Static Shock: Trial by Fire

Static (1993-1997) #1-4

by Dwayne McDuffie, Robert L. Washington III, John Paul Leon (Illustrator)

Continually threatened by bullies and ignored by girls, Virgil Hawkins led a dismal and depressing life. But when a mutagenic gas accidentally gave the African American adolescent superhuman abilities, Virgil was reborn as Static Shock, the electrically powered teen super-hero. Employing great characterization, witty dialogue, and dynamic action, STATIC SHOCK!: TRIAL BY FIRE recounts Virgil's earliest adventures as he deals with everyday problems like part-time jobs, high school crushes, and maniacal super-villains.

Collects Static #1-4.

Genres: Comics, Graphic Novels, Dc Comics, Comic Book, Science Fiction, Superheroes

104 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

About the author

Dwayne McDuffie was an American writer of comic books and television. His notable works included creating the animated series Static Shock, writing and producing the animated series Justice League Unlimited, and co-founding the comic book company Milestone Media.

He co-hosted a radio comedy program, and also wrote under a pseudonym for stand-up comedians and late-night television comedy programs. While working as a copy-editor for a financial magazine, a friend got him an interview for an assistant editor position at Marvel Comics.
While on staff at Marvel as Bob Budiansky's assistant on special projects, McDuffie also scripted stories for the company. His first major work was Damage Control, a series about the company that shows up between issues and tidies up the mess left by the latest round of superhero/supervillain battles. While an editor at Marvel, he submitted a spoof proposal for a comic entitled Teenage Negro Ninja Thrasher in response to Marvel's treatment of its black characters. Becoming a freelancer in early 1990, McDuffie followed that with dozens of various comics titles for Marvel comics, DC Comics, and Archie Comics.

In 1992, wanting to express a multi-cultural sensibility that he felt was missing in comic books, McDuffie co-founded Milestone Media, a comic book company owned by African-Americans.

After Milestone had ceased publishing new comics, Static was developed into an animated series Static Shock. McDuffie was hired to write and story-edit on the series, writing 11 episodes.

McDuffie was hired as a staff writer for the animated series Justice League and was promoted to story editor and producer as the series became Justice League Unlimited. During the entire run of the animated series, McDuffie wrote, produced, or story-edited 69 out of the 91 episodes. McDuffie also wrote the story for the video game Justice League Heroes.

McDuffie was hired to help revamp and story-edit Cartoon Network's popular animated Ben 10 franchise with Ben 10: Alien Force, continuing the adventures of the ten-year-old title character into his mid and late teenage years. During the run of the series, McDuffie wrote episode 1-3, 14, 25-28, 45 and 46 and/or story-edited all forty-six episodes.

On February 22, 2011, McDuffie died from complications due to a surgical procedure performed the previous evening.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwayne_M...

Reviews

[A.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Milestone compendium being released has given me an itch to read all my Milestone books, and stories like this make me so happy I still own these singles and collected editions to this day. These first 4 issues are a fantastic start to my second favorite Milestone series (Blood Syndicate just fucking rocks), and they show just why Static has been the most popular of the Milestone heroes. He’s the Spider-Man of this universe, with hilarious quips during fights and always using his intellect and science to do dope shit with his powers.

The first two issues are “Trial By Fire”, where we see Static’s origin and him go up against his first real challenge, Hotstreak, his racist bully. Issue 3 shows him coming into his own some more as a superhero as he has to deal with Tarmack, before finally teaming up with Holocaust in issue 4. All the stories in here are great, and the new compendium thankfully has up to issue 8 as well, but I did whip out my Trial by Fire trade to read these 4 issues, even though I own the singles too.

Milestone was also willing to get a little more mature than other comic companies, dropping the Comics Code Authority label when they didn’t feel it was necessary to the story being told, which was pretty uncommon around the time this was being printed. This led to more mature themes being able to be touched on in these books, and while none are seen in depth here, you can see the start of these more mature storylines in these 4 issues.

The homophobia of Virgil and his friends will come back later when his best friend Richie comes out as gay, Virgil is at the Big Bang because he wants to kill his bully, and the arc following this collection sees Static have to stop a race riot between blacks and jews that a Black Supremacist started. These books were ahead of their time, ballsy as fuck, and handled political issues with nuance that really isn’t seen all that much today, and I hope we get more collected editions of them. I still have both my Trial By Fire and Rebirth of the Cool trade paperbacks, but I really wouldn’t mind a reprint of the latter.

