Twilight Zone #1 Review

tz
Twilight Zone #1 Review

Publisher: Dynamite
Writer: J. Michael Straczynski
Artist: Guiu Vilanova
Colorist: Vinicius Andrade
Letterer: Rob Steen

Review by: Josh Gillam

The name “Twilight Zone” was enough to grab my attention and pick up this book. I was excited to read this book, but also a little skeptical. My skepticism faded as I turned each new page. From start to finish, this book had me hooked.

The book starts off with a narration in the style of Rod Serling’s introductions in the original TV series. We are then introduced to the main character, a ruthless businessman. We find out that he has been embezzling millions of dollars from investors, among other sketchy business practices. On the verge of being found out by the FBI and indicted, he turns to a mysterious man for help. He is told he will be given a new life and freedom, but he has to give the man all of the money he has stolen. We find out that part of this new life also includes a new face, blood type, fingerprints, and more, as he ingests a pill that alters his DNA. The main character enjoys his new life and freedom as he watches the scandal unfold on TV. This all leads up to an intriguing cliffhanger that I won’t reveal – you’ll have to go read it for yourself.

The writing and art for this book worked in giving me that Twilight Zone feel. It seems like Straczynski was trying to stay faithful to the writing style that was often seen in the original show and follows the familiar formula mixing it with his own original style.

The artwork in this issue was somewhat simple, but the angle of every shot was very well done. The set up of the panels helps to accentuate some great reveals, which works very well in a story that keeps trying to give you little surprises.

While being a fan of the original show made me appreciate this comic even more, I don’t feel it is necessary to be familiar with the tv series to enjoy this book. It’s a fun science fiction story that is sure to entertain readers.

Story: 4.5/5
Art: 4/5
Overall: 4.5/5

Josh Gillam is the creator and writer for the webcomic/comedy project, Cynical Stew. You can follow him on Twitter at @Cynical_Stew.

This entry was posted in Home, Last Call. Bookmark the permalink.

Leave a Reply