As the name suggests, The Halloween Legion: The Great Goblin Invasion is about a band of guardians from a place of eternal October that attempt to protect the town of Woodland from interstellar goblins. The Skeleton, the Witch, the Devil, the Ghost, and Autumn (not just A black cat, THE black cat) use their powers for good against little green men hell-bent on abducting the townsfolk. Two years after the original Legion release, this sequel lives up to all expectations. Wonderfully reminiscent of 1984’s Gremlins, writer Martin Powell crafts a fun and whimsical tale of supernatural science fiction.

Powell’s ‘aw shucks’ country dialogue is witty and well-placed amidst a relatively minimal script. When not battling ghouls, we get a glimpse at the Devil’s (a.k.a. Molly’s) transition to a new high school. We also see the relationship between the guardians grow, especially when two of their lives are at stake. The Skeleton is my personal favorite, his deathly visage reminds me of Spain’s Dia de Los Muertos. The one aspect of the plot that isn’t my favorite is the extraterrestrial goblins. I’m all about breaking down paranormal boundaries, but it’s tough to buy off on goblins coming from space.

I’m not sure what the breakdown is in artistic duties, but both Thomas Boatwright and Diana Leto made October X-Men in small town America larger than life. They’re pencils are as light and fun as the writing, which makes the transition between panels seamless (it’s a quick read). Leto also illustrates Powell’s autobiographical bonus comic which shows where his devilish love of Halloween came from.

Hopefully it’s not too early for a Fall graphic novel review. Part of me feels like this is the shelf of a department store lined with Christmas decorations in the summer. Early or not, when The Halloween Legion is released on September 11th, I urge fans of All Hallows Eve of all ages to get it.

Story: Martin Powell Art: Thomas Boatwright, Diana Leto
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Dark Horse Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review