[Chad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Static was the Spider-Man of Milestone Comics. The smart nerdy kid who gets picked on all the time while secretly saving everyone. I love Static's dialog and use of science. What I didn't care for was the homophobia in the first issue. Still, I can somewhat look past that given this was written in 1993. The stories are fun and Static's costume looks great. John Paul Leon's art is not very good. It's blobby and not well defined.

[Ashley Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was one of many kids whose first introduction to Static was the early 2000s WB tv series. Very glad to find several Static comics available in my Hoopla app! RIP Dwayne McDuffie, and thank you for giving us this fantastic character.

Book Jar D20 Challenge: New to me Author

[Centauri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admit that I have a bias since I was introduced to the character and their universe via the animated series. But my review is solely based on this volume (issues 1-4).
There was teen angst filled with legit problems, worries, and concerns teenagers living in an impoverished area may face. The lingo seemed forced (just like the animated series). I enjoyed how putting on the mask allowed him to be more brazen and unafraid, which makes total sense. When no one knows who you are, wouldn't you feel a bit more free in what you wanted to say?
the first 2 stories were gripping and fun and felt very real. The 3rd story felt like it dragged on with no sustenance, feeling very much like a filler to setup the close of the short arc. That last story had me baffled, seeing as I am not aware of all that makes up the Milestone Universe. Were the Blood Syndicate a gang, or a group of vigilantes, or some anti-hate group? And what exactly is Holocaust's powers? Coloring of art looked like fire, so it means Static let the guy burn up a bunch of gangsters?
I bounced back and forth between 3 and 4 stars mostly because of issue 4 in this volume. Other than that last story, I really enjoyed the reading (even for the filler story that is issue 3).

[Jesús · Rating 3 out of 5]

[Comics Canon Review]

Even though Static has had a more successful afterlife than the rest of the original Milestone Media lineup from 1993 (Hardware, Icon, and Blood Syndicate), Static is my least favorite of the four books. Where the other three books dig deeply into longstanding conceits of superhero comics, Static is a much more straightforward book about a Peter Parker-like, dorky, smart-ass teen with superpowers.

The art is incredible and fits with the style and aesthetic of Milestone’s other launch titles, and the characters are all wonderfully likable (Virgil was clearly a model for Kamala Khan). Static is also the easiest of Milestone’s books to find for sale, and for many folks, it may be the only option. As good as the first volume of Static is, DC owes it to the world to reprint trade volumes of the entire run of Milestone books.

[Murphy C · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third Milestone book I've read lately, and the very high quality is consistent. Excellent storytelling throughout. RIP John Paul Leon.

[Jemir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let's get to the "cons" (however minor they may be) first.

1. The four issues in this collection come from the early 90's. A time when tpb's were (at best)
'pure profit" luxuries that most companies would put out years (for the most part) after the original pamphlet/floppy runs. That means many of the trades that came out in the mid to late 90's (or those collecting pamphlet stories from that time period or prior ones) weren't written with the trade in mind. So while that helps avoid "filler issue syndrome" (a bane of "writing for the trade" that came later) it also means that trade is a collection of issues that are constantly telling you what happened in the issue/chapter before and characters speaking in ways that don't flow as too natural (calling each other by name to remind readers who they are or speaking more like prose book descriptions - as opposed to natural speech - to frame plot points and character motivations).

2. Because the milestone stories are part of a shared universe there are parts tied to other comic books that can make things a bit confusing for those focusing on just this aspect of the story. By that same token the story seems to just cut off certain storylines (but they were picked up in later issues though someone just reading it straight wouldn't know that).

With that out of the way ...

Static is a super hero tale in the Peter Parker/Spider-Man mold where a young black teen (with a healthy family comprised of his Sister, Mother and Father) named Virgil Hawkins - going through the ups and downs of high school - is endowed with electro-magnetic based powers after being caught in an explosive event called the "big bang" (one of the aformentioned abbreviated storylines that's not fully dealt with in the collection but was addressed throughout the milestone universe's run). We see Virgil grow into his heroic alter ego , and the enormous dangers and responsibilities entailed, with triumph and consequence as well as deal with the fun and trials he and his friends deal with daily. That's what makes this collection so special (at least to me). It's like a tween television drama (think "Degrassi: The next generation"), mixed with a sitcom ("Girl meets world), with a strong family theme ("The Cosby Show") and high octane action show (The new Flash tv series for example) rolled in one. The writing is top notch and the art gets better with each entry as the story progresses. The other thing worth noting is how likeable Virgil and his supporting cast are. A device that adds weight to their victories when they triumph and gravity to the scene when they fail and fall short of their goals. This isn't the easiest book to track down these days but it's a worthwhile addition to any shelf for those that can get their hands on it.

