ODD TALES FROM THE CURIO SHOP is a Fun Throwback to Indie Horror Comics

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January 2, 2020

ODD TALES FROM THE CURIO SHOP is a Fun Throwback to Indie Horror Comics

My Kickstarter binge is at Mach 5 as of late. I participated in the recent Monkeys Fighting Robots fundraiser because, of course, I did. Another one I gave some money to and just recently got in the mail was Odd Tales From the Curio Shop from Rocket Ink Studios. The story focuses on the Shopkeeper, portrayed by Brian O’Halloran, who brought Dante to life in Kevin Smith’s Clerks, as well as Mallrats, Clerks 2, and the recent Clerks reboot.

The black & white graphic novel is written in the style of the old EC Comics like Tales From the Crypt and The Vault of Horror with O’Halloran drawn as the Shopkeeper. You, as the reader, are looking through the wares at his curio shop. Each time “you” motion towards an object, the Shopkeeper provides its back story.

(He wasn’t even–You know what? No. I’m not doing it.)

There are six stories with a prologue/introduction and an epilogue. Each tale either has a moral attached to it (think “Monkey’s Paw”) or has a twist at the end in true horror comic fashion. The stories range from that of a ghostly janitor to a graphic tale regarding the Spanish Inquisition. The Shopkeeper provides the prologue and epilogue to each, and a good time is had by all.

Story list:

“Shopkeeper’s Introductions”

Written/Penciled by Tony Miello

Inked by Mikey Babinski

“Family Connections”

Written by Bruce Gerlach

Penciled by Bill Maus

Inked by Mikey Babinski

“Unconditional”

Written by Kasey Pierce

Penciled/Inked by Jay Jacot

“The Box”

Written by Tony Miello

Penciled/Inked by John Marroquin

“The Birdhouse”

Written by Dan Daugherty

Penciled by Bruce Gerlach

Inked by Mike Babinski

“The Black Friar”

Written by Gary Reed

Penciled by Tony Miello

Inked by Mike Babinski

“Big Spoon”

Written by Dirk Manning

Penciled by Tony Miello

Inked by Mike Babinski

“Epilogue”

Written by Dirk Manning

Penciled by Tony Miello

Inked by Mikey Babinski

There are some issues with the book. There are typos, there are odd quotation marks in some of the word balloons, and a couple of the storylines fall a little flat. That being said, it’s a great read in the spirit of genuinely independent comic books. These are creators who are building on their craft and have produced something they can use to showcase their talent.

Hands down, the best art in the book belongs to Bill Maus & “Family Connections.” All the artists included in this edition are talented, but Maus has the combination of clean lines and a unique appearance that should have him working on a Big 2 book. Story-wise my favorite is “Unconditional” by Kasey Pierce, which takes a couple of reasonably familiar tropes, but makes them horrifying as a new tale.

(Someone should hire Bill Maus right now.)

Odd Tales from the Curio Shop is worth the money I paid for it, the measuring stick for art. I’ve read better comics, but for a Kickstarter project from a small publisher, it’s a fun read and worth the time. Plus, any time creativity and art can be funded and supported by the public, everyone wins.

Have you read Odd Tales from the Curio Shop? If so, let us know what you thought in the comments below!

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ACTION COMICS #1018 Treads Water to Set Up Big Things for Superman

By

Zac Owens

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Action Comics #1018, written by Brian Michael Bendis, with pencils by John Romita Jr, inks by Klaus Janson, colors by Brad Anderson, and letters by David Sharpe, slows down the pace in order to set up big things in the coming months for Superman. While the issue itself is somewhat lackluster, you can be sure the next issues won’t be.

Writing

Bendis doesn’t offer up many “aha” moments in this chapter of his run with Superman. We see the origin of the Red Cloud. Ultimately, the answers are a little less interesting than the mystery. Though we get a glimpse at why Red Cloud has some anger issues, it happens at the expense of the believability of many of the other characters in her origin. Elsewhere, we see the Man of Steel prepping for the big reveal that happened in the latest Superman. And finally, we get another glimpse at the fight between justice and doom. Perhaps it’s DC that’s dragging their heels to get to the climax of their Year of the Villain, not ready to end their arc.

