“Pretty Hate Machine #1” Review – Pretty And Not Hateful

Synopsis

What would you do if you found out your parent was murdered and you were presented the chance to have your revenge? For Thomas, this is the exact conundrum he has to answer for himself once given the chance by Luther. A choice that isn’t the easiest for him to make, as family matters are involved. Afterall, fighting to find the truth always comes at a cost.

Writers: Tim Seeley, Ryan O’Nan
Artist: Paolo Armitano
Colorist: Roman Stevens
Letterer: Dave Sharpe

*POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD*

Pretty Spectacular Writing

First, I have to commend co-writer Ryan O’Nan for this being his first foray into the comic book medium. For those who don’t know, he’s usually a TV writer, having written for shows like “Skins” and “Legion”. Between him and Tim Seeley, they created something that, so far, is masterful. From the first page onward, everything feels gripping. At the start, we meet three kids who talk about a mysterious accident and see what looks like red lights across the way. This moment gives our first big, gory twist which I won’t spoil here. This whole first issue is turn after bloody turn, making for terrific pacing yet keeping things easy to read.

As far as the story goes, it very much seems inspired by the likes of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”. If you know Shakespeare, let alone that particular story, it can be very easy to see where this might go. That being said, the story feels very fresh and modern while making for a very interesting mystery with a horror twist. On top of that, for anyone who’s ever lost a loved one, the main character Thomas feels highly relatable. I especially love how he seems very conflicted about the opportunity presented to him, as I feel most would be.

The Art of Murder

Do you want to know the other great things about this book? The absolutely stellar artwork and paneling. The work from colorist Roman Stevens as well as the penciling from all of the artists, especially Todor Hristov on the main cover and Paolo Armitano on the interior, is gorgeous to look at. Every frame is just as intense and detailed as the last, with the gutter space working perfectly to match the tone of the page. Not only that, but the paneling is easy to follow, despite being creatively disjointed. All of it together blends seamlessly, creating a beautiful work.

Overall – 10/10

Seeley, O’Nan, Armitano and Stevens all worked together to create a beautiful and horrifying take on a Hamlet-like story that would surely make Shakespeare himself proud. If you love tense tales of revenge, murder, devious beings and a dash of teen-angst, this is the run for you!

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Comments

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