Review – After Dark Premier

Try to think back to Free Comic Book Day for a moment if you can. Those of you that picked up the Radical Comics release featuring some upcoming titles may remember one called After Dark. You may also remember that I had mentioned way back in May that the preview for After Dark was my favorite of the bunch. I was not disappointed by this premier issue and I suspect that for a mere cover price of $1.00 you won’t be either.

I never know how comics created by big name Hollywood individuals will turn out, but I'm impressed with Wesley Snipes' and Antoine Fuqua’s (director of Training Day amongst other films) creation here. The writing is handled by Peter Milligan with illustration by Jeff Nentrup. Taking place in a total wasteland we are introduced to this post-apocalyptic world shrouded in darkness. Dark clouds and bodies appear to litter the land that is no longer safe for people to live in. There are some science fiction elements in large floating transports that patrol the land and the fantastic nature of the cityscape. The look and feel of this comic is really pretty dark and spectacular. If your interest has been piqued join me after the break for some more info.

We get a slightly more extended look at the After Dark universe from what was shown in the Radical Preview book on FCBD. It is really only seven pages of new content but it builds the story while still leaving plenty of desire to get the full first issue when it comes out in August. Apparently there is some mental condition that the darkness has triggered and most people depend on drugs to keep them sane and get them through the day. Some government officials have a plan to unite people and stop the rioting that is tearing one of the last beacons of light, Solar City, apart. They need a man whom a friend called Omar but they call Bedouin to help them. The mission they are going to undertake will cost some people their lives, but appears to be an attempt to restore some order in the world.

I have no doubt that the government officials have ulterior motives, and we know nothing of Omar and his background from this preview. That being said, every character is intriguing. The first issue will follow Radical’s usual offering of longer than typical books coming in at 56 pages. In total there will be three issues released bi-monthly. How the relationships between the government and Omar will play out is yet to be revealed, but this sneak peak has only served to continue to drive my interest in this title. If you like dark science fiction tales along the lines of involving seemingly broken worlds with intriguing characters this will no doubt be a satisfying title for you.