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THE WAITING PLACE #11
Recommended (8/10)
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Slave Labor Graphics
"Intrusions Part III"
Artist: Mike Norton
Consulting Editor: Jeff Limke
"Tower"
Artist: Jason Alexander
Writer: Sean McKeever
Price: $2.95 US |
I can't decide what's worse, that this issue read so quickly, or that I only have one more issue to enjoy of The Waiting Place. McKeever writes
a depressingly real account of life in a small town, holding out hope and
happiness and then yanking it away, but never quite making it unrealistic or
pushing it to the point where the desperation becomes unpleasant to read.
Instead, though the specifics of the problems aren't like any that I had at
younger ages, the general feeling is so real that it's easy to relate to the
stories.
One of the weaknesses that the
story had, and still has, is an expansive cast and a tendency of McKeever to
assume that his readers have read all the prior issues and have very good
memories. Fortunately, for those who have been reading the issue, this becomes a
strength, as the memories of the various trials and tribulations of the
characters resonate with their actions in this issue. For example, while
Cullen's attack on his brother doesn't make any sense on its own, when you read
it alongside last issue's revelations, it means something completely different.
McKeever also captures how the
simplest things can become complicated. Scott's decision to follow a dream comes
with real-life ramifications from his parents, a friend and even the person who
first spurred him into action. Everyone's actions affect everyone else, and
emotions and history can get in the way of the simplest interactions. Another
example is the suddenly complex relationship between Jeffrey and Lora. I'm also
impressed that even in the midst of arguing, fighting and even despair, there
are moments of joy.
Norton continues to improve
with every issue, and he does some really nice work here. The rage coming off
Cullen is palpable, and the little hint of a smile from Lora finishes off the
scene between Lora and Jeffrey in fine form. His work on Scott's packing and the
final pages of the issue also convey the turmoil in Scott's head and the
resolution he has come to.
Although it seems an odd match
with the slice-of-life story in the lead, I have to admit to having become a fan
of the science-fiction "Tower" back-up story. Jason Alexander switches between a
gritty style that reminds me of Brian Wood and Brian Michael Bendis and a more
shaded pencil style to distinguish from the technological sequences and the
dream sequences, and though I confess I'm not entirely certain what's going on,
I find the atmosphere and style very entertaining.
Email Randy Lander comments about this review. |
