Reviewer: Chris Delloiacono
Story Titles: “Candyman!†& “Those Who Would Destroy Usâ€
Written by: Erik Larsen
Penciled by: Erik Larsen
Inked by: Erik Larsen
Colored by: Chris Eliopoulos
Lettered by: Reuben Rude
Editor: N/A
Publisher: Image Comics
Erik Larsen’s Savage Dragon is the only book that an “Image Founder†still creates on a monthly basis. In fact he has handled both the writing and art chores on the book for each issue of its 105 issue run. Unfortunately for Erik it seems most people don’t pick up Savage Dragon anymore. The buzz that surrounded Image has long since died, and only long time fans seem to follow Dragon’s exploits. As unfortunate as that may seem for Erik’s pocket book, it’s even more unfortunate for fans of retro comics.
Dragon’s life has unfolded in real time, since the title began. He has seen many permutations over the years, although recently Larsen has made a concerted effort for Savage Dragon to be more reader friendly. Many of the past 30 issues saw an intricate multiple world storyline unfold, and the enormous cast of characters was confusing even to the previously mentioned diehards! Imagine what it would have done to a newcomer giving the book a first time look.
The latest issue is broken into two reader friendly stories. The first a slam bang action story, features a new colorful villain, “Candy-Manâ€. While the second involves The Dragon meeting two gentlemen interested in translating his life into the four color world of comics. Larsen even takes time to poke fun at his alternate world stories of the last couple of years. Each story features Dragon’s new wife, and fellow super hero, Jennifer as well as her daughter Angel. The stories serve to strengthen Dragon’s relationship with the most important people in his life, and create a good jumping on point for new readers.
Erik Larsen’s art of late has become more and more reminiscent of the immortal Jack Kirby. The page breakdowns and style all harkens back to the 60’s. Although rough, the art sucks the reader into the Dragon’s unique world.
Erik Larsen enjoys the freedom of Image comics, and writes the comic book he wants to each month. Savage Dragon has interesting modern storytelling sensibilities, but still revels in its retro-classic feel. The airs of whimsical lighthearted humor are very refreshing in this often-gritty realistic era of comic’s stories.
