 Shadowmancer - #1 published by Markosia.
Original story by GP Taylor, adapted by Tony Lee, Pencils by Pedro Delgado,
Colours by Eva De La Cruz, Letters by Richard Emms.
Sales of this comic have been sensational - more than 3000 issue one comics have been snapped up - an amazing amount for a comic produced by a company who are effectively an independent publishing house.
Even more sensationally there is the fact that Shadowmancer is a VERY Christian story - the novel is full of explicit references to the Bible, and, well I don't want to spoil the story for those who plan to read it,
but lets just say its not exactly subtle.
These two factors notwithstanding - the comic is a BIG hit. Here's why.
The comics actually have the edge over the novel. I'm not just saying that
because I like comics - but because the visual style of the story, and the
superb artwork by Pedro Delgado blend extremely well.
Delgado has a kind of Manga style, which is blended with elements of western
cartoon type artwork. The colouring is masterfully subtle.
And the story seems to have been made for comic book treatment, either that
or a film - apparently the contracts have already been signed on that one.
I would say that this comic would go down well with any young person who is
remotely interested in comics - and it has the kind of supernatural and action elements which will make it attractive to non-Christians.
Issue one doesn't really get into the meat of the story spiritually at any rate, but there is still plenty there to begin getting one's teeth into.
This is a great comic - and copies of issue one are very limited so get it now or be disappointed.
Guidance - the story is suitable for all ages. The comic does however carry a six page preview for 'Carnival of souls' which some parents may consider scary for young children.
Story: **** Art: ***** Production: *****
Review by Simon Cross |
