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GRIM #14 by BOOM! STUDIOS
CREATIVE: Stephanie Phillips, Flaviano, Rico Renzi & Tom Napolitano
There’s no other book like it at the Local Comic Shops.
Ever since it’s debut issue, The story of Jessica Harrow and the life after the afterlife continues to leave a lasting impression on readers from a creative team that makes this story more than that. It’s an entire vibe and energy.
Now in its’ third arc, Jessica and her fellow reapers Eddie and Marcel have been put through Hell (literally) as the afterlife is on the verge of breaking thanks to Jessica’s aunt, Adira. From being exiled to the land of the living to being betrayed by one of their own in a double cross, the trio’s luck has been all bad.
Recently through her manipulations as the head of the afterlife, Marcel was taken by Kelly, a devil whose thriving on Marcel’s misery as payment.
With their initial deal seeming to change, Adira tries getting Jessica to help her which she is reluctant to. However, given it’s the only possible chance to help marcel, Jessica takes Death’s Scythe which doesn’t take them to Marcel, but to somewhere else.
The entire N.I. Bullpen are very big fans of this book. That’s why for this review, it’s a N.I. Bullpen group discussion with Marty Stoked, and yours truly (Ken – ODPH podcast/NI Comics EIC) breaking down this incredible series! *** POSSIBLE SPOILERS WARNING***
HOW IS THE STORY FOR THIS ISSUE?
Ken: From the opening pages, Stephanie Phillips goes back to one of my personal favorite things with this series: Adding in music lyrics! With the masterful work of Tom Napolitano, the words from Gin Wigmore’s “Black Sheep” kicks off the opening act of this book perfectly. Once readers get to Jessica’s story, they quickly find out what the road to Hell is paved with.
Seeing the struggles both Jessica and Eddie endure makes a loud statement at how far they’ve come since the initial arc. Jessica facing a fear she never wanted to face is a strong element of the issue. The ranges of emotions readers will go thru heading into the closing act is another strength to this story. Very solid cliffhanger ending to take readers into the next chapter of the coolest series on the shelves.
MORE FROM BOOM! STUDIOS
Marty: Throughout this series Stephanie Phillips has masterfully woven a narrative that delves deep into the lives of our three central characters: Jessica, Eddie, and Marcel. Phillips’s skill in crafting a multilayered narrative is nothing short of impressive. She makes readers genuinely care about each character’s struggles and growth.
What stands out in this issue is how Phillips weaves three distinct stories into one, using a clever bookending technique to introduce a new character who promises to play a pivotal role in the upcoming issues! The character development for Jessica and Eddie in this installment is particularly noteworthy. It strengthens their bond and prepares them to face the looming battles.
WHAT ABOUT THE ART, COLORING AND LETTERING?
Ken: Flaviano, Renzi and Napoliano give this story such energy with each issue they work on. The feel is all Punk Rock DIY Cool. The way the team kicks things off weaving the music lyrics into the origin of the new character was very well done.
Jessica and Eddie’s battles stood out for different reasons, both reflect their biggest struggles. Jessica’s portion pops off the page due to Renzi’s coloring. This is topped off with a unique full page panel that shows both sides of their fights. The emotional fallout from it will hit readers hard.
Grim has a look that just can’t be duplicated or denied.
MORE FROM STEPHANIE PHILLIPS
Marty: One of my favorite artistic choices of this series is the use of song lyrics to help convey the emotional tone and set the scene and this issue is no exception! This approach adds a unique and immersive layer to the storytelling.
The art by Flaviano, colors by Rico Renzi, and lettering by Tom Napolitano continue to be nothing short of incredible, contributing to the overall engagement of readers. The visuals vividly complement the narrative, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.
FINAL THOUGHTS AND GRADE:
Ken: 9 Out of 10. The pacing of the issue never loses sight on the main theme paying out here. Phillips has a great sense of balancing the emotional pulls until just the right moments to elevate a scene to make a story greater. Backed by the mind-blowing visuals of Flaviano and company and there’s no doubts why Grim should be and needs to be a must have for any comic reader when an issue drops.
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Marty: 8.75 out of 10. Grim 14 remains a standout among my monthly comic book pulls. Its distinct storytelling approach, coupled with remarkable art, colors, and lettering, consistently leaves readers craving more. As the characters evolve and confront their demons, the series remains a must-read for those who appreciate intricate character-driven narratives in the world of comics.
Stephanie Phillips and the creative team behind Grim 14 have once again delivered a compelling and engaging issue that leaves us eager for what’s next in this captivating saga.
