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Radiant Black written by Kyle Higgins and drawn by Marcelo Costa is arguably one of the most innovative comics to be produced within the last decade. It wouldn’t surprise me if you’re now thinking “that sure is a tall order to fill. That can’t be true”, but I can almost assure you that even if this comic series is not the most engaging piece of media you’ve ever read, it will still be a valued part of your time as a comic book reader.
Radiant Black is a story about a Millennial struggling with the crippling pressures of capitalism following their dream only to regress and move back in with their parents. It is through Nathan that this narrative is delivered through us as he struggles to be a writer in Los Angeles only to return home to Chicago. It’s a tale as old as time or at least a tale told in the time of today which for many can feel like an eternity. All is not bad however, being able to reconnect with old friends such as Marshall and spending time with his family. It all seems normal until they are met with the catalyst of our story, the tiny black hole. It is through his encounter after a night of drinking Nathan becomes Radiant Black.
So what’s next? Nathan finds a new purpose in becoming a superhero? His life improves dramatically with his new found way of living? Does he go out to save lives and protect the wellbeing of others?
No. No he doesn’t.
While this story and origin may seem like one you’ve heard before, one of two things happens that we have come to know in the comic book world of storytelling. Our hero is empowered to be good, or our Protagonist is enticed to act within his own interest. We see these radical story elements in previous well known works such as Spider-man and The Boys as a tool to explore the best and the worst parts of us.
Radiant Black in all its genuine nature chooses the route of internal conflict and realistic consequence. Nathan receiving powers doesn’t fix his debt, it doesn’t make his dreams come true any faster, and it doesn’t stop him from feeling more confused than he already was. While he has powers and knows the responsibility that comes with it, Nathan struggles to find his purpose and identity as a superhero but still handles the hardships of millennial lifestyle living.
It’s hard to describe the nature and specific details that make this type of story telling feel so real in the opposition of other relatable stories of its past. It’s a narrative that is self aware of its audience, because it is specifically made for them. At the age of 28 myself, understanding and living those issues I can take a peek at a fantasy life I think about constantly and know that even with the power to make a difference, life is hard. Life is difficult. Life doesn’t fix itself because I can shoot lasers from my fist and fly above LA traffic.
Kyle Higgins is a phenomenal writer who has this amazing talent for balancing life and the fantastical element of superpowers and makes it all feel real. Marcelo Costa’s art is also an absolute joy to consume and involve yourself in the world he has come to draft for you. You can’t help but feel drawn into the heartfelt scenarios between family and friends, and how the powers both make those relationships better and worse.
This comic book isn’t made for children but for some reason when I read it it makes me feel like one again. To see a piece of myself and the life I’ve lived and still know that we as struggling adults can also find joy in believing a superhero that feels like us.
If I haven’t sold you on it by now, remember that sometimes it’s not as simple to describe what makes this book so great. Sometimes it’s only something you can experience. It’s never ever really black and white when it comes to these things.
This time, however, It’s Radiant Black and white. Make the right choice and read this story.
