Writer: William Harms
Artists: Nick Postic & Nick Marinkovich
Publisher: Image Comics
Now that is a damn good second issue! I really liked Impaler #1, but it had some minor flaws that dragged it down a bit. Issue #2 is lacking those flaws, and it’s much better for it. Impaler is a vampire tale set in modern times with a nasty vampiric creature arriving in New York City to feed and cause some bloody havoc along the way. More story unfolds here, as 368 people disappear overnight, all of whom are certainly victims of the vampire. It would also seem that others are taking on the traits of the elusive, hungry creature of shadows. Victor, our steadfast detective, is brought in on the case, and the word “vampire” starts being used. However, much to his dismay, he is left off of the team assembled for the case because he is so close to retirement. The end is much like issue #1’s in that you know that some more people are gonna bite it. Yeah, I know what I just said, thanks.
Harms proves that he’s no mere rookie when it comes to pacing and dialogue in this book. The story flows nicely (yeah, I thought of a blood pun already, don’t worry… I’ll leave it out, though) and character interaction is smooth as usual. The layout is one thing that grabbed my eye this time around, as it’s told in kind of a “widescreen” format and has some creative panelling; two things that can be very effective when it comes to mood. Speaking of mood, the art is downright dark and glum which is perfect for Impaler. It has a style that relies on darkness and shadow to make up most of the illustrations, and it’s quite good. This comic evokes a strong sensation of foreboding and dread… That’s very cool, as far as I’m concerned.
The back of the issue treats us with more of William Harms’ charming comments (this seems to be a regular thing with each instalment; keep it up, I say) as well as some early script pages and preview artwork from the upcoming issue #3. These are always neat things to see and make the acquisition of this book all the easier to feel good about.
Overall, an excellent issue and addition to the horror comics genre. I’ll be reading more, that’s for sure. Let’s just hope Harms and the rest of this talented bunch can keep up the momentum they’re creating for themselves. I have faith that they can.
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