Comic Review: Sex Criminals: Sexual Gary Special

Sex Criminals: Sexual Gary Special

Image Comics

Writer: Matt Fraction

Artists: Rachael Stott & Enrica Eren Angiolini

Letters: Chip Zdarsky

Who remembers Sexual Gary? The almost throwaway joke from the beginning of the Sex Criminals. Sexual Gary is a guy on a poster (And a real-life t-shirt) who is “Consensually Yours.” In the Sex Criminals world, he is a legend, known for being one of the most iconic sex symbols. It’s surprising since it’s been about seven years since we were introduced to the legend, but Sexual Gary is getting a special one-shot issue. It’s time to learn about everyone’s favorite Gary.

The first thing that fans of the series will notice in Sex Criminals: Sexual Gary Special is the absence of co-creator Chip Zdarsky’s art. Matt Fraction still handles the script, but this time he is accompanied by artist Rachael Stott and colorist Enrica Eren Angiolini.  This isn’t at all a bad thing, as the new artistic team does a fantastic job of fitting into the world of Sex Criminals. Aside from the change in artists, this is the same Sex Criminals that we have grown fond of.

It’s nice to get a look at a different era with different characters. Sure, there are one or two characters from the main series that plays a major role in Sexual Gary, but this is a standalone story. It can be enjoyed by fans or even those who have never read Sex Criminals before.

Sexual Gary is a pansexual man who once struggled to find his place in the world. Then realized that he can be an adult film actor and have sex with whoever he wants. From there, he goes on a journey of fame and satisfaction. This is an oversized issue so Fraction and the rest of the team allow their readers to really get to know Gary. This issue highlights his highs and lows, making this issue feels like a silly comedy that documents the life of a star from the 70s. It’s a fantastic and hilarious issue that, like the rest of the series, is full of heart.

Rachael Stott does a stellar job of bringing Sexual Gary to life. The art is full of charm, magic, and of course, sex. The panel layouts are fantastic. They creatively convey the action and the characters’ thoughts. Every panel is full of detail. There is always something new to discover on every page. This issue is a treat that’s worth every penny. Enrica Eren Angiolini’s colors are gorgeous. They add depth and charm to every character and background. Despite the changes in the creative team, this is very much an issue of Sex Criminals. Chip Zdarsky isn’t completely gone either. He covers the lettering in this special. As always, the lettering is superb, with many creative techniques and ways to make the words and dialogue have extra flavor.

Sex Criminals: Sexual Gary Special is a fantastic break from the main story’s action. It fleshes out a character that no one knew they needed to get to know. Fraction, Stott, and Angiolini, and Zdarsky have come together to deliver one of the best issues of Sex Criminals in years. It’s fun, sincere, and embraces everything that makes the series special.