Art

The art by Romita Jr. and Janson delves into a “looser” style in this issue. We see the art that both of these artists have become known for. The etchings on the sides of faces, the lamp posts that look like quick sketches. The art becomes more noticeable with this style. We are more aware that these are drawings. This can have a dual effect. At times we are marveling at the beauty of the rendition of a character; at other times, it feels we’ve been drawn out of the story.

While much of Romita Jr. and Janson’s work leads to marveling, a few moments are noticeably confusing. When the Legion of Doom headquarters hovers over Superman, we lose all sense of perspective and size. Some fights scenes feel too cluttered to stand out. But in the end, Romita Jr. and Janson are making us keenly aware of the actual format that we are intaking this story. We get to admire these comics like we’re reading comics for the first time.

Coloring

Anderson’s coloring follows his themes in previous issues. We see reds and blues dominating a lot of the pages. Previously, I’d mentioned it felt like Superman was off his center, and Anderson’s coloring was showing his sense of identity was leaking out. Now that we’ve seen what happened in the latest Superman, the colors in the latter half of this issue have a more contained feel. It creates a sense of safety, as each color is bordered in completely. But with the final page, we see reds and blues streaking all over the place. The time of safety has passed.

Lettering

Sharpe gives this issue its pacing. During Red Cloud’s origin story, Sharpe’s placement of the speech bubbles provides us with a sense of fear and panic in everyone’s voices. We see people trying to interrupt each other, yet everyone is still speaking loud enough to be heard. Sharpe shows this by stacking the speech bubbles on top of one another while never overlapping. It’s also in the lettering we see Clark coming to terms with his recent decision. He speaks calmly and succinctly, even when met by panicked smaller bites in response.

Action Comics #1018 is an entertaining issue, but it acts more as a placeholder than anything else. It seems as though the creative team pulled back a little here as a wind up for the coming event. It’s worth the read, especially to know what might be coming in the near future. Pick up Action Comics #1018 at a local comic shop near you!

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JOKER/HARLEY: CRIMINAL SANITY #2- The Hunt is On

By

Cody Walker

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Joker leaves another crime scene for Harley and the police to ponder over in Joker/Harley: Criminal Sanity #2, out this week from DC Black Label.

Creative Team

Kami Garcia writes this beautifully paced and haunting story, and presents it in a way almost opposite of anything similar. Generally when dealing with flashbacks to tell a story, the flashbacks will be done in black and white or a different style. This story uses color for the past and black and white for the present.

Mico Suayan is handling the black and white pages, and Mike Mayhew is drawing the colored flashbacks. Jason Badower is assisting as well, I’m assuming he’s the inker since the book does not specify.

Richard Starkings is the letterer and while there is not much action in this issue, the lettering is easy on the eyes. Any noises are small and slight to show the eerie silence and to highlight those footsteps approaching behind you.

Story

This could very well be my favorite book from the black label so far. Turning the Joker into a more realistic serial killer comparable to shows like Dexter and Hannibal, almost makes the Joker more terrifying. His desire for spectacle and attention usually steers him into the grasp of Batman over and over again, but just imagine if he wasn’t trying to get caught. Just imagine if the Joker was a predator camouflaged into society with everyone else.

With his intelligence and ability to out maneuver the Batman, a sneaky and stalking Joker sounds like someone who could go around killing for years and years without leaving one single shred of evidence that he didn’t want you to find.

I absolutely LOVE this book, and I don’t feel that way about many other books right now. Immortal Hulk, DIE, Saga (whenever it finally comes back), Gideon Falls, and anything Black Hammer are among my favorites, but I can’t get enough of everything in this book.

Comparisons

People have always been fascinated by the minds of serial killers and how they could possibly do the things that they do. I believe the fanaticism increased exponentially when the show Dexter came around. I have a Dexter portrait tattoo on my right rib-cage, just so you know where I’m coming from. Before that I don’t remember any other shows or movies that told the story from the killer’s point of view.

Dexter gave us stories of sociopathic killers playing games with each other and crime scenes that felt more like artwork. Then came Hannibal with some of the best tableau crime scenes I’ve ever seen. Joker/Harley: Criminal Sanity taps into that same methodical, artistic type of murderer that loves being admired.

