LIFE #1 (DSTLRY MEDIA)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points!

For this entry, DSTLRY is releasing a brand new series that has a unique concept behind it. The upstart publisher is known for its’ creative stories. However, this series combines the writing talents of two of comics’ best for the first time on page. The result is a sci-fi odyssey told through two different perspectives.

LIFE #1 by Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets), Stephanie Phillips (GRIM), Danijel Zezelj (Nostalgia), Lee Loughridge and Jared K. Fletcher welcomes readers into a future where two lives are on a collision course their prison sentances can’t escape.

Let’s take a closer look at this much anticipated debut chapter.

LIFE #1 by Brian Azzarello, Stephanie Phillips, Danijel Zezelj, Lee Loughridge and Jared K. Fletcher (DSTLRY) Cover: JOCK

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Knowing the writing team behind this, this story was going to be anything but ordinary. The futuristic story is told through Bobby Prost (“PRO”) & the “Cassanova Killer” Cory James (“CON”). Prost is a “retired” thief talked into one last job. James is a serial killer whose been forced to live out his life sentences due to a secret experiment. Both have very different stories behind them.

Prost is written as a man trying to escape his past. His Angel/Devil on his shoulder is the persistent Jax. Their dialogue brings Prost’s doubts to the forefront. Events quickly speed into another direction entirely. Azzarello and Phillips waste little time in setting up the next heist. Pacing allows an excellent build, this carries into its’ closing act. The final page throws everything in flux leading into the flip. It’s high level storytelling that hits its mark with this portion.

The story of James is more disturbing due to his criminal nature. The dialogue involving his crimes is filled with anger and rage. Readers will have a clear view of the evil monster behind his charming smile. The path he walks from this point is dark and troubling. Its’ mirrored by the actions of the experiments. The outcome plays into a twisting scenario. Now moved onto a prison planet, James is broken and more unhinged. The writing leaves him in a very peculiar place for the closing pages. There’s no way to walk away from this story after that conclusion.

Zezelj and Loughridge add a certain mystique to the futuristic setting of this tale. Prost’s beginnings are gritty and carry the hardships he’s dealt with. This changes quickly once the two page splash image from space hits. Readers see how things have changed instantly. The contact with the the heist team gives off “Oceans 11” vibes in the images. No stand out more than the final page. It’s a bold picture that truly does a “mic drop” moment to end events with.

As for James’ story, the art locks in on his evil persona. The opening page from a murder sends chills through readers. Its emotions are added to the volatile state of the courtroom where James is being tried. James’ constant smirk fails to hide the evil lurking inside him. This builds right to the experiment phase of the story. The art becomes vastly different unveiling James’ fate. It becomes more explosive with James’ haunting eyes staring at readers as he calls his next moves.

FINAL POINT: 10

“Life” takes bold chances and constructs a gripping tale of challenging directions. Azzarello and Phillips’s writing is flawless as it tells two very different perspectives. Zezelj and Loughridge delve into imaginative landscapes and shocking characters. Rest assured, readers can’t afford to miss checking this series out.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Life #1. Thanks for reading!

GONE #3 (DSTLRY MEDIA)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, we have arrived at the end of an initial voyage. Leading the charge from “The Devil’s Cut”, “GONE” by JOCK was the first series to roll out under the DSTLRY banner. It’s been almost a year to the birth of the company. There has been a surge of stories following such as Spectregraph and The Blood Brother’s Mother. However, Gone will be remembered as the one that blazed the trail.

GONE #3 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs brings The end of Abi’s space odyessy.

Let’s see how the final chapter fares.

GONE #3 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (CREDIT: DSTLRY)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Jock leaves no doubt of his level of storytelling with this series. Abi is a complex character that readers have seen literally grow up before their eyes. Abi is fearless and committed to her goals. The dynamic between her and Jay carries the story until an unexpected twist. it is perfectly timed to shift gears into the next half of the book.

Her relationship with the Captain has always be complicated to say the least. Jock’s writing times their showdown exceptionally. With everything Abi has gone through, the moment plays out to a well structured climax. Its’ fallout ties up loose ends while leaving fans with a gut-punching closing page. This chapter really takes things to new levels for an unforgettable finale.

As for the art….where to begin! From the start, Jock captures the drive and will of Abi and Jay’s mission. The intensity written on Abi’s face speaks volumes. There’s a great full splash page of the pair fighting infected passangers that pops off the page.

