I've not read many Paul Chadwick comics, and even fewer Concrete comics. I'd heard of what a strong and unconventional creator Chadwick was, but I just wasn't hooked by the work I'd sampled. So when I approached this new Concrete limited series, it was with a little bit of trepidation. It's not that I thought the work would be poor, just that I figured it wouldn't appeal to me. Ah, there's nothing like a pleasant surprise, is there? Chadwick offers up an accessible read here that's surprisingly grounded, given the unusual nature of the title character. He offers strong characterization and explores interesting issues of sociology and biology. There's plenty in this comic book to think about, and there's plenty in it to which the reader can relate.
Concrete continues to reflect, not on his life, per se, but on the nature of human life itself. Perhaps that's why he's a bit intrigued when a corporate bigwig makes him an offer. He wants to spearhead a campaign, a socio-political movement against overpopulation, and he's come up with an unconventional way to make it a reality. He wants Concrete to be his celebrity spokesman, since the rocky figure has publicly spoken out about overpopulation in the past. Meanwhile, two lovers -- friends of Concrete -- make a decision to become closer to one another.
Chadwick's art style walks a fine line between a simpler, conventional comics approach and a more detailed realism, and the end result is a convincing look at the real world with an unreal figure walking around in it. There are times when his work here reminds me of Richard Corben's art. I love the unconventional opening visual, with Concrete's arm bursting out of the page, seemingly out of the context of the story itself. Larry's bookish, average appearance is oddly comforting; he's a regular schlub to which the reader can easily relate.
Chadwick examines the concepts of celebrity and business-world ambition from an intelligent and rather quiet perspective here. He not only makes the idea of a famous rock-man seem believable, but also a tycoon's radical vision for world change as well. I thoroughly enjoyed the debate among the characters as Concrete considers the proposal. Chadwick's script boasts some truly intelligent and credible tone and language.
Chadwick intersperses little factoids throughout the book, balancing the drama and routine of the characters' everyday lives with a bigger picture. There's an interesting balance between personal stories and global imperatives here. Concrete's reflective tone here is oddly encouraging and calming, but it's not an introspective train of thought he's on at the issue's opening. He's considering larger issues, engaging in extra-spection rather than introspection, as it were. I enjoyed how those immense ideas still turn around that spur one to look inward and take stock in one's own beliefs. 8/10
Note: This comic book was not among this week's new releases.
