WRITTEN BY: Brian K. Vaughan

ART BY: Fiona Staples

PUBLISHER: Image
PRICE: $2.99
RELEASE: July 23, 2014

Reviewed by Epic Switzer

Now that the dust has settled and our heroes have found a place to lay low, Vaughan is really getting into the nitty gritty of relationships.  Invocative of the last seen in “The Graduate”, Marko and Alana fell in love amongst bursting bombshells and the constant threat of discovery.  They’re relationship was always dangerous, forbidden, and a metaphor for the excitement of our own youthful affairs.  Now that they have escaped certain death, there isn’t a simple happily-ever-after to tack on.  The honeymoon phase is over and Marko and Alana are now coping with the banality of normal life.  It is a pretty bold direction for this sci/fi adventure book to take but I’m finding it to be both socially relevant and rewarding.

The central conflict for both Marko and Alana has been building over several issue and in this issue they are both just slightly south of crossing that line.  Alana is coping with her unfulfilling job by using, which as you might expect is a big part of the entertainment industry culture.  Marko, who rarely sees his wife, is facing the temptation of another woman who is actively filling his needs.  If you didn’t know I was describing Saga right now you might assume this is any of a variety of true to life dramas, and that cultural commonality is something I think Vaughan is purposely emphasizing in this arc.  As always, he gets the point across quite poignantly in the only scene where Marco and Alana are together.

Across the galaxy, Prince Robot IV is having a pity party fuck-a-thon on planet Sextillion after being cracked in the head and failing to apprehend his targets while simultaneously missing the birth of his son and the death of his wife.  He’s pissed, and yet another character exhibiting self destructive behavior as a coping mechanism.  There’s always a lot to dig into in this book.  I can’t wait until everything comes to a head on Gardenia.  It will be interesting to see how Marko and Alana handle things together on their next adventure.

Fiona Staples is absolutely incredible, but you already knew that.

Epic Switzer AKA Eric is an aspiring filmmaker and screenplay writer living in Los Angeles.  His work tends to focus on the lighter side of entropy, dystopic futures, and man’s innate struggle with his own mortality.  He can be found on twitter @epicswitzer or reached via email at ericswitzerfilm@gmail.com. 

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Ranked for the sake of competition and good old heated discussion, here’s my list for this year’s Top 3 Comic Book Artists of 2013.

It should be no surprise to see Fiona Staples on a “Best Artist” list, considering the widely positive reception she’s garnered for the critically acclaimed and outstanding work she’s been dishing out for Brian K. Vaughan’s “Saga”. The book, which is published by Image Comics, has been accumulating an impressive mantle of accolades and industry-wide recognition in the past year. From a British Fantasy Award, a Hugo Award, 2 Eisner Awards, and 6 whopping Harvey Awards—including one for “Best Artist” and “Best Colourist”, Staples has more than earned her place on this list.

Her imaginative and unparalleled character designs, along with the visually compelling universe she’s crafted, has won fandom’s hearts, and made her distinguishably unique style undoubtedly recognizable and wholeheartedly adored. From dazzling covers that are fantastic enough to be framed, to striking interiors that engage and emote effectively, her work effortlessly speaks volumes of elegance and colourful flair. If this past year is any indication for what to expect from the likes of Fiona Staples and her creative genius, next year will be absolutely promising.

Having already established himself as one of today’s most talented and highly praised comic book artists in the industry, J. H. Williams III has been relentlessly adding to his award-winning, and illustrious, repertoire with critically acclaimed titles such as “Batwoman” and now, Neil Gaiman’s “The Sandman: Overture”. For the better part of 2013, he had continued making waves on the shelves with what was, arguably, the most artistically sound series on the market — referring to “Batwoman”, of course — before sadly deciding to detach himself from the book due to creative/editorial differences in October. Nevertheless, his brilliant work reaped nominations for this year’s Eisner and GLAAD Media Awards for “Best Cover Artist” and “Outstanding Comic Book”, respectfully.

