Huck #1

by Mark Millar and Raphael Albuquerque

Huck #1 is the brand new series from Mark Millar and Rafael Albuquerque. Everything about the first issue is an introduction to the titular character, and it is a wonderful start. The book feels exciting and kinetic, while conveying a sensibility that this is a small town with a close community. Millar’s restraint and Albuquerque’s composition lend to a magnificent first chapter.

From the opening moments, the book is in motion. Massive panels, and nearly without dialogue, the opening sequence flies by in moments, and yet each panel is so expertly crafted so as to create an exhilarating experience for the reader. Albuquerque’s construction of these several pages is worth revisiting a number of times. Choices for how the perspective should shift, gradually shifting the colors from blues into yellows, and when to pull the camera in tight are all deliberate and easily overlooked. Albuquerque’s craft allows these all to combine for one seamless series of events, bringing the script to life. But on a second read, it becomes clear just how the creators are able to captivate a new audience so immediately.

The majority of the opening to Huck is a building out of the character. Through stories from neighbors and somewhat of a fly-on-the-wall perspective, readers get a sense of this strange individual and how he affects the lives of the people around him. Huck is an inspiring individual with a very interesting, yet simple back-story. Millar has created an enigma who seems so unbelievably chivalrous, setting out to do an act of kindness every single day. Even the readers of Huck may feel a twinge of admiration for this character. Millar, in only a dozen pages, has already convinced the reader of how truly good this man is through the stories of neighbors and the purity of his motivation. Even the townsfolk’s reaction to Huck is endearing, choosing to protect him to the rest of the world. Albuquerque’s character designs and coloring for these sequences help further convey this sense of warmth and appreciation.

The character of Huck feels like a myth, someone whose legend grows in small towns like this one. But getting to witness these events, readers will see how this tall tale is every bit real. Seeded early in the issue, the creators deliver on their bit of foreshadowing and leave the audience with a tease about what lies ahead for Huck and the series. While it remains to be seen just how they intend to proceed, the craft at hand here is enough to convince readers to return for a second issue.

Huck is rather straightforward in its construction. Even still, there is something remarkable and refreshing about this first issue. Mark Millar and Rafael Albuquerque have brought readers something charming and their talents make this an adventure that will be very worth reading.

Huck #1 is on sale Nov. 18th!