Harley even teaches classes just like Will did in Hannibal. Hannibal was one of my favorite TV shows ever made so every comparison between the two is the highest of praises. I believe Hannibal suffered from being on Fridays at 9 pm when most people are going out and having fun. I still haven’t even watched the 3rd season because I don’t want it to really be over.

Hot for Killers?

If you love watching serial killer documentaries, Dexter, Hannibal, YOU on Netflix, this book is perfection for you. At first I wasn’t thrilled about all these new Joker stories coming out around the movie, but they have all been completely original in their own ways and extremely entertaining. Harleen, Joker: Killer Smile, and now Criminal Sanity are all stand alone stories that don’t feel like a DC money grab at any point, which is what I was afraid of.

These are all great stories with phenomenal artwork in each of them. I will admit I also hated that most of the Black Label books were magazine size. Now I’m thinking about thanking them for giving us larger pages to enjoy such beautiful work.

What did you thin of Joker/Harley: Criminal Sanity #2? Do you know of any similar movies or TV shows that may have preceded Dexter? Let us know in the comments below.

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Review: TRANSFORMERS #15 Reintroduces The Best Parts Of IDW’s Megatron

By

Anthony Wendel

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With Transformers #15 by Brian Ruckley, Anna Malkova, Bethany McGuire-Smith, Joanna LaFuente, and Josh Burcham the series feels like it is capturing what it has been missing. What is the element does this issue bring to the table? A familiar side of a character.

Summary

A conspiracy unravels. The Autobots race to restore order. Megatron reaches his breaking point and Shockwave finds himself broken. There are no more Ascenticons. There is no more Rise. There are only… The Decepticons.

Writing

This issue helps to establish the backstory of a very popular character. With this new series, there has been a lot of re-introductions of familiar characters. Here, the origin of Megatron is put on full display for the audience to see. Again the origin featuring Megatron and his journey from a miner to a gladiator, and finally as the leader of the Decepticons is put on display. It comes as a comfort to see the detailed origin of the character has survived in this new series.

Brian Ruckley also makes sure to cement one of the most distinguishing aspects of Megatron by putting his rage on display. To showcase to Shockwave who is in control of the situation, Megatron is quick to show he is without a doubt the leader of this new movement. It’s impressive to see and showcases the side of Megatron which made him so interesting to read in the previous IDW series.

Artwork

This issue uses a mixture of two different art teams in a very artistically pleasing manner. With Anna Malkova on art and Joanna LeFuente on colors, the modern moments of the story play out. The pair bring a very powerful moment forward as Megatron realizes the only way to get his point across is with his fists.

Meanwhile, with art by Bethany McGuire-Smith and colors by Josh Burcham, some very powerful flashbacks are put on display. Megatron and his intense struggle to prove his worth is played out with some images. Though simple at times, these panels showcase the ever-changing world Megatron has to conquer.

With the letters by Jake M. Wood the issue has a great sound to it. From helping with the transitions between two time periods and aiding with a delivering of powerful blows with a fight scene the lettering is in peak performance.

Conclusion

Though the initial plot introduced of the murder of Brainstorm has yet to be solved, it is good to see the series still has potential. Transformers #15 finds a way to revitalize the interest in the comic and make the reader want to read more. Hopefully, this newfound potential will be squandered in the next issue.

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STRANGER THINGS: INTO THE FIRE #1

By

Cat Wyatt

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STRANGER THINGS: INTO THE FIRE #1, out January 8^th from Dark Horse comics, is a dramatic start to yet another tale from the Stranger Things universe. If you felt like the story of the original test subjects wasn’t over, you won’t be disappointed with what is about to begin here.

A shining and mysterious cover to this new series.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Stranger Things: Into the Fire is the perfect series for fans who enjoyed the last series (Stranger Things: SIX). Set several years after those events, we’re following the lives of the text subjects that were around before Eleven was born.

After the conclusion of SIX fans might have found themselves wondering what happened to the two subjects who escaped: Ricky and Marcie. Well, you need not wonder anymore, for Into the Fire is about to explore their ensuing adventures.

Take a look at who’s on this alternate cover of Stranger Things: Into the Fire #1!

The Plot

Stranger Things: Into the Fire has what is perhaps one of the best openings of any of the Stranger Things graphic novels to date. It’s interesting and dramatic, and more than a little bit disturbing and somber. In short, it’s perfect. And it did its job well; readers will be immediately pulled into the plot, wondering what is going on with this strange and lonely girl.

