Too Many Mustaches

This is the most complex comic we’ve read, which I valued. I was getting tired of flat, one-dimensional characters and plot lines that were popular in comics from the golden age. However, I think I wished for too much. My excitement quickly turned to confusion as I struggled to tell any of the characters apart from one another. Almost every male had a mustache. The plot thickened, more characters were introduced, and at a point I found my self merely looking at the images. This experience highlighted what I expect comics to be like — simple and legible. Although comics can be unpretentious and one dimensional, purely for younger readers, there are obviously comics that “break” the “mold.” I berated myself for even making this blanket assertion in the first place and building up the common misconceptions of comics. Nonetheless, I had my problems with this piece. Namely, there was too much dialogue. I focused more on the artwork and the colors, which were striking. I also admired the way certain frames worked together. On page 5, for example, the pterodactyl mirrors the arms of his controller – an adroit form of foreshadowing. This transition shows up again through the comics. I also enjoyed the symmetry and circular association of the panels on page 10 and 11. The way Tardi designs this creates some comic relief. The comedy again shines through on page 31. Clearly, there is comic is elegantly constructed and has more creative freedom than in pieces we’ve read. Although this creates some problems, it certainly pays off in other areas. If only the plot could be a little more clear.