Jay’s reveal is given a full page image that haunts before starting that portion of the story. This sets the stage for the final encounter of Abi and The Captain. The imagery reflect the many reactions Abi has gone through on this ride. The conclusion will draw a vocal reaction out of the reader which is always a plus. The concluding pages hit on many levels with the last page giving a heart-breaking impact that ends the saga on a strong note.

FINAL GRADE: 9.5

The space odyssey of Abi concludes with a final issue that simply cannot be missed. Jock’s writing takes Abi into many directions before a final confrontation for the ages. The artwork is exceptional from cover to cover. It’s high level storytelling at its finest.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Gone #3. Thanks for reading!

BLASFAMOUS #1 (DSTLRY)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, fans prepare for another new series from one of comics’ fastest rising companies. Since its’ debut in 2023, DSTLRY has made waves with its loaded roster of creators and imaginative storytelling. Stemming from The Devil’s Cut to Somna, the brand has pushed the creative boundaries with each venture.

BLASFAMOUS #1 by MIRKA ANDOLFO (Punchline), Gianluca Papi and Fabio Amelia looks to continue that streak with its’ debut chapter.

Let’s take a closer look and see what’s happening here.

BLASFAMOUS #1 by MIRKA ANDOLFO, Gianluca Papi, and Fabio Amelia (DSTLRY)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story begins in an Italian church a long time ago. The crucifix hanging above the alter is possessed by a devil. It begins to speak to a woman holding someone burned and deceased at the feet of the sacred ground. The pitch is made: a soul for a life fulfilled with wonder. The woman accepts it. Her name is Clelia.

Fast forward 600 years later. The world is enamored with a mysterious church. It is known as The Order of The New Church of the Triple Crucifix. Their message is going worldwide. It preaches of unity and closeness. However, readers see quickly that there’s a certain figure the masses are more invested in: Clelia.

A mixture of evangelist and pop star, Clelia performs her new single “Kiss of Light.” As she addresses the crowd, she sees a young boy in a wheelchair. With energy shooting out of her eyes, she “heals” the boy and he walks.

After the performance, Clelia sits down for an interview. With the world watching, she gives a standard “perfect” interview. However, in the conversation, it appears her past finally catches her. An image of the burnt woman appears in her mind. Clelica collapses to the floor!

What transpires next is the start of revelations of the angelic pop star’s life. What is she truly? Has the deal she made been worth it?

Readers walk along the highs and lows of fame as Clelia deals with her past in some questionable manners. Will she find her true self or others like Dorothy and Father Lev sway the path. Judging by the final image, Clelia’s problems look to have only scratched the surface.

BLASFAMOUS #1 by MIRKA ANDOLFO, Gianluca Papi and Fabio Amelia (DSTLRY) COVER: Stanley 'Artgerm' Lau

Andolfo creates a very unique story with Clelia. Seeing the evolution of her character gives readers a deeper sense of the deal she made. Clelia is a person who buys her own hype, but loses herself in the process. The power of fame tests her mental strengths to breaking points.

The dynamic between her and Father Lev is one that leans into many different paths. At points, it seems as one of caring. In others, the controlling presence leaches her spirit to dangerous levels. It fits perfectly with the idea of angels and devils. Once the collapse occurs, Clelia spirals for quite some time. I never seems she regains her footing. Considering the closing pages, Clelia looks to be challenged even further to ascend or fall from grace.

The art encompasses the diversity of the story. The full page image of Cleila agreeing to the deal sends thoughts of danger and blind naivety. Once the pop career beings, it comes across as divine and larger than life. It matches the energy of the lead character superbly.

This is followed by the darkest moment in the book. Once readers see “Bang” and the two page spread involved, it leaves no question about the switch in direction. With the light-hearted coloring driving, the story shifts gears into a surprise final act. It’s a solid blend of emotions mixed in a very complex character.

FINAL POINT: The high price of fame may be too much to bear for Clelia in DSTLRY’s next launch. A darker story hides behind eye-catching art, luring readers into its’ spell. There are many directions where this goes from here, but it will be one fans are sure to be talking about at the LCS.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on BLASFAMOUS #1. Thanks for reading!

GONE #2 (DSTLRY MEDIA)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we’re following along the space odyssey hailing from the pages of DSTLRY. Since its’ launch, the upstart company has created quite the buzz for its’ creator owned series. The first fortay into comic shops was GONE by Jock.

With a 13 yr old stowing away on board a spaceship looking for food, readers became instantly locked in with the story. Now, time has flown by when we catch up to the lead character and the dangers that still loom.

