In a nutshell, this has the makings of being a very good comic, but it's still too early to tell. It could go off the rails very easily, but judging solely on this issue, I think it'll be a good series. I'll be there for the second issue. Read Full Review

The comic's all-female cast are all fully-realized and interesting, especially Jerrica, whose acute shyness and determination make her a protagonist to really get behind and empathize with. The Holograms' chemistry and back-and-forth are very endearing as well, and this reader is looking forward to seeing their relationships with each other grow and unfold. The comic works well as a first issue and deals completely with origins " you'll require no previous knowledge of Jem to achieve maximum enjoyment. And while only seeing Jem herself on the last page was a slight let-down, we have a whole series in which to enjoy her in all her outrageous glory. Read Full Review

"Jem & the Holograms" #1 is a strong, sassy start for a series which is geared for a teen-and-up crowd. Readers drawn in by the nostalgia are sure to be hooked right away, while new readers will find themselves taken by the believably real characters walking through the panels of this book. The fact that "Jem & the Holograms" #1 is gorgeous certainly helps. The nostalgia factor gets ratcheted up a level by the profile pages included at the back of the issue and the fact that this comic book actually has page numbers. Thompson, Campbell, Robado and Robbins give readers a solid comic book story and leave them with a dynamic holding spot until next issue, where the action should really start. Read Full Review

Some bits of clunky tell don't show exposition aside, Jem and the Holograms #1 is a delectable blend of eye catching character designs and interesting personalities. The characters aren't always super nice to each other, but Thompson and Campbell show that they truly care for each other despite their differences. Jem and the Holograms #1 is one of the most stylish books of 2015 so far, and it has some real substance to match with its heroine Jerrica, and her relatable struggles. Read Full Review

The other two band members Aja and Shana are enjoyable in their own way, though less dramatically involved. Shana the drummer is the voice of stability and optimism in the band, while Aja is more prone to angry, honesty, and snark (Aja is my favorite.) I like thatJemboasts so many different body types and ethnicities, and it feels infinitely more inclusive than most of the comics I review. The only major flaw in this issue is that the sci-fi elements feel a little shoehorned in at the end, yet extremely minor given how excellent the rest of the issue presents.Jem and the Hologramsis an absolute triumph that compels. An emotional story that creates a deeply moving and engaging human story through beautiful art and incredible subtlety. I highly recommend it for all readers. Read Full Review

With an updated style, and more comprehensive writing right out of the gate, Im really looking forward to what this team has in store for my favorite childhood cartoon! Read Full Review

This issue does what it has to do to make things work. There are probably not a lot of fans of the original that are going to be reading this, but there would be some, and the story is not too much bogged down in the past to make it boring. For the new readers, they are likely to find a lot of new and interesting characters to start to like, and there is really a little bit for everybody, not just the presumably all-female fan base that the television show was after. Jem is after all an alter ego (like a super-hero) and Synergy gives the series a sci-fi feel as well. This series uses enough of what is normal to the medium and gives it a new spin. There really is no other comic like this on the market, and it would be nice to see that this niche was supported as the series delivers on different levels. Read Full Review

Overall I think Jem and the Holograms is sporting a successful first issue. It doesn't follow the original set up exactly, but it keeps true to the tone and main aspects of the cartoon. I felt warm and nostalgic as I read the issue and I'm certainly going to stick it out through at least the first story arc. I applaud Thompson and Campbell for being brave enough to tackle an old favorite. They are making great efforts to balance the old in a new time, while still staying true to what made the original so outrageous, and doing a great job at it. Read Full Review

Van Meter crafts an amazing tale steeped deep into the occult- I love the scene with all the souls wandering around, making Hwen not the odd man out once again. It boils down to, ultimately, to a love story so strong, that Shan literally beat death for her husband. But can love overcome the barrier of death? De la Torres artwork has a classic comic book feel to it, much like the great Bill Sienkiewicz, and for this series, it's a great match. Besides the previous series Shadowman, this is the only Valiant book that takes on the spirit world, and does so amazingly. A fantastic start to the second Doctor Mirage series, this is a must buy for fans of the supernatural. Read Full Review

If you've ever watched Jem and the Holograms or have been interested in them, you need to check this new series. out. Kelly Thompson and Sophie Campbell are bringing the band into the 21st Century with a nice modern feel that doesn't stray too far from the original designs. It's always refreshing to see different sorts of comics on sale and JEM AND THE HOLOGRAMS will definitely appeal to a wide audience. Whether you're a new or returning fan, this is a comic you can easily dive into. Read Full Review

Are you a fan of Jem and The Holograms? Then you should really read this. Are you not a fan? It doesnt matter. Read it. There are other books that claim to be all about female empowerment, but this is the one thats actually doing it and doing it in a way that makes it for everyone. Read Full Review

