A murder in 2188 London is eerie similar to a past evil. Kenneth Fitzpatrick is the grandson of a wealthy American mogul. This causes a great deal of tension between the post-Brexit England and US. One question is now posed onto the law enforcement. Jack the Ripper is back? Can they stop a serial killer before its too late?
RIPPERLAND #1 by Steve Orlando, John Harris Dunning, Alessandro Oliveri, Francesca Vivaldi and Fabio Amelia unleashes terror onto the streets of 22nd Century London.
Let’s take a closer look at what unfolds now!
RIPPERLAND #1 by Steve Orlando, John Harris Dunning, Alessandro Oliveri, Francesca Vivaldi and Fabio Amelia (Dark Horse Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The writing steers the audience into a classic horror set-up. Detective Edwin Fogg comes across as a grizzled officer. It is easy to tell he’s seen much in his time. The reception to Fitzpatrick is unwelcomed. His brash arrogance isn’t winning him any favors. It reflects the social standoff taking place. Everything comes to a head when Fitzpatrick is found violently killed.
The added dynamic of Jesse Holden gives Fogg someone to banter with. Readers watch as the clash of culture starts battling for page time. Knowing what is at stake, the pair makes a go of trying to work together. Once in the closing arc, there seems to be some common ground forming. The pair cyphers Ripper’s style in the killing. That appears to be the only thing “normal” here. Judging by the end panel, there is more to a simple case than meets the eye.
Oliveri & Vivaldi give readers much to ponder with the art. The version of London is a fitting throwback to yesteryear. It is dark and gloomy. There are some bright spots but none lasting so long. Fogg’s confrontation with a thief provides a break of pace. It also diverges before the issue’s main case is exposed.
The two page spread of Fitzpatrick’s body is a shocking sight. It leads to Holden’s arrival to London. The one page image makes a statement as the case gears up. With their first meeting, Fogg and Holden get a half page to showcase their standoff. It leaves readers in a position for the close. Once the final panel hits, a startling image floods the mid size shot. It is a solid close as much is to process before the next chapter.
FINAL POINT: 8.4
The new age murder mystery of Jack The Ripper starts on a solid note. Orlando and Dunning delve into past themes for this future take of London crime. Oliveri, Vivaldi and Amelia delve into the grizzly violent act and an international incident in the making. All the ingredients for a series to remember.
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