When we first started to review comics, one of the main publishers we started reviewing most was a little company out of New Jersey called Dummie Comics. They were apart of our first live podcast in Philadelphia last year and took part in our 100th episode as well. It's been pretty silent for a while when it comes to their new titles. They've redone their title Home and continued telling the story of Manifesto. Now, they're back with Messenger.
Messenger tells the story of God's last attempt to get creation to repent. He tasks an angel with bringing forth the duty of repentance and exposing those of false faith. The book exposes a raw deal of emotion that at the sound of the premise, you wouldn't expect. There are some of us that believe in God, some of that don't and some that believe in a higher power. While on the surface, God appears angry through the very brief dialogue we get. The way in which the writer, Kalani Caraballo, tells it - its raw and broken. Theres a certain poetry about it.
The writing of the book is matched only by the book's art by Jim Kyle. Kyle acts as a throwback to early Image days but in gray scale. His art captures the raw emotion of the book. The black and white approach captures perfectly the tone of the book in a visual medium. Allowing the readers to engage in the broken nature of the protagonist but also the deceitful nature of the antagonist.
I will say that the book is honest. It showcases the battle within all of us to do the right thing but how we in turn project something else. Some of us dont contsin that transparency - the book reflects that. While the book has a solid first two acts, it slowly loses its grip upon its third. Introducing a character arc that seems to come from no where and ends as quickly as it began. Just seems so random.
Overall, Messenger #1, is a solid start to an emotionally charged new series. Raw storytelling matched by equally charged art. Team of Caraballo & Kyle make for an ideal team that excites readers for what's the come. Though it does start out strong, the ending is a bit confusing and random.
FINAL SCORE: 4/5
More importantly, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicide, depression, self-harm or addiction, please feel free to reach out, use any of our resources, call the suicide life line: 1-800-273-8255 or text 741-741.
Credits:
Messenger is property of Dummie Comics. We do not own nor claim any right.s