Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book complementary blog to the ODPH podcast. For this edition, we’re entering back into the insane world Of Basilisk by Cullen Bunn, Jonas Scharf, Alex Guimaraes & Ed Dukeshire (Boom Studios). This book has been a dark & violent tale of the Chimera, five beings with powers based around the five senses. Their path of destruction has been a brutal one with one survivor on a suicide mission to stop them once and for all. After last issue’s events, let’s jump into the latest chapter of this insanely brutal tale, shall we?

Basilisk #8 Boom Studios — Basilisk #8 - On Sale March 16th
Creative: Cullen Bunn, Jonas Scharf, Alex Guimaraes & Ed Dukeshire
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

After a flashback of Hannah ( alone survivor from a Chimera attack) leaving the hospital, readers see her and Regan (a defected Chimera member) on the run from last issue’s events. What they find out (as readers did last issue) is a power play has started. Chimera member Vanessa killed Cara for her powers. Later in the issue, readers see a demonstration of this new Vanessa. Now more amplified, Vanessa tries baiting out Hannah and Regan for a final showdown. However, the best laid plans never go according to plan. What transpires next is a very well placed surprise along with a thought provoking final panel.

Cullen Bunn does it again! Just when we the readers think we know how this is all gonna play out, Bunn drops a great curve and changes everything. Vanessa’s story has really gone into another direction that I didn’t see coming. The story doesn’t shy away from the violence and brutality. Even the unlikely duo of Hannah & Regan can’t enjoy their wins because of how many twists this story takes. Issue #8 is no exception. It’s perfectly crafted to deliver on the action and drama. Very intrigued on where that last page is gonna lead to.

Scharf continues the strong work set with this series. The display of Vanessa’s new powers is perfect example of this. The story’s visuals have never steered away from being horrific and disturbing to show the Chimera’s capabilities. How Vanessa does this issue will shock some readers to think of what he can do now and what effect this will have on anyone who crosses her path. Even with the twists with this story, the visuals never let up and that’s a great compliment to the story. Another excellent issue.

Overall, Basilisk #8 continues it’s violent and terrifying saga with some great surprises mixed in. Bunn & Scharf deliver consistent quality work with each issue and there’s no drop off here. The fight against the Chimera has become a must-add on my pull list & should be for you as well at your LCS.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Basilisk #8. As always, thanks for reading.

BASILISK #8 (BOOM STUDIOS)

Ken M