There was just something about this book that caught my eye in Previews a couple of months ago, and I decided, on a whim, to order myself up a copy. I'm glad I did. Dark elements of ethical voids and a lighter, innocent tone combine to create a rather unique and inherently fun and creative comic-book property. Professional wrestling meets The Island of Dr. Moreau in this sci-fi title that could really turn heads... if retailers took a chance on it, allowing it to find an audience.
In the not-too distant future, the entertainment of choice for the masses are gladiator-like fights between genetically engineered monsters, integrating the strengths of various animal species into one fearsome creature. Young Ethan gets the thrill of a lifetime when he wins a contest to serve as an assistant for a day to the folks who run the show, but that thrill soon turns to terror when something goes wrong in the middle of one of the "performances."
Neil Vokes is no rookie when it comes to the world of comic art, but in the last couple of years, he hasn't been as prominent. As a result, his name and his work may seem new to some readers. But those who have enjoyed the art of such pros as Michael (Powers, this book's cover) Avon Oeming and Steve (Mek) Rolston should dig Vokes's stuff. There also seems to be a strong Warner Bros. cartoon influence at play in this book as well, and there's a hint of the Archie house style in there too. The bright colors are particularly impressive, and are a welcome sight on a book published outside of the mainstream like this.
Judging from the fact that this is "Vol.2" of the series, and from the extensive material on the book's website, it's clear that Gene-Fusion is not a new concept. Fortunately, this new issue is a thoroughly accessible read. The core concept is laid out fairly clearly, and the characters are introduced and identified quite well too. Furthermore, the book seems to be all-ages friendly, though the interesting ethical dilemma of the genetic manipulation and use of animals for the purposes of violent entertainment strike as strong philosophical and adult subject matter that the creators ought to explore.
The charm of this book stems from the combination of an irreverent circus-like atmosphere to the hype and violence of professional gladiator-style, combat entertainment (a la WWE). I'm amused by the flash of the property, but I'm intrigued by the concept as well. I'm curious about how the Gene-Fusion business operates, and if there is any controversy of protest movement that plagues it.
