At first glance it is easy to pass judgement on this book without ever opening the cover. First off, the book is about Wolverine. The majority of passionate comic lovers are sick of seeing this Canadian mutant splashed across the covers of every major comic. Secondly, the book is about Wolverine taking on the Marvel Universe, which is an idea that has almost become cliche in comics. Many a comic fan will see this as just another opportunity to get carried away with what Wolverine is capable of. In fact though, the book is more than that so far.
This being the first of a four issue mini series depicts the origin of a super plague that is turning people into primal cannibalistic killers. Sure it has a zombie ring to it, but I don't think author Jonathan Maberry intended it that way. Rather, this is a plague that reverts humans back to their base instincts.
Playing something closer to the role of a detective than a superhero, Wolverine starts out on a journey to try and figure out who cannibalized Psylocke. The whole time communicating with the Fantastic Four, who have detained Spider-Man, the first super powered victim of this plague.
It is not long before Logan tracks the plague back to Utopia, where he is forced to do something that is sure to haunt him the rest of his life.
Writer Jonathan Maberry the NY Times bestselling and multiple Bram Stoker Award-winning author, allows us to follow Logan during his slow revelation of what it is he must do in this grotesque new world he lives in. The pacing of the script oozes of professional writing, which is refreshing considering many mini series can come off as rushed and insincere.
British artist Laurence Campbell; who is a best known for his work in 2000 AD, creates a gritty and dark landscape that is difficult to make out at times. I made the mistake of reading this book early in the morning with very little light around me. It made interpreting the panels a bit tricky. I recognize that some comic enthusiasts enjoy this grainy style of imagery. Personally, I like a little cleaner line.
I was hesitant to pick this book up, but am glad that I did. It reads like a good mystery story that just happens to have one of the world's most overexposed superheroes as it's lead role. Worth a read.