Recently, I had the opportunity to acquire a copy of Destroyer Duck from TwoMorrows, a compelling collection that brings together the initial five issues of the short-lived series. Originally published by Eclipse Comics in the early 1980s, the series was created as a means to support Steve Gerber’s legal battle against Marvel Comics with the artistic help of Jack Kirby.
The collection also includes Gerber’s script pages, providing valuable insights into the creative process, an insightful historical introduction by Mark Evanier, co-editor of the original 1980s issues, and an afterword by Buzz Dixon, who carried on the series after Gerber’s departure.
As a reader, I was drawn into the world of Destroyer Duck, a character who personifies resilience and the quest for justice. The series is packed with engaging storytelling and memorable characters, all brought to life through the talented efforts of the creative team involved. It is evident that Gerber poured his heart and soul into the project, using the medium of comics as a platform to express his frustrations and aspirations.
Not only does this collection present an engaging story, but it also holds historical significance within the comic book industry. The circumstances surrounding its creation, born out of a legal battle between Gerber and Marvel Comics, offer a unique context that adds depth and meaning to the work. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by creators in asserting their rights and the importance of supporting their endeavors.
For fans of Steve Gerber, this collection is a treasure trove of his talent and creativity. It showcases his ability to craft compelling narratives and develop characters that resonate with readers. The series stands as a testament to his determination and serves as a milestone in his career.
In the 1980s, writer Steve Gerber found himself embroiled in a legal battle with Marvel Comics over the ownership of his creation, Howard the Duck. In a bid to raise funds for his legal fees, Gerber reached out to legendary artist Jack Kirby and proposed a collaboration on a benefit comic called Destroyer Duck. Kirby, who was also entangled in his own dispute with Marvel at the time, readily agreed and generously contributed his services to the first issue. Together, the dynamic duo unleashed a scathing assault on their former employer in a five-issue series that was as outrageous as it was satirical.
Within the pages of Destroyer Duck, readers were introduced to the fearless protagonist, Duke “Destroyer” Duck, who fearlessly took on the insidious Godcorp—a thinly veiled representation of corporate greed and power-hungry entities. Led by the nefarious Ned Packer and assisted by the spineless Booster Cogburn, Godcorp epitomized the unscrupulous motto of “Grab it all! Own it all! Drain it all!” Gerber and Kirby spared no punches as they wove a tale filled with biting satire, introducing memorable characters like Medea, a clever parody of Daredevil’s Elektra, and many more.
Now, in a comprehensive collection, all five issues of Gerber and Kirby’s Destroyer Duck have been gathered. However, this edition presents a unique twist: the artwork has been re-lettered and reproduced directly from Jack Kirby’s unadulterated, uninked pencil art. Additionally, the book features select examples of Alfredo Alcala’s distinctive inking style over Kirby’s original illustrations, giving readers a glimpse into the collaborative process of the original issues.
Delving into this collection offers readers the opportunity to discover the hidden jabs and subtle references they may have missed when Destroyer Duck was first published. Moreover, the book provides an immersive experience, with page after page of Jack Kirby’s raw, untamed pencil art, showcasing the unmistakable talent and energy that made Kirby a true legend in the comic book industry.
Overall, this collection of Destroyer Duck is a must-read for fans of Steve Gerber, and Jack Kirby, and those interested in the historical context of comic book controversies. It stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring relevance of satirical storytelling, all encapsulated within the remarkable artistry of one of the industry’s most influential figures.