A comiXologist Recommends
Black Canary #9, by Matthew Rosenberg and Moritat
Have you heard of the most dangerous band in the world? Against all odds Black Canary has reunited! Following a perilous debut tour, the band has brought their unique flavor of post-punk-pop overseas. Mysteriously, lead singer D.D. is missing in action & has been replaced by the band’s original lead singer, Bo Meave. Can the band still pack the same punch without her? Berlin is about to find out. But be warned concert goers, their stateside gigs all ended in broken bones and bloodshed. Expect appearances by aliens, ninjas and/or government black ops. All ticket sales are final.
The deep love I have for this series cannot be understated. Writer Brenden Fletcher & artist Annie Wu’s inspired reimagining of Black Canary has been met with critical acclaim. Their fresh take reintroduces readers to one of DC’s fiercest and most beloved heroes: Dinah Lance. Issue #7 saw the conclusion of the first story-arc and the temporary departure of Annie Wu. Brenden Fletcher continues as writer for Issue #8, diving headfirst into a new arc intent on exploring Dinah’s murky past and the band’s shaky future. Issue #9, released on Wednesday, is a stand-alone story set in the past. Written by Matthew Rosenberg with art by Mortar, it is a welcomed break from the relentless pacing of the arcs so far. Although this tale does not propel the main-storyline forward, it provides us with another small glimpse into the pre-super-stardom life of Dinah Lance & crew.
This series
it not to be missed. Do yourself a favor and pick up Black Canary Vol. 1: Kicking and Screaming to
see how this rock-and-roll adventure began. But before you do head over to
Black Canary’s bandcamp page and pick up their official EP.
It rocks just as hard as you’d imagine it would, channeling some serious 80s
new-wave/punk vibes and doing Siouxsie and the Banshees proud. Long live the
new queen of rock and roll.
Michael Crowe is comiXology’s master of digital assets.
A comiXolgist Recommends (one of the best books out there right now)
Writer/Arist: Andrew Maclean
Colors: Mike Spicer
He’s known by many names. Son of Minotaur. Executioner. Head Lopper. Andrew Maclean’s sword and sorcery tale follows the adventures of nomadic warrior Norgal & his companion, the severed-yet-very-much-alive head of Agatha Blue Witch.
This limited series is nothing short of sensational. Truth be told, the beauty of this book springs from Maclean’s ability to balance his dual-role as artist & writer. His uncanny ability to convey subtle emotion as easily as epic double-page-spread action is a testament to his artistic abilities. The books aura is wholly unique yet delightfully familiar, in a word…FUN. It’s gorgeous and inspired design sense deals in shades of Adventure Time, Hellboy, Zelda: The Wind Waker & Samurai Jack. Every panel is rich and detailed, labored over and loved. The colors Spicer uses are vibrant and graphic, reinforcing the sense of action and adventure already conveyed by Maclean through the sequencing of art & the pacing of narrative. A wicked sense of humor slithers throughout the story, never out of place or inappropriate. This series is one of my favorite at the moment, I wish it would get picked up as an on-going. (or maybe a TV series? or a video game!?) All I know is, I’ll be pretty bummed when the 4th and final part comes out in a few months. It’s been a great ride so far, I can’t even begin to predict how it’ll all end.
So, catch up while you can and go
read this series now! I’ve already re-read it twice this week! You can find
Head Lopper #1 here,
and #2 here.
Also be sure to check out Andrew’ Maclean’s widely acclaimed graphic novel ApocalyptiGirl:
An Aria for the End Times. I know I will be!
Michael Crowe handles digital assets at comiXology. He also curated a pretty sweet playlist for our Halloween party.
A comiXologist recommends:
Secret Wars: Secret Love #1
by: Michael Crowe
Doctor Doom may have taken over the universe and become God to all…but life goes on. And where there is life, there is love. Even those blessed with extraordinary powers can’t escape the tangles of relationships or the burning of desire. Secret Wars: Secret Love #1, the newest title to come out of Marvel’s Battleworld event, showcases the many forms love can take and the troubles that come with it. This book contains five stand-alone stories, by a host of talented creators, featuring some of the most popular heroes in the Marvel Universe.
