The Twilight Zone #8 – The Past is the Past?

In The Twilight Zone, you can think of the what ifs. What if what was your biggest mistake became your biggest success? What if you could turn it all around without knowing how? For Russell Colton, that just may be the case. What happens when a D-List cult film actor looks back on his career? What would he have done differently?

This review is brought to you by Nerd Initiative’s Shawn!

Creative Team

Writer/Artist/Cover Artist: Gabriel Hardman

Letterer: Jeff Eckleberry

Writing

Gabriel Hardman did a great job on this issue. One of the most difficult things about these Twilight Zone stories, is crafting them in a way so that the reader doesn’t immediately see the inevitable plot twist coming. It would not be the name sake if there was not some sort of plot twist. For Hardman, he does a great job leading you through the story, letting you know that something is coming, but also keeping it hidden from you until the moment it happens.

As I read through this story, it wasn’t until the few panels where the twist actually happens that I finally understood what was happening. Hardman writes a great character in Colton that is both detestable and yet somehow sympathetic. You don’t like the guy, but you also can’t help but feel a little bad for him. I believe this helps sequester yourself from discovering the plot twist before you arrive in the proper time. I think the fact the story is so enjoyable while still using a limited character list is a testament to the quality of Hardman’s writing.

Art

Not to be out done on writing alone, Hardman put in spectacular work on the artistic side as well. While still maintaining the signature color palette of black-and-white for the series. The characters and scene still managed to pop off the page with a unique sense of vibrancy.

Each line of the story feels purposeful and planned despite the occasional chaos that may occur in the scene. The art really captures the feel of the setting whether it’s a sound studio or a beach.

Final Thoughts

This was another great entry into the Twilight Zone series. Hardman crafted a satisfying and enjoyable tale. The story speaks to anyone who may have wondered what if something else had gone differently in their lives. Hardman joins others in this series who have crafted a story that feels as if it was pulled right out of the mind of Rod Serling.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Where does this issue rank in your Twilight Zone rankings so far? Let me know in the comments