Archibald Saves Christmas
I had planned on having this out by the holidays, however fate laughed at me. That said, I think this book is good at any time of the year as it is the kind of book that puts me in a jolly mood.
[Editors note: this story originally ran on Feb 7, 2008]
I like anthropomorphic tales. There’s a certain charm to them that just grabs you if there’s any trace of kid inside you. So, with a glass of eggnog and cardboard cheer I give you …
The Book
Archibald Saves Christmas
Created and Written By: Dwight L. McPherson
Based on characters and art by: Grant Bond
Letters: Thomas Maur
Publisher: Image Comics
Overview
Archibald Saves Christmas begins with meeting Rascal Rooster, a cheapskate Hollywood actor who heads to a bar after a long day on the set. After hearing a rather gruesome tale from Archibald himself, Rascal hears the story about how Archibald found his brother and went a little crazy after that. From there the story really begins.
The story is really about Archibald returning to Tinsel Town after five years of going bonkers. There he seeks to catch his brother’s killer. The problem is that the only way he may succeed may involve his blood splattering everywhere.
Dwight McPherson conjures up a fun, fresh and haunting tale. You find yourself liking characters like Rascal Rooster in spite of themselves and you really end up rooting for Archibald, even if he is a little nuts. All in all Archibald is a very entertaining story.
Grant Bond draws some fun characters one could see in a Disney movie or in a Henson production, yet can temper the fun with some really gruesome images. It’s a combination Grant pulls off very well.
But a lot of credit should also go to Thomas Maur. His lettering really creates the mood in many of the scenes, whether it’s a sign for the local tavern or witnessing Andre’s murder. Thomas plays a big role in this story and does it well.
The “It” Factor
I really love the two color art here. It makes the colors matter when they do appear and it also adds a layer of depth and horror to the story that wouldn’t exist if it was in either standard black and white or color. Not only that but other than Usagi Yojimbo, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen a good animorph story. That alone makes this a worthwhile purchase.
Reads Like …
Fans of Captain Carrot, Usagi Yojimbo, Badger or any kind of Christmas story than this book is for you. Archibald Saves Christmas is just what the Grinch ordered. It’s available now at comic shops, Amazon.com and bookstores. Pick your copy up today!
That will do it for another week. Until next time, keep expanding your horizons.