Gideon Falls #10
Image Comics
Writer: Jeff Lemire
Artist: Andrea Sorrentino & Dave Stewart
Like much of the panels within the Gideon Falls the divergent plot arcs begin to fall into place (at last) in the newest issue. Finally, fans of the stunning, mind-bending, thriller get a peek through the keyhole of the Black Barn. What’s on the other side, however, raises more questions than ever before.
Story:
No. 10 starts with a reiterated history of the murders/suicides caused by The Black Barn when it first appeared in 1886. Thirteen people died before the murderer was discovered. A man by the name of Norton Sinclaire. Of course, readers have seen that name before. Norton Sinclaire is the crazy man who searches through the garbage for nails and tiny slivers of wood in an attempt to recreate The Black Barn. But is Norton really a killer? Nothing in the story thus far has led this reader to believe so. Back in 1886, six men entered The Black Barn, but nobody came out. They were never seen again, and neither was the barn, itself. However, Norton Sinclaire, with the help of Dr. Xu, in a city that looks surprisingly like modern-day New York City, is about to complete The Door, and when it opens, there’s no telling what might happen.
Characters:
This reader has been surprised at how characters, once despised, have evolved and become likable as the story progresses. This issue is no different; Father Fred, once a flaky and shaky zealot, or so it seemed, continues his (perceived) transformation into a brave and loyal man, not only to his religion but to those he has come to know since moving to Gideon Falls. The strange, yet obvious sexual tension between Norton and Dr. Xu, continues to flourish even in their quest to reconstruct a building they know will lead to nothing but evil. Sheriff Miller may be conspicuously absent from this issue, though for good reason.
Art:
The art in this comic has been near flawless throughout, and #10 is no different. While Father Fred and Norton seem to exist in opposite or parallel planes, so the panels reflect this. At one especially memorable series of pages, the panels are turned into ribbons that swirl about each other like a DNA double helix, hinting at a familial tie that is yet to be revealed. Like issues before it, #10 delivers the answer and asks questions of what can be done in a comic book. #11 can’t come fast enough.
Gideon Falls #10
A monumental installment that reveals some groundbreaking connections. The use of panel forms is among the most creative this reader has ever seen.
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