This latest series was written by Jody Houser, who clearly has been enjoying the world of Stranger Things. No complaints here. We personally love the journeys she’s been taking us on. We have no doubt that this story will be just as fascinating.

Stranger Things: Into the Fire #1 has a lot happening within the pages. There are so many reveals, alongside surprising cameos and appearances. It’s a lot to take in. The best thing about this issue is how Houser has connected characters from past comics with characters from the Netflix series (you’ll see who we mean). It’s just the right balance – while also providing us with an opportunity we’ve been hoping for.

The thematic ties to Alice in Wonderland are strong on this alternate cover.

The Art

Stranger Things: Into the Fire #1 will feel right at home with the rest of the franchise. The retro style and tones are the perfect touch. But that didn’t stop the creative team from experimenting a bit, here and there.

There are so many different scenes portrayed within these pages. There’s that introduction, which all alone is compelling enough to get us to read more. Then we have to consider the other settings, such as time (at least two different points, shown in this single issue) and location (again, several different areas are shown).

Given the large creative team involved, it’s really no surprise that they were able to pull off so much in such a short period of time. Ryan Kelly (pencils), Le Beau Underwood (ink), Triona Farrell (colors), and Nate Piekos of Blambot (letterer) all worked together to bring Houser’s story to life.

Talk about an introduction! This is captivating to the extreme.

In Conclusion

Stranger Things: Into the Fire #1 was a dramatic beginning to this series. Already we’re invested in what will happen next, while also being just a little bit curious and unsure. It’s the perfect balance for this franchise when you think about it. Fans of the world will want to make a point of checking out this series – though they should probably only do so if they’re up to date with the last graphic novel series as well.

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WEB OF BLACK WIDOW #5

By

Cat Wyatt

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WEB OF BLACK WIDOW #5, out this Wednesday from Marvel comics, concludes Black Widow’s latest tale. It’s a story of revenge and scheming in all the best ways. It is very much a story befitting the infamous Natasha Romanoff.

Natasha is looking sassy and smug on this final cover.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Web of Black Widow has been the tale of Natasha Romanoff, and how an enemy of her past was desperately seeking revenge. This was an enemy who knew the Black Widow well and knew exactly who to target to make the heroine look guilty.

This fifth issue concludes this miniseries, and it is a dramatic and compelling story right up to the end. This series is ideal for long-standing fans of Black Widow, but don’t let that statement intimidate any newer fans from giving it a go.

The Plot

Web of Black Widow has been a series that constantly compares the past to the present. For in this instance, Black Widow cannot escape her past. Thankfully, Natasha has always been the type to face her issues head-on, so running was never really an option for her.

Jody Houser’s writing in Web of Black Widow #5 was careful and intricate. This is the issue that wraps up the entire plot, after having already revealed who the antagonist is. Looking back on the rest of the series, you can clearly see the groundwork that was laid for the dramatic revelation that is about to occur.

Laying groundwork is something that is always easier said than done. Houser did an excellent job here. The elements were so clear as to almost be telegraphing what was about to happen – but not quite. Instead, they simply jumped to the forefront the moment it was all explained. It was quite clever.

There was something highly satisfying in seeing the resolution in this issue. Perhaps it’s because we were given a chance to see Natasha think outside of her normal bound box. Or perhaps it’s because we simply got a chance to see Black Widow in action once again. No matter the reason, it sure is good to see her up and fighting once again.

All the steps Black Widow took to get here.

The Art

Web of Black Widow #5 is a vibrant piece of art. The whole issue is highly stylized, with heavy shading and bold colors strewn about. It’s honestly the perfect fit for Black Widow, suiting both her darker past and her general nature.

This issue called for, unsurprisingly, a lot of flashbacks and scene changes. Yet each and every different scenario was distinct and immediately clear for what it was. That is yet another thing that is easier said than done. But it was vital for this particular plot.

Stephen Mooney was the lead artist on this project, with Triona Farrell providing those bold colors, and VC’s Cory Petit lending a hand for the lettering. Together they made this tale a memorable one.

