LUDOCRATS #1, out from Image Comics on April 1st is a truly fantastic and insane tale, one fresh from the minds of Rossignol, Gillen, Stokely, and Bonvillain. Aristocrats meet absurdity in this comical new series.
***SPOILER WARNING***
Ludocrats is the latest series about to drop from Image Comics, and it’s already looking to be a memorable experience. Thanks to the creative team and the unique plot, among several other notable elements.
Kieron Gillen (The Wicked + The Divine, Die) and Jim Rossignol (Sir, You Are Being Hunted) are the lead writers on this new project, and they will be working alongside artists such as Jeff Stokely (The Spire), Tamra Bonvillain (Once & Future, Captain Marvel), and Clayton Cowles.
Ludocrats #1 kicks off the series in the most fantastical way – with a wedding. Though this wedding is not quite like any other you’ve seen, as it is both aristocratic, and as the name may indicate: ludicrous.
The Writing
Ludocrats #1 is well and truly a unique reading experience. If this issue is anything to judge the rest of the series by, this is going to be one wild ride. Here you’ll find a variety of storytelling techniques, all mashed together to create the illusion of chaos. All the while, our writers have actually carefully curated the experience.
Gillen and Rossignol have come together to create something new…and it certainly is that! From the very first page, this issue demands attention. Our introduction to the plot and all of the whimsy (read: ludicrousness) this world has to offer.
Honestly, this may be hard to believe; but the title of the series actually undersells the point. This is a series that goes above ludicrous nature, but in the best of ways. It’s hilarious and entertaining, and there’s quite literally never a dull moment.
The Art
Ludocrats #1 is a visually compelling piece of work – and it would have to be, given everything going on. We’re talking bright colors, dramatic (and insane) scenes, the works. Everything from the setting to the characters have been vibrantly designed to appeal to our eyes.
Jeff Stokely has provided us with some truly iconic leading characters. They’re grand in scale and in personality, all of which fits their mannerisms to an alarming degree – but that just makes it all the more perfect.
Meanwhile, Tamra Bonvillain’s colors bring the world to life. The bold colors are suited to this chaos fueled world, and it all gives the characters a chance to stand out even further. If you take a look at the cover for Ludocrats #1, you’ll have a strong sense of what is in store for you.
Finally, VC’s Clayton Cowles was the letterer for this project, and you can tell that he had a bit of fun (along with all of the other creatives involved). This was an issue that gave him plenty of room to shine, and he ran away with it.
In Conclusion
Ludocrats #1 was even more entertaining and chaotic than anticipated – which is saying something. This series is going to prove to be both memorable and utterly unique, in the best of ways. If you’re looking for a highly diverting series, make sure to add this one to your pull list.
