Copperhead #2

by Forrest.H on October 07, 2014

Striking gold in a small sci-fi-western mining town

Writer: Jay Faerber
Artist: Scott Godlewski

Colorist: Ron Riley
Publisher: Image 


Copperhead has successfully forced its way into my heart like no book in a long time has. I don't know if it was the cliffhanger-esque ending of the first issue, I don't know if it was the art, I don't know if it was the beautifully scripted character dynamics or the real but still fantastical setting that sucked me in but, I haven't been able to stop thinking about this comic. (I frequently tweet to Jay and Scott about it actually, sorry guys.)

I had such a deep respect and admiration for the first issue and what it established that I was honestly worried that my hopes were too high for its follow-up. Kind of like how people thought Alien 4 might be a good movie, probably. But, unlike Alien 4, Copperhead issue two is exactly what I was hoping it would be: a perfectly scripted and intriguing read that is also mind-numbingly good to look at.

Faerber's writing here is crisp and layered. Clara Bronson is a tough but believable character and her interactions with the victims of the previous issue as she continues her investigation here establish her as a person of not only admirable qualities but, also of strength through frustration and hardship. Boo becomes a sympathetic figure in this issue, one who wants to do his job correctly but is also scorned in a way by not being allowed to live up to his obvious potential. The newly introduced man of mystery is also fantastic and interesting even if he does more through action than words. Finally, it's worth noting that the story itself is progressing pleasently, the mysteries of the first issue are by no means solved but instead deepened in a way that hints at a complex, action packed and genuine story to be told and Faerber's writing and scripting powerfully captures that. Copperhead is a scary, dark, foreign place but also one that is innocent, infantile, geuine and heart-warming in a way. 

Godlewski and Riley are a powerful team. The first page, in its entirety, is a strong artsitic statement that sets a tone not only for this issue but also for an alien world in whole. The way the pages, panels, darks and lights lure you in is almost like brainwashing (in the best possible way). Time flies in Copperhead, I read through this issue 2 times in one sitting just to absorb it all. The way that Godlewski carefully tailors the expressions of characters even when they aren't speaking, like Clara's boy and his friend, is staggering. The action sequences are crisp, liquid and effective all at once. The dialouge sequences are no different. Riley's colors add an appropriate and dynamic feel to it all. Copperhead could in no way be brought to life as successfully as it is by anyone but these two.

As a side note or two: I suggest you put on some ambient-techo-country-western tunes if you have them as you read through. Or, do like I did and read with Trent Reznor's newly released Gone Girl soundtrack playing because good music and good comics like this compliment eachother in ways that are surprisingly moving. Also check out Godlewski's twitter because he often sells Copperhead sketches that are all amazingly well done and worth their price.

The mystery deepens, the characters come alive and the world pulls you in. Copperhead is a place of exquiste darkness and still hopefulness.

Alien and familiar, this book is nothing to miss. 










 

Our Score:

10/10

A Look Inside

Comments

spicytoilet's picture
This one is definitely becoming a fave, it earned its permanent spot in my pull list box.