| Posted: 31 October 2019 at 3:21pm | IP Logged | 11
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I usually don't compliment people or their work. I was never exposed to it much growing up, so I don't have a good frame of reference, but I'll try...
I'm really liking the page layouts and panel shapes, they are really adding to the flow of the story and are very dynamic. The splash page with its single image has energy and movement with the opposing lines and repetitive circular shapes bouncing along. All the elements are just pushing you to the next page. Which adds to the cliff-hanger aspect of a page a day exposure. The anticipation and desire to see what is next is very strong. This directing of attention is masterfully accomplished using various methods. Sometimes the characters are directing our attention, like Wolverine on page 2, or repetitive elements , like the flying knives on page 5, or the panel shapes themselves like on page 13, 14, 16 and 17.
The use of square and rectangular shape panels is calming and used very well before and between the action sequences. The irregular panels provide added tension and dynamics to the action sequences and move the viewer through the page at breakneck speed.
The perspective and "camera" angles are always changing and never jarring. I really liked the switch of view between the two communication centres on page 6.
Almost all the panels have the characters or something moving, the Blackbird through the sky or with billowing dust clouds as it lands, open hands and mouths, bent knees and out stretched arms, expressions on faces, one hip higher than another or the way a teenager might slow their movement as they round a corner into the kitchen.
The everyday stuff like the kitchen scene or the Scottish mainland, ground the reader into the story by showing and demonstrating those familiar everyday aspects we have experienced. Like working in a kitchen with a child doing homework or crafts of shopping and walking down a street. It tells the reader that the story is happening in their world. A good storyteller does not forget to relate the reader to the fictional world and to make them a part of it.
Some panels I must mention:
Panel 2, page 3, I'm getting a very strong Neal Adams vibe from the Cyclops image.
Panel 3 page 3, Wow! Such power, only one (artist) better.
Panel 2 page 6, Captain America, its good to see you again.
Panels 1, 5 and 6, page 11, picture postcards.
Panel 3 page 15, he's not mis-understood, he's evil.
Panel 3 page 19, the falling Multiple Man.
Panel 6 page 20, a clear concise recap.
As an eight year old or a ten year old, I might not take much notice of the technical aspects of the story, but I would want more just like it. As a mature reader, the technical aspects just add to my enjoyment.
This is the only new comic book series I have read in many, many years. Thank you! John.
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