Writer: Doug Wagner
Artist: Daniel Hillyard
Colorist: Michelle Madsen
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
Thanks to Image Comics for the review copy!
In this cutting edge new series from acclaimed writer Doug Wagner, Rennie, a character that first appeared in his series Vinyl, gets her own back story. Let’s just say, it’s nothing short of a killer! Rennie’s back and she’s ready to take fashion design school by storm! That is of course as long as it doesn’t interfere with her other, more deranged hobbies…..
Wagner is back and he hasn’t missed a beat! Dropping us right back into his darkly comedic world of serial killers and their passions. I really loved this book! Rennie is a fascinating character. She’s super snarky, super cool, and she’s not afraid to randomly maim someone if it means she might get an A on her next school project! She was originally introduced in one of my favorite other Wagner books, Vinyl. Here in I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer she’s finally been fully realized and it’s a joy to watch unfold. She’s mostly angry and quite standoffish but there’s just something about her that makes her lovable. Maybe it’s just the way Wagner writes these stories or all of the comedic mischief that occurs. It’s plenty dark and at times plenty gory but it’s meant to be fun and Wagner and team never loses sight of that. I think that’s what makes his books some of the most refreshing on the stands today.
Having Daniel Hillyard along to recreate that consistent tone and environment as well as the feel of all the characters also helps to elevate the story into something more surreal and funny versus being ultimately too dark or scary. There is always a fine line when it comes to this type of subject matter but the writing, art, and colors work perfectly to cast this book into a realm of its own. I wouldn’t call it horror but I wouldn’t not call it horror and I think that’s what makes Wagner’s books click! Nonetheless if you are looking for a little gross and a lot of funny you would be crazy not to pick up this first issue! Hell, go back and check out his older stuff too! They are always a hoot! Trust me! You won’t be disappointed!
Bonus: This week’s #1 will have a variant cover that is an homage to a Janet Jackson album cover and I’m sure it will be one of the keys of the week! Find it if you can!
My rating – 5/5 – Amazing!
I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer #1 (of 5) is now available.
Also check out the interview our own Senior Editor, Dan Berry, did with Doug Wagner at ECCC 2025 where they talk all things I Was A Fashion School Serial Killer
Are you going to pick up the comic? Have you already, if so what do you think of it? Feel free to leave a comment below or chat with us on Threads at @theconventioncollective, or Bluesky at @theconcollective.bsky.social
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