Jem and The Holograms #1 debuts as a solid reboot of the 80s cartoon. With its vivid art and winning characters, this eye-catching book will appeal to both new readers and old fans. If the story lines and dialogue continue to be all-age accessible, IDW will have a hit with this musical group. Read Full Review

Jem and the Holograms #1 is a great opening issue. With its strong visual style and more mature treatment of the characters, this book shines. Whether youre a fan of the show or a newcomer to this property, you cant go wrong with this title. Read Full Review

Weekly Jem bonus: Have the theme song on YouTube, and my favorite Misfits song, There Ain't Nobody Better. Read Full Review

An excellent debut issue for this revamped franchise that I believe is going to pay off. If you were a fan of the old show definitely pick this up you will love it and admire how they changed it but kept it true to the original story. The story is a great build up to a hopefully excellent pay off. I feel like this is a good book for any females interested in comics, but what do i know? This book had me excited to read more and watch more of the cartoon, but it did not make me look forward to the movie coming out. Honestly, go watch the trailer and tell me you did not hate it. It looks God awful and it really disappoints me because i just got started on this franchise. The book is amazing though. Read Full Review

Jem and The Holograms' first issue gets a lot of things right. The tone and characterization are strong and inviting, as are Ross Campbell's well realized visuals. The setup is a bit long overall, but does serve the story well in setting up further adventures yet to come. It may not be for everyone, but its open and accessible enough to merit a shot. Read Full Review

There are hints of promise here. I like that Thompson had Jerrica composing a song, a nice throwback to all the original music in the cartoon. The girls have distinct personalities and hopefully in coming issues we'll get more of their family dynamics. I'll stick around for more issues, but I really hope the writing improves. Read Full Review

IDW's Jem and the Holograms isn't looking to reinvent Jem's sound, but give it a well-rounded remastering. The bits of the origin are all there and some of the pieces are falling into place. Thompson and Campbell are on their way for this to join IDW's other Hasbro-related comics in being one of the books to pick up for young female readers, but there needs to be some slight tuning before that happens. While it's a solid introduction, or reintroduction in some cases I'm sure, but there's a missing element or note that fails to spark a bigger applause. Surely once the Misfits (possibly the Stingers?) come along and add more of a clashing element, it'll pick up. They've mentioned a few other changes along the way, and I look to see how Team Jem make their footprint in this beloved universe. Read Full Review

As recent events have demonstrated, and much like cartoons in the 80's, the comics industry in the new millennium is still by and large a boys' game. There have been improvements, of course, but the fact remains that the vast majority of creators and characters are white guys. In a letter to readers at the end of the comic (and in multiple interviews leading up to its release), Thompson states that she sees Jem as the "epitome" of the modern woman and wants her book to exemplify that for a new audience. With a movie set to come out in 2015 and IDW's prior success with licensed 80's cartoon properties, Thompson and Campbell have a golden opportunity to do just that if they can find the book's identity and recognize its potential. If the biggest conflict The Holograms face in issue two is a battle of the bands"this issue's villain was nothing more than stage fright"then unfortunately there won't be much reason to keep reading. Read Full Review

It is overall an aesthetically pleasing book to the eye, and a thought-provoking storyline for the mind. A mix of fun and socially aware, Jem and the Holograms is a book appropriate for all ages, and even more so, should be read by all ages—to better understand the pressures and actions of young women. Read Full Review

While not a comic for every reader, this is a strong debut of a property with heart, soul, and a lot of possibility. One to watch for sure. Read Full Review

SophieCampbell and M. Victoria Robado's artwork is truly the star of this issue. Colors and character design were amazing and fit the 80s subject matter spot on. Swirls of color, bright heavy eyeliner and neon hair colors nearly made me have a joyful seizure. Jem and The Holograms #1 is an explosion of color but sadly not an explosion of story. Read Full Review

At the end of the day, the most interesting part of this book, to me, was that Campbell apparently transitioned at some point in the production process when it was too late for them to change her name on the variant covers. I don't know if it's disrespectful or if it's intentional or what, but it's the thing that made me think the most about this comic. This book may be for you. It is certainly not for me. Read Full Review

At the end of the day I kind of feel like this comic is trying to have its cake and eat it, too. It's silly and stupid - the hologram activates because, a storm must have turned me back on - but also trying to be real teenage drama-type stuff about speakers and who sets them up. There are lots of feelings there and Im not sure if this combination actually works. I still recommend it as a comic but be aware that Jem is fantastic but this comic book is only okay. Read Full Review

Perhaps the most interesting thing aboutCommander Trill #0 is that X-O Manowar's greatest threat can be seen as a hero from the right perspective. After all, who is considered “good” and “evil” can at times be a matter of perspective. Though his unwavering sense of duty makes him appear villainous, one can see how – to his own people – he might be considered heroic. Read Full Review

Jem And The Holograms didn't win me over as a new fan with this issue, but that's ok. Once Jem hits the stage, I think the book will hit its hyperdrive with those who stick around for the followup. Read Full Review