There's nothing like a good, old-fashioned Western. Of course, there's nothing like a great caper/heist story either, and writer Antony Johnston delivers both to his readers with this new original graphic novel. The pacing of the book is decidedly cinematic, so much so that I suspect this book may have originally been crafted as a screenplay instead of an original graphic novel. In fact, the pacing seems more geared for the former medium as opposed to the latter, as the book opens on a laboriously slow note. But the characters' personalities are so strong and the intricacies of the criminal plan so inventive and fun that it's easy to forgive the slower pace that dominates the earlier half of the book.
Cody Plummer is a bank robber from the old West who's gone straight, making his way into the world of high finance in Chicago in 1871. He crosses paths with the one lawman who was able to thwart his criminal endeavors, and upon learning the detective is heading up security for a train carrying a fortune in untraceable bonds, he hatches a plan. It's a plan that will require the help of several old friends. It's one that will make him a rich man. And it's one that will give him the last laugh over his old enemy.
Usually, we see artists develop their skills and a following in the small press of the industry, later moving on to do work for larger publishers such as DC and Marvel. Barreto seems to be following the reverse path, but as long as the result is work as good as this, I'm not going to question it. That an artist of such skill and reputation as Barreto is doing this kind of work at this point in his career is a testament to the high quality of Oni Press's output.
Barreto's work here -- often reminiscent of Joe Kubert's style -- is well suited to the Western elements. He captures the period perfectly, and not just when it comes to the arid, remote settings one associates with the genre. He also conveys the classic and ornate nature of 1870s high society as well. His depiction of Plummer visually reinforces the charm and intellect that with which the script imbues the character. It's easy to imagine Plummer as being portrayed by a classic Hollywood idol in his prime, such as Cary Grant, Clark Gable or Burt Lancaster.
Where this book disappoints a bit is in the first half of the book, which focuses on Cody's recruitment of his old criminal colleagues. Some of the sequences are surprisingly drawn out, especially given the reader's knowledge that he will be successful in his efforts. George's poker sequence ends up coming off as rather tedious, for example, and I'm a poker fan.
The heist itself is great fun. Johnston handles the genre incredibly well, and the historical setting adds another level of color and flair. He includes the perfect level of hiccups, a standard for the caper story, to keep things interesting and entertaining. Of course, he also knows that ego is a big part of the formula as well. Since Plummer flaunt himself in front of his opponent shows off the character's personality and his playfulness. 7/10
