Off the Beaten Path

by Anthony Dominguez

9/18/08

Has it been that long? As I sit at my makeshift desk in Pulp Fiction listening to the staff (I use this term loosely) discuss their eating habits, it takes every ounce of my strength to keep my mouth shut (and as I write this a great one liner is running rampant in my head) furthering the difficulty I've been experiencing for the past 20 minutes. I chose to write and submit my column from the bowels of the comic shop this week. I may make this a habit, not sure yet. This week's column is called "Just F23King write something", a quote taken from my esteemed editor. Ask and ye' shall receive, thank you, and as always…enjoy.

Title- Wolverine-Saudade

Publisher- Marvel
Script- Jean-David Moran
Artist- Philippe Bouchet
Format- 1-shot
Shipping- It's here
Age- 15+

The Basics-

Yes, this is an evil M title, not only is it and Evil M title, it is quite possibly the most played out character in the evil M universe, and I am actually writing a review, which means I took the time to read it. Yeah, I'm as amazed as you. There is no need to introduce this character, if you are not familiar with him; I have no sympathy for you. This particular story is delivered by a Brazilian team of writer/artist, previously published in the foreign imprint of the evil M. As such, it is in my esteemed opinion, a small title you may overlook. We find Wolvie in Brazil, on vacation, very shortly he is embroiled in a 'hunt for the mutant' assignment handed out by professor 'I will never die' X. What ensues is a poignant story about the plight of inner-city children in poverty stricken Brazil. Written by an informed voice with enough lighthearted banter and sight gags to keep the mood jaunty (yes, I said 'Jaunty', read a dictionary) while not shoving social commentary down your throat.

The Art-

With a decidedly European feel that at times feels Japanese influenced, the art flows beautifully with the storyline. Showcasing the poverty and corresponding beauty of a country overrun by corruption and gang warfare in the same breath. The coloring is bright and airy, and Wolvie is as hairy as you would expect. The characters are well drawn, with, well, character. With an eye for local culture I was very impressed with his overall style.

The Verdict-

With a similar pacing and feel as The Killer, this one shot explores some of the issues that made The X-men a must read in the 80's and 90's. If you remember when Wolvie was cool, and The X-men was more than a movie franchise, buy two copies of this tight little story. Viva Brazil.

Title- True Blood

Publisher- HBO/Top Cow/Image/Spacedog
Script- David Wohl
Artist- Jason Badower
Format- 1 shot (remaining issues online HBO.com/trueblood)
Shipping- It's here
Age- 16+

The Basics-

Once again, if you have missed the viral marketing campaign for the new television show True Blood, you must be Amish. (See, the Amish shun technology, and thus I can make fun of them because they will never read this, because it's online!) The show started last week, the marketing campaign started several months ago, to great effect. It got me to pick up and read this comic, watch the show, read the websites, all 20 of em' and last but not least, review it. This story follows the King of Californian Vampires and his insights into the new world opened to Vampires by the release of the beverage True Blood.

The Art-

Flashy, bold, and bright. Not what I'd expect from a dark tale of Vampire life. It has a 'quick' feel, as if it was hurriedly drawn and colored, the characters seem bland, with little facial expression, save for the obligatory 'vamp face'.

The Verdict-

I say, if you like the show, or dig vampires, support this marketing campaign and by this 22 page advertisement.

Title- Epilogue

Publisher- IDW
Script- Steve Niles
Artist- Kyle Hotz
Format- Ongoing
Shipping- Monthly but don't hold your breath
Age- 15+

The Basics-

Meet the newest vigilante, he's dressed in black vinyl from head to toe, and likes to behead criminals. If he was a chick, I would consider proposing. I can't give too much information, since any details would give the storyline away. Suffice it to say, he's bad, mad and a fancy dresser out to clean up the neighborhood.

The Art-

Gritty and campy all on the same page. Some of the characters have a distinctly weasely feel to them, almost a Disney sidekick feel (if you don't follow my references or if they don't help you figure out good or bad-keep reading, they soon will). Filled with sharp contrast and a liberal use of black and red this book meets the tone set by the writing.

The Verdict-

I would like to reserve my judgment till issue 2 and 3 come out, but since my job is to review, I will say, "If you like vigilantes, black vinyl and long fingernails, give this one a shot."

That's IT!

Anthony Dominguez
comedian.writer.lover…
www.anthonydominguez.com <TOP>