American Mythology Productions 2017
Written by Mark L. Haynes & J.C. Vaughn
Illustrated by Scottie Watson
Coloured by Gene Jimenez
Lettered by Natalie Jane
One of the things that continues to impress me about this series is that each arc is only three issues long. It’s not just that either as each arc leads into the next one making it feel like a continuing almost soap opera style serial. This really has that authentic television style writing that no other new season in comic book form has to it. I keep saying that in each review because it needs to be stressed and understood that this is an extension of the show had it continued on, as it should have, this is how it would’ve (could’ve or should’ve) gone.
I love that we get all kind of action in this that coincide with the kind of storytelling where the plot advances and the characters abilities get to shine as it all moves forward. The characterisation and character development is so spot on that it makes for such a great read and you forget that this isn’t the show. Even with the characters from Earth who came along for the ride unexpectedly, Carter and Jackson, are so well done and true to who they are.
I’m also a big fan of the side plots running simultaneously through this. With Rodon and Janus and the Genii all playing their parts there is something to keep exploring while the main story goes forward. Not to mention Shepard’s starring role in Janus and his revenge scheme because of Dr. Weir. Just the fact that all of this kind of revolves around each other and the Wraith who seems to be acclimating to helping humans instead of automatically feeding on them well it all adds up to what makes this so damn good. It’s both predictable and unpredictable at the same time and that kind of dichotomy isn’t easy to come by folks.
I’m a fan of the work that Scottie and Gene do here. The way Scottie uses page layouts and with their angles, perspective and backgrounds to make the panels looks like sets really helps with the storytelling. The likeness of the characters to the actors while nice isn’t spot on but close enough so that there is still originality and the chance for their expressions to feel right and natural. The body language and the way we see the scenes transition are well done. The way everything is utilised here makes for spectacular visuals.
The continuing revelations of characters, motives and the thought process they go through are some of the strongest reasons to read this. These characters act and feel like they belong to this continuity and the actions they take are what so on point to what we think they should be that it’s no longer just a story it’s the tale of their lives. Like the boys are telling their tale instead of creating that tale. How often do you come across that?
Cannot recommend this enough for those who love the franchise or just incredible science fiction storytelling.