Review: Orphan and the Five Beasts #2
[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Writer, Artist, Colors and Letters: James Stokoe
Review: Tony Farina
Summary
A brave warrior, following her master’s final wish, finds the dreaded bandit leader that used to be a hero-but is now a force of destruction that threatens all life in the valley with his indestructible legs and “Two Trees Bearing Heaven” fighting style.
Positives
Orphan and the Five Beasts #2 has not preview images to share. That is both good and bad. Bad because I am about to go on and on about how much I love the art and bad because, you can’t see it. Although, I suppose that means you will simply have to go out and buy this book. As our fearless leader Josh says, which has become the DCN motto, the tease will force you to read more comics.
James Stokoe’s singular vision of this world is simply put, stunning. To steal from another lovely bloke, Mr. Max Byrne, this book is a visual feast. I mean it. Take your time. Do not rush it. Sit. Stew. Ruminate in the juices that is each panel. There is so much going on in each scene. The attention to detail is such that it feels as though each hair follicle has it’s own name. The size and scale of the baddie in this book is something to behold. It would seem cartoonish if it wasn’t so intentional. As a word first, pictures later guy, this book reminds me why those of you who do pictures first might be on to something. I just can’t say enough.
Oh yeah, the story is great too. Hero’s quest. Perfectly laid out. Love it so much.
Negatives
This is a really wonderful issue. Some of the jokes don’t land perfectly, but I forgive it all.
Verdict
Orphan and the Five Beasts #2 is the second edition in to what will ultimately only be a four part mini-series. I almost feel as though Dark Horse might have been better off just putting this out as a complete graphic novel because there is so much packed in here that it might be overwhelming to try to remember from month to month. I mean, I will be getting the collection when it comes out because I want it hard bound as I plan on going back over and over. Get on this book now! Fight the beasts!
