Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!
For this entry, “The coolest book at the LCS” continues its’ spotlight run for Boom! Studios. Combing themes of religion, mythology and music, GRIM stands out from the pack. With Hell (literally) on Earth, Jessica Harrow braces for a showdown of epic proportions. The road to her fate has taken a creative twist.
Each issue has been spotlighting certain characters backstories. Recently, it’s been on Jessica’s allies. Now it’s time to show her oppositions’ story.
GRIM #19 by Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano (BOOM! STUDIOS) brings the story of Annabel front and center.
Let’s see how her current challenger came to be!
GRIM #19 by Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano (BOOM! STUDIOS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The story of Annabel is a tragic tale of love and loss. Phillips weaves in elements of the 1960’s incredibly. Everything from the location to the music creates a vibrant backdrop to Annabel’s grasp for affection. Her relationship with Tilly is classic Hollywood. Readers can’t help but be caught up in its nostalgia. It is a stark contrast to where her persona is.
The banter between her and Adira brings forth how far she has fallen. Annabel is cold and remorseless as she grows in power. Phillips keeps readers guessing on where Adira truly lies. However, there is no denying her shock at how far Annabel has gone over the edge. This fear caps off a strong closing to where the next phase of plans lead.
It may sound like a broken record at this point but Flaviano, Renzi and Napolitano continue to impress delivering such high quality images. The drive-in diner pops with flare and innocence. Napolitano’s lettering for “Leader Of The Pack” is a perfect compliment to the moment. The panels capture the building love and devastating end for readers to be cemented with.
Once back in present time, the depiction of Annabel comes off as intimidating and shocking. Adira’s reactions amplify the tense panels. The imagery mirror the unhinged behavior of evil incarnate. This all builds for a solid landing spot with Annabel ready to take her swing to end Jessica once and for all.
FINAL POINT: 9
With its’ mix of horror and hopeful optimism, the latest chapter of Comics coolest series strikes another big win. Phillips unveils a vintage romance behind terror with incredible writing. Flaviano, Renzi and Napolitano blend the visuals of a classic time with the dire present via their fantastic images. There’s never a question that this series is a lock to hit each time out.
Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Grim #19. Thanks for reading.