NAME
Black Hawk, Part 48
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 156
DATELINE
15 Mar 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Battak emerge from the latter's Vision and confront the Dream-Weaver.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last appearance of Captain Psyko.
INFORMATION
None.
BLACK HAWK
Trapped in Battak's vision, he reminds the Baskiri of the claw he broke in the real world and the vision fades. Black Hawk fight and kills Psyko and the Dream-Weaver with Bloodblade. His appearance is becoming more twisted by the day.
OTHER CHARACTERS
CAPTAIN PSYKO
The Dream-Weaver commands him to attack Black Hawk.
THE DREAM-WEAVER
She commands Psyko to attack Black Hawk. The gladiator kills her with Bloodblade.
DEATHS
Two. Black Hawk kills Psyko and the Dream-Weaver with Bloodblade.
BEST LINES
Black Hawk: "Victory is yours, Battak - but Bloodblade hungers still!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
The Dream-Weaver screams an "Aaaaiieee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
The Dream-Weaver is dispatched very quickly and the effects on Black Hawk manifest equally fast, perhaps too quickly.
Next Prog: Meanwhile, Back In The Great Beast's Castle...
Sunday, 31 August 2014
Saturday, 30 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 47
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 47
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 155
DATELINE
8 Mar 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk dreams Battak's dream.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First real insight into Battak's past.
INFORMATION
The Baskiri are from the planet Zio. They grow from larvae, live in vast insectoid hives and are lead by a hive-master.
BLACK HAWK
He eats fungi from the Garden of the Dream-weaver and has another vision. He experiences Battak's vision.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
He is a Baskiri from the planet Zio. He has a vision that he is the hive-master of Zio, within the vision he has forgotten Black Hawk.
THE DREAM-WEAVER
She gives Black Hawk Battak's vision and gives Psyko peace in exchange for obedience.
CAPTAIN PSYKO
The Dream-Weaver gives him a sense of peace.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This is better. Black Hawk in Battak's head is a great idea and Zio is brilliantly realised. Somehow knowing this is an illusion robs it of any peril, despite the threat to Black Hawk. Seeing the gladiator of Zio is far more interesting than seeing him of Silversun.
Next Prog: Claws Of Freedom!
Black Hawk, Part 47
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 155
DATELINE
8 Mar 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk dreams Battak's dream.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First real insight into Battak's past.
INFORMATION
The Baskiri are from the planet Zio. They grow from larvae, live in vast insectoid hives and are lead by a hive-master.
BLACK HAWK
He eats fungi from the Garden of the Dream-weaver and has another vision. He experiences Battak's vision.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
He is a Baskiri from the planet Zio. He has a vision that he is the hive-master of Zio, within the vision he has forgotten Black Hawk.
THE DREAM-WEAVER
She gives Black Hawk Battak's vision and gives Psyko peace in exchange for obedience.
CAPTAIN PSYKO
The Dream-Weaver gives him a sense of peace.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This is better. Black Hawk in Battak's head is a great idea and Zio is brilliantly realised. Somehow knowing this is an illusion robs it of any peril, despite the threat to Black Hawk. Seeing the gladiator of Zio is far more interesting than seeing him of Silversun.
Next Prog: Claws Of Freedom!
Friday, 29 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 46
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 46
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 154
DATELINE
1 Mar 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk has visions in the Garden of the Dreamweaver.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last appearance of Nero.
INFORMATION
The forest of the giant fungi is known as the Garden of the Dreamweaver.
BLACK HAWK
In the Garden of the Dreamweaver, he has a vision of being back in the Roman arena. He has a vision of Sebek, who bites his arm. When he awakes, his arms are bleeding.
OTHER CHARACTERS
CAPTAIN PSYKO
He is unaffected by visions in the Garden of the Dreamweaver.
URSA
He appears in Black Hawk's vision of the Roman arena.
ZOG
He appears in Black Hawk's vision of the Roman arena.
DEATHS
None. In reality, that is. In Black Hawk's visions he kills three Romans and Sebek, the crocodile god.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk exclaims "Sebek's bones!" and an illusory Roman screams "Aieeee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Nero makes a cameo in Black Hawk's first vison.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
A retiarius is a fighter armed with a net.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
Ursa and Zog in Rome? Black Hawk versus Sebek himself? The visions are great and the artwork is wonderful.
Next Prog: Do Aliens Dream Of Being Eaten Alive?
Black Hawk, Part 46
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 154
DATELINE
1 Mar 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk has visions in the Garden of the Dreamweaver.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last appearance of Nero.
INFORMATION
The forest of the giant fungi is known as the Garden of the Dreamweaver.
BLACK HAWK
In the Garden of the Dreamweaver, he has a vision of being back in the Roman arena. He has a vision of Sebek, who bites his arm. When he awakes, his arms are bleeding.
OTHER CHARACTERS
CAPTAIN PSYKO
He is unaffected by visions in the Garden of the Dreamweaver.
URSA
He appears in Black Hawk's vision of the Roman arena.
ZOG
He appears in Black Hawk's vision of the Roman arena.
DEATHS
None. In reality, that is. In Black Hawk's visions he kills three Romans and Sebek, the crocodile god.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk exclaims "Sebek's bones!" and an illusory Roman screams "Aieeee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Nero makes a cameo in Black Hawk's first vison.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
A retiarius is a fighter armed with a net.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
Ursa and Zog in Rome? Black Hawk versus Sebek himself? The visions are great and the artwork is wonderful.
Next Prog: Do Aliens Dream Of Being Eaten Alive?
Thursday, 28 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 45
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 45
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 152
DATELINE
23 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk is freed and joins forces with his captor.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
On Silversun there is a forest of giant fungi.
BLACK HAWK
He has been captured by Captain Psyko. He is bound and whipped. When Kur tries to save him he uses the opportunity of a distraction to get free. He realises the Psyko is another victim of the Soul-Sucker. Black Hawk and Psyko ride to the forest of giant fungi. When Kur refuses to go in, they go in on foot.
OTHER CHARACTERS
THE KUR BEAST
He recognises Black Hawk's voice. He leaps out of the pit he was trapped in and tramples one of Psyko's men, kicks another and impales a third on his horn. It fears the forest of giant fungi.
CAPTAIN PSYKO
He and Black Hawk ride to the forest of giant fungi.
DEATHS
At least three. Kur kills Psyko's men, one is trampled, another is kicked to death, while the third is impaled.
BEST LINES
Captain Psyko: "Aye, torture me! You will soon come to love the sound of pain - the way only a man without a soul can!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
One of the men Kur kicks screams an "Aaaaiiieee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
The depiction of Captain Psyko's metamorphosis is fantastic. Black Hawk and Psyko could be an interesting double act, but it all comes together a little too easily here.
Next Prog: Morituri Te Zog!
Black Hawk, Part 45
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 152
DATELINE
23 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk is freed and joins forces with his captor.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
On Silversun there is a forest of giant fungi.
BLACK HAWK
He has been captured by Captain Psyko. He is bound and whipped. When Kur tries to save him he uses the opportunity of a distraction to get free. He realises the Psyko is another victim of the Soul-Sucker. Black Hawk and Psyko ride to the forest of giant fungi. When Kur refuses to go in, they go in on foot.
OTHER CHARACTERS
THE KUR BEAST
He recognises Black Hawk's voice. He leaps out of the pit he was trapped in and tramples one of Psyko's men, kicks another and impales a third on his horn. It fears the forest of giant fungi.
CAPTAIN PSYKO
He and Black Hawk ride to the forest of giant fungi.
DEATHS
At least three. Kur kills Psyko's men, one is trampled, another is kicked to death, while the third is impaled.
BEST LINES
Captain Psyko: "Aye, torture me! You will soon come to love the sound of pain - the way only a man without a soul can!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
One of the men Kur kicks screams an "Aaaaiiieee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
The depiction of Captain Psyko's metamorphosis is fantastic. Black Hawk and Psyko could be an interesting double act, but it all comes together a little too easily here.
Next Prog: Morituri Te Zog!
Wednesday, 27 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 44
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 44
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 151
DATELINE
16 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk goes looking for his soul solo.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First letters by Tony Jacob, last letters by Tony Jacob.
INFORMATION
Silversun is affected by very severe storms.
BLACK HAWK
He ventures out into the storm on Kur. He is captured by pirates.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Following the Great Beast's death, Ursa plays a trick on everyone with its corpse. When the lock jams Ursa breaks the door open.
ZOG
He falls for Ursa's corpse-related practical joke.
KUR
He has no need of eyes to see.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "We follow you when weather-god feel better. You not get into trouble till we come, heh?"
WORST LINES
Black Hawk: "A horse is but a horse!"
Then walk.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog tells us his name eight times. Ursa Chop-chops once and Black Hawk says "Sebek's Blood" once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The BBs are referred to here as the B.B.S. as if they were an acronym.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Tony Jacob
REVIEW
This part gives Black Hawk back his mission, but it isolates him in quite an awkward way.
Next Prog: Trial By Nature
Black Hawk, Part 44
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 151
DATELINE
16 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk goes looking for his soul solo.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First letters by Tony Jacob, last letters by Tony Jacob.
INFORMATION
Silversun is affected by very severe storms.
BLACK HAWK
He ventures out into the storm on Kur. He is captured by pirates.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Following the Great Beast's death, Ursa plays a trick on everyone with its corpse. When the lock jams Ursa breaks the door open.
ZOG
He falls for Ursa's corpse-related practical joke.
KUR
He has no need of eyes to see.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "We follow you when weather-god feel better. You not get into trouble till we come, heh?"
