Sol Naciente: Lucha Libre Por Vida!

For the First Time Junior Sports his Papá's El Sol Máscara

Hey, you! Let me tell you about Sol Naciente, a coming-of-age comic that follows the journey of Junior, son of the famous luchador, El Sol, as he pursues his dream of becoming the next great luchador. As someone who’s vecino sewed luchador masks like those of Rey Mysterio, my favorite childhood wrestler, reading Sol Naciente brought back long-lost memories while adding a fresh, unexpected twist.

From start to finish, Sol Naciente follows Junior on his journey to greatness, while encapsulating the pressure he faces as he tries living up to his legendary father’s legacy. Everything from the graphiation style to the animation artwork transports you into the arena, evoking the roar of the crowd, smell of churros on the sideline, and summer heat as the El Sol duo prepare to face Los Calavera in a father-son tag team match.

Junior in the Ring with El Hijo Del Luna Calavera

Despite Junior’s lack of experience, he steps into the ring with the confidence and courage of his father, only to learn that he is no match for El Hijo Del Luna Calavera, son of El Sol’s lifelong rival Luna Calavera.

What really stuck with me, though, was how the creators use of symbolism, color, and panel layering—not to mention the music and animation of its online counterpart!—to fully immerse readers in the story and make us feel like we’re part of the crowd. The earthy pueblo hues of adobe and arena contrast beautifully with the vibrant, eye-catching colors of the luchador costumes and papel picado, which add to its charm and remind me of growing up wrestling with my primos in San Elizario.

Junior Turning the Fight Around!

And let’s not forget Junior’s finishing move: Salida del Sol! Not only does Junior’s signature move put a fresh twist on his father’s Cambio del Sol, but also symbolizes Junior’s courage in the face of clouds rolling in, proving that nothing is enough to stop him from securing victory.

Junior Victorious!

The art is stunning, and its compelling cast of characters paired with an emotionally resonant story will deeply connect with anyone who has wrestled with self-doubt. It inspires us to overcome our fears, take pride in our identities, and show the world what we’re made of. Through themes of resilience, courage, and pride, Landa and his creative team demonstrate that we can achieve anything we set our minds to.

Sol Naciente reminds us to never underestimate the fire that burns within. Like Junior, we may face setbacks, but what truly matters is rising again, growing stronger through our struggles, and staying connected to familia and rooted in our cultural heritage.

Don’t miss this high-flying dive of a comic. It’s a lucha libre championship belt-worthy read!