In Conclusion

It is actually sort of sad to see this plot conclude. But at least Web of Black Widow #5 did the series justice with its ending. This was an intricate tale, one that forced the Black Widow to face her past, while also acknowledging when she needed a little extra help. It was beautifully done and has once again raised our hopes for seeing her get a longer running series. Fingers crossed!

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The Enemy of Your Enemy in BATGIRL #42

By

Cat Wyatt

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BATGIRL #43, out this Wednesday from DC Comics, concludes the dramatic plot involving the Oracle. This entire plot has been a unique solution to the dilemma of tie-ins, and the end result has been a fascinating and alarmingly intelligent read.

Batgirl #42 features the impending showdown of Batgirl vs the Oracle (and Oracle’s minions).

***SPOILER WARNING***

Oracle Rising has been a brilliant and intense read. Stemming from the Year of the Villain, this plot pits two of Barbara’s mantles up against one another. Barbara is Batgirl, and Batgirl is Barbara. But where does that leave Oracle?

As it turns out, Oracle herself (itself?) would like to know. And she’s feeling rather bitter and abandoned about the whole situation. This issue, Batgirl #42 concludes the plot, resolving the tension and so much more. But how far will Batgirl have to go in order to win this mirror match battle of the minds? Fans will be fascinated and curious to see how Barbara thinks her way of this mess.

And here’s a slightly better view of the battle, thanks to the virgin cover of Batgirl #42.

The Plot

Cecil Castellucci has done it again. Here is a compelling story of Batgirl, where she’s been forced to think outside of the box. That is to say, she has to think outside of her normal way of thinking. She’s already quite talented at seeing solutions that most others would overlook.

Batgirl #42 brought with it several changes alongside the conclusion. That’s to be expected, of course. But these changes, while surprising, also fit in nicely with where the series has been building up to for a while. We don’t yet know where it will go – but there’s no doubt that we’ll be finding out soon enough.

There were a lot of interesting elements to this issue. For starters, there was that delightful twist on the ‘enemy of my enemy’ concept. It worked brilliantly here and added some extra tension since none of us really knew how it was going to play out from there.

Then there’s Batgirl and her clever way of thinking. That was something we needed to see here. It was the perfect comparison to the way Oracle was thinking and acting. That made it the ideal way to conclude this plot, even though there is a lingering concern that the battle is not yet over (that whole rule about characters having to die graphically on screen before it’s truly over).

As far as tie-in plots go, this is one of the best ones to come out in recent times. It was clever, it was compelling, and it really shined a light on everything that makes Batgirl an ideal leading character. So if you’re looking for an example on how to merge two plots together, take notes.

This variant cover of Batgirl #42 isn’t afraid to take a breather and celebrate the holidays.

The Art

The artwork inside Batgirl #42 was vibrant and so alive. That probably had a little bit of something to do with the color palette – there was a lot of fire and explosions to be found in this issue. But it was also more than that as well.

Unsurprisingly, it’s the fight scenes and way Batgirl moves around the scene that really takes the show in this issue. Everything about her looks quick and decisive, which is fairly on point for her style. The creative team did an excellent job of showing all of that off.

Carmine Di Giandomenico was the lead artist for this issue, with Jordie Bellaire providing the colors, and Andworld Design doing the lettering. These artists work very well together, and we’re looking forward to seeing more from them in the future.

In Conclusion

Batgirl #42 was a fun and intense conclusion to an intriguing plot. It’s hard to believe that Batgirl and Oracle would ever be pitted against one another like this, but this whole plot arc has proven that it was both inevitable and exciting (to read).

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Battles and Delusions in CRONE #3

By

Cat Wyatt

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CRONE #3, out this Wednesday from Dark Horse comics, may be an issue full of fights and battles, but that doesn’t stop it from hitting shockingly close to home with its latest revelation. It would seem that Bloody Bliss’ past has truly come back to haunt her.

A disturbing cover is to be found for Crone #3. What will this foretell?

***SPOILER WARNING***

Crone has been the tale of Bloody Bliss – once a brilliant and terrifying warrior. Now she’s a broken old woman waiting for death. The last few issues have taught us that the past isn’t as far behind as one would like. Death and violence are once again terrorizing the people, with their only hope being Bloody Bliss’ return.