WORST LINES
Black Hawk: "A horse is but a horse!"
Then walk.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog tells us his name eight times. Ursa Chop-chops once and Black Hawk says "Sebek's Blood" once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The BBs are referred to here as the B.B.S. as if they were an acronym.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Tony Jacob
REVIEW
This part gives Black Hawk back his mission, but it isolates him in quite an awkward way.
Next Prog: Trial By Nature
Tuesday, 26 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 43
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 43
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 151
DATELINE
9 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk defeats the Great Beast, but misses out on retrieving his soul.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last appearance of the Great Beast.
INFORMATION
Even after death, the Great Beast has power over Silversun.
BLACK HAWK
The Bloodblade absorbs his life, until Ursa and Zog distract the Great Beast and life energy begins to return to Black Hawk. He confront the Great Beast, who attacks, but Black Hawk uses Bloodblade on him.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He and Zog distract the Great Beast.
ZOG
He and Ursa distract the Great Beast.
THE GREAT BEAST
He attempts to absorb Black Hawk's life, but Zog and Ursa distract him. When Black Hawk confronts him he attacks. Black Hawk impales him with the Bloodblade and it absorbs his life. His last command to his forces is to hide the alien soul sucker from Black Hawk.
DEATHS
One. Black Hawk uses the Bloodblade to absorb the Great Beast's life.
BEST LINES
Great Beast: "I will rip you apart with my own claws!"
Black Hawk (whilst stabbing): "You will nothing!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says "Zog" three times and Ursa "Chop-chop" once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The Next Prog caption (below) mis-misspells Psyko as Psycho.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
The decaying Black Hawk, the deceased Great Beast and the return of the alien soul sucker are all brilliant.
Next Prog: Return Of Captain Psycho!
Black Hawk, Part 43
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 151
DATELINE
9 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk defeats the Great Beast, but misses out on retrieving his soul.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last appearance of the Great Beast.
INFORMATION
Even after death, the Great Beast has power over Silversun.
BLACK HAWK
The Bloodblade absorbs his life, until Ursa and Zog distract the Great Beast and life energy begins to return to Black Hawk. He confront the Great Beast, who attacks, but Black Hawk uses Bloodblade on him.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He and Zog distract the Great Beast.
ZOG
He and Ursa distract the Great Beast.
THE GREAT BEAST
He attempts to absorb Black Hawk's life, but Zog and Ursa distract him. When Black Hawk confronts him he attacks. Black Hawk impales him with the Bloodblade and it absorbs his life. His last command to his forces is to hide the alien soul sucker from Black Hawk.
DEATHS
One. Black Hawk uses the Bloodblade to absorb the Great Beast's life.
BEST LINES
Great Beast: "I will rip you apart with my own claws!"
Black Hawk (whilst stabbing): "You will nothing!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says "Zog" three times and Ursa "Chop-chop" once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The Next Prog caption (below) mis-misspells Psyko as Psycho.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
The decaying Black Hawk, the deceased Great Beast and the return of the alien soul sucker are all brilliant.
Next Prog: Return Of Captain Psycho!
Monday, 25 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 42
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 42
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 150
DATELINE
2 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
The armies clash and Black Hawk confronts the Great Beast.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
The Bloodblade absorbs the energy of those it kills.
BLACK HAWK
He wields the Bloodblade in battle. He leaves Ursa, Zog and the BBs in order to regain his soul. He confronts the Great Beast who command Bloodblade to absorbs Black Hawk's life. He withers.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He fights in the battle against the Great Beast's forces.
ZOG
He fights in the battle against the Great Beast's forces.
KUR
It is very fast, but does not take instruction well.
DEATHS
Hundreds. Black Hawk kills at least two of the Great Beast's minions with the Bloodblade. The BBs are slaughtered by the Great Beast's forces.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "Him can say Zog and Zog and Zog! And Zog? And Zog Zog!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk screams an "aiee!", exclaims "Sebek's bones!" and "For Sebek's sake". Ursa says Zog's name six times each with different intention (see BEST LINES above), while he himself says it twice. Ursa says "Chop-chop" once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The white around the jagged edge of the comedy SMAASH! sound effect over Black Hawk and Kur's crash into the wall is unfortunate.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Another great instalment, but Black Hawk leaves his friends on the battlefield very easily. The last three panels of Black Hawk being diminished by the Bloodblade are fantastic.
Next Prog: The Triumph...And The Torture!
Black Hawk, Part 42
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 150
DATELINE
2 Feb 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
The armies clash and Black Hawk confronts the Great Beast.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
The Bloodblade absorbs the energy of those it kills.
BLACK HAWK
He wields the Bloodblade in battle. He leaves Ursa, Zog and the BBs in order to regain his soul. He confronts the Great Beast who command Bloodblade to absorbs Black Hawk's life. He withers.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He fights in the battle against the Great Beast's forces.
ZOG
He fights in the battle against the Great Beast's forces.
KUR
It is very fast, but does not take instruction well.
DEATHS
Hundreds. Black Hawk kills at least two of the Great Beast's minions with the Bloodblade. The BBs are slaughtered by the Great Beast's forces.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "Him can say Zog and Zog and Zog! And Zog? And Zog Zog!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk screams an "aiee!", exclaims "Sebek's bones!" and "For Sebek's sake". Ursa says Zog's name six times each with different intention (see BEST LINES above), while he himself says it twice. Ursa says "Chop-chop" once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The white around the jagged edge of the comedy SMAASH! sound effect over Black Hawk and Kur's crash into the wall is unfortunate.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Another great instalment, but Black Hawk leaves his friends on the battlefield very easily. The last three panels of Black Hawk being diminished by the Bloodblade are fantastic.
Next Prog: The Triumph...And The Torture!
Sunday, 24 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 41
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 41
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 149
DATELINE
26 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk retrieves Bloodblade and sets out attack the Great Beast.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Kur.
INFORMATION
The inside of the Slave-Mound breaks the laws of physics.
Horses on Silversun have a horn in the centre of their foreheads, clawed feet instead of hooves and a pointed fleshy tail.
BLACK HAWK
He discovers Bloodblade with the Slave-Mound, but realises that it is a trap. When Zog springs it, Black Hawk fights the demon. He chops its hand off and steals Bloodblade before another can reform.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He accompanies Black Hawk and Zog into the Slave-Mound.
ZOG
He accompanies Black Hawk and Ursa into the Slave-Mound and springs the trap that causes the demon attack.
BB
He gives Kur to Black Hawk.
KUR
A horse given to Black Hawk by BB.
DEATHS
One. Black Hawk kills the demon guarding the Bloodblade.
BEST LINES
"Zog!" as shouted by the BB's is great.
WORST LINES
Black Hawk: "Another hand - and this time it's larger!...But this time it will not form! Blackhawk will not allow it!"
It's as easy as that.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Sebek's blood!" and "Chop-chop". Zog says his name four times, while an army of BB's say it once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This is great fun, but Bloodblade is far easier to acquire than expected.
Next Prog: War!
Black Hawk, Part 41
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 149
DATELINE
26 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk retrieves Bloodblade and sets out attack the Great Beast.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Kur.
INFORMATION
The inside of the Slave-Mound breaks the laws of physics.
Horses on Silversun have a horn in the centre of their foreheads, clawed feet instead of hooves and a pointed fleshy tail.
BLACK HAWK
He discovers Bloodblade with the Slave-Mound, but realises that it is a trap. When Zog springs it, Black Hawk fights the demon. He chops its hand off and steals Bloodblade before another can reform.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He accompanies Black Hawk and Zog into the Slave-Mound.
ZOG
He accompanies Black Hawk and Ursa into the Slave-Mound and springs the trap that causes the demon attack.
BB
He gives Kur to Black Hawk.
KUR
A horse given to Black Hawk by BB.
DEATHS
One. Black Hawk kills the demon guarding the Bloodblade.
BEST LINES
"Zog!" as shouted by the BB's is great.
WORST LINES
Black Hawk: "Another hand - and this time it's larger!...But this time it will not form! Blackhawk will not allow it!"
It's as easy as that.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Sebek's blood!" and "Chop-chop". Zog says his name four times, while an army of BB's say it once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This is great fun, but Bloodblade is far easier to acquire than expected.
Next Prog: War!
Saturday, 23 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 40
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 40
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 148
DATELINE
19 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk and BB free Ursa, Zog, Battak and the other BB's, kill the Great Beast's slaves and discover the wherabout of the Bloodblade.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
The Bloodblade lies at the top of Slave-Mound.
BLACK HAWK
He frees Ursa, Zog and Battak. Black Hawk leads the attack on the Great Beast's slaves and interrogates one to discover the location of the Bloodblade.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Black Hawk frees him and he fights the Great Beast's slaves.
ZOG
Black Hawk frees him and he fights the Great Beast's slaves.
BATTAK
Black Hawk frees him and he flees. He plans to find his own way off Silversun.
BB
He convinces his fellow BB to fight the Great Beast's slaves.
DEATHS
Could be hundreds. The Great Beast's slaves are killed in battle by Black Hawk, Ursa, Zog and the BB's.
BEST LINES
Slave: "Shut up! Food must not insult its masters!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name five times and the BB's copy him six times. Ursa says "Haar" and "Chop-chop" once each.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
This is far more exciting than the strip has been for a long while.
Next Prog: Behold...The Bloodblade!