GONE #2 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs brings much to the table for its second issue. Lets take a closer look at how things fare now.

GONE #2 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (credit: DSTLRY)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

No good deed goes unpunished. This is what Abi learned the hard way. The 13yr old attempted to help her family by stealing food from luxury starships that stop by her planet. On one fateful run, Abi doesn’t escape in time. Now along for the ride and far from home, Abi must figure out what to do next.

This chapter picks up with a ship speeding through the galaxy. After the initial run, the narration paints the picture of despair as the Sabs failed attempt to take over the ship has forced them into hiding. The group, who’s taken Abi, in scrape to survive.

Meanwhile, the “upper class” passengers have embarked on a hyper sleep. In their slumber, guards watch over them and the ship. As the rebels embark on another scavenger run, they think they find a huge score. The only problems it’s heavily guarded. A voice speaks out saying they will handle it. Readers see it’s Abi, but no the same one they remember from issue #1.

Abi is much older and wears the years of survival on her shoulders. The latest task sets Abi into dangerous territory. What does she encounter on the latest run?

Readers see a shocking reveal as Abi makes a discovery. How does this new dynamic play into her future? The mystery of the ship dives further into wonder. The conversations will lead Abi into reliving a past thought to be lost. However, the final act will send the story into a shocking tailspin as to where things line up next.

GONE #2 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (credit: DSTLRY)

Jock sets a few new paths in motion with this latest chapter. The time jump with Abi shows how much she’s adapted to her new environment. Her demeanor seems broken and battle-tested. This is evident in the mission shown in the first act. Once she makes her discovery, the story takes a huge twist in direction.

The writing latches back to her past, giving more layers to the debut. The conversations she has become emotional with the pain she’s felt. Jock does an excellent job hiding the true antagonist’s motives in this scenario. It helps to build up for the big surprise in the final pages. With the parting shot, it’s anyone’s guess where we go from here.

The art continues to bring the desolate times of Abi to a stark reality. The moments with the Sabs capture the rough way of life she’s been experiencing on the ship. Readers can easily see the anguish and wear of the everyday life. The mission at hand moves swiftly, building on a few ideas.

The fallout with her companions is brought to life with vivid coloring. It shadows the true dangers at hand. Abi’s confusion leaders readers into wondering what is truly happening here. Following this, the emotional expressions with her conversations make a solid impact on readers. It grounds the story just enough to see the true toll Abi has been enduring. This all get sent into a new route with the closing images. The parting pages are simple but tell such a terrifying moment.

It’s a true testament of how Jock masters storytelling in his work.

GONE #2 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (credit: DSTLRY - Cover: Matt Taylor)

FINAL POINT: 9

The winding road home takes another drastic turn in Jock’s sensational space odyssey. Abi’s latest chapter is filled with strong writing and exceptional imagery. Readers can’t help but be locked in for the stunning new developments. Don’t miss picking this story up.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Gone #2. Thanks for reading!

SOMNA #1 (DSTLRY)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we’re checking out a brand new series debuting from DSTLRY! Over the summer of 2023, “The Devil’s Cut” gave readers an insight of what to expect from the upstart line. With some of the best creators in the business involved, it was a huge win with fans.

Since that point, the anticipation for more content from this line has been building. Recently, Gone #1 by Jock was released. Now, another entry from this imprint is hitting the shops with a great buzz behind it. Considering its’ creative team, there’s no doubt why fans are excited to check this series out.

SOMNA #1 by Tula Lotay, Becky Cloonan, Lee Loughridge, Dee Cunniffe and Lucas Gattoni brings an erotic horror element to the local comic shops with this series. Let’s take a closer look and see how this debut fares.

Editor note: This is a MATUTRE READERS book. Viewing discression is advised.

SOMNA #1 by Tula Lotay, Becky Cloonan, Lee Loughridge, Dee Cunniffe and Lucas Gattoni (Credit: DSTLRY)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

A woman named Ingrid is walking through a forest landscape. The narration leads readers to believe it is a dream. She is wakes up after being enamored to a cold reality. However, it appears that the dream might not be done as a figure lurks trying to connect with her on a physical and sexual manner.

Suddenly, Ingrid wakes up to her husband Roland, a bailiff, who’s trying to have her accompany him to a trial. Ingrid doesn’t want to go and this causes Roland to storm off. In response, Ingrid heads into the forest and looks overhead at her village with a roaring fire. It is no ordinary fire. It appears to be where witches were burnt at the stake.

