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Review: ‘Ghosted’ #2

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There is a methodical framework that is generally adhered to when establishing heist oriented storylines, but this systematic form of procedure usually breeds predictability in the narrative. In Joshua Williamson’s “Ghosted”, he incorporates themes of supernatural-horror to challenge this formula-bound genre, and manages to deliver a little unconventionality in what is a predominantly rigid design.

WRITTEN BY: Joshua Williamson
ART BY: Goran Sudzuka
PUBLISHER: Image Comics / Skybound Comics
PRICE: $2.99
RELEASE: August 14, 2013

Typically, heist storylines give focus to the impeding forces and unexpected problems that pose a threat to the mission objective. But when the operation involves capturing and stealing a ghost from an infamous haunted mansion, the inevitable interferences are much more sinister, and virtually difficult to prepare for. The general assumption is that Williamson’s cast of characters are going to be put through the supernatural wringer as the series progresses, ultimately falling prey to the very location they are trying to infiltrate. Descriptively, they are the greatest team of paranormal experts in the world. But whether or not they can live up to their diverse talents and work together in order to successfully accomplish their ambitious goal, that is still to be determined.

In “Ghosted” #2, Williamson spends more time introducing protagonist Jackson T. Winters’ team, and essentially validates their role in the heist. By providing just enough character details, withholding information about the job, and alluding to potential ulterior motives, Williamson succeeds in preserving the mysterious nature of the story. It has only just been announced that “Ghosted” has moved from a mini-series to an on-going, so the narrative is most likely going to progress at a slow and steady pace, without revealing too much too soon.

That said, the author has a keen sense of timing and an authentic feel for dramatic composition. He allows the story to lull readers into a relaxed state, then swiftly, with the help of series artist Goran Sudzuka, deliver some fantastically eerie moments that command the immediate attention of the audience. Both Williamson and Sudzuka give readers a taste of the supernatural horrors the Trask Mansion has to offer, delving into the history of the deceased family, and presenting some creepy imagery to do so. They are doing a commendable job establishing the haunted house as a significant character in the series, as opposed to just a backdrop for illegal activity; and demonstrate that the mansion’s nefarious role will only grow more volatile as the story progresses.

Sudzuka shows his most expressive work when illustrating the highly distinguishable faces of each individual character. His knack for capturing an array of different emotions through perfectly rendered facial expressions makes it possible for readers to genuinely experience the tone of the scene. He incorporates a lot of detail in the construction of the Trask Mansion, effectively depicting its abandoned and unlived in environment. There is nothing confusing about his visual storytelling. He is as descriptive and revealing with events as he is with characters. Somewhat on the fence about his take on ghosts and spirits though.

Overall, “Ghosted” #2 is a fun book that plays into the main elements of the heist genre, but brings something different to the table as well. The twist on the last page will solidify reader investment in the series. If Williamson and Sudzuka end each chapter as epically as they did the first two, readers are in for an awesome treat.

4/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – ShadowJayd

Comics

‘The Wicked Trinity’ – Preview New Archie Comics One-Shot Inspired by ‘The Craft’ [Exclusive]

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From Sabrina’s Magical World, Bloody Disgusting has learned this afternoon that Archie Comics will be releasing brand new one-shot comic The Wicked Trinity this coming June.

You’ll be able to meet The Wicked Trinity in the 32-page comic on June 12, 2024.

In The Wicked Trinity, “Sabrina’s magical nemesis Amber Nightstone and her sidekicks, Jade Kazane and Sapphire Gill, are intent on becoming the most powerful witches in the world. Isolated from so many around them, the three have formed a coven based on their individual needs for vengeance and true freedom.

“But when there is some dissent among the ranks, their small coven is threatened to be obliterated from within.”

The Wicked Trinity features a script by Sam Maggs, art by Lisa Sterle, colors by Ellie Wright, letters by Jack Morelli, main cover by Lisa Sterle, and variant cover by Soo Lee.

Archie Comics Senior Director of Editorial Jamie L. Rotante tells Bloody Disgusting, “When Editor-In-Chief Mike Pellerito came up with the idea of the Wicked Trinity—Amber Nightstone, Jade Kazane, and Sapphire Gill—I was immediately intrigued. I even had the good fortune to work on the script for Jade and Sapphire’s first appearance in last year’s SABRINA ANNUAL SPECTACULAR comic for younger readers. What I especially loved about these magical teens is that they could seamlessly transcend from classic-Archie stories into more mature, even horror stories. I was eager to start developing their world with a modern sensibility, taking cues from the great work of Kelly Thompson and Veronica Fish on our SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH series, and Sarah Kuhn and Carola Borelli on our recent DARKLING one-shot. Inspired by series like Charmed and films like The Craft, I knew there was so much potential to build up this coven in a story that beautifully blends magical fantasy with horror.”

Writer Sam Maggs previews, “Real witches writing real witches—that’s how we do things over at Archie Comics! I was named after a famous witch—Samantha from Bewitched—and so I grew up absolutely obsessed with everything witchcraft, devouring every book series I could about teen witches. That makes WICKED TRINITY a dream project for me. The power and energy of teen girls is absolutely unmatched (just look at the engine behind fandom culture) and being able to harness that metaphorically for a story like this is such a delight. Everything I write focuses on the power of female friendship, and this story is no exception. And what’s better than a morally grey female character? I struggle to think of anything. Cat familiars, maybe? Also, I’m totally a practicing witch now. So maybe if you read this, you’ll find yourself imbued with magical powers, too.*

Artist Lisa Sterle adds, “I can’t wait for people to be re-introduced to The Wicked Trinity! Witches, fashion, and Archie Comics; this is truly a magical trifecta and I’m so happy to have the opportunity to put my own personal stamp on this. I love to create stories in which girls find their own power, both from within themselves and through their friendships and coven. If you’re a fan of my Modern Witch tarot, you’ll find this comic just as magical.”

Exclusively check out the two covers for The Wicked Trinity one-shot comic below!

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