Suggested for Mature Readers because of Language & Sexually Suggestive Material
Grade Explanation: I am being generous, yes, but there is a reason why. This is a niche comicbook that will not be looked at by some readers. The ones that do seek out and purchase the book will more likely be those who are inclined to like the art and story. When I broke everything down in my mind, I could not justify anything but an "A" since the technical execution of the book is solid. Still it is a book for more independent taste.
If you are going to produce and sell a comicbook yourself, then make sure you load up on things that will ensure attention being grabbed. I myself bought this title because of the Variant Cover. It sports art by a person PBR has a friendship with, Josh Howard (The guy who brought us the Dead @ 17 series of comics.). I did wince at the price, but I had some Christmas money and decided to try this issue out.
The story is a bit rambling, but serves to show us the lives of people about to be involved in the next big reality show sensation, super powers. The funniest scene is the studio executive being sold the show and a side discussion of how Tobey Maquire was a midget. That alone justified my money to buy the book. In terms of show the cast we get kind of a slice of life look as these people. That might work well for the concept as in reality, reality TV lets one discover the personalities as the show develops and is edited. One worry is that if next issue rambles without more meat than this one had in developing individual characters, people might not stick around for a promising idea.
I applaud Martin for placing a "Matureness Required" tag under the price. It displays a responsibility on his part that the content he has is not for younger kids who might be attracted to the style of art he uses in the series. The cute and toonish people are not kiddie content. Jokes and words are grown up and the tag is appreciated by this reviewer who agrees with free speech, but just wants the industry to be responsible in placing warnings out there for those that might be less than thrilled with the content in some books.
I am going to try and stick around for this story and see what develops.
Book contains interview with Josh Howard and a pull out poster by the Dead @ 17 creator.
Hatcher Out %
