Review: Wicked Things #1

Publisher: Boom! Box
Writer: John Allison
Artist: Max Sarin
Colorist: Whitney Cogar
Letterer: Jim Campbell
Released: March 18^th, 2020
Rating:

Wicked Things is the latest new series from a creative team many of you will recognize! John Allison and Max Sarin, the creators behind Giant Days, are once again working together to bring us a charming and fascinating new series. They’ll be working alongside artists such as Whitney Cogar and Jim Campbell too, so that is even more exciting.

Charlotte Grote is nineteen years old, and she’s running out of time to get attention for being a teenage sleuth. After all, only one more year and she will officially no longer be a teen. Unfortunately, that quickly becomes the least of her problems.

You see, Charlotte Grote is about to be framed for a murder. Yes, the irony is strong in that situation. But it does force her hand nonetheless. And that is where our series begins.

The Plot

Being a huge fan Giant Days it’s safe to say that I had extremely high hopes for this series. Thus far, my hopes have not been let down. I absolutely adore the introduction to this latest series. John Allison, alongside the rest of the creative team (see below), has created a charming and enchanting tale once again.

Wicked Things #1 is highly charming, full of quirks and drama. Everything from the way Charlotte is presented to the intrigue and tension that follows is perfection. And yes, that does include the dramatic twist at the end of this issue.

There is something so endearing about Charlotte, especially the casual version of her presented early on in the issue. Where she’s relaxing around her house and arguing about what can and cannot be thrown out. You’ve got to admit, that is a scene most of us can identify with.

Even if we’re not master sleuths in training, that is. From there, Charlotte’s adventure quickly grows in scale, culminating in the events that have been advertised early on (hint: her being framed). I’m extremely curious to see the follow-up, even though I have a general idea of what sort of circumstances she’s going to end up in. But that just proves my emotional investment, right? Either way, I can’t wait for next month!

The Art

If you’re a fan of the artwork provided in Giant Days, then you’re going to love Wicked Things #1. The characters are adorable and charismatic in their designs, while still reading as unrelentingly human in their expression and emotion.

Max Sarin was the lead artist for this issue, obviously. That’s where most of the style and charm is coming from (and I love it). In particular, I’m finding myself loving the aesthetic of the series. Think of a classic detective series, and then throw a comic spin on it. That’s what you’re getting here, and it’s amazing.

Whitney Cogar was in charge of coloring, and they did an excellent job. Most of the colors are bold and dominant, but honestly, it works really well in this series. Charlotte’s personality would demand nothing less, after all.

Jim Campbell provided the lettering, and unsurprisingly he did an amazing job here. His attention to detail allowed for many subtle moments. Not to mention the avoidance of clutter, even on the pages that required a lot of detail to be provided.

In Conclusion

Wicked Things #1 was exactly what I hoped it would be. It’s a highly entertaining diversion, providing a blend of out of this world plot with down to earth characters and elements. This series is going to be perfect for Giant Days fans, especially those still mourning the loss of the series (myself included).