IDW Publishing Reivews: Ghostbusters #2, The Cape #2, Monocyte #1
Ghostbusters #2
The first issue of the series I was a bit torn on the fact that the look of the comic fit more with the animated series as opposed to a grittier horror style, but with the second issue it’s really grown on me. The second issue is all about the setup as opposed the first’s re-introduction of the characters. Something strange is indeed going on in the neighborhood as ghosts and ghouls are stronger than ever, making it tougher for our paranormal eliminators to do their jobs.
The humor is great, each character really has a distinct personality and they fit with what we know from the movies. But, the question does pop up, how much of this is me projecting my love of the comic series? Part of the fun is all of the wink and nods of what’s come before. It’s entertaining because it brings back great memories, but also adds a nice touch to tie the comic to the movies.
The art has grown on me and the action and the latter ghost are actually pretty solid. The ghost kids are very creepy, reminding me of the little girl in The Sixth Sense. The second issue I think improves on the first and the set up as to what’s to come is great.
In the second movie the four triumphantly cheered “we’re back” and with this series it feels like they truly are. Definitely call this series.
Writer: Erik Burnham Art: Dan Schoening Publisher: IDW Publishing
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
The Cape #2
The first issue of The Cape was one of those comics I put down and said, “holy crap.” It was that good. The second issue is just as solid with Eric continuing his trip off the deep end and attempts at revenge against those he feels wronged him like his brother Nicky.
There’s a mix of the present and past and we get a good sense as to why Eric is so messed up. He’s given this amazing power after being told over and over that he’s worthless. That’d get to you eventually and because of that, he’s now corrupted. There’s that saying about absolute power… But, Eric doesn’t care anymore, he’s emboldened by his actions, becoming seen more and more.
But in the end, this is a family piece and the conflict is really between Eric, Nicky and their mother. We’ve seen this type of story before, where one son feels rejected and plots revenge on his family, but there’s so much here that makes it entertaining and engrossing.
Written by Jason Ciaramella with art by Zach Howard and inspired by a short story by Joe Hill, the comic is beyond solid. You understand the villain’s motivation and can’t help feel a little bad for him, no matter all of the horrible things he does. Each issue seems to ramp that up piece by piece, and judging by that last panel, the next issue will add a bit more.
Writer: Jason Ciaramella Art: Zach Howard Publisher: IDW Publishing
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy
Monocyte #1
What the hell did I read here!? It’s like Hellraiser and H.R. Geiger had a kid and the kid was really into the Bible, Dark City and the environment. The comic is amazing to look at and that’s the draw to me. The visuals and art is stunning with that sickening beauty you’d find in Hellraiser or a Geiger drawing.
The story is interesting and I’m still not quite sold on it, because there’s really not a whole lot there. The words and dialogue are kept to a minimum which causes a good part of the story to be told in two pages laying out the factions involved and their history. Once you read that it somewhat makes sense.
The story is basically a tech based race that feeds on humans versus a more environmentally friendly group that also seems to feed on humans. Both sides look right at home at a BDSM party and share wardrobe with cenobytes.
The concept and style are very interesting and it all can only be judged after a few issues. The art is stunning, story is mixed for me. But, it’s still a recommend buy for me. The art alone is that solid and how it’s laid out is so different and interesting. This is a minimalist’s comic as far as story telling forcing you to do some work to put it together. Overall, very interesting start and very unique even with it’s similarities to those things mentioned.
Writer: Menton 3 and Kasra Ghanbari Art: Menton 3 Publisher: IDW Publishing
Story: 7 Art: 9.5 Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy
IDW Publishing provided Graphic Policy with FREE copies for review
the writings of Edgar Allan Poe. The collection includes work from thirteen writers and artists collaborating on seven short graphic stories and eight vignettes. This anthology will be released both digitally and in print. Each of the individual stories is available for download at RedStylo.com, DriveThruComics.com and will also be available on Graphic.ly. The digital editions contain exclusive special features only available online and are $1.99 each. The printed anthology (full-color paperback, 90 pages) will be released August 21. Orders have begun online at 
San Diego, CA (April 7, 2011)—With today’s announcement of the 2011 nominations for the Will Eisner Comic Industry awards, 
“I’m glad our efforts at the Library of American Comics continue to be recognized,” said creative director Mullaney. “These are our ninth nominations in our first four years. I’m particularly proud that tribute this year is being paid to the incredible cartooning of Cliff Sterrett and Bob Montana.”