The fire snaps her back into the dream-like world. Ingrid sees herself as the one in the fire. She’s snapped back to the present by Maja and her son. The conversation shifts to who was being punished.

Later that evening, Ingrid sits by a fire as Roland returns. As she tries to initiate passion, he scoffs it away. As they sleep, the mysterious stranger reappears in her dreams, connecting with her on a level Roland cannot. When she wakes, Roland is not as understanding to what she is describing.

How does Ingrid process her dreams? After the recent trial and reactions from the village, her thoughts wander. As her dreams intensify, Ingrid becomes entrapped between two worlds. As the closing act approaches, readers see where Ingrid leads to as an event occurs that sets her on an unforeseen path. The journey now begins that will have readers locked in until the next chapter drops.

SOMNA #1 by Tula Lotay, Becky Cloonan, Lee Loughridge, Dee Cunniffe and Lucas Gattoni (Credit: DSTLRY - Art featured: Becky Cloonan)

The writing breaks down Ingrid into multiple stories. The first is the gruff relationship with Roland. The mood is tense and cold as their interactions lead to mounting tension with little middle ground. Ingrid comes across as a character yearning for more, which drives her to lean into her dreamscape.

Her path leads to the question of “Is perception really reality” as Ingrid walks a fine line throughout this issue. Knowing there’s a hint of danger in her dreams, the writing reflects her wanting more than she has and how scary that could be. As the story rolls into its’ closing portion, readers see how Ingrid inches closer to the edge. After the event transpires, there is a sense of looming fear of that should transpire next which leaves a lasting impression.

The art duties are split into two distinct areas. Cloonan handles the present time, featuring the interactions with the village. The mood is that of trepidation as the burning trial lingers on Ingrid’s mind. The body language of Ingrid and Roland shows disfunction and frustration on all parities.

This only adds to the significance of the dreamscape. Lotay paints a vivid landscape of wonder and anxiousness as Ingrid’s interactions with the figure intensify with each page. The art captures the raw emotions of the encounters bringing readers along to sense what Ingrid wants and sense her fear in the consequences. It all ties together with a striking final vision leading to more thrilling drama yet to be seen.

SOMNA #1 by Tula Lotay, Becky Cloonan, Lee Loughridge, Dee Cunniffe and Lucas Gattoni (Credit: DSTLRY - Art featured: Tula Lotay)

FINAL POINT: 8.5 OUT OF 10

Cloonan and Lotay welcome readers into the complex world of Ingrid with a visually impressive debut. Ingrid’s haunting dreams battle the harsh reality of her world with excellent art and writing. The layers of this mystery are just being peeled back so readers won’t want to miss jumping on-board now to see where things lead from here.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Somna #1. Thanks for reading!

GONE #1 (DSTLRY MEDIA)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we are checking out the next installment from an upstart company making big waves in comics. Since it’s announcement in early 2023, DSTLRY captured readers intention with a founders roster of top-level creators and a business model unlike any others.

With a lineup including Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, Brian Azzarello, Stephanie Phillips , Mirka Andolfo, Joëlle Jones, Tula Lotay, Lee Garbett, Marc Bernardin, Becky Cloonan, Junko Mizuno, Elsa Charretier, Jamie McKelvie, Ram V and Will Dennis, there was no possible way anything this line does that wouldn’t be big news.

Factor in the actual partnerships with financial stakes aspect along with the roster and THIS is why the imprint has the hype surrounding each forthcoming project.

With the release of The Devils Cut this summer, fans have been counting down the days until DSTLRY’s next book. Their wait is finally over as another founder leads the charge into the comic shops this week!

GONE #1 by the one and only JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs looks to make a lasting impression with readers and keep the company’s momentum rolling. Let’s take a closer peak and what’s happening here, shall we?

GONE #1 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (Credit: DSTLRY)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The story begins on the Sun-East settlement of a distant planet. Armed individuals are walking the streets looking for someone. The mood is tense as the residents scramble away. A lone stranger winds up standing in the center of the colony. His eyes are blue like ice with no remorse.

This is a stark contrast to the light reflected face of thirteen year old Ari. As depicted in “The Stowaway” from the Devil’s Cut, Ari steals food for her family off of starships. Readers find out that on this scavenging mission, five started with only two surviving. With empty hands and mounting problems, there is a sense of despair lingering in the air.

