Graphic Novel Review - All Against All

Name: All Against All Vol. 1

Published by: Image Comics

Writer: Alex Paknadel

Artist: Casper Wijngaard

Colorist: Hasan Otsmane-Elhaou

This was a fun mini-series with a unique science fiction concept detailing the story of a group of parasitic aliens trying to delve into the mystery of the destructive nature of humanity on the backdrop of their own ongoing war. 

Alex Paknadel isn't an author that I was familiar with so I came into this without expecting anything, but his style was quite enjoyable. I liked his use of different viewpoint characters while trying to establish the world building through their perspectives rather than info dump. The story was an interesting one with some messages regarding the consequence of violence and war. 

The artist Caspar Wijngaard is also someone new for me, and I am definitely going to be on the lookout for his work in the future after my first exposure. His unique and unorthodox character and background designs, and masterful depiction of the action sequences were really able to drive home the visceral nature of the story. 

Interesting concept, fresh storytelling and vividly imaginative drawing kept me turning the pages rather quickly on this one as I kept intrigued about the twist to come. 4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Alligator Loki #1

Name: Alligator Loki #1

Published by: Marvel Comics

Writer: Alyssa Wong

Artist: Bob Quinn

Colorist: Pete Pantazis

Well, who didn't like Alligator Loki when he was introduced in the Loki tv series. I sure did, and when I saw his infinity comic being published I was waiting for to check it out when it was to be collected as a normal issue. And, it really delivers on its promises quite commendably. 

The short strip like dialogue less stories featuring the notorious Alligator features cameos from characters from all over the Marvel universe with its mischievous fun and homages to popular memes are really something to be experienced. 

Bob Quinn does an excellent job with his exuberant art which compliments Wongs wonderful sense of humor quite nicely. As I found out this is only the compilation of season one of the series. I for one will be eagerly waiting for future adventures of this unorthodox and wicked god of mischief. 

4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Six 001 - The Tanque Verde Massacre

Name: Six 001 - The Tanque Verde Massacre

Published by: Europe Comics

Writer: Philippe Pelaez

Artist: Javier Casado

Translator: Dan Christensen

Editing: Christopher Bradley

Letterer: Cromatik Ltd. 

My first experience with Europe Comics was quite an enjoyable one. This issue of western comics made me nostalgic about my childhood of reading translated westerns, often barely understanding some of the terminology but thoroughly enjoying the machismo, action and most of all the atmosphere. This one might be very generic to serious readers of western, to a casual reader of the genre like me, this hits all the sweet spots and kept me wanting more. 

The first issue mostly introduces the Six characters mentioned in the name of the story. We get information regarding some of the characters, while a few remain without much back story. We get introduced to the different factions of villains and also learn about the quest of the group while they begin their journey. 

Despite being quite generic, the characters are quite likeable and almost felt like getting reacquainted with old friends to me and I am already dreading the fact that some of the six will eventually die by the end. I really liked the dynamic between the deserter and the Indian quite a lot. The mysterious narrator of the story also adds another layer of intrigue for readers. 

The art is detailed, has appropriate facial expressions and creates the atmosphere quite nicely. The translation is also flawless never hampering the enjoyment at all. 

I really got immersed in this one despite understanding this might be generic for readers of the genre, but what more can be asked of a good old fashioned western tale?

I will give this one 4 out of 5 stars from me.