With an exceptional knack for visual storytelling that lends itself to any genre of titles, Williams never seems to delivers anything less than excellence. More often than not, people will expectedly get lost in his beautifully envisioned panels of eccentric and unconventionally laid out artwork, because his mastery of his craft is just that bloody good. It’s no wonder an artist of his caliber was sought out by the incomparable Neil Gaiman, to illustratively helm one of the most iconic comic book series this era has ever seen. There’s no doubt that J.H. Williams III will continue to be one of the most sought out comic book artists in the New Year.

With appreciative recognition and glowing acclamation that continues to burn in our unworthy souls, Bloody-Disgusting is thrilled to announce this year’s pick for Comic Book Artist of 2013: the unmatchable Menton3! The amount of love the community has for this humble czar of horror art and prose is undeniably expected, given the transcendent—and sublimely transformative—artwork he’s been gracing the public with.

2013 was a marvellously productive year for Menton3, with the released of critically acclaimed titles like “Lust” with Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith, “Transfusion” with Steve Niles, and his current solo project, “The Memory Collectors”. All visually stunning, all painted masterpieces. There’s just something about his artwork that produces such a slow-burning, visual experience when taking his artistry in. It’s like every page needs to be breathed in and worshipped reverently, because what he’s offering is more than just panels in a comic book. It’s a delicately intimate relationship between you and the artist, and that’s something extraordinary.

Editorial by – ShadowJayd

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Since the previous story arc came to a close in climactic fashion this issue has been a slow build over the last few months. So many story lines have locked into place, the stars have aligned, and finally Prince Robot and Heist have their confrontation. This issue surpasses expectations in more ways than one. So much action, intrigue, and surprise. “Saga” is the gift that keeps on giving.

BKV is able to weave magic with this issue. The Will is on his death bed, Gwendolyn is either trying to save him or use this as a final means to get back at her ex, Marko. Marko, Alana, Hazel and Klara lay in wait to see what comes from the Prince’s visit. As events unfold it becomes clear that however the situation is resolved, all the players will come out of this forever changed.

Staples’ art is orgasmic. Vivid yet soft, realistic yet fantastic, and best of all is her ability to infuse the art with the emotion of the story. In this issue there isn’t anything overtly spectacular in terms of massive monsters, but Staples doesn’t need big fantastic creatures to showcase her talent. Sometimes it takes nothing more than a facial expression to make you take a step back and say, “Wow”.

There’s no doubt that “Saga” has hit its climax, but I can’t wait to witness the fallout in the new year.

4.5/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBasterd

The post Review: ‘Saga’ #17 appeared first on Bloody Disgusting!.

The last story arc left off with Prince Robot IV arriving on Quietus and having an old fashion laser cannon arm fight, leaving a just a bit of a cliff hanger ending. Finally over the course of this arc as we are got up with Alana and Marko’s as well as The Will and Gwendolyn’s movements prior to this eventual altercation. Similarly, the plot of the two tabloid reporters continues as they poke and prod at Alana’s story, where most of the mystery resides; will they break Marko and Alana’s lovers’ flight story or will they just end up in a body bag?

This book is filled with so much creativity. BKV has truly fashioned a world of his own using influences from many different genres to create something unique. The book is loaded with many themes relevant, hotly debated in the media, yet he is able to infuse the script with such raw comedy that all flows together so seamlessly. This craftsmanship is prevalent throughout the issue making this style of writing so appealing to the reader.

Fiona Staples does masterful work as she is able to combine extreme fantasy with an certain degree of realism. Similar to BKV’s style of writing, Staples puts mature and often raunchy material on the page, giving the book exactly what it needs. Whether it’s an old Cyclops reading a kids book, or a child stomping a stabbed throat, the atmosphere is captured within the art work.

Every issue is a genuine pleasant surprise. This one is no different and I can guarantee the next will be even more extreme.

