By Grant Morrison, Chris Burnham & Nathan Fairbairn

Most of Grant Morrison’s works are a daunting task to read, let alone critically analyze the material. He appears to have a predilection towards overly convoluting narratives. Nameless opens with a very surreal page structure and uncommon colors, which immediately captures one’s eye. Morrison’s dialog is so opaque and confusing though, that it leaves reader’s wondering what in the world is happening. Luckily, he explains why this is executed in such an odd fashion.

The first half of the book does a great job of presenting Chris Burnham’s creative artwork and Nathan Fairbairn’s suitable color palette for the story. Even if the audience is left perplexed by the direction of Grant’s tale, they will come to appreciate the visual storytelling. Fairbairn’s bold, atmospheric coloring aides in showing the sheer absurdity of this science-fiction story. Mixed with Burnham’s exaggerated facial expressions the colors will make readers feel like they’re in a Kubrick film.

By the end of the comic, the real conflict comes into play: an Armageddon-esque plot. I really appreciate Morrison’s ingenuity, but so far, Nameless isn’t really up to par. This is only the first issue, so it definitely deserves time to develop. Using a nameless character unquestionably calls to mind the western archetype. If this book makes use of western conventions, they may help bring some more depth to the material.

This title will definitely be an acquired taste; Morrison fans will feel right at home. My recommendation is waiting until a few issues are out and binge on them. Hopefully, that will help readers become more enthralled with the storyline.

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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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