Review: OPHIUCHUS
[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers]
Writers: Ali Leriger de la Plante & Natasha Tara Petrovic
Artists: Natasha Tara Petrovic & Ali Leriger de la Plante
Reviewed by: Sean Blumenshine
Summary
OPHIUCHUS is the story of the lone sentry of an ancient, inactive gate. One day, a strange being breaks through and infects her with a virus. And shortly after, she is approached by two machines, who implore her to follow them to the center of the universe to put an end to that virus—a malevolent being which rots all worlds.
Positives
The cover is really cool. It immediately showcases the fun style of the book and the cool character designs. It’s something unique that stands out.
The interior art is amazing. I love how this book looks. It’s a creative world with so much color and life. There’s a simplicity to it that really works and I found it to be engrossing especially the environments although, as previously stated, the characters look cool too.
The main benefit of the art beyond just looking good is that the book relies on it. I’ve read a lot of comics that are over written and this one does not have that problem. The creators tell the story through the art. There is almost no narration and not an overwhelming amount of dialogue. They tell the story naturally using its greatest strength and I found that refreshing.
However, I do like the dialogue. The characters have unique voices that instantly give the reader a sense of their personalities. A lot of it is very funny and I enjoyed the interactions between the characters.
Ali Leriger de la Plante said that this story was initially based on a dream she had and I think that is apparent in the book. The tone is very interesting. It has an other worldly feel both in the writing and the art which I found appealing.
Negatives
For me, the pacing is a little off in places. Some of the book is a little sluggish. And the ending felt very abrupt to me. Ophiuchus defeats the villain a little too easily and I’m not thrilled about her losing her memory at the end.
Verdict
Whatever complaints I have are small gripes. Overall, I really enjoyed this graphic novel. It’s a really creative and original piece with a ton of heart. I love these characters and the mythology behind the world. It’s executed well with gorgeous art and is a lot of fun to read.