4/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBasterd

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Over the course of this most recent arc, the addition of the paparazzi has brought an interesting twist to the story as they continue to ask questions about the disappearance of Alana. Since both parties are trying to keep this under wraps, it seems that this aspect of the story will have a large impact. Hazel and the gang are currently seeking refuge, but now time is running short for them and they need to begin to take action or risk being caught. Probably the most crucial, most interesting at least, story line in this book is that of The Will, having been battling inner demons of his own while deciding whether he should quit the bounty business it seems he’s come to a decision. As this issue closes out there is a massive twist that leaves us hanging on until next month.

BKV continues to amaze me. From story points to dialogue, there are constant fresh ideas that continuously evolve the book. Some of my most favorite parts of “Saga” are come from his witty dialogue between characters. The candid nature in which the characters act is strikingly real.

With each review of Image’s “Saga” comes my praise of Fiona Staples’ incredible art, both stylistically in the illustrations and the way the colour is splashed onto the page. Famous for her ability two push the envelope, this issue holds a couple gems that might make some squirm.

This story is on an upward trend as the many plot lines are being slowly weaved together.

4/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBastard

The post Review: ‘Saga’ #15 appeared first on Bloody Disgusting!.

This is to encourage increased orders and promotions on the book from retailers. The second print will come out on September the 25th, the same day Saga #14 comes out. Along with the two trade paperbacks, that gives an added incentive for retailers to persuade customers to get on board.

While Image Comics has found success in its Dollar line of comics, reprinting the first issue of a series of a dollar, the increased discount means that Image will receive as much revenue on the $2.99 Saga #13 second print as they would on a $1 book, giving retailers the remaining profits.

Which should give retailers added incentive to push the book to enquiring minds…

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“Saga” doesn’t pick up exactly where its previous issue left off, instead it goes back a ways to catch up with Marko and Alana after their minor confrontation with an enormously destructive space baby. Being the first book of a fresh arc this issue jumps around to the different characters that were left out of issue #12 to give a little refresher on their current situations. For those who don’t own the trades (get on that) the way this book refreshes allows for a greater understanding of the overall plot line. The pacing of this book is excellent; though there is no significant action till the end the story remains very interesting to read, there is also a certain amount of intrigue added to the plot as it seems word may get out that a being as unique as Hazel has come into existence. This, of course, is one of the main reasons both Wreath and Landfall are trying to get this situation dealt with in the quietist way possible.

BKV’s writing is a joy to experience. The story flows so well from one page to another, even when the scene changes there is always a panel that makes it a good end point for the new scene to begin. One of my favourite aspects of BKV’s writing is his dialogue. BKV doesn’t give a shit about censorship and this warms my icy heart. The banter between characters can make the reader feel a swing of emotions. One second you’re laughing to yourself at a hilarious comment, and next you’re feeling a twinge of empathy for an emotional character. The use of Hazel as a narrator causes this book to have a very different feel than many other narratives; her perspective adds an additional layer of intrigue to the plot.

Comic book art comes in all styles and colours, some sketchy, some clean, and others just downright weird. “Saga” sets itself above the bar through the artistic capabilities of Fiona Staples. Her style has a rustic look, but holds a truly realistic element that brings the fantastic creatures to life. The art is augmented by the application of colour,giving the drawings a beautiful flow. LIKE BKV, Fiona doesn’t give two shits about censorship, and is able to deliver adult-themed images that can blow your socks off.

If you can’t tell, I absolutely love “Saga” and have since day one, not only because of the creativity within the art and story itself, but because the universe is vast, complicated, and genuinely awesome. A little something has been missing in my life these past few months, and this week I got it back.

4.5/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBasterd

Editor’s Note: This issue contains my favourite line from any comic this year, “Like secondhand smoke from her first crush”. Beautiful.