Black Hawk, Part 40
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 148
DATELINE
19 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk and BB free Ursa, Zog, Battak and the other BB's, kill the Great Beast's slaves and discover the wherabout of the Bloodblade.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
The Bloodblade lies at the top of Slave-Mound.
BLACK HAWK
He frees Ursa, Zog and Battak. Black Hawk leads the attack on the Great Beast's slaves and interrogates one to discover the location of the Bloodblade.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Black Hawk frees him and he fights the Great Beast's slaves.
ZOG
Black Hawk frees him and he fights the Great Beast's slaves.
BATTAK
Black Hawk frees him and he flees. He plans to find his own way off Silversun.
BB
He convinces his fellow BB to fight the Great Beast's slaves.
DEATHS
Could be hundreds. The Great Beast's slaves are killed in battle by Black Hawk, Ursa, Zog and the BB's.
BEST LINES
Slave: "Shut up! Food must not insult its masters!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name five times and the BB's copy him six times. Ursa says "Haar" and "Chop-chop" once each.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
This is far more exciting than the strip has been for a long while.
Next Prog: Behold...The Bloodblade!
Friday, 22 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 39
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 39
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 147
DATELINE
12 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk avoids being eaten, befriends his captor and travels through a space-hole.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of BB.
INFORMATION
All vegetable life on Silversun is poisonous to the winged cave dwellers.
BLACK HAWK
He awakes underground to find himself tied to a spit over a fire. He escapes and captures BB. Black Hawk fights the Great Beast's slaves and then uses their space-hole. On the other side, he discovers Ursa, Zog and Battak about to be sacrificed.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BB
Member of the Great Beast's Food Division BB. He is whipped by one of the Great Beast's slaves. BB accompanies Black Hawk through the space-hole. On the other side, he discovers the rest of his division about to be sacrificed.
URSA
He is about to be sacrificed.
ZOG
He is about to be sacrificed.
BATTTAK
He is about to be sacrificed.
DEATHS
Probably none. The Great Beast's slave might be killed by Black Hawk, but the last one didn't die.
BEST LINES
Black Hawk (to BB): "You have courage, BB - and a spark of courage may yet prove to be worth a dozen swords!"
WORST LINES
Slave: "All right, Food Division BB - let's be havin' you!"
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk exclaims another "Sebek's blood!" and a "By Sebek". BB screams an "Aieee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Ba'al is a demon in many mythologies.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
This is intriguing.
Next Prog: Bat-Men And Zoggin'!
Black Hawk, Part 39
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 147
DATELINE
12 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk avoids being eaten, befriends his captor and travels through a space-hole.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of BB.
INFORMATION
All vegetable life on Silversun is poisonous to the winged cave dwellers.
BLACK HAWK
He awakes underground to find himself tied to a spit over a fire. He escapes and captures BB. Black Hawk fights the Great Beast's slaves and then uses their space-hole. On the other side, he discovers Ursa, Zog and Battak about to be sacrificed.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BB
Member of the Great Beast's Food Division BB. He is whipped by one of the Great Beast's slaves. BB accompanies Black Hawk through the space-hole. On the other side, he discovers the rest of his division about to be sacrificed.
URSA
He is about to be sacrificed.
ZOG
He is about to be sacrificed.
BATTTAK
He is about to be sacrificed.
DEATHS
Probably none. The Great Beast's slave might be killed by Black Hawk, but the last one didn't die.
BEST LINES
Black Hawk (to BB): "You have courage, BB - and a spark of courage may yet prove to be worth a dozen swords!"
WORST LINES
Slave: "All right, Food Division BB - let's be havin' you!"
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk exclaims another "Sebek's blood!" and a "By Sebek". BB screams an "Aieee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Ba'al is a demon in many mythologies.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
This is intriguing.
Next Prog: Bat-Men And Zoggin'!
Thursday, 21 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 38
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 38
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 146
DATELINE
5 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk and Battak fight Ursa and Zog.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Silversun is half a galaxy or more from Earth.
BLACK HAWK
When Ursa and Zog attack, he tries to defend himself. Ursa defeats him and he crawls to a nearby cave to take refuge. He is carried deeper underground by an army of tiny winged creatures.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
When Ursa and Zog attack, he fights back with his claws. Zog bludgeons him with his club.
URSA
He and Zog attack Black Hawk and Battak in a trance-like state. Following their fall through a time-hole, they are under the influence of the Great Beast.
ZOG
He and Ursa attack Black Hawk and Battak in a trance-like state. Following their fall through a time-hole, they are under the influence of the Great Beast.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "Then Beast magic us. Him say-"
Cuts to the chase.
WORST LINES
Ursa: "We better remember. This plenty important..."
CATCHPHRASES
In one panel we hear all three catchphrases of our heroes as Ursa threatens "Chop-Chop!", Black Hawk exclaims "Sebek's blood!" and Zog unsurprisingly says "Zog!". In total, Zog says his name seven times and Ursa Chop-Chops twice.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
The fight sequence is great and the flashback explains Ursa and Zog's surprise antipathy toward Black Hawk and Battak, but refreshingly they keep their personality and demeanour.
Next Prog: In The Hall Of The Mountain Things!
Black Hawk, Part 38
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 146
DATELINE
5 Jan 80
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk and Battak fight Ursa and Zog.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Silversun is half a galaxy or more from Earth.
BLACK HAWK
When Ursa and Zog attack, he tries to defend himself. Ursa defeats him and he crawls to a nearby cave to take refuge. He is carried deeper underground by an army of tiny winged creatures.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
When Ursa and Zog attack, he fights back with his claws. Zog bludgeons him with his club.
URSA
He and Zog attack Black Hawk and Battak in a trance-like state. Following their fall through a time-hole, they are under the influence of the Great Beast.
ZOG
He and Ursa attack Black Hawk and Battak in a trance-like state. Following their fall through a time-hole, they are under the influence of the Great Beast.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "Then Beast magic us. Him say-"
Cuts to the chase.
WORST LINES
Ursa: "We better remember. This plenty important..."
CATCHPHRASES
In one panel we hear all three catchphrases of our heroes as Ursa threatens "Chop-Chop!", Black Hawk exclaims "Sebek's blood!" and Zog unsurprisingly says "Zog!". In total, Zog says his name seven times and Ursa Chop-Chops twice.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
The fight sequence is great and the flashback explains Ursa and Zog's surprise antipathy toward Black Hawk and Battak, but refreshingly they keep their personality and demeanour.
Next Prog: In The Hall Of The Mountain Things!
Wednesday, 20 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 37
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 37
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 145
DATELINE
29 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk and Battak go in search of the Bloodblade.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last five page Black Hawk strip in 2000 AD.
INFORMATION
The Bloodblade is reputed to have great power.
BLACK HAWK
He thinks he has killed the Great Beast's servant with his sword.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
He sees Ursa and Zog from the air.
URSA
He and Zog see Battak flying overhead.
ZOG
He and Ursa see Battak flying overhead.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Black Hawk: "What is the purpose of this hunt, servant?"
Great Beast's Servant: "Lotsa nice things if you survive. If you don't...well, usually get to eat the bodies..."
WORST LINES
Ursa: "Come. Zog. We go see Battak. We teach him lesson, like Great Beast tell us!"
last minute exposition of something that we haven't seen happen?
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Sebek's blood!", Zog says his name once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Black Hawk mentions Emperor Nero.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
It's wonderful to see Black Hawk, Battak and Belardinelli back and this is better, but it seems as though the story has stalled somewhat.
Next Prog: Ursa And Zog Versus Blackhawk And Battak!
Black Hawk, Part 37
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 145
DATELINE
29 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk and Battak go in search of the Bloodblade.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last five page Black Hawk strip in 2000 AD.
INFORMATION
The Bloodblade is reputed to have great power.
BLACK HAWK
He thinks he has killed the Great Beast's servant with his sword.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
He sees Ursa and Zog from the air.
URSA
He and Zog see Battak flying overhead.
ZOG
He and Ursa see Battak flying overhead.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Black Hawk: "What is the purpose of this hunt, servant?"
Great Beast's Servant: "Lotsa nice things if you survive. If you don't...well, usually get to eat the bodies..."
WORST LINES
Ursa: "Come. Zog. We go see Battak. We teach him lesson, like Great Beast tell us!"
last minute exposition of something that we haven't seen happen?
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Sebek's blood!", Zog says his name once.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Black Hawk mentions Emperor Nero.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
It's wonderful to see Black Hawk, Battak and Belardinelli back and this is better, but it seems as though the story has stalled somewhat.
Next Prog: Ursa And Zog Versus Blackhawk And Battak!
Tuesday, 19 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 36
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 36
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 144
DATELINE
22 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Zog awakes and he and Ursa kill some hunters.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Macmac is very flammable.
BLACK HAWK
He is still missing.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He mourns Zog and is relieved when he discovers his friend is not dead. He kills a hunter. He and Zog fall into a hole.
ZOG
He's not dead. The Entertainers brainwarpers plasteen and steelex surgery has made him very resilient. He kills a hunter. He and Ursa fall into a hole.
DEATHS
Two. Ursa kills a hunter with his axe, Zog kills another with his club.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "We not fall in any hooooooooooooole!"
Zog: "Zog?"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name nine times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Sola
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This is better, but it's no Black Hawk.
Next Prog: The Hideous Hunt Begins!
Black Hawk, Part 36
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 144
DATELINE
22 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Zog awakes and he and Ursa kill some hunters.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Macmac is very flammable.
BLACK HAWK
He is still missing.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He mourns Zog and is relieved when he discovers his friend is not dead. He kills a hunter. He and Zog fall into a hole.
