CAGES is a science fiction story set in the future that concerns three special twelve year old children who are given the chance to break free from the cage that has held them their whole lives. But are they really prepared to face the unknown and deal with the dangers outside their cage? This graphic novel from Insomnia Productions explores the post-apocalyptic world where the children that have broken free of their cage are forced to confront a different reality than the one they grew up with? They are constantly on the run, deeply mistrusted by anyone and they have no choice but to keep going past all the monsters and scavengers. Strangely enough, they are also able to survive on the poisonous surface while other humans cannot without breathing equipment. This makes them indeed unusual children.
I enjoyed this story, it reminded me so much of a science fiction movie as it's an entirely self-contained story with an unexpected ending. I was impressed with how the writer Xander Bennett kept the main characters, the children, sounding real and believable. There's such a creepy atmosphere as there are things that are not what they seem to be, and unexpected dangers lurk around every corner for the children. I'm glad the writer explained why the world is in such a terrible state, and he also explained how there are survivors still. There is an impenetrable Vault which protects people from the poison in the air outside as well as the mysterious Archons. Not much is explained about them, and why they destroyed the world but it's clear that they are a threat to the children's survival, as well as any other living people. The entire chronicle of the children's journey is thrilling and suspenseful as more twists are revealed bit by bit along the way.
The artwork is simply stunning. In the outside world, the panels are set carefully so you get a good look at what the world looks like after its devastation by chemical and biological warfare. I loved the one page where you really see the extent of the damage caused. I love how the artist Melanie Cook draws the archons as truly alien and frightening looking creatures that are called archons. Cook also did a brilliant job with facial expressions and body language as their reactions seem so spontaenous. The colouring is amazing too. The colours are bright and colourful when it comes to the organic creatures, but dark and dull when it's in the ruins outside. The colours are just right for a dark post-apocalyptic science fiction thriller story
This issue also comes with a short introduction by Ben Templesmith (artist of 30 Days of Night) and a short profile on the creators involved. If dark and futuristic stories are your thing, then this is one book not to be missed. The artwork alone is worth reading, and the story is incrediby compelling and will keep you glued to every page until it's over. More information about this graphic novel can be found at the offical CAGES website - www.cagescomic.com where you can also read a small preview of it and check out the amazing wraparound cover by Jonathan Hickman (The Nightly News). I would recommend this for mature readers because of the themes present. CAGES will be available to buy at Bristol International Comic Expo next month, and at San Diego Comic Con in July. It will also be available for purchase at Insomnia Publications official site - http://www.insomniapublications.com and Amazon.uk. |
