Title: Hoax Hunters #1
Writer: Michael Moreci, Steve Seeley
Art: Axel Medellin
Publisher: Image
Hoax Hunters is a tantalizing amalgam of reality television, the X Files, and an astronaut suit filled with crows. How’s that sound for an interest-piquing summary? But keep in mind that Hoax Hunters is much more than just that – it’s a fantastic paranormal classic in the making, featuring a cast of already memorable characters.
That’s not easy to pull off, but Moreci , Seeley, and Medellin pull it off well.
Hoax Hunters features a rag-tag group of paranormal experts who traverse the globe to uncover the truth behind bizarre mysteries and occurrences. And while they’re at it, they just might be covering a few up as well. The spin on the book is that they film all of their expeditions, turning the adventures into a reality(esque) series .
This automatically adds a really neat narrative to the book. it’s also one that hasn’t been explored in too many comics across the landscape. America’s Got Powers is another book exploring this angle, but from a completely different perspective.
Right off the bat, Hoax Hunters feel driven by the characters. Some say that the characters ARE the story, and it’s clear that the creative team understands this. Secondary to the characters is the artwork. Medellin has done a great job – its actually a fair improvement over issue zero back in March. If the art in issue zero was good, the art in issue one is great.
Medellin’s creatures are impressive, and his “swamp ‘o dead animals” was top notch. It’s clear that the creative team on Hoax Hunters is well rounded.
The first suggestion I have for the team is one that I’m sure will be handled before long (we’re only in issue one after all): more characters. We have a team of four Hoax Hunters right now, but different rosters and teams would be welcome. It’s understandable, given that introducing too many characters for a new series can be a tall order. Just ask the producers of LOST how that went. Ask them about the ending while you’re there. I loved it myself, but anyways… I may be straying from the point here.
Or maybe not, and we can continue to talk about LOST. Though, at this point, I’d rather be holding a copy of Hoax Hunters #2 and relaxing with a nice glass of Scotch and a cigar. Man, 30 days seems too far away.
While you don’t need issue #0 to enjoy Hoax Hunters, it would give you some background on the characters. I recommend seeking that out as well, but it won’t be necessary if you do.
Hoax Hunters #1 is a strong debut for a promising series. Moreci , Seeley, and Medellin and artist are a deadly combination – unless the whole thing is just a big hoax and they actually had nothing to do with this book. Sounds like a case for the Hoax Hunters if you ask me.
Pick up Hoax Hunters this Wednesday July 11th. You’ll be glad you did. More information at hoaxhunterscomic.blogspot.ca