[PMoslice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing origin story of one of my favorite hero characters. Having watch the show as a kid, reading this for the first time I could remember much of how it was portrayed in the show and as great as the show was, this was so much more. Imaginative and forward thinking for the time when it was needed and it's needed just as much today.

[James DeSantis · Rating 4 out of 5]

First four issues help build Static as kind of a silly dude who can fuck up a lot but has a good heart.

I did like the fact that he deals with a lot of issues from school, his mom, and then villains. It's very Spider-Man like but it also helps that static is a bit more of a loose cannon, doing things that might not be too smart, but thanks to who he is inside, really helps build him into a fun character. I didn't enjoy this one as much as Hardware or Icon but still dug it and give it a 3.5, I'll bump it to a 4!

[Cybernex007 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I swear every milestone comic I start takes me completely aback because of how full of life the characters are, and static so far has been at the top of my list. I absolutely love how milestone almost refuses to start with origin stories, instead you are introduced to a set world and we are still back in Dakota.

But this time we are met from the perspective of Static, a young witty kid who continues to prove why I argue that electricity powers can be so overpowered.

What really stands out to me is how every line of dialogue, whether it’s static talking to goons, or Virgil talking to his mom or friends… each line feels so authentic and lived through and makes me immediately connect to the characters.

It’s also very interesting that Virgil’s love interest is also the one to end up pulling him into trouble with a villain he seems to recognize, and it’s interesting that they would make the choice to have his identity immediately revealed to her.

Also, I absolutely love the super creative yells Virgil’s mom has when calling for him, top tier.


Issue #2

I absolutely can’t put this series down now but I may need to reflect on the connections between the milestone series to piece together what I am missing. As everything does seem to converge on the Big Bang. An event in Dakota where experimental “tear” has was deployed by the government that ended up mutating some people and granting powers to others. I learned a lot about it already in the Icon series. But this series introduced new ideas when it came to Static’s first hand perspective, ad there were odd creatures or drones or something coming to collect people and referred to static as a “worker.”

Inadvertently static becoming as popular as he has was probably the smartest move as being in the public light puts all eyes on you, and that can be an amazing defense.

Also I wanted to mention how much I love the art in these issues. Specially with how shadows are used to make the characters pop and feel more realistic.

I do also love that after Static was able to decompress and talk to Frieda he was the able to go and finally take on hotshot and his past. I’m very glad they immediately gave him that outlet to expand across his life as Static and Virgil.



Issue #3

Gotta point out my favorite part of this book. Static’s upgrade where he welded together a disk, that once introduced with electricity is able to expand. Basically a portable flying disk. That is so cool and handy.

But one thing I also notice in this issue is Static’s problems balancing his super life and normal life. He was let go from his job because he had to run and be static, it’s not something he can keep up for very long. Static is correct, Icon doesn’t have this issue, because icon has an entire successful life built up first. And speaking of his normal life, from the awkward conversations in this issue and issue 1, I think Frieda may not be open to relationship negotiations.

But looking at that final fight, I love how they showcased Static’s hyper willingness to learn, adapt, and overcome obstacles with his fight with tarmac. I mean he even chose a fight location that had a roller, LOL. But also from that ending and the character Holocaust, who I don’t recognize, is making me think I need to read blood syndicate asap.


Issue #4

So much conflict and emotion in this issue. I’m a broken record for exclaiming how well written it is, but it’s true. Static dealing with the complications of working with someone like Holocaust to take down other evil people but throw away some morals in the process.

While trying to process these decisions, he tried turning to the one place he can: Frieda. Where he then finds out the truth about Larry and her, which I’ve been guessing for a while now. But finding out that way completes hurts, especially with the pressure for money looming over all the other indecisions. It only makes sense that seeing his one place of trust be a lie, would cause static to turn away.

I especially loved those moments where static was talking with other people, and other panels would come forward and overtake their dialogue, nicely putting us into the characters position of stress and these thoughts coming forward.

Luckily static working with Holocaust was short lived after realizing how far Holocaust is willing to go. Static keeping his morality, especially this young is so important and I’m glad the issue ended on a high note with him talking to Frieda again.


Final thoughts: as the milestone universe adds more and more and starts to intertwine more, I find myself looking farther and farther out into an ocean. And I absolutely love it. I fell in love with the static shock tv show, which I know is quite different from this, but finally seeing where the character comes from is so great and I can’t wait for more and to really start diving into the milestone universe.