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This book kicks off with a flashback as per usual in the Saga world. This also is where the source of controversy occurs. As Prince Robot IV is spurting blue fluid from a viscous neck wound, his video display shows a graphic male on male bukkake session. If you don’t know what a bukkake is you’ve not explored the internet thoroughly enough. Controversy aside this issue does revisit the Prince as he continues his pursuit of Alana, Marko, and Hazel by heading to the home world of the cycloptic author of the novel which caused Alana and Marko’s interspecies love story. This book focuses primarily on dialogue as the author and Prince Robot banter over the true meaning of the novel and the circumstance revolving around its conception. The issue ends in magnificent fashion as it comes to a climax and leaves more than a little bit of a cliff hanger ending.

BKV has an incredible imagination. This story just seems to link together all the different story lines, the Prince had been left out for quite a while as The Will took center stage but low and behold the original purser is once again closest to the prize. The pace is steady, but as the conversation heats up so does the pace, this is a typical BKV attribute since there has not been a boring issue yet even if they have a lull at some point.

Fiona Staples takes center stage once again as she elegantly brings BKV’s world to life. Her ability to add so much raunch and gore to the story just adds something raw to her incredible artistic ability. Whether it’s a bukkake, little seal critters, or blood and gore, Fiona is able to cover all bases in spectacular fashion.

If you’ve read my reviews before, you know this book is the be all end all of my existence, hate it or love it you have to appreciate what BKV and Fiona are doing for not only the genre but for comics in general.

4.5/5 Skulls

Reviewed by –GreenBasterd

The post Review: ‘Saga’ #12 appeared first on Bloody Disgusting!.

“Saga” chapter 11 is an emotional rollercoaster; kicking off the issue with the climax of Hazel’s conception and light humor makes us forget just where the last issue left off. The steamy and humorous opening cuts into the drama filled crazy situation both the protagonists and antagonists were left in: giant space baby trying to kill everyone. The book has an incredibly fast pace as events begin to unfold and both ships need to GFTO as quickly as possible. Here is when the emotions really start to take over as excitement, relief, and despair wash over the reader, in no particular order. This book is lethal.

BKV shows off his writing skills in more way than one in this issue, with both the organisation of the story and the dialogue itself being the prominent factors. Using the flash back and narrative methods are key to “Saga” as a whole and this particularly rings true in this issue, both at the beginning and towards the end the flash back helps the reader gain more insight on the character’s lives. Hazel’s narration acts as a catalyst throughout the story as her witty thoughts create a relief in tension right before an occurrence that would leave anyone stressed. The dialogue of this book is top notch, when I read “Saga” I don’t feel like I’m reading a story from a different time and place, I feel as though all the characters interact in a realistic modern way the only difference being they’re shooting around space and are most definitely not human.

Another element that “Saga” brings to the table is the incredible skills of Fiona Staples. She makes every illustration look as though it was painted on a canvas. Very soft minimalist lines give these fantastic images a human look while the colours give that extra depth and realism. To say Fiona is talented is like saying the sun is hot, she could quite possibly be one of the best artists in the game.

Another home run is put into the books for “Saga”, I’ll just quietly lock myself into my room and cry softly till next month’s issue.

5/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBasterd

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This current story arc of “Saga” has been including flashbacks to start off each issue giving the reader a greater insight on Alana and Marko’s background, seeing the love bloom has been helpful in understand the nature of their unique relationship. This issue expands on the universe that BKV has created as the planetoid that Marko and his mother are on begins to hatch; this is a great twist to the story because it has a devastating effect later in the issue. As the book propels forward many of the events that have been occurring throughout come to fruition in a climactic event that will change the lives of some major characters in the book.

BKV, once again, showcases his incredible skill and imagination; the book flows so well from start to finish as Hazel’s narration links events to themes and creates more continuity throughout the book. This creative element is a magnificent one. Hazel has unique perspective on the situation and her omniscient view point gives her a more profound opinion on unfolding events. Many big things happen in this issue but there aren’t any particular elements that overshadow the issue which is incredible considering the magnitude of the shitstorm that takes place. BKV has very candid and vulgar dialogue, he’s not afraid to riddle conversations with F-bombs while also adding layers of intrigue and comedy.

