Comic Review: The Department of Truth #1

The Department of Truth #1

Image Comics

Writer: James Tynion IV

Artist: Martin Simmonds

Letterer: Aditya Bidikar

The Department of Truth #1 is one of the most anticipated series by Image Comics this year. It’s a political thriller with some horror elements that feels timely. It’s created by superstar writer James Tynion IV, with art by Martin Simmonds (Punks Not Dead, Friendo) and letters by Aditya Bidikar.

The opening issue follows Cole Turner, a man who makes a living off of studying conspiracy theories. He covers areas like the JFK assassination, the moon landing, and flat-earthers. He finds overwhelming evidence that all these theories might actually be true. I’m going to keep the synopsis vague. This is an issue that shines because of the discoveries that readers make.

James Tynion IV’s first issue lacks any of the action that the comic book medium is known for. It’s almost exclusively dialogue, with most of the action simply being the main character moving from place to place. It’s a wordy issue, and that isn’t a bad thing since everything in The Department of Truth is so compelling. The subject-matter is relevant. This issue is full of references to alt-right forums and the people who are prone to believing in these theories.

Readers will get to know a bit about the characters’ motivations, but this issue isn’t much of a character piece. It sets up a grand conspiracy-based storyline and only introduces the main cast. Turner is a man who is grounded in science and what history has taught us. It’s interesting seeing how he copes with what surrounds him. Even if readers don’t get an intimate look at the character, he is still easy to connect to. Tynion does a fine job of creating an intellectual character that is easy to relate to. It all adds to The Department of Truth‘s immersion.

Martin Simmonds gives The Department of Truth an aesthetic that likely can’t be achieved by any other artist. The art is scratchy, with gritty lines filling the pages. Simmonds surrounds the characters in darkness, giving the book heavy horror vibes. Some characters are hard to distinguish from each other, but this is otherwise a fantastic look book. The sequential art makes the book easy to follow. The layouts ensure that all the conversations stay engaging. Aditya Bidkiar’s letters complete the package, with a chilling font that also feels like it could be used in a document full of redacted lines.

The Department of Truth is off to a fantastic start. It’s timely, chilling, and absolutely intriguing. Tynion IV, Simmonds, and the rest of the creative team have a hit on their hands already.

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Read The Department of Truth #1 on Comixology