[herald · Rating 3 out of 5]

somewhat underwhelming, especially in comparison with the show. static is introduced in a sleek black variation of his suit, which is an interesting look that differs from what i'm accustomed to. the severe bullying he's made a victim of is gradually divulged within the story and allows you to empathize with virgil as a real character. akin to peter parker, at least in the show static is a neoliberal kid with a heart of gold and clever quips, whereas here the drawback is that he's flat out unfunny moreso than he is corny which detracts from having any emotional investment in his superhero persona. his home life is different too, where the show opts for the widowed policeman that is his stern single father, here it's an insufferable tiger mom-older sister combo who constantly berate virgil more than they ever address him with love. the villains aren't much to write home about either - an asphalt shapeshifter and two hotheads, one a psychopathic arsonist making a cameo appearance and the other a near illiterate white trash bully. virgil's main friend group and love interest being predominantly white is also kind of a dub with this being set in what's essentially inner city detroit, which comes with its fair share of virulent antiBlackness. the big bang event remains a brilliant premise and static discovering his powers, struggling with young adult responsibilities and developing his scientific thinking are all portrayed well i just wish the journey were more fulfilling to read.

[Brad McKenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I vaguely remember when this book originally came out in the 90s. I was all about X-men and Batman at the time and wasn't feeling the need to branch out. There were titles a-plenty to keep me busy. But then I listed to a podcast (Nerdificent) about Milestone Comics and learned how impressive Dwayne McDuffie was. He created, not just a character or two for DC, but an entire universe all focused on people of color. Looking at the DC Universe today, I'm saddened that a chance was missed to affect real change in underrepresented populations. But there's still time...

As for this title itself, Static is a learned wise-cracking dude. The character is really fun to read. He reminds me of Spider-Man not just from the wise-cracks and intelligence but also from his struggling to hold down a job. But, since this was done by (and for) African Americans, it's more than that. His mom is a single parent and his friends pressure him to pop a cap in a bully's ass. The slang and dialect used by most characters seem a little cheesy but that may be more the fact that it was written 20 years ago and not because I don't get it. Of course it could be that as well....

Anyway, great stuff here.

[Owen Townend · Rating 4 out of 5]

It may be full of references to nineties culture but Static Shock: Trial By Fire is a refreshing take on the high school superhero.

While Peter Parker balancing life as both Spider-Man and a normal teenager has captivated comic book readers for decades, he is White, privileged and safe from gun crime and turf wars on school grounds. Static is not.

Virgil Hawkins suffers money woes and job issues much like Peter, but his story is shadowed by racism and a constant struggle to meet society's expectations.

In this collection, we see a young man actively learning to be a hero. I particularly enjoyed seeing Static develop his electric powers through trial and error, figure out scientific ways to overcome enemies and even improve his costume design.

Along the way he deals with a bully-turned-fiery gang leader named Hot Streak, a shape-shifting challenger called Tar-Mack and a self-service vigilante named Holocaust. Each skirmish reminds Static of his key qualities: perseverance, ingenuity and moral integrity.

Mind you, there are a couple of ways this comic left me flat. The romantic subplot was rote and there was a homophobic comment that dates the writing badly.

Nevertheless Washington's plot arc is solid, the character work progressive and Leon's artwork perfectly captures the era.

I would definitely recommend Static Shock: Trial By Fire to fans of the animated series and anyone looking for a super-powered kid who has to overcome more than most.

[Ashlyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this, but I always found myself wanting to read other things than continue to read it. I think I like the show better than this, or at least what I remember of it from when I was younger. Either way, I’m glad I read it but I don’t know if I’ll continue on in the series. I might rewatch the show though.

[Adam Graham · Rating 3 out of 5]

This collect of the first four comics with Static has some good stuff for fans of the character but is a bit of a mess in some ways. We really don't get to any sort of point to the Fourth issue where our hero faces a trial and of his heroism in dealing with the anti-hero Holocaust from the Blood Syndicate book. The writing is average and the art is okay initially but actually seems to get worse in later issues. This is a book for superfans of Static Shock only.

[Nicolas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so glad to have these show up on the DC app. I feel like I've read this character in reverse order, so it was finally nice to read the originals. I'm on bored for more. I really liked how we were dropped right into the action, then filled in the origin in flashbacks.

We discussed this further over on Comic Book Coffee Break: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyYpV...

[Emily · Rating 1 out of 5]

Bad art. No need to say more.

[Perry Mayfield]

Static shockistheman

[Perry Mayfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

static shock is my favorite milestone comics and dc nation