Reviewed by Jorge Solis. An exciting sci-fi thriller with explores the connection between creativity and inspiration, “Neverboy” #4 continues to be engaging character-driven read. The underlining themes always asks, “What is the difference between being a creator and being the creation?”With its layers of complexity and metaphors, the “Neverboy” series rolls out with its plot twists and surreal imagery.
WRITTEN BY: Shaun Simon
ART BY: Tyler Jenkins
PUBLISHER: Dark Horse Comics
PRICE: $3.99
RELEASE: June 3, 2015
Back at the top of his game in the art word, the rejuvenated Julian Drag is reveling in the adoration of his peers once again. Unfortunately, with the demands of more art, there is more pressure to become ambitiously bigger and have a better imagination. For his own selfish needs, Julian has to steal the dreams of others and twist their inspiration into something unrecognizable. While watching his own world fall part, Neverboy realizes he needs to stop Julian from wiping out imagination for everyone.
Writer Shaun Simon has taken his character arc of Julian to the next step. At first, we were sympathetic to Julian’s need for his artwork to be recognized. But then, Julian became addicted to the imaginary world that Neverboy introduced him to. Neverboy feeds Julian’s addiction and fulfilled his utmost desires for fame. Julian becomes the antagonist because he was created into one by Neverboy.
Artist Tyler Jenkins continues to do a great job mixing reality and fantasy. In one of the panels, instead of illustrating a pink elephant, Jenkins depicts a giant skeletal pink dinosaur marching across the urban street. Julian is torturing the kidnaped imaginary people and capturing their pain as his paintings. Towards the climax, Kelly Fitzpatrick removes bright colors to symbolize how Julian has become a parasite and drained the life force.
“Neverboy” #4 has set the stage for the confrontation between Julian and Neverboy.