As always, Fiona Staples weaves magic with her artistic abilities, the realism she entwines into story that, at its base is pure scifi\fantasy, is incredible. Many of Fiona’s illustrations carry dirty element which gives the book a darker and horrific look.

“Saga” is a premier comic book. BKV and Fiona Staples do a spectacular job bringing this beast to life.

5/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBastard

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Notorious bounty hunter extraordinaire The Will has been off the radar since the death of his lover and fellow hunter, The Stalk. Last issue brought him back into the fold as Marko’s ex-fiancé Gwendolyn sought out The Will’s agent to inquire about his lack of progress. Since the short hiatus, “Saga” has been following the storyline of Hazel’s parents and grandparents as they race across the galaxy in their tree/spaceship; this issue now expands on The Will and the new addition of Gwendolyn. The books pace is fairly steady with a decent amount of killing and the revisiting of The Will’s obsession with saving Slave Girl from her current occupation on Sextillion. This issue builds a rapport between The Will and Gwendolyn, foreshadowing a potential partnership between the pair as they seek revenge.

As always, BKV done an incredible job developing the plot of the story and keeping up the constant tension as events unfold throughout the book. The issue develops The Will’s character as he seeks the void left by The Stalk’s death while simultaneously familiarizes the reader with Gwendolyn’s character and her desire to kill Marko. This issue gives a pretty hefty ending as well.

Fiona Staples comes out guns blazing. Her art has such a realistic look even when depicting the types of fantastic creatures and environments the BKV thinks up. Fiona leaves nothing to the imagination, the art is R-rated as of late with nudity or ridiculous kill scenes.

Every issue makes me more and more excited for the next; if you haven’t picked up an issue of “Saga” yet, you’re out of your mind.

5/5 Skulls

Reviewed By -GreenBastard

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This issue continues to expand on “Saga’s” world, from a quick flash back of Marko and Alana first encounter, to the introduction of Marko’s former fiancée Gwendolyn. The interaction between Alana and Marko’s father, Barr, completely changes from the previous issue, showing the versatility of the story and characters. Though this is a fantastic story with non-human life forms, they still act in an identifiable way. As the story continues I’m curious to see how the relationship between Alana and Barr will develop.

“Saga” is narrated by the future self of the current new born Hazel, the offspring of Marko and Alana who are different species; species who have been waging a war with one another that covers the expanse of the galaxy. For a book that secretes creativity, this element is one of the most creative parts; as she is the only one of her kind, it allows for a different perspective on the events that come to pass. Hazel has the perfect amount of seriousness combined with witticism in her dialogue which is a theme that runs throughout the book. For all the bloodshed, battle, and killing there is always a hefty amount of comedy. The fact that this book caters to the vulgarity inclined and lovers of graphic content is also amazing. The characters bring out themes like racism, segregation, and most importantly, war.

Fiona Staples is another beats altogether. It is a realistic take on a fantastic idea, there are many odd creatures and monsters that have human characteristic giving the book a very specific feel. Staples has a very fresh style of art with no shy eye for blood, gore, and physical deformities.

“Saga”, potentially my favourite book in circulation, has so many different genre elements in it. I dare say the creative genius behind it rivals that of J.R.R. Tolkien and Frank Herbert. This hasn’t been much of a review, but more of a spewing of my love for the series. It’s that good.

5/5 Skulls

Reviewed by – GreenBasterd

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The panel started off by with the creators defining what Science fiction mean to them. Brian Wood said, “Well the way I approach sci fi is not so much a focus on technology, but how that impacts the way we live.” In “Mara”, he mentioned, they are creating a future world that has a heavy obsession with sports and war, and they are linked in a sense by competition. Mara is a very gifted athlete at a young age and has achieved an ultimate level in sports. She starts gaining superpowers unexpectedly. They point of drama comes from the fact that she lives in a world where your worth is defined by how you compete, and she becomes a cheater because of her advanced abilities.

