Reviewed by Jorge Solis. An exciting thriller with a clever twist, “Never Boy” #2 blurs the thin line between reality and fantasy. An interesting take on inspiration and imagination, this is a dark tale that examines the harsh reality of being an adult. “Never Boy” holds onto the reader’s attention and won’t let go.
WRITTEN BY: Shaun Simon
ART BY: Tyler Jenkins
PUBLISHER: Dark Horse Comics
PRICE: $3.99
RELEASE: April 1, 2015
Julian Drag used to be at the top of his game in the art word. Unable to hold his own gallery, critics think Julian has lost his touch and his prime days are already gone. What he really needs is the inspiration to get the paint flowing again. All of a sudden, Julian finds himself in the middle of a frantic car chase, trying to save a stranger’s life.
Writer Shaun Simon focuses on the fragile relationship between creativity and economics. Simon creates a sympathetic protagonist, who is struggling for his own art. Without any income, Julian is unable to keep his career from fading away. Everything suddenly falls into place when “Neverboy,” from the first issue, makes a sudden appearance. The story starts out as a-day-in-the-life-of, takes a left turn, and becomes a suspenseful acid trip.
Because Julian is an artist, Tyler Jenkins creates a vibrant world where the imagery has to pop out.Notice in the opening pages how the taxis are all lined up in the street as the panels focus in on Julian. In the gallery, Jenkins uses minimalist paintings to poke fun at art critique. When “Neverboy” shows up, Julian finds himself living in a waking dream where typewriters with legs are walking around.
“Neverboy” #2 introduces a new character with a surprising twist.I really hope that “Neverboy” can keep the surprises coming in the next installment.