(Courtesy of Image Comics)
The latest reboot of the popular Top Cow title, Witchblade #2 (Image Comics) continues to deliver the paranormal/horror goods in this new origin story. The second installment is easy enough for newbies to dive right in, yet there’s a nostalgic vibe for longtime fans to enjoy!
As we previously mentioned, Alex has become the prime suspect in the death of an NYPD detective. The dead cop happens to have powerful and corrupt friends who will do anything to keep his shady business quiet. Alex learns that greed and graft are at play inside the circle of corruption as she struggles to adapt to her new life being the Witchblade’s host.
Here are 5 reasons you should read Witchblade #2:
5) Welcome New Fans!
WITCHBLADE #2—Alex finds she’s the prime suspect in the death of an NYPD detective! #NewComicsDay preview: https://t.co/K2EDIvnVLa pic.twitter.com/gRmlgsjrJk
— Image Comics (@ImageComics) January 9, 2018
Writer Caitlin Kittredge places Alex Underwood in the crosshairs between a police procedural and a supernatural. With the Witchblade mythology in the background, Kittridge is building the world around Alex. Longtime fans won’t feel left out because the essence of the mythology is still there.
4) A Rookie Who Makes Mistakes!
Kittredge explores the flawed quirks behind Alex’s personality. It’s not like in a horror movie, and you’re yelling “Don’t go in there.” Alex is surrounded by corrupt types, who lie at every turn. It’s a confusing guessing game, which means re-reading the issue more than once. We’ll see though how this makes sense in the long run.
3) The Artwork!
Artist Roberta Ingranata captures the police procedural elements of the narrative. Interestingly, Detective Victoria Roseland has the tough cop vibe, with her black and white suit. Notice how she has to cut her hair short to fit in a man’s world.
2) The Colors!
Colorist Bryan Valenza emphasizes the criminal aspect with bouncy colors. In one of the standout panels, Alex enters a strip club with bouncy tones. It’s supposed to look colorful, highlighting Alex’s naiveness, before the violence strikes.
1) A Solid Read!
Here are three reasons why you need to run not walk to your LCS tomorrow:
1. Witchblade #2
2. Port of Earth #3
3. Postal, Vol. 6 TPB pic.twitter.com/XjW7jE2vSJ— Top Cow (@TopCow) January 9, 2018
With its relaunch, Witchblade #2 starts building its own mythology through the lead character. I definitely can’t wait to read the third issue!
RATING:
Three out of four emojis
Witchblade #2 arrives in stores on January 10th.
– By Jorge Solis