Crone #3 continues this dark and disturbing tale. Once again we find ourselves transported to this violent world, and it’s clear that the world hasn’t changed all that much. Despite Bloody Bliss’ best efforts. There’s something to be said in that, but perhaps it is best not to dwell on that thought too long.

A vibrant alternate cover of Crone #3, though arguably one that is also very concerning…

The Plot

Dennis Culver has once again woven an intricate and concerning tale. By merging Bliss’ past and present, we’ve had a unique opportunity to learn so much about a single character in a very short period of time. We’ve also been granted a glimpse of the world, and thus can clearly tell how little has truly changed.

It’s a concerning thought. But one that Culver likely wanted us to ponder while reading Crone #3. One thing is certain; Bliss may be old, but the fight is far from out of her. The same cannot be said about her weapon (which is still satisfyingly accurate).

The highlight of this issue is without a doubt the appearance of the new antagonist. This is the part of this plot that really touches close to home. Many of us will never have to face a physical battle the way Bloody Bliss has. But we have had to face her other enemy.

Almost every reader out there has likely faced a person who refused to take no for an answer. Given the culture we’re in right now, that is an openly discussed subject. So there’s something both alarming and personal about its addition in this series.

By this minor inclusion on Culver’s part, he’s managed to bring the entire battle home in a completely unexpected way. Suddenly we can connect with Bliss. And admittedly it’s going to make the inevitable beat down of the antagonist so much more satisfying.

The Art

As with the rest of the series, Crone #3 is full of brilliant artwork. The fight scenes are powerful and dynamic. Perhaps more so now that we’ve seen a version of Bliss that is capable of loss and failure. There’s something human in that, don’t you think?

Justin Greenwood has set the tone with his artwork in this issue. The character poses and expressions are a particular highlight, as they enhance the mood – while clearly broadcasting their opinions on what is happening.

Brad Simpson was the colorist for this issue, and his work is simply divine. The colors are rich and luxurious, regardless of which color palette is making an appearance on the page. His colors bring the characters – and their battles – to life.

Finally, Pat Brosseau was the letterer for this issue, and he did an excellent job. Brosseau has gone with an understated look, while also complementing the time period and art style with his choice of font.

In Conclusion

Crone #3 was another thrilling read in the series. Arguably, it’s the most intense yet, despite the decrease in flashbacks. There was something very human about the struggle shown, while simultaneously bringing the fight and threat to epic proportions.

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When Families Feud in FIREFLY: THE OUTLAW MA REYNOLDS

By

Cat Wyatt

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FIREFLY: THE OUTLAW MA REYNOLDS, out this Wednesday January 8th from Boom! Studios pits a son and mother against one another. Given that both are members of the Reynolds family, it’s safe to say that things are going to get explosive.

Ma Reynolds does not look like a woman to mess with on this cover of Firefly: The Outlaw Ma Reynolds.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Joss Whedon’s world lives on through the Firefly comics. It’s hard to believe that the series has continued on for so long, yet there is many a fan out there who will never complain about that fact. Especially given the short life of the TV series.

Firefly: The Outlaw Ma Reynolds may be a one-off issue, but it is one that ties directly into the core plot of the recent Firefly run. Thus, if you haven’t yet picked up the series, we’d suggest holding off on reading this one.

This issue immediately follows the events of Firefly #12. In Firefly #12, Malcolm Reynolds managed to bring an end to a new war that was about to erupt. Well, new in a relative sense. For this war is an old war; the battle between the Browncoats and the Alliance.

The Plot

Firefly: The Outlaw Ma Reynolds is a different and interesting sort of issue. If you’ve been following along with the series, this is not the first time that you’ve seen Ma Reynolds. But it might be the first time you’ve seen how she raised Mal.

It actually answers a lot of questions about Mal, come to think of it. He didn’t have a warm and happy upbringing – hints throughout the series and novels already told us that much. But the depth of that lacking wasn’t clear until now.

In essence, this issue pitted Mal up against his own mother. It was sort of comical in a way, what with the Alliance somehow getting Mal to work for them (long story). But it was also strange and surreal. It’s hard to picture this series of events taking place during the live-action run, but then again, things change.

Greg Pak managed to bring us a completely unexpected plot here. It’s safe to say that most fans would never have expected to see Mal working for the opposition, regardless of the reason for doing it. The conclusion was another surprising twist – one that may have made fans stop and stare at the pages. Or maybe not.

