• Comics

by LargeMarge67 on 01.24.12

I was recently perusing one of my long boxes and came across a comic book I had forgotten all about. It was an issue of Dick Tracy from 1948 that had a charm and simplicity you rarely see in contemporary comics. I sometimes read current titles and find the artwork to be a bit overwrought, which always takes me out of the experience. If the intricate images fit the story being told I am all for it but many times it feels like an attempt is being made to hide plot weaknesses. I have even coined a term for this phenomenon, which is…Candy Apple Art. It’s shiny and perfect, at first glance, but once you dig your teeth in and crack that exquisite exterior you’ll be left with a bitter taste in your mouth and teeth full of worm entrails. The Bulletproof Coffin: Disinterred does not have this problem, as it takes a simple, retro approach in the “art” department and injects it with a fantastical story that combines science fiction and a noir-esque detective story…

This tale opens with Homicide Detective Johnny P. Sartre investigating a crime scene that he believes is linked to a series of murders involving headless corpses. With his trusty partner, Ginger Palmer, at his side, he begins to piece together the clues in an attempt to find the perpetrator. As the story unfolds, we learn that Johnny’s hyperactive imagination may be his downfall and circumstances may me much more complicated than even he can conceive of.

The Bulletproof Coffin: Disinterred is a great ride and one that any comic book aficionado will appreciate for its boldness and references to the past. Speaking of references, here is one panel that had me laughing hysterically.

Did you spot the reference? If not, no worries. If so...DAMN YOU'RE OLD!

Seek this one out, people, as I promise that you won’t be disappointed. Unless you’re disgusted by…never mind. I don’t want to ruin the surprise. Just read it!