Written by: John Layman
Art and Colours By: Rob Guillory
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After having recently read Chew #21, I became compelled to revisit it’s first issue for no sake other than to review the beginning of Tony’s crazy journey and the characters of the past whom have since been left behind – by means of death, mostly.
In reading this issue I not only came out reminded of it’s phenomenal beginnings, but also of the amount of detail and foretelling it holds. This story is perfectly executed and each issue deeply intertwines into the compelling and complex life of Tony Chu and this crazed version of Earth he inhabits where mankind’s greatest enemy is chicken.
Tony Chu isn’t your typical cop. Unlike most who have to examine and test evidence to solve the crime in question, he can simply eat a piece of evidence and it’s history flows through his mind revealing any of the objects hidden truths. In layman’s terms (no pun intended) he is a cibopath.
His partner, John Colby, comes very close to being Tony’s alter ego. He is quick to act and slow to think – he craves action. To be frank, John pisses Tony off. Not so much, however, that he would ever wish upon him the brutal “death” he encounters by cause of Tony’s cibopathic lead.
Through all the carnage and death, Tony is successful in his mission and solved their murder case. Ultimately sealing himself a position as an agent of the FDA – the folk who charge and arrest participants in illegal chicken sales. This is where Tony’s life truly begins
As I’ve previously said Chew is a terrific series. It is by far one of the most far out and wacky comics I have ever read, but Layman manages to also keep it relatable and down to earth. In combination forming a 32-page masterpiece monthly – with help from his very talented associate, Rob Guillory, of course.
Re-experiencing Guillory’s art in Chew #1 was anything but disappointing. Although it is very clear that he has grown tremendously as an artist from then up until now, it suited the more tame and simple beginnings of this series perfectly. I enjoyed every panel and was taken back by the two-age spread of Tony’s mind during his cibopathic experience. The art plays perfectly with the plot and is very vivid and detailed. It is really some wonderful work.
Every comic has it’s flaws and I hate to sing one series far to much praise, but I cannot give this series enough credit. This is what indie comics are about – great writing, original and eye catching art, tied together with the added touch of great editing, attention to detail and production…
…what can I say? Good comics are good.
Related articles
- Chew #21: Major League Chew (Part 1 of 5) (comicsforge.com)
- Nanny & Hank #1 (comicsforge.com)
- Spartacus: Blood and Sand #1 (comicsforge.com)
- Near Death #1 (comicsforge.com)