First up, we find out if the love between Daredevil and Karen Page can survive the end of the world in Guilty Pleasure, written and illustrated by Michel Fiffe. The art for this story is vivid and loose, capturing an indie feeling not typical of Marvel house style. It’s a nice break and fits the narrative perfectly. Next comes the cover story, Fan of A Fan written and illustrated by Felipe Smith. This story features two of the newest and most well received heroes of Marvel’s all-new initiative: Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel and Robbie Reyes aka Ghost Rider. Fans of either series are sure to love this crossover. Felipe’s art is as dynamic and colorful as ever and his narrative style is well rounded, finding room for action, romance and humor in a few short pages. So, do sparks fly between these two sweet and ultra-powerful heroes? You’ll just have to read it to find out. Our third story, Misty and Danny Forever examines the turbulence of marriage and what it takes to stay together. Jeremy Whitley spins a sweet story that shows these heroes for hire are no different than you or me. The art, by Gurihiru, channels a familiar Disney art style that adds to the familial nature of this narrative. The fourth story, Squirrel Girl Wins A Date with Thor is…just what it promises to be. Marguerite Bennett delivers a story with equal parts heart and laughter with Kris Anka’s art supporting and capitalizing on all the best scenes. The final story in this book, Happy Ant-iversary, is a quick short about the love between an ant and wasp. Written and illustrated by Katie Cook, this clever narrative features a number of charming bug puns playing off various members of the Marvel Universe.
All the stories in this title capture the various ways love can find and affect us. The stories styles, narratively and artistically couldn’t be different, yet the theme of the overall book is never lost. Here’s hoping a few of these narratives are picked up in #2 and perhaps beyond. If you loved what you read and want more content from any of these creators be sure to check out the following titles. All-New Ultimates (2014-2015) written by Michel Fiffe, Ghost Racers, written by Felipe Smith, Princeless written by Jeremy Whitley, Thor and the Warriors Four art by Gurihiru, Max Ride: First Flight by Marguerite Bennett, Uncanny X-Men (2013-2015) #23 by Kris Anka, and Gronk: A Monster’s Story Vol. 1 written by Katie Cook.
[Read Secret Wars: Secret Love #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a member of the digital assets/launch team. In his free time he enjoys reading, watching and writing science fiction and horror.
A comiXologist recommends:
Constantine: The Hellblazer #1
by: Michael Crowe
Everyone’s favorite occult detective, John Constantine, is back with an all-new comic series. Co-written by Ming Doyle & James Tynion IV with art by Riley Rossmo, Constantine: The Hellblazer updates this classic character while still staying true to his essence.
In this first issue John finds himself on the other side of the pond, far from his native home of England. But try as he may, trouble always seems to find him. A familiar flame from the past solicits his help, but not all is as it seems, especially when your old lover just happens to be an ex-pat from the pits of hell. This issue is a perfect introduction for new fans, showcasing exactly what makes John tick. Doyle & Tynion are able to deliver a stand-alone story that reintroduces us to the dark universe John Constantine inhabits. Although the book deals with all sorts of darkness & demons, humor is never lost in the equation. It’s this delicate balancing act that adds heart and interest to the character. John doesn’t always begrudge his lot in life, and it shows through the tongue in cheek comedy peppered throughout.
Riley Rossmo’s art and character designs are perfect for this series. Well known for his horror work, Riley jumps in headfirst and manages to craft a visually gripping story. Riley gets to work updating characters, while still staying faithful to certain visual cues. Gone is John’s classic trench coat, replaced with a more modern sports jacket. John also looks a bit less haggard than we’re used to, a bit younger and sexier. It’s these subtle changes that point to a newly restored John. But rest assured, the outside may have changed slightly but his soul is just as dark and snarky as ever. Riley’s art has a certain energy to it, never static, always visually interesting. Ivan Plascensia’s colors bring the art to the next level. His color choices vary from page to page, sometimes imbuing the narrative with a bright neon tone and other times bringing it back to a more classic, desaturated grey tones typically associated with supernatural fare.
Together this creative team has produced a book that is visually stimulating and a pleasure to read. It’s the perfect introduction for new readers as well as a welcome home for established fans. For more work from stellar these talented creators be sure to check out The Kitchen: an ongoing series penciled and inked by Ming Doyle, The Eighth Seal: a guided view native comic written by James Tynion IV, and Rasputin: acclaimed horror comic illustrated by Riley Rossmo and colored by Ivan Plascensia.
[Read Constantine: The Hellblazer #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a member of the digital assets/launch team. In his free time he enjoys reading, watching and writing science fiction and horror.
