***Contains Spoilers***
The Forever People 1987 series attempted to bring Jack Kirby’s cosmic creations into a more contemporary setting, but it felt like an awkward blend of outdated concepts and uninspired storytelling. The story follows the titular team as they face a new era of threats, attempting to recapture the magic of their Fourth World origins. Unfortunately, the result is a plodding narrative that lacks the charm and grandeur of Kirby’s original vision.
What did I like? Well, the series does manage to highlight the Forever People’s unique group dynamic. It’s always interesting to see a team with such diverse powers and backgrounds trying to function as a unit. There are a couple of moments where the series touches on larger philosophical themes, reminiscent of the Fourth World, but these glimpses are fleeting.
Now, what didn’t work? Almost everything else. The writing feels disjointed, and the dialogue is stiff, lacking the heart and spark necessary to make me care about the characters. The art is serviceable at best, but it fails to evoke the awe-inspiring scale and creativity that should define a Fourth World story. The pacing drags, and the plot leans heavily on clichés, without any real innovation. Worst of all, the characters themselves feel flat—shadows of their former selves. Instead of a bold reinvention, this felt like a forgettable misfire.
In the end, I wouldn’t recommend this series. If you’re curious about the Forever People, you’re better off exploring Jack Kirby’s original run or even other Fourth World material. This series doesn’t add anything meaningful to the mythology, and it’s unlikely to leave much of an impression. 1 star. It’s not worth your time—skip it.
Feature Image The Forever People #2 cover art by Karl Kesel & Paris Cullins