KILL YOUR DARLINGS #1, from Image Comics and debut writers Ethan S.Parker and Griffin Sheridan, introduces us to Rose, a young girl with a vivid imagination. One night she learns that the evil within her imaginary kingdom is all too real.
Written by: Ethan S. Parker and Griffin Sheridan
Art by: Bob Quinn, John J. Hill
Overview OF KILL YOUR DARLINGS:
Rose, a sweet child lost in fantasy. In her imaginary world, she is the Queen of her Kingdom and her loyal subjects are her stuffed animals. The story begins with Queen Rose leading her army into battle to unite her kingdom. Rose crafts an intriguing story within this world of vibrant colors and fluffy animals. Her real world is not a vibrant one, the shift in tone is done remarkably well. She is the daughter of a single mother struggling to make ends meet.
One day she gets a report that there is trouble stirring in the north, something that Rose did not create within her fantasy realm. Before Rose can investigate she is whisked back to reality to go to school. When Rose returns from school to investigate the reports of an invader, she finds a massacre.
The shift happens quickly and abruptly from a fantasy to something much darker and more evil.
Review:
Within the scope of creepy and terrifying, there is a multitude of factors that can be used to scare your socks off. However, there is one element that stands unrivaled in creating a truly dark atmosphere – use a kid. Instinctively we the audience react differently, a strange urge comes over us to protect.
The story is impressive, to say the least. It’s complex, atmospheric, and engaging. I thought the first couple of panels were a strange way to start this book. But as I got lost in its narrative it made more sense. The book opens with fire and the last couple of panels close with a fire, showcasing the devastation it can cause not only to the world surrounding the blaze but the impact it can have on individuals.
The Art:
Simply put it is excellent, it drives the narrative. Quinn and Hill did an exceptional job of creating a vibrant and beautiful fantasy realm where Rose can escape the dread and melancholy of the real world. The thing is the difference between these two realities one shiny and bright the other dark and gray binds your attention and holds your focus for the duration of this 32-page dive down the rabbit hole.
Final Thought:
The alternate cover drew my attention to Kill Your Darlings, a wonderfully constructed bloody mess. The original cover made it clear this is not the safe and comfortable yellow brick road. This is everything I want from a comic, dark and tragic. The story is impressive and complex leaving you wanting more. If the creative team can continue at this pace it should rival some of the horror standouts of the year. A brilliant comic leaving you wanting more.