Prog 2445
The Enduring Legacy of 2000 AD
For decades, 2000 AD has served as a crucible for some of the most imaginative and challenging comic book narratives ever conceived. This weekly anthology has consistently pushed the boundaries of the medium, introducing readers to a pantheon of iconic characters and intricate worlds. From the dystopian streets of Mega-City One to the war-torn expanses of Nu Earth, the publication has established a reputation for its distinctive voice and uncompromising vision. The current Prog 2445 demonstrates this commitment perfectly, presenting a diverse lineup of stories that are all building toward climactic conclusions, showcasing the depth and interconnectedness of this unique comic universe. This issue serves as a perfect entry point for new readers while satisfying the long-term fans who have followed these sagas for years, proving why this comic has earned the title of 'The Galaxy's Greatest.' The intricate world-building, compelling character development, and consistently high-quality art establish a framework for storytelling that few other publications can match.
The creative teams behind these ongoing serials work in perfect synergy, creating narratives that are not just engaging but also thematically rich. The progression of these stories through the weekly format builds a sense of anticipation and investment that is difficult to replicate. This issue, in particular, highlights the creative synergy between writers and artists, bringing to life characters like Judge Dredd, Jason Ravilious, and the Genetic Infantrymen with an unparalleled level of detail and emotional weight. It's a testament to the talent assembled by the "Mighty Tharg" that each tale feels both distinct and essential to the broader tapestry of the comic's world. Readers discover new layers with every turn of the page, as each story contributes a unique flavor to the anthology, ensuring that the experience remains fresh and exciting week after week. The careful balance between long-running plotlines and self-contained stories is a hallmark of the publication’s success.
Mega-City Justice: The Intensity of Judge Dredd
In the sprawling urban dystopia of Mega-City One, where a staggering 250 million citizens live in a state of perpetual chaos, Judge Dredd is the singular force maintaining order. The current story, "Tunnels," plunges readers into the heart of a grim investigation, as Dredd navigates the treacherous Amazon jungle. This narrative diverges from the familiar concrete canyons of the city, placing the lawman in a foreign and hostile environment. Dredd's mission is to track a terrorist following a brutal attack on a Sector House, but the case quickly evolves into something far more sinister. The comic panels vividly illustrate the aftermath, with bodies brutalized and appendages removed as trophies, suggesting the presence of a foe more feral than any human criminal. The chilling discovery that victims are being taken "for food" introduces a primitive, horrifying element to the urban-futuristic world, challenging Dredd's very concept of justice. The juxtaposition of advanced technology and primordial savagery forces Dredd to confront a new kind of evil, one that exists beyond the established statutes of Mega-City law.
The story also delves into the complex moralities that often define Dredd's character. He encounters a dying terrorist who, despite her past atrocities committed against the Judges, pleads for his help. This moment forces a difficult choice: does he uphold his relentless pursuit of justice, or does he exhibit a flicker of compassion in the face of death? The narrative expertly uses this tension to explore the deeper human questions that underpin the comic's futuristic setting. As Dredd follows the trail, he seeks "certainty" in a world of "maybes," a poignant reflection on his role as the ultimate enforcer of an absolute law. This narrative arc, in its seventh part, showcases the masterful writing of Rob Williams, who consistently finds new ways to explore the psychological and philosophical weight of being the law in a lawless world. The artwork, with its stark and visceral imagery, amplifies the sense of dread and danger, making every panel a powerful statement.
Demonic Deals and Gangland Power: The Ravilious Pact
"The Ravilious Pact" transports us to a modern-day London where the underworld is more than just a network of criminals; it is a nexus of human and demonic entities. The Boucher mob, a notorious gang, has built its criminal empire with the assistance of dark, supernatural forces. Jason Ravilious, a loyal enforcer, finds his world upended following the death of the mob's patriarch, Archie. Power transfers to Archie's volatile and unstable son, Todd, who quickly begins to unravel the delicate balance of power. Todd's impulsive and brutal actions, including executing a family member, reveal a dangerous new leadership style. The phrase "it means I've seen the future" uttered by Todd suggests that his descent into violence is not random but a calculated, if unhinged, attempt to secure his new position. This story explores themes of legacy, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power, both earthly and otherworldly. It’s a compelling look at how old pacts and new leadership can collide with explosive consequences. The demonic connection adds a layer of cosmic horror to the familiar gangster narrative, transforming it into a high-stakes struggle for survival.
A Data-Driven Dystopia: The World of Azimuth
The city of Azimuth is a data-driven metropolis where the very concepts of life and death are malleable. Ruled by an aristocracy of the New Flesh, its inhabitants can alter their physical forms with a thought, a testament to the city's advanced, yet unsettling, technology. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger named Ramone Dexter threatens to shatter this utopian facade. Are the citizens of Azimuth truly in control of their fluid forms, or are they merely puppets in a simulation designed by a malevolent AI? This story is a masterclass in science fiction, combining cyberpunk aesthetics with philosophical quandaries about identity and the soul. The striking visuals and the deep, thought-provoking narrative make Azimuth one of the most unique and unforgettable settings in the comic's long history.
Echoes of War: The Haunting Aftermath in Scarlet Traces
The late nineteenth-century England depicted in this story has survived the aliens’ devastating heat rays and war machines only to find itself navigating the grim aftermath. The Martians, ultimately defeated not by human might but by the planet’s microscopic viruses, left behind a legacy of destruction and a lingering sense of unease. The story picks up as humanity attempts to rebuild and comprehend the scale of the devastation. Yet, the presence of alien vestiges suggests that the war may not be truly over. This narrative, created by Ian Edginton and Disraeli, is a compelling piece of speculative fiction that explores themes of colonial aftermath, technological remnants, and the psychological scars left by a global conflict. The moody atmosphere and detailed art create a sense of history and gravitas, drawing readers into a world that feels both familiar and deeply alien. The story’s power lies in its ability to show that even in victory, humanity still bears the heavy weight of an incomprehensible war, and that the shadows of the past are never far behind.
Genetic Infantrymen and a Poisoned Planet: Nu Earth War Tales
Nu Earth itself is a hostile, toxic planet, its atmosphere rendered poisonous by the relentless war. In response, the Southers created the Genetic Infantrymen, soldiers biologically engineered to be immune to the pollutants. Rogue Trooper is one of these last surviving G.I.s, accompanied by his "biochip buddies"—the consciousness of his fallen comrades Helm, Gunnar, and Bagman, who are embedded in his gear. The current tale, "The Last Days of Fort Neuropa," adds another chapter to this epic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Mega-City One?
It is a massive, post-apocalyptic urban conurbation spanning the eastern seaboard of North America. Its high crime rates and overpopulation make it a perfect backdrop for stories about law, order, and anarchy. The city's sheer scale allows for endless storytelling possibilities and a diverse cast of citizens and villains.
How does a demonic pact influence the Boucher mob in "The Ravilious Pact"?
The Boucher mob's alliance with demonic entities provides them with an otherworldly advantage over their rivals. This supernatural aid likely gives them immense power, information, and a sense of invincibility. This dark partnership complicates their criminal activities, introducing a layer of mystical horror and making their actions far more dangerous than those of a typical gang. The pact’s influence drives the plot, particularly as Todd takes over and his erratic nature threatens to undo everything his father built.