The Big Shakedown #1 – A City in Ruins

From Dark Horse comics, and some of the creators behind the amazing Minor Threats comics, comes a new story: The Big Shakedown. Years after “the big one” Los Angeles is still in shambles, and the streets are now run by the drug dealers. Detective Ester Blanco is desperate to escape, but can’t seem to catch a break.

This review is brought to you by Nerd Initiative’s Lauren.

Creative Team

Script: Jordan Blum & Tim Seeley; Art: Scott Koblish; Colors: Hi-Fi; Letters: Nate Piekos.

The Story for ‘The Big Shakedown’ #1

It’s been 5 years since a huge earthquake destroyed LA. With a government that abandoned them and left the city in ruins, many chose to leave. However, some stayed and continued to live their LA lifestyle. One local in particular, though, wants out: Detective Ester Blanco. While HOA dues are a thing of the past, money is still owed, and the new collectors aren’t concerned with putting a lien on your home, as much as breaking your knee caps. With problem after problem, Ester Blanco finds herself with a job offer. An offer she instantly wants to refuse, but one that is much more than meets the eye.

The Art

A comic book showing Los Angeles in ruins after a huge earthquake NEEDS good art! Thankfully, that’s exactly what we got in The Big Shakedown. There are incredible details of the city throughout, as well as some amazing action moments. My favorite moment involves a drone, and some beautiful colors! I loved the art! The lettering did an amazing job as well, highlighting key moments and keeping the reader sucked into the story throughout.

There’s a little extra nod in the art for any Minor Threats fans. Pay close attention because I’m pretty sure I saw a little Easter Egg in one scene. Which is no surprise looking at the creative team.

Final Thoughts

The Big Shakedown starts off as a tragedy with some eerily creepy nods to reality. We’re then thrown into a dystopian type story that turns into a mystery with a huge cliffhanger that sucks you right in, and makes you want issue 2 immediately. The best comics make you laugh, ooh and aah at the art, and make you wonder what the hell is going on. That’s exactly what happened here. If you’re looking for an awesome new comic series to dive into, The Big Shakedown is the way to go.

Overall Grade: 9/10

Have you checked out this comic? Let us know your thoughts, and check out more reviews from Lauren.