Buffy The Vampire Slayer #1
BOOM! Studios
Writer: Jordie Bellaire
Artists: Dan Mora & Raúl Angulo
Buffy is back in print, but this time with BOOM! Studios. While the last Buffy comic book series fit into the original television show’s canon and continuity, this new series brings the vampire slayer to the modern age. The debut gives Buffy Summers the opportunity to shine in a new era and appeal to a new generation.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer is written by Jordie Bellaire, known for her fine coloring and strong writing in Redlands. From the beginning, Jordie Bellaire proves that she has a good understanding of the characters, ensuring that longtime fans will read the characters in their original voices. Everyone fits right in the modern era, making everything feel fresh but familiar. Xander and Giles are especially in character here.
Bellaire’s pacing is solid throughout the issue, avoiding the usual pitfalls that most debut issues make. There is little exposition, and instead, the characters meet organically, and little dialogue is needed to establish the basic personalities of the characters. Those who are unfamiliar with the characters should still be able to get the basic gist of everything, especially during a sequence in the iconic (Now modern) school library. While Bellaire doesn’t get bogged down on establishing the characters, she also doesn’t rush everything. A large amount of the cast isn’t introduced in this issue. This decision is for the better and allows the reader to get to know the core characters.
There is clearly a lot of love put into this issue. Many scenes feel like they come straight from the show. There are also plenty of Easter Eggs and references to both the show and other Joss Whedon projects. Bellaire’s script is cheesy, and keeps the campy atmosphere of the original series.
Dan Mora’s pencils capture the charm of the original series. The characters appear animated, with expressive faces. Bold lines ensure that the action pops out at the reader. The action flows well throughout the panels, and everything feels like it has a sense of motion. A heartfelt scene involving the bonding of the Scooby Gang perfectly displays the marriage of words and art that only comic books are capable of producing. Raúl Angulo’s colors are bright and cheery and make the book feel cozy.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer #1 is the fresh start the franchise needed. It’s a perfect opportunity for the uninitiated to be a part of the fandom. It’s also exactly what long-term fans needed. Jordie Bellaire, Dan Mora, and Raúl Angulo have something good going on here, and it is wonderful to see these iconic characters comfortably enter a new generation.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer #1
The Scooby Gang is back and adjusting to the modern era well. This is a great read for both fans and newcomers.
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