Aside from two or three mentions on this website, I really haven't seen a lot of comics enthusiasts talking about Troy Little, online or otherwise. Too bad, because they're missing out on a real indy-comics talent. Little's edgy, slice-of-life storytelling is bound to appeal to fans of unconventional comics and to those who enjoy pop-culture, slacker oddball characters that remind one of the writings of the likes of filmmaker Kevin Smith.
I don't think Little's main character would appreciate the comparison, though. But screw 'im. He's got a shitty attitude anyway.
Steven heads down to Anthony's minimalist coffee shop to share the news of his bizarre and violent encounter with two strange men in his apartment. An immensely frustrating and forgetful friend by the name Kevin stops by as well. Together, they're the Three Stooges of social interaction. After Anthony and Kevin struggle with the knowledge that Steven doesn't own a television set, Kevin finally gets around to sharing a surprising piece of news: his latest acquisition for the purposes of transportation.
Little's angular, exaggerated style suits the tone of the characters and plot wonderfully. There's a darkness to the book, even when it's being silly, and that's reflected in the sharp, extreme features of the characters. The designs of these everyday guys are striking, though, while still reinforcing an average quality. Despite the simple tone of Little's style, he still jams plenty of detail into the book, especially in the backgrounds. That detail in the setting reinforces the realism.
The plot of this issue... well, there's no real plot, since there's no real conflict. Plotting on this title is a subtle affair, and a secondary one. Little shares with his readers a view of themselves and their lives in his focus on the mundane. I'm nevertheless interested in the slow but deliberate uber-plot, but if one were to pick this issue up without seeing those that came before, one wouldn't be aware of that quiet undertone/story.
That's not to say, though, that this issue, on its own, has nothing to offer. Little cynically explores the oddity of everyday existence here and also celebrates the comfort of friendship at the same. But ultimately, what draws me to this book is the main protagonist's anger, frustration and powerless. We've all been in his shoes, and that universal quality makes for an entertaining read.
Note: This comic book was not among this week's new releases.