ZOG
He's not dead. The Entertainers brainwarpers plasteen and steelex surgery has made him very resilient. He kills a hunter. He and Ursa fall into a hole.
DEATHS
Two. Ursa kills a hunter with his axe, Zog kills another with his club.
BEST LINES
Ursa: "We not fall in any hooooooooooooole!"
Zog: "Zog?"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name nine times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Sola
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This is better, but it's no Black Hawk.
Next Prog: The Hideous Hunt Begins!
Monday, 18 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 35
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 35
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 143
DATELINE
15 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Ursa and Zog search for Black Hawk.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First episode not to feature Black Hawk.
INFORMATION
Silversun has a population of giant hunters.
BLACK HAWK
He is still missing.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He always carries a spare bottle of macmac. He and Zog search for Black Hawk. They drink macmac and fight some giant Silversun denizens.
ZOG
He and Ursa search for Black Hawk. They drink macmac and fight some giant Silversun denizens. He is beaten.
DEATHS
Maybe one. Zog might be dead, killed by a giant Silversun denizen.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
Ursa: "Ursa show you chop-chop!"
This could go horribly wrong.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his own name no less than 27 times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Ramon Sola
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Black Hawk without Black Hawk. The strip is definitely poorer for his absence.
Next Prog: Epitaph?
Black Hawk, Part 35
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 143
DATELINE
15 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Ursa and Zog search for Black Hawk.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First episode not to feature Black Hawk.
INFORMATION
Silversun has a population of giant hunters.
BLACK HAWK
He is still missing.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He always carries a spare bottle of macmac. He and Zog search for Black Hawk. They drink macmac and fight some giant Silversun denizens.
ZOG
He and Ursa search for Black Hawk. They drink macmac and fight some giant Silversun denizens. He is beaten.
DEATHS
Maybe one. Zog might be dead, killed by a giant Silversun denizen.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
Ursa: "Ursa show you chop-chop!"
This could go horribly wrong.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his own name no less than 27 times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Ramon Sola
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Black Hawk without Black Hawk. The strip is definitely poorer for his absence.
Next Prog: Epitaph?
Sunday, 17 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 34
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 34
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 142
DATELINE
8 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Battak meet the Great Beast.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
None.
BLACKHAWK
He and Battak are transported to the lair of the great beast. They attack the great beast.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA & ZOG
Ursa having found Zog, they search for Blackhawk.
BATTAK
He and Blackhawk are transported to the lair of the great beast. They attack the great beast.
THE D'JINN
Blackhawk attacks him to test whether his magic link works both ways.
THE GREAT BEAST
Dark lord of Silversun. Blackhawk's attack on the D'Jinn injures him. Blackhawk and Battak attack him and he retaliates with a smoke that saps their strength.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk says "What in the name of Sebek-?" and Zog shouts his name.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
There is a flashback to Blackhawk's duel with the Smiling Chukwalla.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
It really feels as though the strip is treading water here.
Next Prog: Enter The Triclone!
Black Hawk, Part 34
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 142
DATELINE
8 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Battak meet the Great Beast.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
None.
BLACKHAWK
He and Battak are transported to the lair of the great beast. They attack the great beast.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA & ZOG
Ursa having found Zog, they search for Blackhawk.
BATTAK
He and Blackhawk are transported to the lair of the great beast. They attack the great beast.
THE D'JINN
Blackhawk attacks him to test whether his magic link works both ways.
THE GREAT BEAST
Dark lord of Silversun. Blackhawk's attack on the D'Jinn injures him. Blackhawk and Battak attack him and he retaliates with a smoke that saps their strength.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk says "What in the name of Sebek-?" and Zog shouts his name.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
There is a flashback to Blackhawk's duel with the Smiling Chukwalla.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
It really feels as though the strip is treading water here.
Next Prog: Enter The Triclone!
Saturday, 16 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 33
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 33
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 141
DATELINE
1 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4 and a 1/2.
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and friends
FIRSTS & LASTS
First part to centre on a character other than Black Hawk.
INFORMATION
Battak's species mature in a hive.
BLACKHAWK
He worries for his lost soul. Battak pushes him off a cliff, but Blackhawk grabs the insect's foot.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
In the hive where he matured, they called him Battak the Merciless. Aboard the stadium, the called him Battak the killer. His death-dive only failed him once and he has vowed that it will never fail him again. He fights and eats a scavenger that attacks them. When Zog is kidnapped, Battak suggests abandoning him to his fate, but the others overrule him. While Ursa is rescuing Zog, Battak pushes Blackhawk off a cliff, but the human grabs the insect's foot.
ZOG
The scavengers kidnap him. Ursa finds him in a cave.
URSA
He finds Zog in a cave.
DEATHS
Two. Blackhawk and Battak kill one scavenger each.
BEST LINES
Zog: "Zog!"
Battak: "Zog yourself, dwarf!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "They have had enough! They turn tail - They flee!"
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name four times and thinks it once, Ursa says "Hokey-Dokey!" and "Yaar!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
It's nice to see things from Battak's perspective for a change, but somewhat sad that it is something of a necessity, since we are slowly losing our leading man.
Next Prog: In The Lair Of The Beast!
Black Hawk, Part 33
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 141
DATELINE
1 Dec 79
PAGE COUNT
4 and a 1/2.
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and friends
FIRSTS & LASTS
First part to centre on a character other than Black Hawk.
INFORMATION
Battak's species mature in a hive.
BLACKHAWK
He worries for his lost soul. Battak pushes him off a cliff, but Blackhawk grabs the insect's foot.
OTHER CHARACTERS
BATTAK
In the hive where he matured, they called him Battak the Merciless. Aboard the stadium, the called him Battak the killer. His death-dive only failed him once and he has vowed that it will never fail him again. He fights and eats a scavenger that attacks them. When Zog is kidnapped, Battak suggests abandoning him to his fate, but the others overrule him. While Ursa is rescuing Zog, Battak pushes Blackhawk off a cliff, but the human grabs the insect's foot.
ZOG
The scavengers kidnap him. Ursa finds him in a cave.
URSA
He finds Zog in a cave.
DEATHS
Two. Blackhawk and Battak kill one scavenger each.
BEST LINES
Zog: "Zog!"
Battak: "Zog yourself, dwarf!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "They have had enough! They turn tail - They flee!"
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name four times and thinks it once, Ursa says "Hokey-Dokey!" and "Yaar!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
It's nice to see things from Battak's perspective for a change, but somewhat sad that it is something of a necessity, since we are slowly losing our leading man.
Next Prog: In The Lair Of The Beast!
Friday, 15 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 32
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 32
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 140
DATELINE
25 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk, Ursa, Zog and Battak find themselves on the other side of a black hole.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First use of the "Warrior In Search Of His Soul!" tagline.
INFORMATION
Silversun is a world within the event horizon of a black hole where the normal physical laws do not apply.
BLACKHAWK
His eyes glow since the soul sucker's attack. They arrive on Silversun. The D'jinn's master offers him his soul.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
The D'jinn's master offers him a life of fighting, singing and drinking.
ZOG
The D'jinn's master offers him nothing.
BATTAK
He pilots the ship through a black hole and lands it on Silversun. The D'jinn's master offers him a release for the foul hatred which fills his mind.
THE D'JINN
Eternal slave of the Great One or Great Beast. He can change his size at will.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
D'Jinn: "Welcome to my aaarrgyyah!"
Zog: "Zog! Zog! Zog!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name five times, Battak says "By the hive of my ancestors!" again, Ursa says "Yaar!" twice and "Hokey-dokey!" once, while Blackhawk swears "Sebek's Blood!" and "By the Nile!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
Battak says "we stand on soli ground", instead of solid ground.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Blackhawk gains his freedom, but loses his soul. And so the strip takes on yet another dynamic and one that should jar far more than it does.
Next Prog: Fly High...Die High!
Black Hawk, Part 32
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 140
DATELINE
25 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk, Ursa, Zog and Battak find themselves on the other side of a black hole.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First use of the "Warrior In Search Of His Soul!" tagline.
INFORMATION
Silversun is a world within the event horizon of a black hole where the normal physical laws do not apply.
BLACKHAWK
His eyes glow since the soul sucker's attack. They arrive on Silversun. The D'jinn's master offers him his soul.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
The D'jinn's master offers him a life of fighting, singing and drinking.
ZOG
The D'jinn's master offers him nothing.
BATTAK
He pilots the ship through a black hole and lands it on Silversun. The D'jinn's master offers him a release for the foul hatred which fills his mind.
THE D'JINN
Eternal slave of the Great One or Great Beast. He can change his size at will.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
D'Jinn: "Welcome to my aaarrgyyah!"
Zog: "Zog! Zog! Zog!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Zog says his name five times, Battak says "By the hive of my ancestors!" again, Ursa says "Yaar!" twice and "Hokey-dokey!" once, while Blackhawk swears "Sebek's Blood!" and "By the Nile!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
Battak says "we stand on soli ground", instead of solid ground.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Blackhawk gains his freedom, but loses his soul. And so the strip takes on yet another dynamic and one that should jar far more than it does.
Next Prog: Fly High...Die High!
Thursday, 14 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 31
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 31
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 139
DATELINE
17 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Ursa and Zog rescue Blackhawk and Battak.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last use of the "Once A Roman Centurion - Now Gladiator In A Savage Alien Arena!" tagline, last appearance of Stadium and the Director.
INFORMATION
A Freezee an energy weapon that substantially lowers the temperature of its target.
