OSSM/Image Comics 2015
Written by Brian Buccellato
Illustrated by Toni Infante
Lettered by Troy Peteri
If there’s one thing you can say about Brian is that he certainly knows how to construct and execute one hell of a story. The flashback sequences keep coming to explain how the kids were taken away before as babies they could be sacrificed and why the hunt is on now for them. Meanwhile the characterization we get from their adult selves is utterly amazing and kind of showcases they never really stood a chance at fitting into normal society. Together the whole thing creates this whole supernatural mystery where creepy plays a huge factor.
There really is this whole dramatic devil worshiping cult thing at it’s core where the characters seem to unwitting pawns in a game they have no clue they are playing. Can they figure it out in time before their dear old daddy’s web of spies can close in on them and sacrifice them to the Devil?
I have to say that I found the flashback interesting when that once she gave birth to the one she had decided she no longer wanted to leave. Even more so when it’s Henry who overheard what he did and took action himself. Those actions of course lead us back to the present and Travis.
As much as we see Travis try to do the right thing he just hasn’t a clue. He wasn’t raised the way Mel was and opening up and sharing his feelings well it just as easy to do. This characterization is phenomenal from seeing him talk to his boss to his argument with his girlfriend we really get to see and know a lot about him. Through misunderstandings with Mel and this whole I have siblings madness Travis is trying to keep it together and do right by Mel but the track record speaks for itself.
So all the while we’re seeing all this personal drama unfold throughout this issue including a meeting that Travis will come to regret the tension of what’s behind the scenes continues to mount. There’s only so much someone can take before the strings begin to snap and we’re seeing that happen this issue. Travis is having so much thrown at him from every angle and the one he’s the wanted the most, knowing who he is, well that’s available. Also finding out now is more important because of other events that transpire this issue. So much so quickly and we’ve he’s the quickest thinker on his feet but perhaps in his own misguided way he’s trying to what he thinks is right here.
It’ll be interesting to see what happens down the road and if what we learned has an impact upon his father and his actions. Sometimes folks an entire issue can be told in a way that’s thrilling, entertaining and informative without having to see much of any action. This is why writers are storytellers.
Toni’s interiors have this great quality about them as well. This gritty almost scratchy feel lends itself to the mystique of the story like it’s not fully formed or realized and going with it the best it can. Not sure if that makes sense but in my head it does. There’s a roughness in some and a softness in others that compliment the characters perfectly and convey such intense emotions.
Overall i’ve got to say this nailing so much for me it’s intense and character driven behind and exciting premise and an impeccably paced read.