
Insane Comics 2016
Created & Written by Alex Barranco
Illustrated by Mohamed Reza
Coloured by David De La Cal Alonso
Lettered by Micah Myers
Years ago, eighty percent of the human population was infected with the aids virus. Facing extinction, researchers finally discovered the cure to the virus was tucked away in animal dna. Since each person is genetically different, different people required the dna of different animals. Although the cure had no apparent side effect, the genes of some children born to those that had received the cure were altered.
What an intriguing story this is. I like the concept that a synthetic cure taken from animal DNA would transform the children who were afflicted with aids into hybrids able to transform into humanoid versions of the animal that DNA was taken from. Then add into the mix a corrupt Congressman whose own son is whacked out serial killer who preys on those who possess the new hybrid genes. That’s not unlikely since a serial killer would target those with the mutation and seeing them as different would make them a target for many reasons, fear and jealousy being two of the main ones.
In order to keep his son out of the spotlight however the Congressman needs a scapegoat and who better than the woman who’s come the closest to finding out that his son is responsible. Enter former LAPD Detective Maria Agosti who has been framed and branded as the serial killer. It’s not hard to make the leap that the Congressman had his dirty hands in that as he needs someone to take the fall for his son and with his power he’s able to hire those to set her up. Now it’s a race against time for Maria to find the truth, clear her name and bring Sebastian Leavitt to justice.
The story, pacing, characterisation and advancement here is great to see. I’ve not read something by Alex before but he’s definitely someone to keep an eye on. The way he’s already taken the concept to execution and how he brought it to readers is exciting, fresh and new. It’s definitely something that’s out there, I mean humans that can shift into animal form isn’t exactly something we see every day, but it’s also a fascinating idea.
Mohamed and David’s work on the interiors here is extremely impressive. The attention to detail is amazingly good. The way the page layouts are used through angles, perspective and the use of backgrounds with shading really draw the reader into the story beautifully. The animal aspects on a human are done in a way that makes sense and utilises both forms so the research there is phenomenal.
There’s a reason i’m such a huge advocate of smaller press companies that find new fresh and original creators who bring their vision to life. This is an exceptional issue that deserves your attention and should be read. These folks could be among the next generation of creators that make a huge impact in the industry.