Archie The Shadow #1

Obviously I don't have a really good copy of this issue.

Note that on the cover the Shadow is dressed sort of as he usually is, even if he is holding his cloak like Dracula holds his cape.

In a totally inexcusable opening, the Shadow takes on Khan on a high building. The Shadow is not wearing his hat and his full face shows. Not exactly how one goes about concealing one's identity.

Another thing that kept this series from succeeding, I think, is that story after story was based on Shiwan Khan. Granted, that was a notable Shadow villain, but the constant use of one villain showed a lack of imagination on the part of the writing team, or someone told them to use only the famous villain.

Then there's the bit about Lamont, Margo and Harry Vincent being 'key agents in the U.S. Secret Service.'

Spies are watching Lamont meet Weston. Khan wants to steal plans for a new fighter plane. Khan's thugs try to capture Lamont but he is able to escape.

Lamont gets back to his townhouse and finds Khan and his thugs have taken it over and have Margo in captivity. Lamont takes care of three of the thugs in the garage, then goes after Khan.

Lamont is able to trick Khan, but Khan escapes. Margo, though, is freed. The Shadow goes to where Khan is hiding and hypnotizes him and his men which is, of course, a rather unbelievable ending.

There's another story in the comic. Some thugs kidnap Lamont and want him to give them a million dollars. Lamont leaves the car (they let him out) into an alleyway. The thugs follow him, he hypnotizes them and knocks them out, then calls the police. Another rather unbelievable and very convenient ending.

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