Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!
For this entry, the end is drawing closer for a fan-favorite series on Comixology Originals! With a devastating sacrifice last issue, the supernatural family sets course to the root of their woes. Will they be able to save their fallen member or be added to the casualty count?
The All-Nighter #13 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Frank Cvetkovic sends fans on an unforgettable voyage into the unknown. Let’s not wait another minute and dive right in!
The All-Nighter #13 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Frank Cvetkovic (Credit: Comixology Originals)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
With Alex being taken away by the Takers during their battle with Lazaruk, the remaining members of The All-Nighter Cafe embark on a quest to get him back. Ian, Cynthia, and Joy are joined by Andrea (their recently turned human to vampire ally) and an individual claiming to be GOD.
Finding their location would be a challenge. Francis (aka Frankenstein’s Monster) sacrificed himself to be bait. Once the opportunity was there, time has now become a factor to succeed or die trying in the process.
This issue begins with Cynthia scolding Igor and the rest of the family. Knowing her personal relationship with Francis, she is not taking his actions well. The sacrifice was not in vein. The tracker Francis had on him starts showing the Taker’s possible location. Readers find out that it is the legendary Bermuda Triangle.
Meanwhile Francis is being held captive by two mysterious figures. The one leads the conversation into questioning Francis’ actions. Once he is not answering with truth, the figure hits Francis with force, claiming to be waiting or the others to come.
At sea, what does the family come across? Readers see what is lurking in the Triangle and it is not happy to see the visitors. From here, the triangle conflict leads into new revelations and challenges. Is this what will finally stop Ian and company? Once the final act begins to play out, readers know the final endgame has started with a bleak outlook.
The All-Nighter #13 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Frank Cvetkovic (Credit: Comixology Originals)
The All-Nighter #13 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Frank Cvetkovic (Credit: Comixology Originals)
Zdarsky sets forth the final voyage for the diner crew with a strong tale of challenging fears. The emotions range from anger to worry amongst the crew after Francis’ choice. The creativity pours out from this issue as well. With the issue’s antagonist, Zdarsky challenges each character to face their darkest fears.
Taking the conflict to such a level keeps readers a new perspective heading into the closing issues. The final moments kick events into high gear coming to a screeching halt on the last panel. The story has been an excellent read thus far and shows no signs of letting up now.
Loo and Alleyne focus on the emotional reactions of what is happening for this chapter. From Cynthia’s rage to God’s “even keel” calmness, the variations of reactions provides the readers an insight into the conflict. The secret of the Triangle is given half page panels which amplifies its moment. Its’ resolution is another great half page panel that closes solidly.
The major antagonist makes a grand entrance to the group late in the issue. The panels add a haunting element to his attack. The smaller panels (like the 9 panel page) connects the dark overtones of what is happening as the initial strike is made. The closing image caps off the beginning of the end on a high note. It’s another example of great storytelling that this series is known for.
The All-Nighter #13 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Frank Cvetkovic (Credit: Comixology Originals)
The All-Nighter #13 by Chip Zdarsky, Jason Loo, Paris Alleyne, and Frank Cvetkovic (Credit: Comixology Originals)
FINAL POINT: 8.5 OUT OF 10
The end begins here for the supernatural family with their final voyage into unknown danger. Zdarsky pens a superb build into the chilling attack by a dark presence. Paired with the captivating visuals brought to life by Loo and the art team and you have a winning combination of storytelling that can’t be missed.
Hit me up on ODPH Social media and let me know your thoughts on The All-Nighter #13. Thanks for reading!