BLACKHAWK
Ursa rescues him from the soul sucker.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He releases Zog and thaws him out after he is frozen with a freezee. He rescues Blackhawk from the soul sucker and forces Battak to pilot their escape craft.
ZOG
He is frozen by a pirates Freezee and thawed by Ursa.
THE DIRECTOR
Zog kills him.
BATTA
He can fly a scout craft. Ursa wakes him up to pilot their escape craft. They are dragged into a black hole
DEATHS
Dozens. Ursa and Zog kill swathes of pirates. Zog kills the Director.
BEST LINES
Zog: "Zog! Zog! Zog!"
Director: "No, Zog! It is me - your directaaargh!"
Ursa: "Ho well, everybody get chop-chop in the end!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Ursa says "Hokey-Dokey" once, "Chop-chop" twice and sings his usual verse twice. Zog says his name eight times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Another great shot in the arm for the strip. Zog versus the pirates is great, but Zog versus the Director is brilliant. It's already obvious that the friendship between Ursa and Zog is going to be a great asset.
Next Prog: Silversun...the world beyond!
Black Hawk, Part 31
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 139
DATELINE
17 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Ursa and Zog rescue Blackhawk and Battak.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last use of the "Once A Roman Centurion - Now Gladiator In A Savage Alien Arena!" tagline, last appearance of Stadium and the Director.
INFORMATION
A Freezee an energy weapon that substantially lowers the temperature of its target.
BLACKHAWK
Ursa rescues him from the soul sucker.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He releases Zog and thaws him out after he is frozen with a freezee. He rescues Blackhawk from the soul sucker and forces Battak to pilot their escape craft.
ZOG
He is frozen by a pirates Freezee and thawed by Ursa.
THE DIRECTOR
Zog kills him.
BATTA
He can fly a scout craft. Ursa wakes him up to pilot their escape craft. They are dragged into a black hole
DEATHS
Dozens. Ursa and Zog kill swathes of pirates. Zog kills the Director.
BEST LINES
Zog: "Zog! Zog! Zog!"
Director: "No, Zog! It is me - your directaaargh!"
Ursa: "Ho well, everybody get chop-chop in the end!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Ursa says "Hokey-Dokey" once, "Chop-chop" twice and sings his usual verse twice. Zog says his name eight times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Another great shot in the arm for the strip. Zog versus the pirates is great, but Zog versus the Director is brilliant. It's already obvious that the friendship between Ursa and Zog is going to be a great asset.
Next Prog: Silversun...the world beyond!
Wednesday, 13 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 30
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 30
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 138
DATELINE
10 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
The space pirates attack Stadium.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
A Soul Sucker is a creature with at least eight tentacles that eats from live food.
BLACKHAWK
He fights the space pirates, but to no avail. The Director orders that he and Ursa release Zog. Blackhawk is captured and given to the Soul Sucker.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He fights the space pirates, but to no avail. The Director orders that he and Blackhawk release Zog. Blackhawk hold off the enemy as Ursa attempts free Zog.
CAPTAIN PSYKO
Space pirate captain subordinate to the soul sucker. His temperament varies wildly. He may have tortured a Gronk. He leads the attack on Stadium.
ZOG
The Director orders that Blackhawk and Ursa release him to fight the space pirates.
DEATHS
It's not explicit, but it appears the gladiators are all killed with the exception of Blackhawk, Ursa and Zog.
BEST LINES
Psyko: "I'm bleeding! This really is too much!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Sebek's Blood!", "Demon's Blood!". Ursa says "Chop-chop" twice
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Captain Psyko has apparently tortured a Gronk. The Gronk appeared in Strontium Dog. Plasteen is a substance that will appear in Judge Dredd, notably in The Great Plasteen Disaster.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Steve Potter
REVIEW
This is far more interesting. Blackhawk and the Director on the same side. Zog to the rescue.
Next Prog: The End Is Night!
Black Hawk, Part 30
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 138
DATELINE
10 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
The space pirates attack Stadium.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
A Soul Sucker is a creature with at least eight tentacles that eats from live food.
BLACKHAWK
He fights the space pirates, but to no avail. The Director orders that he and Ursa release Zog. Blackhawk is captured and given to the Soul Sucker.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He fights the space pirates, but to no avail. The Director orders that he and Blackhawk release Zog. Blackhawk hold off the enemy as Ursa attempts free Zog.
CAPTAIN PSYKO
Space pirate captain subordinate to the soul sucker. His temperament varies wildly. He may have tortured a Gronk. He leads the attack on Stadium.
ZOG
The Director orders that Blackhawk and Ursa release him to fight the space pirates.
DEATHS
It's not explicit, but it appears the gladiators are all killed with the exception of Blackhawk, Ursa and Zog.
BEST LINES
Psyko: "I'm bleeding! This really is too much!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Sebek's Blood!", "Demon's Blood!". Ursa says "Chop-chop" twice
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Captain Psyko has apparently tortured a Gronk. The Gronk appeared in Strontium Dog. Plasteen is a substance that will appear in Judge Dredd, notably in The Great Plasteen Disaster.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Steve Potter
REVIEW
This is far more interesting. Blackhawk and the Director on the same side. Zog to the rescue.
Next Prog: The End Is Night!
Tuesday, 12 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 29
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 29
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 137
DATELINE
3 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Ursa make an escape attempt.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Sector XL-5 is the territory used by a group of space pirates.
BLACKHAWK
He and Ursa attempt to escape to a scout craft. They destroy six drones and an automated door. They get as far as a scout craft which neither of them can fly. The Director plans to tie them to the hull.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He prays for a sign from his God to see if he should attempt to escape, Blackhawk provides it. They get as far as a scout craft which neither of them can fly. The Director plans to tie them to the hull.
THE DIRECTOR
He watches Blackhawk and Ursa's escape attempt and catches them in the scout craft. He goes to the aid of a cargo craft under attack by space pirates, but it is an ambush.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "Come then - make the craft fly"
Ursa: "Ursa not know how! Blackhawk fly it, hokey-dokey?"
Blackhawk: "Are you crazy, Bear? How could I know how to make it fly? I thought you-"
Ursa: "No. Ursa see Sky-Bot one time. But never been in one!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk says "If the entertainers catch us, Sebek alone knows what they'll do!", and later "Jackal's Blood!", "By the sacred jackal!" and "By the dark gods". Ursa sings again: "My axe he chop with crunching thud he has been spilling plenty blood!" and "We fight and then we fight some more my friend he chop-chop talking door!", he also screams an "Aiee!".
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
The Director mentions the Oracle computer from Part 26.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Sector XL-5 shares its designation with Fireball XL5, a Supermarionation TV series that was first broadcast between 1962 and 1963.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
This part is full of great moments. Of all the fantastical things Blackhawk has seen it is a talking door which surprises him most. Blackhawk and Ursa both assuming that the other can fly a "sky-boat" and the Director being out ambushed by the space pirates. The opening sequence of Blackhawk tricking Ursa into escaping with him could do with being a bit clearer, but overall Blackhawk and Ursa as The Odd Couple is a rich seam.
Next Prog: Meet Captain Psyko And His Bully-Boys!
Black Hawk, Part 29
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 137
DATELINE
3 Nov 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Ursa make an escape attempt.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Sector XL-5 is the territory used by a group of space pirates.
BLACKHAWK
He and Ursa attempt to escape to a scout craft. They destroy six drones and an automated door. They get as far as a scout craft which neither of them can fly. The Director plans to tie them to the hull.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He prays for a sign from his God to see if he should attempt to escape, Blackhawk provides it. They get as far as a scout craft which neither of them can fly. The Director plans to tie them to the hull.
THE DIRECTOR
He watches Blackhawk and Ursa's escape attempt and catches them in the scout craft. He goes to the aid of a cargo craft under attack by space pirates, but it is an ambush.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "Come then - make the craft fly"
Ursa: "Ursa not know how! Blackhawk fly it, hokey-dokey?"
Blackhawk: "Are you crazy, Bear? How could I know how to make it fly? I thought you-"
Ursa: "No. Ursa see Sky-Bot one time. But never been in one!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk says "If the entertainers catch us, Sebek alone knows what they'll do!", and later "Jackal's Blood!", "By the sacred jackal!" and "By the dark gods". Ursa sings again: "My axe he chop with crunching thud he has been spilling plenty blood!" and "We fight and then we fight some more my friend he chop-chop talking door!", he also screams an "Aiee!".
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
The Director mentions the Oracle computer from Part 26.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Sector XL-5 shares its designation with Fireball XL5, a Supermarionation TV series that was first broadcast between 1962 and 1963.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
This part is full of great moments. Of all the fantastical things Blackhawk has seen it is a talking door which surprises him most. Blackhawk and Ursa both assuming that the other can fly a "sky-boat" and the Director being out ambushed by the space pirates. The opening sequence of Blackhawk tricking Ursa into escaping with him could do with being a bit clearer, but overall Blackhawk and Ursa as The Odd Couple is a rich seam.
Next Prog: Meet Captain Psyko And His Bully-Boys!
Monday, 11 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 28
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 28
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 136
DATELINE
27 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Laddo fight a Maloid. Blackhawk survives.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Malo is a planet in the Persol system. Its dominant species is the Maloid, they have an avian head, three arms with pincers and spines, four legs, a shell on their backs and make a terrible stench. They are self-regenerating
BLACKHAWK
He and Ursa save Laddo from a Snikka tree. Blackhawk signs his name with an X. He fights and kills the Maloid champion, but the creature's limb regenerate and fight independently. Blackhawk fights on, but is overcome. Laddo attempts to assist him, but is attacked himself. Blackhawk tries to help Laddo, but the Director activates his Tork-band to prevent him.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He and Blackhawk save Laddo from a Snikka tree.
