TPH #056 Phantom Sunday Strip #154 The Lion's Head Tamarine (year 2001)

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Now, talking of comics, I read a new phantom story (first time reading of a story) after quite a long time, and must admit I somehow liked it. It is sunday strip #154 from post Falk era, written by Claes Reimerthi, experienced Swedish writer of Phantom stories from team fantomen, and drawn by Graham Nolan, a fine comic book artist. The good thing about Nolan is that he doesn't try to copy the style of any of his predecessors like McCoy or Barry. Instead of this he sticks to his own way of drawing the scenes. It gives the pictures a fresh and energetic look.

The story resembles some of the stories created by Falk against a similar backdrop of conspiracy for power and it's associated cruelty. It begins with the same old words that we have read a number of times about the new generation being slowly developing along the coast of Bangalla and the usual not much changed wild jungle spreading for miles. It talks about the still mysterious misty mountains, their spoiled princes and kings and immediately grabs the attention of old lovers of Phantom.

Then story reminds the reader the origin of Rex, how Phantom found him and eventually succeeded in handing over his rightful place as the prince of Baronkhan, the largest, richest and mightiest kingdom in the misty mountains. In this way we are stuck to the original idea developed by Falk and Barry. A visit from old pal Tom-Tom makes us remember all the beautiful moments they shared in the jungle and then a conspiracy in the nearby state Dharmistan, a peculiar kingdom with strange but fascinating customs. Finally, all it needs the efforts of Phantom in his own familiar way to resolve the crisis.

Those who have missed this one for not being from Lee Falk's own pen (or for not having access to this one so far) may consider reading it. They won't be disappointed.

Download TPH #056  
Phantom Sunday Strip #154 The Lion's Head Tamarine

(31 Pages, 1024 px wide, 9.2 MB)

The strip ran for 31 weeks from 11 March 2001 to 07 October 2001.