 The Flying Friar published by Speakeasy comics.
Writer: Rich Johnston, Artist: Thomas Nachlik
Released in February by Speakeasy Comics, this fast moving story is based on the life of a Christian who lived in Italy in the seventeenth century - Joseph of Copertino. He is numbered amongst the canonised saints who are formally commemorated in the calendar of the Roman Catholic church.
While the gripping story-line ends with an authentic quote from the writings of Joseph of Copertino, unlike the current series of Christian biographical comic-books being published by Arcadius Press, there are not a few creative and imaginative elements which are somewhat less than based on historical fact.
Readers will note for instance that the comic is also a parody of Superman,
complete with a character called 'Lux Luther'.
However, this by no means detracts from the quality of the work but rather
contributes to a very engaging script, peppered with suspense and surprise.
As each dramatic stage in the life of Joseph unfolds, the reader is swiftly
caught up into the spiral of dramatic events that lead us through Joseph's
childhood and pursuit of his calling.
He patiently endures contempt and misunderstanding, culminating in the
explosive moment when the revelation of his capacity for the supernatural
leaps into a new level. This adds fuel to the fire of his struggles with
his ecclesiastical peers.
Neither having sought after the supernatural abilities that are gradually disclosed from the beginning of the book, nor fully understanding them,
Joseph's story becomes tinged with tragedy when he becomes capable of a feat
that the law of gravity forbids to man, and which his closest friend has
longed for all his life.
Thus he unwittingly becomes the object of violent jealousy and the target of
the latters's efforts to match his supernatural ability.
Surrounded with suspicion and outright persecution, Joseph feels forced to
use his abilities to defend himself against those who would seek to outlaw
and even eliminate him. Yet the ending of the story is blessed by an
element of compassion, humility and penitence.
The artwork is certainly an asset of The Flying Friar. Having an excellent
and colour cover which suggests the mystery and conflict that unfolds within
its pages, the black and white artwork is a fine example of how effectively
this form of comic-book illustration can be.
The work of artist Thomas Nachlik is dynamic and engaging, with a remarkable
capacity for creating an impressive richness of expression and movement,
complimented by a smooth flow between panels and pages.
The form of the characters and a skilful use of perspective at critical
moments are very effective. While this is the first graphic novel of writer
Rich Johnston, the unfolding of the story is a fine balance of pace and
clarity.
Bearing in mind that this enjoyable work has been published by a mainstream
USA comic company, the imaginative and fictional license ought not surprise
us.
While making no pretensions to be a detailed historical account of Joseph of
Copertino, the ending of the book renders gentle homage to this Christian
whose life and virtue have merited the manner of his life and conversation
to be uplifted as an example of faithfulness to Christ.
It is also important to note, that while a characteristic of our enchanting
flying Friar is his ability to defy the laws of gravity, there are certain
moments of conflict when his 'gifting' adopts a more aggressive expression
against those who oppose or threaten him.
From a Christian perspective, these fictional attributes of the Friar are in
no way a reflection of the gifts attributed to the grace of God which the
Bible speaks of and are often manifest in the lives of the saints.
These traits of the Friar also seem to act independent of his will and not
entirely subject to his control. This is another reason why his abilities
should not be confused with divine gifts, for 'The spirits of prophets are
subject to the control of prophets' (1 Cor. 14:32).
The themes of good vs.evil, reform in church history, the relationship
between the Creator and creation, and redemption in Christ make this title
most suitable for adult readers.
Those who enjoy a Biblical element, an ecclesiastical setting however
discreet, and the mingling of Christian truths in their reading of
comic-books will enjoy journeying through this imaginative rendering of
Joseph's biography.
Guidance: The Flying Friar contains scenes of violence, and themes of
church corruption. Best for mature readers. The Flying Friar was published
by the now defunct Speakeasy comics. It is available from a number of
outlets and for download from www.richjohnston.com.
No star ratings given.
Review by Michael Beshonges |