LADDO
He draws a picture of Blackhawk and asks him to autograph it. Blackhawk is his hero and he refers to him as Lord Blackhawk. Blackhawk and Ursa save him from a Snikka tree.
DEATHS
At least one. Laddo is killed by the Maloid. The Maloid is "controlled", but it's not clear if it's killed.
BEST LINES
Maloid supporter: "Khordle Claisa! Khordle!"
Laddo: "Shut up your swearing, you!"
WORST LINES
Laddo: "Aaarg! I die - But I die a warrior!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears "By Sebek's Demons!", Laddo screams an "Aiiee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Blackhawk thinks back over his battles with Battik, Zog, the Smiling Chukwalla and the Goool.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
An interesting piece. As soon as he is introduced, it is obvious that Laddo is not long for this world, but the effect he has on Blackhawk is great and ends this part on a great note as Blackhawk throws off his chains. Belardinelli's Maloid is another fantastic design.
Next Prog: "Ursa Need Sacrifice!"
Black Hawk, Part 28
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 136
DATELINE
27 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Laddo fight a Maloid. Blackhawk survives.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Malo is a planet in the Persol system. Its dominant species is the Maloid, they have an avian head, three arms with pincers and spines, four legs, a shell on their backs and make a terrible stench. They are self-regenerating
BLACKHAWK
He and Ursa save Laddo from a Snikka tree. Blackhawk signs his name with an X. He fights and kills the Maloid champion, but the creature's limb regenerate and fight independently. Blackhawk fights on, but is overcome. Laddo attempts to assist him, but is attacked himself. Blackhawk tries to help Laddo, but the Director activates his Tork-band to prevent him.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He and Blackhawk save Laddo from a Snikka tree.
LADDO
He draws a picture of Blackhawk and asks him to autograph it. Blackhawk is his hero and he refers to him as Lord Blackhawk. Blackhawk and Ursa save him from a Snikka tree.
DEATHS
At least one. Laddo is killed by the Maloid. The Maloid is "controlled", but it's not clear if it's killed.
BEST LINES
Maloid supporter: "Khordle Claisa! Khordle!"
Laddo: "Shut up your swearing, you!"
WORST LINES
Laddo: "Aaarg! I die - But I die a warrior!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears "By Sebek's Demons!", Laddo screams an "Aiiee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
Blackhawk thinks back over his battles with Battik, Zog, the Smiling Chukwalla and the Goool.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
An interesting piece. As soon as he is introduced, it is obvious that Laddo is not long for this world, but the effect he has on Blackhawk is great and ends this part on a great note as Blackhawk throws off his chains. Belardinelli's Maloid is another fantastic design.
Next Prog: "Ursa Need Sacrifice!"
Sunday, 10 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 27
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 27
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 135
DATELINE
20 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk fights the Goool.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
The Oracle Computer can predict the future with 98% accuracy.
BLACKHAWK
The Oracle Computer predicts that the Goool will dissolve him into a pool of slime. He fights the Grool with a hood to prevent him from meeting its gaze. When the Goool turns on the audience he removes his hood and kills the Goool. The director rewards him hundreds of Groats, which he rejects.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He prays to the great god of Chop-Chop.
THE GOOOL
He fights a blinded Blackhawk, before turning on the crowd. He melts them with his gaze and
DEATHS
At least nine. The audience killed by the Goool contained at least eight members. Blackhawk dispatches the Goool with his sword.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "I must escape from this alien hell...before I, too, am infected by this love of senseless butchery!"
WORST LINES
Everything to do with Ursa's confusion between left and right.
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears by "Sebek's blood!" and "Sebek!", as well as "By the Sacred Jackal!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
The Greek myth of Perseus killing Medusa gets a mention.
MISTAKES
It's not really clear how the enslaved Blackhawk would get to spend his groats.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
After the Oracle's prediction, this part follows the exact course you could expect, with the exception of the Goool melting the entire audience.
Next Prog: Squirdle Mardle! Squirdle!
Black Hawk, Part 27
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 135
DATELINE
20 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk fights the Goool.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
The Oracle Computer can predict the future with 98% accuracy.
BLACKHAWK
The Oracle Computer predicts that the Goool will dissolve him into a pool of slime. He fights the Grool with a hood to prevent him from meeting its gaze. When the Goool turns on the audience he removes his hood and kills the Goool. The director rewards him hundreds of Groats, which he rejects.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He prays to the great god of Chop-Chop.
THE GOOOL
He fights a blinded Blackhawk, before turning on the crowd. He melts them with his gaze and
DEATHS
At least nine. The audience killed by the Goool contained at least eight members. Blackhawk dispatches the Goool with his sword.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "I must escape from this alien hell...before I, too, am infected by this love of senseless butchery!"
WORST LINES
Everything to do with Ursa's confusion between left and right.
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears by "Sebek's blood!" and "Sebek!", as well as "By the Sacred Jackal!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
The Greek myth of Perseus killing Medusa gets a mention.
MISTAKES
It's not really clear how the enslaved Blackhawk would get to spend his groats.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
After the Oracle's prediction, this part follows the exact course you could expect, with the exception of the Goool melting the entire audience.
Next Prog: Squirdle Mardle! Squirdle!
Saturday, 9 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 26
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 26
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 134
DATELINE
13 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk is heals, trains and accepts a challenge.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of the Grool.
INFORMATION
A mending vat is a healing machine that repairs wounds a thousand times faster.
Snikka Trees are an intelligent and carnivorous plant that spits out seeds with jaws.
A Grool is a creature with a withering stare that can melt
BLACKHAWK
Defeated by Zog, he is healed in the mending vat and trains with Ursa among the Snikka Trees. His confidence has been shaken and he accepts the challenge of the Grool.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He trains with Blackhawk among the Snikka Trees.
BATTAK
He is healing in the mending vat.
DEATHS
One. The Grool melts a drone into putrescent slime.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "No! No-not me!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears "by Osirus!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
It's good to see Blackhawk reeling from a failure and appalled to be alive. His justification for wanting challenge the Grool to either regain his confidence or die in a way that the mending can't bring him back from.
Next Prog: Monster Amok!
Black Hawk, Part 26
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 134
DATELINE
13 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk is heals, trains and accepts a challenge.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of the Grool.
INFORMATION
A mending vat is a healing machine that repairs wounds a thousand times faster.
Snikka Trees are an intelligent and carnivorous plant that spits out seeds with jaws.
A Grool is a creature with a withering stare that can melt
BLACKHAWK
Defeated by Zog, he is healed in the mending vat and trains with Ursa among the Snikka Trees. His confidence has been shaken and he accepts the challenge of the Grool.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He trains with Blackhawk among the Snikka Trees.
BATTAK
He is healing in the mending vat.
DEATHS
One. The Grool melts a drone into putrescent slime.
BEST LINES
None.
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "No! No-not me!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears "by Osirus!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
It's good to see Blackhawk reeling from a failure and appalled to be alive. His justification for wanting challenge the Grool to either regain his confidence or die in a way that the mending can't bring him back from.
Next Prog: Monster Amok!
Friday, 8 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 25
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 25
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 133
DATELINE
6 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk beats a Smiling Chukwalla and takes on Zog.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First and last Blackhawk art by Joe Staton.
INFORMATION
Macmac is an alien beverage.
BLACKHAWK
He defeats Henry in the arena and the Director introduces him to Zog.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He defends Blackhawk against the other gladiators.
THE DIRECTOR
He traps Blackhawk with Zog.
HENRY
A Smiling Chikwalla. Blackhawk kills him.
ZOG
A dwarf. The Director's scientists have removed certain neural connections from his brain and replaced brain cells with plasteen and steelex. Zog moves incredibly fast and will attack anything that moves. The Director sets Zog on Blackhawk.
DEATHS
One. Blackhawk kills Henry in the arena.
BEST LINES
Zog: "Zog? Zog! Zog! Zog! Zog! Zog?"
WORST LINES
Anti-Blackhawk Competitor: "Creepy alien-lover!"
This line makes no sense. The gladiators are all from different species.
CATCHPHRASES
This week Blackhawk swears "By the dark gods!" and "By the jackal!" and "By the stars!" and "By my ancestors...!". Ursa say "chop-chop" four times, while Blackhawk says it once. Zog says his own name six times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
A Smiling Chukwalla was first seen in Strontium Dog: Two-Faced Terror, part 3 .
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Joe Staton
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
The art is fresh and the story engaging. Zog is welcome addition here. The appearance of a Smiling Chukwalla draws Blackhawk into the same continuity as Strontium Dog and therefore the Dreddverse.
Next Prog: HateHateHate!
Black Hawk, Part 25
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 133
DATELINE
6 Oct 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk beats a Smiling Chukwalla and takes on Zog.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First and last Blackhawk art by Joe Staton.
INFORMATION
Macmac is an alien beverage.
BLACKHAWK
He defeats Henry in the arena and the Director introduces him to Zog.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He defends Blackhawk against the other gladiators.
THE DIRECTOR
He traps Blackhawk with Zog.
HENRY
A Smiling Chikwalla. Blackhawk kills him.
ZOG
A dwarf. The Director's scientists have removed certain neural connections from his brain and replaced brain cells with plasteen and steelex. Zog moves incredibly fast and will attack anything that moves. The Director sets Zog on Blackhawk.
