Aliens: Defiance #9 (Dark Horse)
The last time I checked in with the Aliens series was during the initial launch of the Prometheus line back in 2014. It is not that those comics were bad, but there were a bit wordy. If I remember correctly, it was just not compelling enough to keep reading after the first several issues.
I rarely will mention cover art in these reviews, but it was beautiful, dark, and creepy. It was drawn by Stephanie Hans whom I have enjoyed since she first appeared in the interior of a Superior Spider-Man one shot. Hans has a water color, painted style that is soothing and haunting.
Brian Wood continues to be one of the most workman, versatile writers in the entire comic industry. Wood can write post-apocalyptic landscapes, Viking and Revolutionary warriors, and major two characters as well as anyone else. All of these previous stints make Wood the perfect writer for a well thought-out Alien series. This book had all the markings of what has made the series a lasting icon. A small desperate cast, an emotionless android, government schemes, and the lurking notion that an xenomorph is lurking on a ship in cold black space.
The interior art is not only great on its own merits, but compliments the story well. It was done by Wood’s long time DMZ collaborator Tony Brescini. Each character wears their emotions, or lack of, on their face across the entire book and could tell a story even without any dialogue. Brescini’s art in this book is simple and compelling.
Not only am I looking forward to issue number 10, but also looking forward and going back and catching up on the entire series. If one main reason for licensed properties is to get readers to further engage in the universe, anyone who reads this book will be lining up at the doors of the theaters in May.
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5
Quick Cuts:
Zenescope launched the third volume of Grimm Tales of Terror. It was standard affair for that series with serviceable art and Tales of Crypt one shot storytelling.
Ratings: 2.5 out of 5
Spell on Wheels from Dark Horse delivered a lackluster issue in what was one of my favorite miniseries of the years. I’m hoping the final issue delivers like the first three issues.
Ratings: 3 out of 5
She Wolf from Image launched a new arc with #5 and the art alone is worth a read, but this entire series is worth catching up on as well. The best comparison would be a cross between Archie and Twin Peaks.
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5