Writer: David Hazan
Penciler/Inker: Cecilia Lo Valvo
Colorist: Marissa Louise
Letterer: Lucas Gattoni
Thanks to Mad Cave Studios for the review copy!
Monomyth is one of those stories that throws a bunch of strangers together for mysterious reasons. In this case, those reasons have something to do with magic, which seems to be almost gone. The first issue has a lot to do, from introducing the concept to introducing its seven main characters. It does an admirable job of setting things up, though it has to cover so much ground, characterization and backstory are largely set aside for future issues.
Long term, the ‘strangers thrown together’ genre requires more detail, either in backstory or distinctive personalities. Thankfully, the premise and the mysteries in the first issue are enough to keep me interested in the story, even without being invested in the characters yet. In the meantime, the dialogue does a nice job of differentiating at least two of the characters.
Monomyth is a dark title. The story is set at night and often in the rain. The colors skew towards blacks, purples, and grays, which makes the occasional pop of red stand out. The darkness and shadowing in the coloring enhances the sense of mystery as there is always the sense that there is something lurking just out of view in the dark. A standout sequence involving staircases features an amazing splash page. There are a few scenes with blood that, while visually arresting, combine with cursing to warrant parental discretion.
Fans of stories where a group of strangers are thrown into a mystery (Lost, haunted house movies), odds are you will like this title. The first issue makes it clear that magic will have a central role in the series as well, so fans of that genre will want to give Monomyth a try.
Monomyth #1 is set for release on May 3, 2023.
Are you going pick up the comic? Feel free to leave a comment below or chat with us on Twitter at @TheConCollectve!
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