Ari is determined to help her family out. With her mother expecting a child, there’s mounting pressure to find ways to help. Ari mentions about a possible bigger score with a new ship but her mother doesn’t want her to go. Ari passes on the warning and joins a group of eager individuals ready to make the heist.

However, once on board, things change dramatically. What transpires while on board you ask? Readers won’t be ready for the change of course that the story takes. Abi’s future as she knows it changes forever. With a new stat quo in place, there’s never a shortage of dangers lurking. The intensity builds right up to the final act. Once the last page hits, there’s no escaping how this story has blazed a trail that readers won’t be able to get enough of.

GONE #1 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (Credit: DSTLRY)

A non-stop thrill ride of unrelenting spirit. Ari is an easy character to root for due to her drive and caring. Jock’s writing sets up the stage for how dangerous her cause is right from the start. Once the search begins, the mood is anxious and bleak. The moments with Ari and her mother brings events into clear focus as the weight of the situation grows.

Ari knows what’s at stake and risks it all to help. It is such a heroic quality that follows the lead in her unexpected adventure. The drama works well with the pacing, allowing readers to pause before things ramps up for another round. The closing act comes off as a change of course, but is extremely well done. The journey has only just begun but what a start!

The art shines as one would expect. The imagery from the initial search paints the picture of danger through each panel. Excellent shot of the man facing the settlement moving to the close-up of eyes. The imagery of the spaceships over the broken colony depicts the evident divide between the people of the planet. The panels with Ari and her mother pour with expressions of doubt and struggle.

It’s a lingering feel through the remainder of the book. Jock mixes in action with the escalating drama where nothing ever feels safe to Ari’s mission. It’s a great attribute that an excellent storyteller like Jock can pull off with ease. The closing image throws a solid swerve into the mix while ending events with much to be excited for in the future.

GONE #1 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (Credit: DSTLRY)

GONE #1 by JOCK, Lee Loughridge and Andworld Designs (Credit: DSTLRY)

FINAL POINT: 9 OUT OF 10

The next phase of DSTLRY kicks off on a high note with a tale readers simply won’t want to abandon ship on. The talents of Jock flood each page with excellent artwork supporting the astounding story being constructed. This is a no-brainer to add to anyone’s comic collection for New Comic Book Day this week!

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts about Gone #1. Thanks for reading.

THE DEVIL'S CUT (DSTLRY MEDIA)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, the comic book world was shaken up with the announcement of a brand new company that truly is going to be a game-changer. Early in 2023, David Steinberger and Chip Mosher announced a company was coming which was going to be one of the most pro-creator companies in history: DSTLRY !

If anyone is unfamiliar with the pair, they were two of the biggest names over at Comixology. With their respected backgrounds, this upstart brand had a solid foundation to begin growing. Following them was a who’s who of top named creators who are founding members of the brand. They are Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, Brian Azzarello, Stephanie Phillips , Mirka Andolfo, Joëlle Jones, Tula Lotay, Lee Garbett, Marc Bernardin, Becky Cloonan, Junko Mizuno, Elsa Charretier, Jamie McKelvie, Ram V, Jock and editor Will Dennis.

With a business structure set to benefit creators like no other (actual partnerships with financial stakes), the anticipation around their first project has astronomical. This week, DSTLRY makes their debut on New Comic Book Day with The Devils Cut.

The special edition features 11 short stories from the founding members and others. Let’s not wait any longer and see how DSTLRY makes their initial debut, shall we?

THE DEVIL’S CUT (CREDIT: DSTLRY MEDIA - COVER :JOCK)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Due to the amount of stories, the overview of each tale will be shorter than usual reviews.

The book opens up with “Spectregraph” by Tynion IV, Christian Ward, and Aditya Bidikar - It centers around a job proposition that is more than anyone expects. Incredible art by Ward leaves a lasting impression by the time the final image appears. Perfect way to kick off the first impressions of the book and brand.

“SHEPARD” by Bernardin, Ariela Kristantina, Lee Loughridge, and Bernardo Brice - A sci-fi tale that only scratches the surface but will leave readers wanting more. The creative team meshes a mystery behind the futuristic set-up. Clearly, this story is far from being completed.

“8 Rules To Make It Out In One Piece” by Charretier, PK Colinet, Nick Filardi, and Clayton Cowles - An outrageous spy thriller that is sure to win readers over. Sharp writing keeps things moving through Colinet’s eye-catching visuals. Fun caption to close out with as this story might not be over just yet.

