Odin #1 – Neo-Nazis & Norse Gods

Gonzo style journalism gone horribly wrong in Odin #1 by James Tynion IV, Marguerite Bennett, Letizia Cadonici, Jordie Bellaire & Tom Napolitano from Image Comics.

SOLICITATION:

“…Adela will do anything for the perfect story. Including going undercover with Neo Nazi punks headed to the frozen forests of Norway under the misbegotten belief that they can summon Odin and achieve their promised white destiny. But what awaits them in the woods is far older and stranger than any of them can comprehend. And no gods are coming to answer their prayers for help…”

*SPOILERS FOR ISSUE #1*

If you took a look at the solicitation and you felt confident that you know what awaits in the pages of Odin #1, I assure you, you do not. This tense and anxiety-inducing thriller follows the insane ambitions of an inspiring journalist who infiltrated a Neo Nazi group. Initially, Adela narrates very descriptively who these folks are. Overall, it is just another group of young people who are confused, misguided, angry, and highly malleable.

INFILTRATED

This would be more than enough for a gripping tale, where any journalist could report on an expose from the inside of the house. Maybe gain some notoriety, a couple of awards, or even a pay raise from a breaking report like this. Extremist groups are insulated by design. So, there’s always an interest in these subcultures. Any peek into their way of life and beliefs is welcomed by the masses.

THE ALL-FATHER & NEO-NAZIS

However, this one particular group of Neo-Nazi punks believes their white supremacy is a God-given right. Particularly by Odin,  the god from Norse Mythology. Yes, the All-Father holds the secrets to the elevation of whiteness on Earth. Thus, Adela finds herself attached to this group going on a trip for a rite of passage ceremony. In which they hoped to summon these gods and communicate with them in a ceremony of sorts. 

WICKED TWIST

Unfortunately, things take a turn for the worse. After a few moments of bliss and perceived enlightenment, everyone comes crashing down hard and fast into reality. Nothing is real, or everything is. Feelings of confusion, dread, and regret overwhelmed everyone as they realized they were stranded in the dead, cold dark of these unknown woods. 

OVERALL GRADE: 9/10

HOW ABOUT THE ART?

Personally, I wasn’t familiar with Letizia Cadonici’s art before this book. But I have to say I am a fan moving forward. There’s a certain visceral yet beautiful quality to her visual style of storytelling. Additionally, you have the coloring prowess of Jordie Bellaire. Who paints the perfect tones of mystery and dread.

FINAL THOUGHTS: 

In another attempt to create fiction from reality, James Tynion IV brings us another tale inspired by real life. The character Adele is actively working the “Gonzo” method of journalism invented by Hunter S. Thompson. Known for infiltrating different subcultures found in the lesser-visited corners of society. To voice our journalist with a female perspective, we have the amazing Marguerite Bennett. Who seeks to explore the inner thoughts of Adele from her delicate and precarious situation. Adele’s attention to detail, social intelligence, and acute observation allowed the reader a very descriptive read on each individual in the story. Which was just a setup to make you feel comfortable before they pulled the rug from underneath.