Boom! Studios 2015
Created & Written by Grant Morrison
Illustrated by Dan Mora
Lettered by Ed Dukeshire
I really am a huge fan of this story so far. I mean it really does take something from my childhood and amp it up to a level I hadn’t expected. The story and spirit of christmas as reimagined here is one that is so utterly familiar and yet so completely dark that it’s more thrilling and entertaining than I could have hoped for.
Dan’s interiors make this extraordinary as well. I mean the opening, listening to the guards talk about missing Yule and all that entails while watching the snowfall and Klaus working his way into the city that so callously threw him out was spectacularly done. The mood, tone and feel he brings to this really is absolutely amazing.
After eluding the night guard easily enough and making them look like fools morning comes along with a surprise. As happy as the children are the parents are mortified to find presents, toys for the children. Seeing this play out in the excitement of the children and the sheer fear and worry of the adults well it really gives that purview to the whole scrooged or bah humbug aspect you know exists but never experienced. As the guard try to figure things out and their boss angry as all get out the children play in the streets.
Jonas that spoiled little brat who feels he’s the only one who should have presents, the Baron’s son, sees the children playing and is resentful. This Baron really is truly one of the most foul and evil creatures to ever exist. Drunk on power and ruling by fear this man will be the death of himself as the series goes on. After all a tyrant is only as good as his grip and when a man comes along to show hope that grip will inevitably loosen until it’s too weak to be effective. Then the townsfolk will rise up and all will be made right. At least that’s my perspective of the whole thing.
As night falls again a trap is laid for Klaus and he walks right into it. This man turned toy maker through the spirit of the forest who tries to bring joy back to a joyless, soulless town is now up against a behemoth of a man who is probably about as smart as well you get the idea. All brawn no brain. Can the Baron find his mystery man who defies his orders and bring an end to the chaos he sees seeping into his rule?
Exciting, adventurous and a complete modern throwback to that whole stop motion animation that introduced us to Kris Kringle to begin with. Brilliantly done, written, illustrated with vibrant characters, incredible characterization and the promise of hope overcoming despair through even the darkest of actions this story will rewrite the troubles of trying to celebrate your holidays while being persecuted.