“What’s Mine is Hearse” by Phillips, Joëlle Jones, and Lucas Gattoni - The Wildest story of the eleven without question! Phillips and Jones present an unhinged lead character and their “unique” vision of love. Great work from the creative team giving the readers a true sense of pushing the limits with the freedom of creating at DSTLRY offers.

“A Blessed Day” by Mirka Andolfo, Fabio Amelia, Arancia Studio and Steve Orlando - a mix of fame, religion and the supernatural. Welcome to the world of Lev with haunting words filling the pages of the bright lights and big city feel of the visuals.

“The STOWAWAY” by Jock - a young boy’s mission to survive turns chaotic with the legendary art of Jock guiding readers along. Pacing keeps things escalading as the tension rises with each panel. With “Gone” following this book, fans of this story will be even more excited for October.

“DELETED SCENE, #2” BY Azzarello, Eduardo Risso, and Jared K. Flecther - a chilling western with a surprisng cause of events. Excellent two-page visuals to wrap things up with, leaving readers wanting to hear more of the tale being woven.

“WHITE BOAT” by Snyder, Francesco Francavilla, Andworld Design, and Tyler Jennes - The creative team behind “Night Of The Ghoul” strikes again with horror at high tide. Snyder’s gripping writing with the impectable work of Francavilla makes this one story no one will want to miss!

“What Happens Next” by McKelvie and Bidikar - a futuristic tale that literally challenges readers to watch as two individuals challenge the perfect status quo. McKelvie delivers stunning visuals around the thought provoking writing. The ending leaves much to the imagination of where things go from here.

“Waiting To Die” by Ram V, Garbett, Loughridge and Bidikar - With an impending solar flare affecting all in its’ sight, the creative team gives a fresh perspective on the idea of what one does in their final moments. The writing jumps out as choices are made and the repercussions don’t escape. Excellent artwork to back this stellar story out before closing with show stealing visuals.

“What Blighted Flame Burns In Thee” by Cloonan, Lotay and Richard Starkings - An escape from certain doom sets the stage for an accused witch’s tale with stunning visuals from Lotay. It is a fitting creative experience to cap off what is sure to be a highly discussed debut.

“What’s Mine is Hearse” by Stephanie Phillips, Joëlle Jones, and Lucas Gattoni (The Devil’s Cut - CREDIT: DSTLRY)

“Spectregraph” by Tynion IV, Christian Ward, and Aditya Bidikar (THE DEVIL’S CUT - CREDIT: DSTLRY)

It is a challenge to deliver on hype. With a roster of creators with the pedigree they each possess, expectations can be almost unreachable. However, “The Devil’s Cut” firmly plants DSTLRY’s stake in the ground as they make a bold first impression for readers.

From the opening salvo of “Spectregraph”, Tynion and Ward swiftly set the pace for what lies ahead. The story is brooding but has a certain mystique to it as well. In contrast, “8 Rules To Make It Out In One Piece” gives readers a more playful look at the spy game. The story is just fun and never takes itself too seriously. It’s a big win for readers looking for something different at the shops.

Throughout the entire issue, the creators take full advantage of the freedom that you only get when it’s completely hands-free from a publisher. The biggest example of this is “What’s Mine is Hearse” by Phillips and Jones. The concept is very non-traditional but the creative team puts such a distinctive spin on the theme, it can’t be denied. “Waiting To Die” plays into flipping traditional ideas and repacking concepts. The story runs deeper than one might think and the final parting image soldifies that.

The artistry on display throughout the book is to be admired as well. Francavilla has mastered the building of horror tales that with “White Boat”, he times everything out perfectly to capture the moments. The use of two page spreads works to build the anticipation toward the story’s revelations. Cloonan and Lotay’s “What Blighted Flame Burns In Thee” hits their marks mixing in color usage to nail key imagery of their story to close out the monster debut.

Each of the eleven stories at hand could be broken down into greater detail. All carry a distinct weight and feel that truly demonstrates the message DSTLRY wants to project.

“WHITE BOAT” by Scott Snyder, Francesco Francavilla, Andworld Design, and Tyler Jennes (The Devil’s Cut - CREDIT: DSTLRY)

FINAL POINT: 10 OUT OF 10

A new era of comics starts NOW! Led by an all-star line-up of creators, “The Devil’s Cut” lives up to the building hype it has generated. No matter what you look for as a reader, there is something for everyone. Each story dives into various genres and all have moments that will grow readers’ anticipations more for when they get the next chapter of this game-changing imprint.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on “The Devil’s Cut”. Thanks for reading!