So I’ve given this book a 5-star rating which for me is not a big deal, (i gave the same to Kick Ass this week for example). I’m writing this short review because the arbitrary star rating i gave I doesn’t do it justice. This is possibly a series that is changing what American (Marvel) comics are, and hopefully what they will be in the future.

Although all of the Criminal books have been good, this one stands out due to the story telling techniques used by the artist, Sean Phillips. Here are a few of the things I thought noteworthy:

–Each two page spread can be looked at as a self contained scene–This has to be something that comes from all the work Phillips and Brubaker have done together over the years

–The use of subjective shots and facial expression to convey and progress the narrative through out

–Phillips use of lighting is f’n genius!

Finally, Brubaker’s use of Characters to create narrative conflict is top notch and is as good as any movie or TV show out now. Top marks… no doubt.

Denver Dave