Since 1992, the world of SPAWN has been a vision unmatched in comics. Al Simmons’ adventures have grown into the pop culture landscape. With that kind of success, a universe expansion was a no brainer. Readers have been treated to such titles as Gunslinger Spawn, The Scorched & Rat City to name a few.
The latest one to join the ranks is sure to have readers talking on New Comic Book Day. Considering the all-star team behind it, there’s no question about the buzz surrounding Tasha Thornwall
BLOODLETTER #1 by Joseph Illidge, Tim Seeley, Christian Rosado, DC Alonso & AndWorld Design kicks off an all new chapter of the Spawn Universe.
Let’s take a closer look at how this debut plays out.
BLOODLETTER #1 by Joseph Illidge, Tim Seeley, Christian Rosado, DC Alonso & AndWorld Design (Image Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
At first glance, Thornwall’s mission is very clear cut. After confronting Spawn, the narration exemplifies how determined she is about getting Simmons. The story shifts gears to an earlier time which gives Thornwall more layers. Readers watch as a mission in Cape Flats, South Africa is more than meets the eyes.
The writing escalates the action as Thornwall crashes the devilish meeting. It is an unforgiving scenario with a tense tone. The dialogue is very direct esp. when dealing with the aftermath. Her words are a solid blend of magic and military. It is very clear Thornwell isn’t hero nor villain. This theme is carried into the issue’s strongest segment.
Thornwell’s confrontation with Simmons ten years prior is the main event readers expect. Knowing their espionage/covert work, the dialogue hits the bullseye. The writing never holds back on the brutality of their work. It also gives definitive clarity on her current mission. Readers watch as the aftermath of this scenario pushes into the close. Once here, Thornwell’s actions define her conflicting persona. The mission is very clear but weaves many elements throughout. Going by the last page, there will plenty of blood shed before its all said and done.
Rosado & Alonso start events off with a bold image. Seeing Spawn at the feet of Bloodletter is an instant shock moment. The near full page panel gives her a big spotlight before the dive begins. Once events shift to Cape Flats, the art brings out the sinister elements at play. Thornwell’s expression is stone as she handles her business. There’s only a few moments where this changes. This is true with Casper, her partner in this quest.
Readers see the lengths she goes into her planning. One method is drilled home via a half page panel. This becomes a segway for the tragic flashback on Haiti. The violence flows easy on the pages as the two forces meet up. Simmons comes across as ever defiant to his opposition. This ushers everything into the present close. A two page splash paints a brutal picture. Its’ fallout leaves an unapologetic image that haunts. With the final page, readers know they’ve just started a journey that no one will win.
OVERALL GRADE: 8.8
Is it the end for Al Simmons? Illidge & Seeley walk the line of payback and paranormal with their writing. Rosado and the art team are dropping intense imagery at every page. The Spawn Universe has another monster hit on their hands with this series.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on Bloodletter #1. Thanks for reading!