A comiXologist recommends:
Afterlife With Archie #8
by: Michael Crowe
After a short hiatus, Afterlife with Archie is back from the dead and ready to the cut to the heart of every Riverdale character. No one is safe from the horror and depravity. Afterlife with Archie continues to be one of the finest books available.
Issue #8 finds our gang hold up in an abandoned hotel in Vermont. Still reeling from the bloody mess that was last issue, our heroes try to settle things down; it is Christmas after all. But here in these empty halls, friends long gone will make an appearance, alliances will be tested and friendships shattered. With zombies roaming the land and apparitions haunting the living it’s hard to remember that true evil can be found in the hearts of mortals.
Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s love for Riverdale and all-things Archie are clear while reading this book. What is also clear is his love and affinity for the horror genre. Whoever continues to doubt the pairing of zombies, ghosts, & elder gods with the seemingly wholesome members of Riverdale, let me assure you: you’re dead wrong. Any good horror tale knows that true terror comes from character, not the creepy crawlies on the edges of the screen. The writer utilizes familiar genre tropes to delve deeply into the secret history of Riverdale and it’s inhabitants. We’re quickly learning that there are more fearsome things in the world than flesh eating zombies, and these things might be in their midst already.
The art by Francesco Francavilla (francavillarts) continues to astound me. It is his color choices that capture my attention the most. The book is vivid, pages bleed with color: reds, oranges and yellows, the colors of danger. Other times the pages are subdued, brought to life in cool blues and purples. In flashback sequences the colors are nearly sapped out, giving these scenes an old film feel. The mastery comes from his utilization of all color options. Each panel is treated with care and colored specifically, controlling how fast we read the page and what our eyes go to first. These choices add even further depth to the panels and scenes written by Aguirre-Sacs and rendered by Francavilla.
Stories like these come around once in a lifetime. The Archie Horror imprint is something to be reckoned with. Put all your doubts aside, Archie Comics is delivering some of the best character driven horror available in any medium. There’s no telling where this story will go, who will survive, and who won’t.
If you’re behind, pick up Afterlife with Archie Vol. 1: Escape from Riverdale and get in the know. And if your horror fang is still not satisfied delve deeper into the weird with The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.
[Check out Afterlife With Archie #8 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a member of the digital assets/launch team. In his free time he enjoys reading, watching and writing science fiction and horror.
A comiXologist Recommends:
Michael Crowe recommends
Kaptara #1
Image’s newest science fiction book is (excuse the pun) out of this world! Gorgeously illustrated by Kagan McLeod (kaganmcleod) and intelligently penned by Chip Zdarsky (zdarsky) , Kaptara #1 is an instant classic. It’s the kind of story you didn’t know you needed until after you finish reading it. As someone whose main preoccupation in life (besides horror) is science fiction, this book was a pleasant and refreshing surprise. They hit all the notes that a book in this genre should, while simultaneously flipping on it’s head everything you might expect from a science fiction/action adventure book. This team has crafted a story that is fresh and modern. You can tell that the creators are having a lot of fun creating this world and I had just as much fun consuming it!
Kagan McLeod’s art and designs capture a classic science fiction vibe, his attention to detail is exceptional. The creatures our heroes encounter planetside are fearsome; being both familiar and frightening at once. The character designs are thoughtful, showcasing a starship crew of mixed race, genders, and sexualities reminding one of what made the original Star Trek so great. The alien beings they encounter are pulled straight from classic pulp, referencing medieval designs while still keeping them firmly planted in the realm of science fiction ala Flash Gordon. Why are alien planets always ruled by a kingdom? Because the Royals get the best clothes! I look forward to seeing even more fabulous designs from McLeod in the issues to come. The world he has created is vibrant and colorful, giving even a gorgeous book like Saga a run for it’s money.
I’ve quickly learned to expect the unexpected from Chip Zdarksy. This story does not feel like a retread, in fact many of the narrative decisions made set it apart from anything that’s come before. Playing with conventions is one way this book shines. Zdarksy is not afraid to twist familiar genre tropes, effortlessly updating them for our times. The characters introduced are multifaceted. In the small space of a first issue, Zdarksy is able to breach interesting topics and hint at the rich backgrounds of the major protagonists. What excites me the most about this series is the unapologetic inclusion of a gay character and the promise of natural, organic same sex relationships to come.
