Reviewer: Chris Delloiacono
Story Title: Duel – Storybook Love: Part 3
Written by: Bill Willingham
Penciled by: Mark Buckingham
Inked by: Steve Leialoha
Colored by: Daniel Vozzo
Lettered by: Todd Klein
Editor: Shelly Bond
Publisher: DC Comics
I didn’t start reading FABLES with the first issue; in fact I didn’t start reading it until recently. The first trade paperback (Legends in Exile) was a really cool murder mystery with great characters, which got me hooked. I had waited so long to read the first trade though that the second (Animal Farm) was already out. So all at once I picked that up and the five issues after. You now have the pleasure of reading a review of my first monthly helping of FABLES! I’m sure you are now overcome by excitement. I’ll give you a moment to collect yourself.
Now that you have gathered yourself, let me begin. Writer Bill Willingham has given us great insight into the Fable world over the course of the first sixteen issues, mining so many fantastic stories for the varied cast. This is a book that can go on for a very long time, with not just the characters already involved, but also so many others that could add to the proceedings. The Animal Farm trade did a fine job opening up the wonderful world Mr. Willingham has so graciously allowed us into. Now that the world has been firmly established, the recent issues have allowed for even more interesting developments.
Storybook Love is the third major FABLES storyline that Willingham is telling. Bigby Wolf (you may know him as the Big Bad Wolf) and Snow White are trapped in the Cascade Mountains and pursued by the dastardly Red Riding Hood. Willingham allows enough breaks in the chase for Bigby and Snow’s burgeoning romance to move forward. This storybook world which exists in our own, and the vibrant characters and their multi-faceted relationships has been the true success for FABLES.
While one duel occurs in the mountains a genuine duel occurs in New York’s Fabletown. Prince Charming and Bluebeard engage in a classic confrontation with drawn swords. This battle between two of the least likable Fables doesn’t fail to please, there’s some great dialogue and a stunning conclusion. It’s actually quite nice to see Charming playing things somewhat more heroically, and his reasons for doing so make sense. Both stories build to a big climax that will surely be enjoyed immensely next month.
Mark Buckingham was the perfect choice for the regular penciling duties on FABLES. As always, he brings to life the whimsical side, as well as the modernism and grit of the current setting with equal flair. The dualism of the book is Buckingham’s real strength. He renders both with great attention to detail, particularly Bigby in his wolfen form, as well as his more humanoid appearance.
I’ve heard some complaints that the title can be a little drawn out at times. I of course haven’t experienced that sensation. I couldn’t wait for the trades any longer, but in six months I just may complain myself about the monthlies. We shall see. At any rate, this is a wonderful comic whether you read the trades or the monthly. Bill Willingham has put so much thought into this fascinating world, couple that with the beautiful artwork, and you have one of the best Vertigo series ever! I’d find it hard for almost anyone not to be totally enamored by it.
