Written
by the Wachowski Brothers (or is it siblings?), Doc Frankenstein
details the life and adventures of the universally known
Mary Shelly monster set in today's timeframe. An agent for
the government, Frankenstein is given duties that might
fall in the laps of policemen, the Navy Seals, or the Men
in Black.
The
first issue starts off with the good Doctor taking down
a monster that could have graced any kaiju movie and saving
the day. Not exactly something you'd think a quilt of a
man would be capable of.
However,
once you start reading Frankenstein's self-narrated introduction
the realization that this character isn't going to be terrified
by something as banal as a pitchfork and torch-bearing mob
comes rather quickly.
The
Wachowskis do a great job of fleshing out his background
with a collage of events over the past two centuries all
the while conveying a sense of loneliness in the Doctor
and a bit of pity for the human race. After the first seven
pages of the first book it's easy to identify Frankenstein
as a hero.
Artistically,
Steve Skroce excels. Known for his work at Marvel on Cable
and The Amazing Spider-Man, Skroce was also a storyboard
artist for the Matrix movies. Sprawling two-page
detailed action scenes are the norm here, but even more impressive
is the way emotions are communicated to the reader. In the
panels where Frankenstein comes to grips with his fears and
learns to overcome them, his set jaw and steeled eyes scream
out determination with just a bit of insecurity hiding underneath.
While
the social commentary and not so subtle digs at the current
government and organized religion stick out like sore thumbs,
the fantastic art and depth of plot and characterization
make Doc Frankenstein an excellent read.
To back
up that statement, Doc Frankenstein was nominated
for the 2005 Eisner Award for
best new series. So go out and grab the first four issues
if you can find them. You'll thank me later.
