The Strain #11
Writer: David Lapham
Artist: Mike Huddleston
Publisher: Dark Horse
It was love at first page. Just from reading the opening eerie message, I was in awe. The story opens with a wicked movie poster layout, taking the reader to the protagonists’ meeting place. The hunting gang is about to enter the tunnels to find the Master and try to kill him with their new vampire killing inventions (including a light mine and silver-brad-shooting nail gun). The series ended nicely, introducing a satisfying plot twist and bringing everything to full circle. I love the action the art portrayed and the script kept my interest the entire way through. I compare the action in comics to movies quite often only because it amazes me how artists are able to portray movement and intensity through a flat medium. This issue kept my attention the entire way through, and the contrasting light and dark panels are very appealing. After Twilight happened, the vampire world has not been given much justice. This comic will definitely bring back the horror of vampires, and the entire series is worth collecting. With a solid story and beautiful renderings, I give this series 5 out of 5 Nerdskulls.
Supurbia #4
Writer: Grace Randolph
Artist: Russell Dauterman
Publisher: Boom!
For those of you who watch Beyond the Trailer online, you may recognize Grace Randolph; but oh boy, where to start with Supurbia? This issue has a ton of information to soak up and sort through. If you have not read prior issues, this is not the issue to jump in at. On to the story…!
This storyline is very complex and there is a lot of juicy information about the characters. For me, this issue is the most packed yet. The cover and first page of issue four reveals Hella Heart with blood dripping from her hands and face, literally. Russell Dauterman’s art style is detail oriented and gorgeously executed throughout this entire issue. My only complaint is that the issue does jump around a lot, and I went back to reread a few pages to make sure I was up to speed. There really is a lot of information to cover (I cannot stress this enough), and I suggest reading the series if you enjoy reality TV, drama, or intense story lines. I was surprised that the same sweet lady on Beyond the Trailer wrote such a twisted tale. We will see what is in store for the Supurbia characters, and for now I give the series 4 out of 5 Nerdskulls.
