Aquablue: Nao is a French sci-fi comic by writer Thierry Cailleteau and illustrator Olivier Vatine, known for its strong ecological themes and a striking waterworld setting. Originally published in the 1980s, the series still holds relevance today, offering a blend of space adventure and environmental commentary.
In the first volume, we meet Wilfried Morgenstern, a young boy who survives a crash and is raised by the native inhabitants of a water-covered planet. Reborn with the name Nao, he grows into a defender of Aquablue, fighting off invaders who want to exploit the planet’s natural resources for corporate gain.
A Waterworld with an Environmental Pulse
What makes Aquablue: Nao stand out is how it tackles ecological issues beyond Earth. The comic doesn’t shy away from themes of colonization, corporate greed, and the struggle of indigenous cultures—issues that remain painfully relevant. It’s like Avatar meets The Little Prince with a touch of classic space opera.
This premise hooked me right away. It’s not often that a comic combines planetary worldbuilding with a compelling eco-activist storyline.
Where the Comic Stumbles
While the plot and message are solid, Aquablue: Nao does have its rough edges. One noticeable issue is the abrupt transitions between panels. Key developments—like Nao suddenly learning how to handle a firearm—feel rushed and underexplored. Given his peaceful upbringing, this moment needed more build-up.
Another point: for a world with sleek space cruisers and futuristic tech, some of the Terran gear felt oddly outdated. We see bayonets, military-style uniforms, and other relics that clash with the space-age setting. This might reflect the era the comic was created in, but for today’s readers, it could feel inconsistent.
A Vintage Sci-Fi That’s Still Worth Diving Into
Despite those stumbles, Aquablue: Nao remains an engaging and imaginative read. The art is vibrant, the themes are meaningful, and Nao’s journey promises more depth in future volumes. I’ve only read Volume 1, but I’m curious to see how his fight for Aquablue unfolds.
If you enjoy retro sci-fi with a conscience and don’t mind a few storytelling quirks, Aquablue: Nao is worth checking out.
About Me
I’m JP B. Bantigue, a multidisciplinary creative who finds joy in reflecting on stories that inspire, provoke, or simply spark curiosity. Whether it’s sci-fi, comics, or something in between, I love diving into the narrative, examining what works, what doesn’t, and what stays with us long after the final page.
