By Geof Darrow

Issue two picks up right where the first issue left off. The Shaolin Cowboy continues his fight against the massive horde of the undead and, quite literally,  that’s it.

Granted there wasn’t a lot of exposition in the previous issue, but it contained such a curious premise that was able to capture one’s imagination and attention. As soon you delve into this book, the Cowboy is slicing and dicing zombies with his chainsaw bo staff. Geof Darrow depicts some stylish dismemberments and deaths, but that can only keep a reader’s attention for so long. This goes on for 33 pages; yes, you read right! The plot does not progress whatsoever, unless you consider the growing body count. The only text in the entire issue is the sound effect of the chainsaw at the top of each page. It’s totally fine for a comic not to have dialog (see Batman & Robin #18-Brilliant!) , considering it is a visual medium, but what is shown over 33 pages could have been accomplished in 3-5 pages… It’s simply gratuitous. It says something when you go through the issue several times to make sure something wasn’t missed and come to the sad realization there wasn’t.

This is probably the most disappointing comic I have ever read. How or why Dark Horse’s editors and publisher allowed this to be printed is beyond me. Unless you are a die-hard fan of this series or like zombie gore, don’t waste your time or money on this pitiful issue. Let’s hope Geof plans to put things back on track in #3, he has a lot to make up for.

shaolincowboy2-cover

About The Author Erik Gonzalez

I was exposed to comics early on, one of my earliest vivid memories was picking up the entire run of Dark Horse’s Aliens vs. Predator(1990). Odd and perhaps morbid choice for a kid, I know...At the same time, I was immersed in the pop culture of the time which included, but not limited to: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, and of course, Batman: The Animated Series. Upon reflection, it’s fairly evident why I’m such a zealous geek. My day job is in television operations, so basically I’m exposed to media at every turn, which is where I want to be! Writing comic book reviews is another outlet to convey my respect and fanaticism for the this graphic medium. I hope what I have to say will resonate with others and also spark heart-felt discussion. Simon Pegg said it best, “Being a geek is extremely liberating.”

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