This is the first issue of a two-part story, but it's also a graphic novel, printed in an unusual monochromatic format. Instead of black-and-white, it's green-and-grey. While this is only half of the larger story, it still holds up well on its own. This is an unconventional science-fiction story, boasting a grounded tone despite being told from alien perspectives.
Three million years in the future, mankind had reached an evolutionary dead end. They had embraced a life of technology and convenience, and they discovered there was nothing left for them to do, nothing new left to experience. So two genetic creations -- Bisso and Geaza -- have been sent back in time. Their mission is not to actively change the past, but simply to exist and allow their genetically engineered bodies excrete a biological agent that will have an unpredictable but dramatic effect on human evolution. While this process unfolds, the two men simply live the life of slackers, but they sense something new -- and perhaps something dangerous -- has entered into their environment.
That synopsis captures the premise, but not the atmopshere of this story. While the plot boasts a sci-fi foundation, the storytelling embraces a slightly skewed slice-of-life approach. The parallels are clear. Bisso and Geaza are in the past in order to influence the world, but 21st century culture and customs are also exerting their own influence on these alien figures, hiding in plain sight.
The thick-lined artwork matches the unconventional tone of the storytelling, and it really stands out as unique. Actually, the design and appearance of the Oscar character reminds me of something I've seen in comics before, but I can't for the life of me place it at the moment. I love how Daniels captures the dichotomous qualities of the alien and the everyday in Bisso and Geaza. The green-on-grey printing reinforces the slightly skewed perspective while fostering a downtrodden atmosphere that's in keeping with the growing concerns the main characters have.
Daniels explores evolutionary theory and embraces the notion that change -- any change, even violent ones -- are preferable to stagnation. The two main characters encounter direct evidence of their influence on the future, and despite his pitiable and frail appearance and reference to disturbing elements in an alternate future, Bisso and Geaza celebrate the changes he represents. I also enjoyed how Daniels makes room for divine elements -- often considered to be at odds with the notion of evolution -- in the story, and how they represent an inviting philosophy as well.
Note: Some comments in this review were reproduced from a previous feature on the website.
