IDW Publishing 2015
Story by Kelly Thompson & Sophie Campbell
Written by Kelly Thompson
Illustrated by Sophie Campbell
Coloured by M. Victoria Robado
I am absolutely adoring this series. No it isn’t like the cartoon was and that’s okay it’s an interpretation of that by these incredibly talented ladies and one that fuses modern day sensibilities and things that are currently happening with girls in the world and putting a positive spin on that. Sure the Misfit’s are their rivals and Pizzazz is well a bitch but that’s normal you have that in life and in an industry where someone feels threatened by an up and comer that you feel has more talent than you do. The Romeo & Juliet romance between Kimber and Stormer well that’s just another modern twist on things showcasing that you can be who you are and still thrive.
I’m loving Sophie’s work on the interiors too. That each girl has a different body type and aren’t ashamed of that and then seeing Kimber’s hair this issue like that is pretty amazing. Plus the creativity involved in creating their stage looks and hairdo’s not to mention the vibrant colours involved in both it’s so visual and that is important when dealing with these characters. Then seeing the emotions and feelings come off the characters mainly through facial expressions is some really strong stuff.
I like that both groups seem to have a parallel thing happening at the same time. While the Misfits are going on a talk show Jem and the Holograms are setting up for the benefit they are performing at and both bands are short one member. Of course Stormer is trying to stop whatever is starting with Kimber thanks to pressure from the others Kimber’s not having it and is going to fight for something that could be so right. Maybe it won’t work out ya never know but not trying that’s even worse. Still seeing how each group deals with the same thing happening says a lot about the type of people they are.
Rio shows up and it’s cute ya know the whole I like him he likes her but there’s the hologram secret still. Jerrica is so shy and it’s kind of adorable and Rio’s desire to be there and be supportive it’s endearing.
If we are going to get that page each issue where they sing and we get a glimpse at the lyrics and the energy they give off then we really need to find a way to use some sort of Shazam app or another app to hear the songs made real because that would be innovative and just plain incredible. Oh and part of me really does like that the Misfits have to send in one of their roadies, Clash and Blaze, to do their dirty work and try to sabotage Jem’s show.
I think the writing, characterization and the way Kelly and Sophie have decided to introduce us to the girls. It’s been a nice process of establishing personalities and their relationships with one another and how Jem came into being and it’s still unfolding before our eyes. Just like real life things don’t happen within one issue it takes time and never really ends it just keeps going.
This is a strong series that says a lot to many people about acceptance, being whomever you want to be and to embrace your life with both hands.