[Editor’s note: We reviewed the preview of this comic back in June, but now that it’s out and we had a chance to give it another read, it definitely seemed deserving of our attention again… and yours!]

Image Comics; $3.50

On the surface, so to speak, if the idea of a comic book series set in and around a bunch of caves in Kentucky doesn’t sound like a blockbuster, you need to reconsider it and place your order for Underground #1 right now.

As regular Scoop readers have no doubt noticed, we’re huge fans of writer Jeff Parker’s take on the 1950s Atlas (Marvel Comics’ post-Timely, pre-Marvel incarnation) characters in Agents of Atlas. Likewise, we’ve long been enamored of the work of Eisner Award-winning artist Steve Lieber, particularly on such projects as Whiteout.

Underground is the story of Park Ranger and avid caver Wesley Fischer, who is on a one-woman mission to stop Stillwater Cave from being turned into a tourist trap. Things are complicated right from the get-go. Public opinion is not on her side. The local economy has been hit hard in recent years and the promised tourism for the site could have a very positive impact. Even her fellow rangers don’t seem to be fully on her side. When locals break into the caves and begin blasting, Wes and a fellow ranger investigate. There are dangerous consequences (of course, or it wouldn’t be much of a story…).

Parker has described the story as being about people who have been pushed into tight corners, both ethical and literal, and he’s right. While fans might know him from his adept handling of diverse superhero characters, they still might be surprise by the subtlety and suspense Underground #1 provides.

Neither Lieber’s facility with “normal” humans nor his status as a superb storytelling craftsman are anything new, but he seems to be exceptionally matched with Parker for this project. The characters seem real, the pace subtly ensnares you, and the project is filled with potential.

It’s not for the kids (harsh language and mature situations), but otherwise Underground #1 gets our top endorsement.