215 Ink 2016
Written by Keith Foster
Illustrated by Rory Smith
Cover Art & Direction by Lance Pilgrim
Three months ago, Port Emerald, one of the largest cities in the United States, was almost entirely destroyed during a battle between Kodoja (A rogue Kaiju-sized super weapon created by the military) and a massive serpent that emerged from the Earth near Crater Lake Oregon.
Let start off by saying that if you haven’t read vol.1 don ‘t worry while it’s beneficial it’s not completely necessary to enjoy vol.2, at least according to the first issue. While I do highly suggest you pick up the volume 1 trade because it’s a great story. The first page is what’s happened so you’re caught up pretty quickly and able to pick this up and go.
I like this because it’s not your traditional Kaiju story. Yes they’ve created one and the military in their infinite wisdom and arrogance think they can control it is a wonderful starting point there are multiple stories happening within that Keith will weave together. This is what I love because you have no idea what’s connected to what yet and while you can think up vague ideas you won’t be quite sure if that’s what Keith will do.
So the typical military style happenings open up volume two. It’s a nice way to get things started and demonstrate the power of Kodoja. Also if I may interject the ineptitude of the military. What I also like is that we see only what happens on the base where he’s kept. Our view is limited and the scope of how and why are nonexistent so it leaves you with that curiosity of what the heck is going on and then you’ll be back to find out.
I’m a big fan of good solid characterization and character development and we get that here when two Professor’s meet to discuss something they mutually discovered that are anomalous. So again a mystery of how two cultures separated by time and distance sharing one particular item that shouldn’t exist in either place definitely piques the curiosity factor.
The black and white interiors are fantastic. Plus there’s this quality to what Rory does where it seems the linework still has those areas that usually get erased to give things that extra grainy and unique look. It’s nice I can’t really put into words how it makes me feel but I enjoy what he brings with this style. The way the story flows through the book though his and filling the panels is well conceived. The uniqueness in the characters appearances are appreciated. While I usually want more backgrounds I think what Rory does is spot on here.
Not your typical Kaiju story by any means and that’s perfect. It’s got a good solid premise with interesting characters, good solid pacing and characterization alongside some very descriptive visuals. It really is a great blend of East and West ideology when it comes to storytelling.