If there's one thing I hate more than professional wrestling, it's masked Mexican professional wrestling. You'd think a comics and super-hero genre fan such as myself would dig that stuff, but no, such is not the case. So it's a testament to the strength of El Zombo Fantasma that I enjoyed it as much as I did. This is a most unusual all-ages book, as it boasts a dark edge. It's violent, but the violence is so over the top that it shouldn't be all that disturbing to the younger set. The attitude and rich artwork will keep grown-up readers riveted as well. This is a strong debut effort from some new creators, and I hope this unique book turns a few heads and earns the attention it deserves.
El Zombo Fantasma carries on the proud family of tradition of kicking butt in the professional wrestling ring, but his gradual corruption -- the result of a constant parade of cash, booze and women -- has brought shame down upon the hard-nosed wrestler. So when he's shot dead in the street, he doesn't head for Heaven... but he's not quite bad enough for Hell either. No, instead, he's granted a new task: to serve as a guardian angel to a little girl who's just as tough and stubborn as he is. El Zombo accepts the deal, mainly because he aims to hunt down the guy who shot him.
I know at least one of the creators involved in this book -- Kevin Munroe -- has a background in animation, and it shows through in the artwork. This book boasts a look that makes it seem as though the art is painted, and there's a rich level of depth and texture as a result. The overall style of the linework strikes me as a cross between Todd (Spawn) McFarlane and Bruce (Batman: Harley & Ivy) Timm. What impresses me most about the art, though, is how dark it is, making this stand out from the typical "cartoony" fare.
I'm surprised to see Dark Horse's Rocket Comics brand attached to this book. I thought that was reserved for science-fiction work, and El Zombo may celebrate several genres, but sci-fi isn't one of them.
The writers don't ease the reader into the extreme world of El Zombo Fantasma. The story gallops ahead at full speed. The plot and premise are hammered out pretty quickly, and it's easy to see why. This is a thoroughly kinetic property; it's all about action and flash, and that means it's all about fun as well.
The writers' vision of the afterlife is a funny one. Seeing a paper pusher holding his own against the massive muscles of the title character is an unusual and effective contrast, reinforcing the humorous tone of the book. I also love Beli's tough attitude, but the writers are careful not to make her too tough. The script hints at a child's vulnerability and fear, and one can't help but enjoy the character thanks to her refusal to give into those emotions.
Note: This comic book was not among this week's new releases.