Ming Doyle said, for her, sci-fi was an aesthetic that she draws upon. There is such a vast world, and its freeing as an artist to be able to build these worlds.

Glen Brunsiwck spoke of “Non-Humans” saying, for him sci-fi was looking into the future and trying to find out what actually might happen. Taking this, he likes to see how characters would realistically react to whatever elements are taking place in the future. In Non-Humans, it deals a with disease that targets teenagers, which allows them to bring inanimate objects to life, which creates an issue as the toys start demanding rights. They turn to violence and thus have to be illuminated. A ventriloquist puppet serial killer comes in to the story so it causes more of an issue, and this is the world we find ourselves in.

David Hine spoke of his upcoming book with Image, “Storm Dogs”, which is set far in the future, without much futuristic technology. The book was pitched as CSI but in space. You have a team of invesitgators who are sent to the planet to examine killings. It brings humans who had 24/7 tech connectivity and removes that making them have to relate to one another on a one to one basis. The world has a lot of Western elements to it, the cities are very make-shift and organic. It’s about living in a hostile environment and trying to cope with that. It’s a very character based book, and it’s been such a joy to create. There are a lot of elements of crime fiction, sci-fi, and some horror as well.

Joe Harris said about “Great Pacific” that it is about the great pacific garbage patch that is actually a real issue right now. In the book, it’s a big soupy mess that is a new continent that rose out of tossing stuff in the ocean for so long. It involves the character who settles on the garbage patch, claiming it. It becomes a survival story because he faces so many threats. A mutated Octopus comes in the first issue, and it stalks the boy from below. So no top of the natural elements, and the basic survival he has to deal with the Navy at somepoint and other factors. He’s not a do-gooder, he sees it as an opportunity to claim it for himlsef and once he establishes the settlement, it becomes a question of whether he will fall to corruption.

Fiona Staples said, “Saga is not strictly sci-fi despite all the rockets and laser guns, it’s more of a space opera”. She continued, “We don’t have a certain one look for the technology or the spaceships, its defined by the character or world it belongs to.”

Brian K Vauhgan said that while he was growing up he always loved sci fi and fantasy, but for it’s all fake and make believe. Star Trek or Lord of the Rings, are both make believe. He said, “I wanted to create a world with elements of both, why limit it to one. When I first spoke with Fiona, she said she’s not a big fan of tech so I was like, “well we’re fucked”. But her not drawing tech makes the book feel so different.”

About the world of “Saga,” he said that all the fantasy characters have horns of some sort, all the sci-fi have wings, and all the robots had TV heads it makes it clear which side they are fighting for. Fiona said, “The worst thingI’ve ever had to draw comes in issue #7”.

When asked about optioning “Saga” for a screen adaptation, BKV said “I’m in it for the cash money. But as far as I’m concerned, comics are made to be comics, not just a platform for another medium. I’ve never watched an episode of Breaking Bad and said, “Man, I wish someone made a painting of this!”

The post [NYCC 12] Speculative Fiction and Image Comics Panel appeared first on Bloody Disgusting!.

WRITTEN BY: Andrew Foley
ILLUSTRATIONS AND COVERS BY: Fiona Staples.

“Fed up with receiving poorly written Twilight knockoffs, editor Shannon Wade did what any reasonable person would: she started killing the worst of the would-be authors sending them to her. Meanwhile, Andy, a stuttering, overweight vampire has targeted those who portray vampires in a light he deems unrealistic. Not exactly novel but terribly graphic, Done To Death follows Andy and Shannon’s paths towards a collision as darkly funny as it is ridiculously violent.”

“DONE TO DEATH” Drops This September From IDW Publishing! (MSRP – $19.99 Page Count – 144)

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