DEATHS
One. Blackhawk kills Henry in the arena.
BEST LINES
Zog: "Zog? Zog! Zog! Zog! Zog! Zog?"
WORST LINES
Anti-Blackhawk Competitor: "Creepy alien-lover!"
This line makes no sense. The gladiators are all from different species.
CATCHPHRASES
This week Blackhawk swears "By the dark gods!" and "By the jackal!" and "By the stars!" and "By my ancestors...!". Ursa say "chop-chop" four times, while Blackhawk says it once. Zog says his own name six times.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
A Smiling Chukwalla was first seen in Strontium Dog: Two-Faced Terror, part 3 .
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Joe Staton
Letters: Jack Potter
REVIEW
The art is fresh and the story engaging. Zog is welcome addition here. The appearance of a Smiling Chukwalla draws Blackhawk into the same continuity as Strontium Dog and therefore the Dreddverse.
Next Prog: HateHateHate!
Thursday, 7 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 24
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 24
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 132
DATELINE
29 Sep 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
FIRSTS & LASTS
First Blackhawk art by Ramon Sola, first appearance Ursa's song(s).
INFORMATION
Gladiatorial fights are recorded on Hover-Vid.
BLACKHAWK
He and Ursa fight a Kraakhan Fear-Beast. After Ursa's kills it, Blackhawk swims him back to shore.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Ursa cannot swim. He and Blackhawk fight a Kraakhan Fear-Beast. Ursa kills it.
DEATHS
One. Ursa kills the Kraakhan Fear-Beast with his axe.
BEST LINES
The subtle differences between Ursa's battle song and Ursa's victory song: "My axe he chop with crashing thud! Soon he be spilling plenty blood!" and "My axe has chopped with crashing thud! He has been spilling plenty blood!"
WORST LINES
Ursa: "Axe make biggest ever chop-chop!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears "By the sacred jackal!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Sola
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This a nice triumph over adversity character building moment between Blackhawk and Ursa.
Next Prog: Zog! Zog! Zog!
Black Hawk, Part 24
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 132
DATELINE
29 Sep 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
FIRSTS & LASTS
First Blackhawk art by Ramon Sola, first appearance Ursa's song(s).
INFORMATION
Gladiatorial fights are recorded on Hover-Vid.
BLACKHAWK
He and Ursa fight a Kraakhan Fear-Beast. After Ursa's kills it, Blackhawk swims him back to shore.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Ursa cannot swim. He and Blackhawk fight a Kraakhan Fear-Beast. Ursa kills it.
DEATHS
One. Ursa kills the Kraakhan Fear-Beast with his axe.
BEST LINES
The subtle differences between Ursa's battle song and Ursa's victory song: "My axe he chop with crashing thud! Soon he be spilling plenty blood!" and "My axe has chopped with crashing thud! He has been spilling plenty blood!"
WORST LINES
Ursa: "Axe make biggest ever chop-chop!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk swears "By the sacred jackal!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Sola
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
This a nice triumph over adversity character building moment between Blackhawk and Ursa.
Next Prog: Zog! Zog! Zog!
Wednesday, 6 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 23
NAME
Blackhawk, Part 23
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 131
DATELINE
22 Sep 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk beats Battak and spares him.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Stun-nets and vibro-clubs are weapons.
BLACKHAWK
He breaks one of Battak's talons to prevent him from harming Ursa. The Director pit him against Battak in the arena. Blackhawk beats Battak, but refuses to kill him. The native leader gives Blackhawk a choice between death or a fight against a predator from his planet. Blackhawk accepts and Ursa elects to fight alongside him.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Blackhawk breaks one of Battak's talons trying to protect Ursa. Blackhawk accepts a challenge and Ursa elects to fight alongside him.
BATTAK
He can fly. Blackhawk breaks one of his talons. The Director pit him against Blackhawk in the arena. Black
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Vendor: "Get your suxx here! They taste as good as they smell!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "More death...always more death! But I cannot refuse a challenge! I will fight!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk says "spawn of the crocodile!" again.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
The fight against Battak is great and his character design is excellent, but everything he says is dull. As a reader, you are hoping Blackhawk will kill him.
Next Prog: The Kraakhan Fear-Beast!
Blackhawk, Part 23
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 131
DATELINE
22 Sep 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk beats Battak and spares him.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
Stun-nets and vibro-clubs are weapons.
BLACKHAWK
He breaks one of Battak's talons to prevent him from harming Ursa. The Director pit him against Battak in the arena. Blackhawk beats Battak, but refuses to kill him. The native leader gives Blackhawk a choice between death or a fight against a predator from his planet. Blackhawk accepts and Ursa elects to fight alongside him.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
Blackhawk breaks one of Battak's talons trying to protect Ursa. Blackhawk accepts a challenge and Ursa elects to fight alongside him.
BATTAK
He can fly. Blackhawk breaks one of his talons. The Director pit him against Blackhawk in the arena. Black
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Vendor: "Get your suxx here! They taste as good as they smell!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "More death...always more death! But I cannot refuse a challenge! I will fight!"
CATCHPHRASES
Blackhawk says "spawn of the crocodile!" again.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Peter Knight
REVIEW
The fight against Battak is great and his character design is excellent, but everything he says is dull. As a reader, you are hoping Blackhawk will kill him.
Next Prog: The Kraakhan Fear-Beast!
Tuesday, 5 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 22
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 22
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 130
DATELINE
15 Sept 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Ursa must not help each to survive Battak's assault course.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Ursa.
INFORMATION
(This strip is set "two thousand years ago", which if taken literally would mean 21 BC)
BLACKHAWK
He awakes surrounded by members of various species. He meets Ursa and Battak. He undertakes Battak's assault course and helps Ursa survive. He is not the first human to have been kidnapped by the entertainers.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He is friendly to Blackhawk and punished for it by Battak. Blackhawk helps him survive Battak's assault course..
BATTAK
Squad leader. He punishes Ursa for being friendly toward Blackhawk and orders the gladiators to the assault course. He later threatens both Blackhawk and Ursa for helping each other to survive the assault course.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "Blood of the jackal!"
WORST LINES
Battak: "You, Bear! You spoke to the new human. You were being friendly. You know it is not allowed to be friendly!"
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Ursa means Bear in the Latin.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Despite being quite predictable this part successfully introduces Blackhawk's new sidekick and reinforces the new format of the strip.
.. Claws Unsheathed .. Death Approaches .. Do Not Miss Next Prog!
Black Hawk, Part 22
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 130
DATELINE
15 Sept 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk and Ursa must not help each to survive Battak's assault course.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Ursa.
INFORMATION
(This strip is set "two thousand years ago", which if taken literally would mean 21 BC)
BLACKHAWK
He awakes surrounded by members of various species. He meets Ursa and Battak. He undertakes Battak's assault course and helps Ursa survive. He is not the first human to have been kidnapped by the entertainers.
OTHER CHARACTERS
URSA
He is friendly to Blackhawk and punished for it by Battak. Blackhawk helps him survive Battak's assault course..
BATTAK
Squad leader. He punishes Ursa for being friendly toward Blackhawk and orders the gladiators to the assault course. He later threatens both Blackhawk and Ursa for helping each other to survive the assault course.
DEATHS
None.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "Blood of the jackal!"
WORST LINES
Battak: "You, Bear! You spoke to the new human. You were being friendly. You know it is not allowed to be friendly!"
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Ursa means Bear in the Latin.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Despite being quite predictable this part successfully introduces Blackhawk's new sidekick and reinforces the new format of the strip.
.. Claws Unsheathed .. Death Approaches .. Do Not Miss Next Prog!
Monday, 4 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 21
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 21
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 128
DATELINE
1 Sep 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk saves the Director's life and receives a pain-inducing tork-band as payment.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Blackhawk's tork-band. First Black Hawk letters by Pete Knight.
INFORMATION
The Entertainers use metal tork headbands to maintain discipline. Removal of the tork causes the wearer great pain.
BLACKHAWK
He fights and beats the creature, but refuses to take its life. When the creature attacks the Director, Blackhawk kills it. He is rewarded with a tork-band and a demonstration of the pain it can cause. He passes out.
OTHER CHARACTERS
THE DIRECTOR
When the creature attacks him, Blackhawk kills it.
DEATHS
One. Blackhawk stabs the creature to death with his sword.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "Skill? There is no skill in butchery! I am a warrior - not a weak-hearted murderer!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "Much as I would like you dead, Director...I cannot stand by while a dumb animal slaughters an intelligent being!"
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Belardinelli's art continues to impress. Blackhawk has a chance to let the Director die, but his ethics don't allow him to "stand by while a dumb animal slaughters an intelligent being!" Is that an uncharacteristic move that we will all come to regret.
It Is Half Man...It Is Half Bat...It Is Wholly Evil! Don't Miss The Claws Of Battak In Two Weeks Time!
Black Hawk, Part 21
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 128
DATELINE
1 Sep 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Blackhawk saves the Director's life and receives a pain-inducing tork-band as payment.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Blackhawk's tork-band. First Black Hawk letters by Pete Knight.
INFORMATION
The Entertainers use metal tork headbands to maintain discipline. Removal of the tork causes the wearer great pain.
BLACKHAWK
He fights and beats the creature, but refuses to take its life. When the creature attacks the Director, Blackhawk kills it. He is rewarded with a tork-band and a demonstration of the pain it can cause. He passes out.
OTHER CHARACTERS
THE DIRECTOR
When the creature attacks him, Blackhawk kills it.
