The Adequates # 1Writer/Colorist: Lee Loughridge
Artist/Letterer: Marz Jr.
Cover Date; April 2026
Rating: 8.5/10
Examining issue one of “The Adequates,” the latest series from Comixology, we follow five awkward high school freshmen—Julie, Chad, Randy, Pam, and Grey—who gain superpowers during a “haunted” field trip to Bonaventure cemetery. Instead of becoming powerful superheroes, they are described as having “adequate” or “good enough” abilities, forcing them to rely on their limited skills to survive. From the outside, it’s clear this isn’t your typical high school story where characters gain extraordinary powers. Instead, Lee Loughridge & Marz Jr. turn that idea on its head, offering a fresh take that appeals to fans tired of superhero fatigue. The series’s charming, sly, chaotic tone and its fun, innovative twist on teenage drama make it compelling, evoking a “Freaks and Geeks” vibe (the Judd Apatow-produced series from the early 2000s) with a sharp, delightful overtone. It’s easy to root for these underdogs as both Loughridge and Marz Jr. develop characters with depth, highlighting their insecurities and relatability, especially for high school readers. Marz Jr.’s unique art style, inspired by ‘90s animation, brings the characters to life, with silhouettes that stand out beautifully within the organic pacing. The dialogue complements the visuals perfectly, ensuring jokes land naturally and showcasing the brilliance of this concept—setting a new standard for modern superhero stories. Although the Adequates may seem intentionally awkward and quirky, that only makes their adventures more entertaining for teens discovering superpowers and offers a fresh perspective within the superhero genre.
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