This black and white cover of Firefly: The Outlaw Ma Reynolds really forces you to notice the expression of each character, doesn’t it?

The Art

Firefly: The Outlaw Ma Reynolds is a brilliant example of artwork. It’s dynamic and fun to look at, and for a variety of reasons. While it doesn’t look exactly like the original show or movie, that isn’t a bad thing. The artists felt comfortable enough to run with their own styles here, and it worked out for the best.

This issue featured several talented artists working alongside one another. Davide Gianfelice and George Kambadais were the lead artists on this project. Their decision making behind the expressions of our characters was the highlight here, particularly in regards to showing the blatant conflict on Mal’s face.

Meanwhile, Joana LaFuente took charge of the colors. And those colors! There is so much to love about the color palette chosen here. It has a Western feel, which is appropriate, of course. But it also blends in several other elements. The end result is something truly magnificent.

Finally, Jim Campbell was the letterer for this issue. And you can see that he had a bit of fun with his work here. It combined nicely with the rest of the elements of this issue.

Here’s a rare sneak peek into Mal’s past.

In Conclusion

Firefly: The Outlaw Ma Reynolds was a unique reading experience. In some ways, it was a very heavy story, yet in other ways, it felt light and comical. It was an interesting balance to support a surprising tale.

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The Trials of Magic in NOMEN OMEN #4

By

Cat Wyatt

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NOMEN OMEN #4, out this Wednesday from Image Comics is another stunning addition to a series of magic suffused into an otherwise ordinary world. There are unseen things at work in Becky’s life, and that is about to make everything so much more complicated for her.

A stunning (and slightly disturbing) new cover for Nomen Omen #4.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Thus far, Nomen Omen has been a unique series full of fascinating elements and brilliant artwork. Becky has not had what most people would consider a normal life. She hasn’t exactly had a calm life either, with all the risks to her life and health.

That brings us to the current plot. Something dramatic has been happing to and around Becky as of late. It’s forced to her step outside the realms of comfort, all while trusting a man who is most certainly not mortal.

This alternate cover for Nomen Omen #4 raises questions for who Becky is about to meet.

The Plot

Nomen Omen #4 was a very much appreciated issue, for a variety of reasons. For one thing, readers have finally been handed several answers to questions we’ve been asking since the beginning. There’s something supremely satisfying in that.

Marco B. Bucci did more than simply answer our questions. He wove us a tale of legend, lore, curses, and death. The situation that Becky is in is arguably more dangerous and dire than we originally thought. But it is likewise full of magic and brilliance. Will the two balance one another out?

Where the rest of the series has so far been steeped in a strong sense of mystery, Nomen Omen #4 took on a truly ethereal quality. That’s thanks in part to Becky’s quest for answers (and later, for survival).

That isn’t to say that this issue felt heavier, on the whole. There was actually a decent sense of humor to be found, especially when one is willing to read between the lines. Becky and the people she comes across and delightfully witty and sassy, and that helps to bring the tone back down to earth.

Becky is looking somewhat distressed on this variant cover of Nomen Omen #4.

The Art

Nomen Omen has always featured some stunning artwork. It’s dramatic and unafraid to take risks – as evidenced by that unique yet striking color palette. And Nomen Omen #4 does not break that mold.

The artwork in this issue was beautifully, especially when surrounding the two women whom Becky sought after for help and guidance. They were, simply put, stunning. Though both in their own ways.

Jacopo Camagni is the artist responsible for essentially everything but the lettering in regards to the artwork in this issue. They did an excellent job of portraying this series of events. If we’re being honest, the series would not be the same without Camagni at the helm of the artistic side of things.

Fabio Amelia from Arancia Studio was the letterer, and they did an excellent job of working the story visually into the pages. It is subtle and unobtrusive, which is ideal when your eyes desperately want to wander the pages instead.

And here is a sneak peek at what is to come, with the cover for Nomen Omen #5.

In Conclusion

Nomen Omen #4 was an issue well worth the wait. We’re finally getting answers, while still being unsure of what will lay ahead in Becky’s path. We do know one thing, and that is the fact that she only has so much time to resolve what has been done. And we’re very much looking forward to seeing it happen.

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