Kaptara has quickly become one of my favorite science fiction books. I’ll be praying to the Lords of Kobol for a bi-weekly release (a boy can dream, right?). If you’re itching for more from these creators after reading (and rereading) Kaptara #1 pick up Sex Criminals, written by Matt Fraction with art by Chip Zdarksy and Infinite Kung Fu written and illustrated by Kagan McLeod!
Also be sure to check out two of my favorite science fiction books: Saga, written by Brian K. Vaughan with art by Fiona Staples and East of West, written by Jonathan Hickman with art by Nick Dragotta.
[Read Kaptara #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a comixologist obsessed with the future. He dreams of one day vacationing on Mars while being served drinks by robot butlers.
A comiXologist Recommends:
Michael Crowe recommends
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #2
Fear not my fellow Acolytes of Darkness, our covens chant has been heard. After a six month hiatus our favorite teenage witch is back. When we last left off, two lustful witches from Riverdale had inadvertently unleashed something wicked from the deepest pits of hell. Returned to this world, Madam Satan, the Queen of Gehenna, has a rather personal bone to pick with the Spellman clan. The sins of the father have come back to seek revenge by any means necessary. Greendale, and all those that inhabit this cursed town, will never be the same.
This second issue builds upon the creepy atmosphere established by the first. The art, by Robert Hack, evokes classic horror on every page. His attention to detail is remarkable, giving us both subtle and overt nods to classic horror media, from the campy to the blood curdling. His color choices call to mind films from the 60s/70s, highly appropriate for a book set in that time. The art also has a distinct texture, reminiscent of an old painting. (One you might assume to be haunted!) These decisions only reinforce what is clearly a love letter to horror in all it’s forms. Embracing the genre, Hack does not shy away from the gruesome or the gory, on the contrary, this book seems to revel in it. But Hack’s masterful eye makes sure it is never gratuitous.
The pacing of the story is slow and deliberate, like any good horror story. Fear is a compounded feeling and it’s clear Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa understands this. Another fan of horror, Roberto’s story harnesses and twists classic tropes. He also manages to interweave popular songs of the time into the stories, elevating the ongoing narrative with clever allusions and juxtaposing horror with sweet songs of youth. (While also creating the opportunity for us to compile one hell of a playlist!) Roberto handles the characterizations of these classic figures perfectly while slanting them subtly and carefully toward all out horror versions of themselves, giving us a peek at the true darkness that lies beneath these beloved characters.
This book marks the launch of Archie Comic’s newest (and for me, most anticipated) imprint to date: Archie Horror. Be sure to check out the series that started it all, Afterlife with Archie written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and illustrated by Francesco Francavilla. Also check out Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #1 before reading this weeks release.
May 6th will mark the release of Afterlife with Archie #8 – an homage to the Shining. After that, Archie Comics has teased that a third unnamed title is set to join the ranks of its critically acclaimed horror titles. Roberto has said there are hints in Afterlife with Archie…so get reading and attempt to divine the future.
[Read Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #2 on comiXology]
Michael is a big fan of all things horror and Sabrina…so this book (and imprint) is something of a nightmare come true. He couldn’t be happier…except if today was also Halloween.
A comiXologist Recommends:
Michael Crowe recommends Bitch Planet #1
In the future, women deemed “non-compliant” will be dealt with accordingly and sent on a one-way trip off world. So, ladies, you better stay in line, fly right, and act proper otherwise relocation is the only option.
That’s just where Kelly Sue DeConnick (kellysue) and Valentine DeLandro (valentinedelandro) are headed if they keep producing more patriarchy pummeling issues of Bitch Planet. Image’s newest comic is fresh and exciting: a tongue-in-cheek homage to exploitation films. Specifically, DeConnick and De Landro tackle the subgenre of “women in prison,” subverting and reclaiming it for their own means. Both creators work in tandem, seamlessly crafting a world that is strange and otherworldly yet worryingly familiar.
DeConnick effortlessly weaves a tale that addresses modern social issues in an exaggerated way. Yet it is careful to never lose sight of the greater message contained therein. The scripting is painfully self-aware (painful in the fact that it’s subtle/perfect and everyone else should just give up writing and go home). When picking up this comic, expect the unexpected. DeConnick is not satisfied letting any trope off the hook. This book is out for blood and seeks to turn everything you might assume about a female protagonist on its head. She’s taking no prisoners…except, you know, the ones she’s writing about.
