- Writer: Emilia Clarke, Isobel Richardson, and Marguerite Bennett
- Artist: Leila Leiz
- Colorist: Triona Farrell
- Letterer: Haley Rose-Lyon
Thanks to Image Comics for the review copy!
M.O.M.’s first issue is dedicated to introducing its hero and her origin story. Maya Kuyper is a 29 year old single mom who also happens to have an interesting superpower.
The issue employs a novel storytelling technique that reminded me of Deadpool’s tendency to break the fourth wall. Throughout the issue, Maya basically speaks to the reader, narrating and providing commentary on what is happening. This ends up being a smart decision, as it allows us to really get to know Maya as a character.
Speaking of commentary, M.O.M. is full of boorish men behaving pretty badly. The writing strikes a perfect balance between humor and biting critique of the male dominated corporate world. It really makes you think (and hope people don’t really act that way, but I’m guessing far too many do). M.O.M. also introduces its supporting characters and a glimpse of the ‘big bad’ that will probably be fleshed out in future issues.
The first issue seems to only scratch the surface of the superhero side of the story. There’s clearly a lot more ways to show what Maya can do. It kind of reminded me of when all of the Fantastic Four’s powers got smushed together in Rise of the Silver Surfer (never thought I’d reference that movie in anything…) What we do see is executed quite well given how hard some of the powers are to show on a page, from the depiction of speed to how the art shows invisibility. The issue also makes good use of varied panel sizes and shapes, which help enhance the storytelling and the action.
M.O.M. takes its time laying a solid foundation, establishing a likeable and layered character and filling in her origin story. There is a bit of cursing, so parental discretion is advised.
M.O.M.: MOTHER OF MADNESS is set for release on July 21st, 2021 both in your local comic book shop and digitally via various services including Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, comiXology, and Google Play.
Check back in a few weeks for my thoughts on the 2nd part of this 3rd part mini-series.
Do you plan to read the title? Let me know in the comments.
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