Dark Circle Comics 2015
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Illustrated by Michael Gaydos
Coloured by Kelly Fitzpatrick
Well I kind of like that this issue it the proverbial you know what hits the fan. That Duane has been able to keep this story moving at such a fast pace and not lose any time for characterization and character development has been wonderful to experience. This is not like any other origin story out there and I greatly appreciate that because of it’s uniqueness this really can find a way to resonate with readers more making it one of those instant new classics. Of course it doesn’t hurt that Michael and Kelly are involved as well because dang do they do something extraordinary on the interiors. A great story is one thing but when combined with this kind of great illustrations it ramps the book to award winning worthy level.
I’m not sure if i’m in love with him or just enamored because really with only his cop training and experiences growing up he’s throwing himself into being a vigilante thanks to pain meds and other narcotics that he thinks gives him an edge. Forget the scarred face I could still fall for a man who looked like that if he had a great personality and was fun to be around. Still that he’s out there doing this is kind of crazy and kind of awesome at the same time it’s like he’s trying to rediscover who he is after the accident and being hooked on drugs and i’m all for that kind of journey.
That he’s doing it blindly, possibly a side effect of the drug use, is kind of crazy though and that things get to a point that even recognizes that something has to change is freakin incredible. That he’s growing as a person seeing what he’s doing to himself and that he needs help well holler at ya boy because this is the true turning point now. I have a feeling this is going to be that moment that changes his life and direction for good.
It should come as no surprise to anyone that the Archie lines of comics are some of the most sought after books on the market right now and it’s because of books like this one. I mean everything that happens this issue should shock, amaze and thrill readers because you just don’t expect these things to happen in issue four! The fact that Graham and Savitz have the drop on him even though he had the element of surprise shouldn’t be shocking they are more than street thugs they are organized crime and work for a scary man so the whole fight and his thinking about what’s happening it’s a wake up call.
There also seems to be a supporting cast finally developing for real not just people in his life who worry and check in on him. Though let’s face it his old partner isn’t gonna be in the loop quite as soon as Jessie is let on the big secret. Still the potential is here and from what i’m seeing from Duane is remarkable stuff and I can guess till sun sets on the dark side of the moon and never figure it out correctly. Let’s face it too that’s a huge draw to reading this series you don’t know who’s going to be friend or foe not really.
The interior artwork here really is among the absolute best in the business. Rarely will you see such dark stuff with so much detail and emotion. Seriously the attention to detail in the backgrounds rival all the detail put into the characters and yes this dark and brooding but it’s also full of life and hope at the same time.
In my humble opinion this is a five star book and award worthy so if you haven’t experienced it yet call your local shoppe and order it today!