Title: The Massive #1
Writer: Brian Wood
Art: Kristian Donaldson, Dave Stewart
Publisher: Dark Horse
Just a heads up: there’s a weekly review group on r/comicbooks that confabulates over an issue once a week. This week, we’re all looking at The Massive, so head on over and start discussing!
The Massive is the massive new tale from the massive mind of Brian Wood. Just how massive is it? I thought you’d never ask.
A bizarre series of environmental disasters have crushed the governments and landmasses of the world. The distinction between 1st and 3rd world country has blurred, and those who still live must adapt to learn a new way of life.
The story tracks a group of environmental activists out on glacial waters via their ship The Kapital, as they track down the rest of their crew who were on sister ship The Massive. Finding them out in the middle of the ocean won’t be easy… assuming they’re still out there. We’re posed with a few more questions as well. How did The Massive lose contact with The Kapital? Why can’t The Massive be tracked with RADAR?
Lots of other questions too. It’s fairly interesting for mystery and suspense fans. If you’re looking for nonstop action and Michael Bay-isms, you’ll not find those qualities in The Massive. And while these reviews you (probably never) read are meant to discuss quality rather than personal preference, I’d like to add to the record that I, personally, would be happy to see less nonstop action in comics released by…certain publishers, and more detailed cognitive thought, dialogue and mystery.
The premise is well conceived. How’s the execution?
The issue looks great. The drab colors match the hopeless aura abound emitted throughout the story, and the characters are distinct in appearance. However, they’re not too divergent in personality. Also, while exhibiting a lighthearted attitude may be challenging during a post apocalyptic search for your friends, it couldn’t hurt to smile once in a while. All of the characters maintained the same hardened somber expression for the duration of the issue. Understandingly so, but a simple smile can go a long way to help the reader connect with a character.
The pacing is great, and a plethora of juicy story is brought to light in the first issue. You don’t have to wait long to learn of the frightening (and tragically beneficial) effects of ‘The Crash’, which is the term coined for the downfall of civilization. The effects of the devastation that send mankind into peril also have quite positive effects on certain ecosystems. The result is an asymmetric one that favors Mother Earth over her homegrown hosts. Hmm… interesting.
The sepia used in the flashback sequences proves effective and simple. Environments present lifelike qualities. Geographically and environmentally, the nail was hit with accuracy. It’s clear that Wood, Donaldson and Stewart are a solid team of creative electricity. And they’re done their environmental science homework.
I recommend checking out the issue. The bonus content in the back of the book adds value too. Creators: if you’re reading this, add bonus content damn it. I’ve seen bonus content turn a ‘meh’ read into a must read. From ‘meh’ to ‘must’. It’s true. But anyways pick up ‘The Massive’ and let me know what you think @shawndaley.
Up Next: Planetoid #1 from Image.
