Reviewer: Mathan Erhardt
Story Title: Down in a Hole
Written by: Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray
Penciled and inked by: Phil Winslade
Lettered by: Phil Balsman
Colored by: Chris Chuckry
Editor: Joey Cavalieri
Publisher: DC Comics
In the first issue of the series we met Alice, a junkie trying to clean up her habit and cut ties with the streets. Unfortunately a very vicious former associate isn’t too happy about that. Salvation came in the form of Alice’s grandmother’s estate. But that came at a cost.
This issue begins in the past where Alice’s grandmother tells about her role in the creation of the Monolith. Another accomplice in the creation, a rabbi sends the Monolith on a mission of justice. That mission is carried out brutally. While Alice’s grandmother treated the Monolith as an actual being, the rabbi saw it only as a vehicle for vengeance. As a result the Monolith and Alice’s grandmother shared a bond.
In the present the voice behind the wall in the basement of Alice’s grandmother’s house desires Alice’s presence. Alice keeps it company for a spell, but decides to retire to collect her thoughts. Much to her horror the track marks on her arm cry out to her, as she begins her withdrawal.
Alice’s friend Tilt, also on the run from Prince, goes to Alice’s new home. However she also puts Prince on their trail. When he arrives they flee to the basement. Trapped Alice makes a decision that will alter her life drastically.
Palmiotti and Gray have certainly set up a scenario. This book is dark and gloomy. From the past, during the Great Depression, to the present the mood is a dreary one. But that perfectly fits the story. The plot advances nicely. Alice finally coming to terms with her life and deciding which path to follow is a nice touch. Prince seems very scary. There is nothing cliché about this book.
The art is just great. It matches the feel of the story. It is dark and gloomy, but beautiful. It is full of nuances. Peep how Alice’s tracks are actually “calling†to her, as they have mouths. That is a great detail. A great, creepy detail. And look at that dramatic build up on page #14. Winslade has truly out done himself.