De Landro’s art is just as fearless. She doesn’t shy away from something usually not found in mainstream comics: full frontal nudity. Don’t be mistaken; this is NOT for your titillation. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. De Landro’s decision to depict women unapologetically nude is a celebration of the body as art itself. She is eager to show women of every size, shape and color. This is refreshing and important, especially in a medium that is often all too happy to depict an idealized version of “woman” for a male audience. Within the story it is a statement that any woman can be subject to detention on Bitch Planet. Outside of that, it is a statement that any woman can be subject to harassment, especially those deemed not desirable by society.
Between its smart, politically driven narrative and gorgeous, all-inclusive art this book is sure to be one of the greatest new science fiction comics of the year. So grab the first issue and strap yourself in for a rough and tumble ride to Bitch Planet. For more stunning work from these creators be sure to check out the latest iteration of Captain Marvel written by Kelly Sue DeConnick and Shadowman: End Times illustrated by Valentine De Landro.
[Read Bitch Planet #1 instantly on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a member of the digital assets/launch team. In his free time he enjoys reading, watching and writing science fiction and horror.
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Michael Crowe recommends Haunted Horror #13
Hello Boos and Ghouls. With Halloween right around the corner, now is the perfect time to pick up IDW’s Haunted Horror #13. This book collects eight spine tingling stories resurrected from the golden age of comic books. These classic stories are a scream, sure to keep you up all night. They’ve been lovingly reprinted from various horror anthologies that populated newsstands in the 1950s. Originally printed in magazines with colorful names such as BEWARE, WORLDS OF FEAR, and WEIRD TERROR, these are the tales that menaced pure hearted parents around the country. Their shocking stories and imagery would contribute to the demonization of comics as an entire medium and the eventual establishment of the comic’s code of authority. Although such a reaction was overkill, one has to admit that these books are anything but tame. Magic, murder and death permeate every page, all with a tongue in cheek vibe and a campy feeling unique to the era. Even the weakest stories, plot wise, reach new heights thanks to the pre-code horror fiendishly illustrated by various unsung artists working for the dime a dozen horror comic publishers.
But now, with the code abolished and comics on top of the world, these stories are finding a new life. Each book in this series is jam packed with the best and rarest stories IDW could dig up. So, be sure to sink your teeth into this little book of nightmares.
Sweet Dreams.
[Read Haunted Horror #13 on comiXology]
Michael “Edgar Allan” Crowe is a digital assets specialist, writer, warlock, and full time horror fan.
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Michael Crowe recommends Roche Limit #1 by michael-moreci & vicmalhotra
Roche Limit is unlike any other place in the universe. A small space colony situated on the edge of a massive and mysterious energy anomaly, it is home to countless terran transplants. First envisioned as a waypoint to greater exploration, the colony has since descended into lawlessness.
Set against this backdrop, writer Michael Moreci guides us through the seedy underbelly of this frontier city, giving us a glimpse of life on the fringe. The heart of this narrative is rooted in mystery, wrapped in noir, with the neon glow of cyberpunk encasing it all. Nothing is as it seems and every question answered is two steps forward, one step back. The sudden disappearance of Bekkah Hudson catapults her sister into this world and sends her on journey for answers. But Bekkah isn’t the only girl missing, and her sister isn’t the only one with questions. Where these questions lead is anyone’s guess, but in a place like this, they might go better unanswered.
The art, by Vic Malhotra, is rich and detailed. Vic effortlessly creates a world that is both remarkable yet average. It is a place, seemingly a few minutes in the future, yet unimaginable in our lifetimes. The neon colors and lights of the city beguile its dark secrets. The character designs mirror this vibrancy, while little details illuminate their inner workings. Vic’s diagrams and posters also add to the depth of this world. Together, Michel Moreci and Vic Malhotra have birthed a new and exciting series sure to capture the hearts and minds of scifi and mystery readers a like. For more grim adventures be sure to check out Hoax Hunters written by Michael Moreci and Joe Hill’s Thumbprint illustrated by Vic Malhotra.
[Read Roche Limit #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe works on the digital assets/launch team by day and writes comics and prose by night. He’s an avid consumer of comics and all things sci-fi.
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Michael Crowe recommends Oddly Normal #1
Oddly Normal #1, written and illustrated by otisframpton, is a delightful tale for all ages. This inaugural issue introduces us to a young girl named Oddly. The daughter of a witch and a mortal, life is not easy for this half-ling. Torn between two worlds, Oddly struggles to fit in, both at school and at home.
