White Picket Fences #1-2 Ape Entertainment |
I had heard good things about this book, but had never really looked into it, so I didn’t even know what it was about. Two pages in and I thought I wasn’t going to like it. It felt like a military comic, something I’m not particularly fond of. But then the next page revealed its true concept and I was thoroughly pleased.
The story takes place sometime in the future where intergalactic travels, and wars, are a reality. A boy stumbles across a Martian device that could potentially cause a war of the worlds, and so the fate of both worlds rests in the hands of three young boys who idolize the military.
This is a very entertaining and well written story that really accentuates the brilliance of innocent youth in a way that is relatable and intelligent. Matt Henderson and Eric Hutchins have crafted a wonderful story that engages the readers and illuminates each and every single character, whether they be central or supporting, with their own individuality and personalities. The story also takes readers back to a more innocent time even though this story is set in the future. The dialogue, mannerisms, et al is reminiscent of classic stories, movies and television series before vulgarity, sex and violence began dominating the airwaves. Yet, it’s done in a way that doesn’t feel kitschy or “dumbed down” in any way, shape or form. It’s just a good, clean, fun story with a little something for everyone.
The art is also stellar as it is something different than anything else I’ve seen on the racks in recent memory. It has almost a water color or color pencil quality to it, but all the fine lines and intricate details are maintained underneath. Micah Farritor is an artist to watch, not only because he stands out among the crowd, but also because he is a very talented, very skilled illustrator. His use of dramatic shading only takes second place to his dynamic angles and poses. Add to that his fun, slightly stylistic imagery and this artist is a star in the making. I was not familiar with his work prior to this book, but if I see his name on anything else in the future I will certainly check it out.
And if all that wasn’t enough (did I mention the lead story is extended, and not just the typical 22 pages?), there is also a back-up story in each issue featuring the adventures of Captain Odyssey, who is the comic hero of the boys in the lead story. This short serial is a throw-back to those classic sci-fi comics we all know and love, right down to the sometimes cheesy dialogue, but again, done with a modern flare to it. This tale is just a supplemental extra for the book, but it adds that added bonus for those readers who care to further immerse themselves in this overall story.
I also want to speak on the quality of the layout of this book. Ape Entertainment is a dark horse publisher (no pun, or inferred affiliation intended) in that they produce very entertaining and high quality books, but are not currently one of the top ten companies out there. But the production value of this book alone speaks volumes of their attention to detail, their creativity and their top-notch quality. Mark my words, if Ape continues to go strong, they are the publisher to watch over the next few years.
By and large, if these first two issues are any indication, this book is immensely well done, and everyone should go out and pick them up. Give this book a chance, you won’t be disappointed.
For more on this book (which is a 3-issue mini-series) visit them on ComicSpace at www.comicspace.com/white_picket_fences
For more on Ape Entertainment, find them at www.apecomics.com
Page last updated on April 5, 2008