DEATHS
One. Blackhawk stabs the creature to death with his sword.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "Skill? There is no skill in butchery! I am a warrior - not a weak-hearted murderer!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "Much as I would like you dead, Director...I cannot stand by while a dumb animal slaughters an intelligent being!"
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
None.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Pete Knight
REVIEW
Belardinelli's art continues to impress. Blackhawk has a chance to let the Director die, but his ethics don't allow him to "stand by while a dumb animal slaughters an intelligent being!" Is that an uncharacteristic move that we will all come to regret.
It Is Half Man...It Is Half Bat...It Is Wholly Evil! Don't Miss The Claws Of Battak In Two Weeks Time!
Sunday, 3 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 20
NAME
Black Hawk, Part 20
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 127
DATELINE
25 Aug 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk finds himself on spaceship.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Stadium and its Director. First use of Blackhawk as one word. First Black Hawk by 'Alvin Gaunt', Massimo Belardinelli and Tom Frame.
INFORMATION
The Entertainers are a species capable of space travel. One of their spaceships, Stadium, transports individuals from other planets and forces them to fight in gladiatorial battles.
BLACKHAWK
He is transported from Rome to a spaceship called Stadium. The ship's director explains that he has been chosen to fight as a gladiator for an audience. Blackhawk refuses and contemplates suicide rather than provide entertainment as a slave. He changes his mind when the Director leaves him alone with a fellow gladiator creature.
OTHER CHARACTERS
THE DIRECTOR
He is in command of Stadium. He explains to Black Hawk his new circumstances and briefly allows him to contemplate suicide.
DEATHS
Two. Blackhawk kills two drones upon his arrival on the Stadium.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "I will take no part in your tests! In Rome I was a Centurion. Now you would make me a slave again...but I have torn off the chains of slavery once - I will not wear them again! I will die first!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "Here's good Roman steel for you, Barbarian scum!"
Firstly, didn't happen. Secondly, that's not who Black Hawk is.
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The reprise from Part 19 isn't even close to how the story ended in Tornado.
RETROSPECT
This must have been a huge surprise at the time.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Tom Frame
REVIEW
This is an exciting and intriguing development. Belardinelli's art is stunning and the dialogue is better than it has been for a long while. Black Hawk himself sometimes got lost in the original dynamic, this forces him front and centre with great results.
Next Prog: Man Against Monster In..."And One Must Die!"
Black Hawk, Part 20
FIRST PUBLISHED
2000 AD & Tornado Prog 127
DATELINE
25 Aug 79
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk finds himself on spaceship.
FIRSTS & LASTS
First appearance of Stadium and its Director. First use of Blackhawk as one word. First Black Hawk by 'Alvin Gaunt', Massimo Belardinelli and Tom Frame.
INFORMATION
The Entertainers are a species capable of space travel. One of their spaceships, Stadium, transports individuals from other planets and forces them to fight in gladiatorial battles.
BLACKHAWK
He is transported from Rome to a spaceship called Stadium. The ship's director explains that he has been chosen to fight as a gladiator for an audience. Blackhawk refuses and contemplates suicide rather than provide entertainment as a slave. He changes his mind when the Director leaves him alone with a fellow gladiator creature.
OTHER CHARACTERS
THE DIRECTOR
He is in command of Stadium. He explains to Black Hawk his new circumstances and briefly allows him to contemplate suicide.
DEATHS
Two. Blackhawk kills two drones upon his arrival on the Stadium.
BEST LINES
Blackhawk: "I will take no part in your tests! In Rome I was a Centurion. Now you would make me a slave again...but I have torn off the chains of slavery once - I will not wear them again! I will die first!"
WORST LINES
Blackhawk: "Here's good Roman steel for you, Barbarian scum!"
Firstly, didn't happen. Secondly, that's not who Black Hawk is.
CATCHPHRASES
None.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Unknown.
MISTAKES
The reprise from Part 19 isn't even close to how the story ended in Tornado.
RETROSPECT
This must have been a huge surprise at the time.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: Alvin Gaunt
Artist: Belardinelli
Letters: Tom Frame
REVIEW
This is an exciting and intriguing development. Belardinelli's art is stunning and the dialogue is better than it has been for a long while. Black Hawk himself sometimes got lost in the original dynamic, this forces him front and centre with great results.
Next Prog: Man Against Monster In..."And One Must Die!"
Saturday, 2 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 19
Black Hawk, Part 19
FIRST PUBLISHED
Tornado No 22
DATELINE
18 Aug 79
The last issue of Tornado featured The Angry Planet, The Mind Of Wolfie Smith, The Lawless Touch, Storm, Captain Klep, Victor Drago and two of Tornado's True Tales, with a Storm cover by Cam Kennedy.
PAGE COUNT
5
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Crassus tries to frame Black Hawk, who kills him and is somehow transported away.
FIRSTS & LASTS
Last Black Hawk to feature in Tornado, last appearance of Stronus, Batus, Crassus, Nero and the Hawk.
INFORMATION
None.
BLACK HAWK
He meets Nero who decides to inspect Black Hawk's men. Whilst waiting for the Emperor, he encounters an old woman who says his destiny lies in the stars and the night will bring death. He heads to the Emperor's Palace, where Crassus accuses him of planning to kill Nero. They fight and Black Hawk kills Crassus. A strange mist descends and he is transported somewhere else.
OTHER CHARACTERS
CRASSUS
He decides to frame Black Hawk in an assassination attempt on the Emperor Nero.
NERO
He meets Black Hawk and decides to review his auxiliaries.
STRONUS
He trains Black Hawk's men in readiness for the Emperor's visit.
BATUS
As he is transported away, Black Hawk puts him in command of the men.
DEATHS
One. Black Hawk stabs Crassus with his sword.
BEST LINES
The Hawk: "Skee? Skee?"
WORST LINES
Black Hawk (thinks): "Those traitors were Nubians - black as me - but they valued another colour - gold, given them by an enemy, but who is it that wants to see me dead?"
For eighteen weeks, Black Hawk dealt with race in a surprisingly forthright and progressive manner only to throw it all away at the end of the Tornado run.
CATCHPHRASES
A roman screams an "Aieeeeee!"
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Caligula (or Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus)(AD 12–41) was Roman emperor from AD 37–41 and was indeed assassinated.
MISTAKES
Black Hawk says he lacks Crassus' "viper's toneue"
RETROSPECT
Black Hawk will continue as a very different strip in 2000AD
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: G. F. Day
Artist: Azpiri
Letters: Unknown
REVIEW
Black Hawk's Tornado era comes to an end and goes out in style. Nero, the old crone, Black Hawk killing Crassus are all great, as is Black Hawk's exit, it's just as shame that, for obvious reasons, it all seems a little rushed.
Find Out Next Week, In 2000A.D. & Tornado!
Friday, 1 August 2014
Black Hawk, Part 18
Black Hawk, Part 18
FIRST PUBLISHED
Tornado No 21
DATELINE
11 Aug 79
This issue of Tornado also featured The Angry Planet, The Mind Of Wolfie Smith, The Lawless Touch, Storm, Tornado's True Tales, Victor Drago and Victor Drago's Black Museum Of Villains, with a cover featuring The Lawless Touch by Barry Mitchell.
PAGE COUNT
4
REPRINTS
Black Hawk: The Intergalactic Gladiator.
SYNOPSIS
Black Hawk survives another assassination attempt.
FIRSTS & LASTS
None.
INFORMATION
None.
BLACK HAWK
He breaks up a fight between Sulphur and a Cretan. When they are caught fighting again, he leads them in a party to the market in Rome with the two Nubian recruits as escorts. He sends Sulphur and the Cretan to purchase fruit, while they are away the Nubians attack him. Sulphur comes to his aid.
OTHER CHARACTERS
SULPHUR
He spent years in the sulphur mines of Sicily and his skin and hair are stained bright yellow. He joins Black Hawk's auxiliaries. He brawls with a Cretan recruit until Black Hawk breaks it up. They fight again and destroy the men's supply of fruit. Black Hawk orders them to carry heavy baskets from a trip to the market in Rome. He saves Black Hawk from a second attempt on his life by the Nubian recruits.
THE CRETAN
He is from Crete. He joins Black Hawk's auxiliaries. He brawls with Sulphur until Black Hawk breaks it up. They fight again and destroy the men's supply of fruit. Black Hawk orders them to carry heavy baskets from a trip to the market in Rome. He saves Black Hawk from a second attempt on his life by the Nubian recruits.
BATUS
He breaks up a fight between Sulphur and a Cretan, but not before they destroy the men's supply of fruit.
NERO
Emperor. Black Hawk sees him in the streets of Rome.
CRASSUS
He hired the Nubians to kill Black Hawk.
DEATHS
Two. Both the Nubian assassins are slain, Sulphur drowns one, while the Cretan breaks the other's neck.
BEST LINES
Sulphur: "Don't call me yellow... I don't like it!"
WORST LINES
None.
CATCHPHRASES
Black Hawk says "Zeus!" again.
CONTINUITY & CROSSOVERS
None.
INFLUENCES & REFERENCES
Nero (AD 37–68) was Roman Emperor from AD 54 to 68.
MISTAKES
The Cretan doesn't have a name, but at one point is referred to as if it was his name.
RETROSPECT
None.
NOTES
None.
CREDITS
Script: G. F. Day
Artist: Azpiri
Letters: Unknown
REVIEW
Sulphur and the Cretan are another great addition to the strip and it's a shame that they aren't going to play much of a part in the rest of the story.
Next Week: The Dramatic Turning Point!