- Writer: Rick Remender
- Artists: Andrew Robinson
- Colorist: Moreno Dinisio
- Letterer: Rus Wooton
- Designer: Erika Schnatz
- Editor: Will Dennis
- Assistant Editor: Tyler Jennes
Thanks to Image Comics for the review copy!
The premise of THE SCUMBAG is the the world’s fate rests with the worst person on it. Specifically, a drunk drug abuser named Ernie stumbled upon a super serum that was intended for a good guy and is now needed to stop a bomb. In the first issue, Ernie lived up to his billing. He was crass, he stole from the Salvation Army donation bucket, and he did so many drugs he shat himself … in public. He was gross and amoral, which made the story quite interesting.
In this issue, his ‘worst person’ exploits are ticked off in dialogue (and they are pretty bad), but he seems to have a few redeeming qualities, including an actual apology (which seemed out of character). He’s still a complete goober, but I’m not sure he qualifies as the worst person on Earth anymore. That’s ok, because he’s still pretty darn funny.
In addition to following Ernie, this issue takes us to the bad guys, where we learn a little bit about their plans, motivations, and how they operate. It seems as if THE SCUMBAG is moving beyond a simple morality tale and incorporating some heavy sci-fi elements. It still remains at its core, a funny book, but it definitely brings some new ideas to the table as well.
The art does a nice job of contrasting the sleek technology with Ernie’s rugged grossness. I also liked the varied angles and vivid depiction of movement. The action sequences are well thought out and easy to follow.
THE SCUMBAG remains worthy of parental discretion, with drug use, cursing, and bloody violence. For those old enough to enjoy it, it is a fun ride.
THE SCUMBAG #2 is now available
Check back in a few weeks for my thoughts on the third issue (set for release on November 25th) of this series
Did you pick up the second issue of this series? Feel free to chat with me on Twitter or leave a comment below!