Otis Frampton’s writing is simple and approachable for young readers. Drawing from his own life experiences while growing up, the book manages to capture the angst many juveniles feel as they come into their own. Often times it can feel as if no one understands you - not even members of your own family. The script channels this awkward time in a child’s life with equal parts heart and wit. Frampton likes to reference works that have come before his, in subtle ways, drawing on the shared mythology of the supernatural creatures he plans to explore. Future issues promise to delve deep into the mystical world he’s only yet hinted at.
Frampton’s care and eye for detail extend to his vibrant illustrations. Each panel bursts with little things that flesh out the world or hint at stories still untold. The character designs are unique, well defined, and approachable for young readers. Every page sizzles with rich colors and detailed backgrounds. Even rain soaked scenes seem to buzz with energy.
Like any good young adult story, this one sets out to instill life lessons while dishing out plenty of action and adventure. With Halloween just around the corner, this book is the perfect way to kick off the fall season!
[Read Oddly Normal #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe works on the digital assets/launch team by day and writes comics and prose by night. He’s an avid consumer of comics and all things sci-fi.
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Michael Crowe recommends Hip Hop Family Tree Vol. 2
Writer/Artist Ed Piskor (edpiskor) continues his epic journey through musical history with Hip Hop Family Tree Volume 2. Combining his passion for the musical genre with his mastery for creating comics, Piskor takes us on an encyclopedic journey through the growth of a uniquely American art form.
The 1980s were a time of expansion for the genre, across the country and the globe. This volume guides us through the continued rise of early hip hop originators alongside the birth of new acts inspired by these legends. It examines the intermingling between the uptown hip hop scene and thee downtown punk rock scene. It also documents the cultural exchange between New York arts culture and Hip Hop street culture. Piskor does a wonderful job of reminding the reader that this culture is more than the music. Hip Hop is an interdisciplinary art form that combines dance, visual art, musical production and lyrical genius to create an infectious form of modern art that’s craved en masse from Compton to Paris.
Ed Piskor’s art is stunning and his attention to detail is phenomenal. The pages appear to be printed on old textured paper. Each page pops despite the desaturated nature of the colors and the halftones used add even more texture to the pages. The result is a comic that feels straight out of the 80s. This attention to the aesthetic of a time is especially noticeable when flashing forward to the present. He illustrates these panels in a modern, highly saturated style common today. Piskor’s characterizations of classic players in the game are also unforgettable, and will evoke an immediate recognition from even a casual follower of hip hop culture.
For those interested in learning even more Piskor includes a bibliography and a discography to accompany the history he thoughtfully unravels for us. After you’ve finished reading and grooving be sure to pick up Hip Hop Family Tree Volume 1 to learn about the birth of Hip Hop and Wizzywig, Ed Piskor’s debut graphic novel about hacker culture.
[Read Hip Hop Family Tree Vol. 2]
Michael Crowe works on the digital assets/launch team by day and writes comics and prose by night. He’s an avid consumer of comics and all things sci-fi.
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Michael Crowe recommends The Kursk #1
Tired of stories about fictional characters? Then pick up our newest Comixology Submit book:
The Kursk #1 is a story about honor and duty for your nation. It’s also a story about relationships, be they international, marital, or fraternal. It is the real story behind a nearly forgotten headline and a way to immortalize all those who were lost on August 12th 2000.
Originally written as a play, Sasha Janowicz’s script recounts a real life tragedy; the sinking of the Russian submarine K-141 Kursk. The story centers on two young officers, Rashyd and Dmitry, as they prepare to depart on a three day training exercise. This first issue captures the mundanity of life, before tragedy strikes. It also introduces us to the joys, fears and passions that drive these characters. A sense of foreboding hovers over everything; we already know what fate awaits them.
Andrea Montano’s art, rendered in a soft grayscale, is haunting. It evokes the feeling of an old, blurry, well worn photography. This style lends a timelessness to the tale, although the events happened only fourteen years ago. Andrea adeptly illustrates the many kinds of ships, submersibles, and weapons featured in the narrative. Each character is handled with the same attention to detail. Every face is unique, representing a life lost or ruined by the unexpected. The cover, designed by Slawomir Nietupski, reflect the sensibilities of the interior. Immediately the atmosphere is established, inviting the reader on a journey deep into the heart of tragedy. Together, this creative team effortlessly translates this story across mediums; from the stage to the page.
[Read The Kursk #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe works on the digital assets/launch team by day and writes comics and prose by night. He’s an avid consumer of comics and all things sci-fi.