ADC Comic of the Day(s): HEART OF A CORPSE

by Orion Tippens

(Mike here – this is one of my favorite things about comics: finding a cool gem that I’ve never heard of before. Orion’s review here has convinced me to check this out – you’re going to want to, too! But there’s one thing I’m wondering: is creator Justin Sane the same guy from the band Anti-Flag, or is there more than one walking the earth?! – UPDATE: See comment from Mr. Sane below for the answer!)

Heart of a Corpse #1, #2

Writer, Artist: Justin Sane

Slave Labor Graphics 2011, complete story in two acts

#1 – 58 pages, #2 – 83 pages

Looking for something new, something wonderful in the sequential art format? Do you also desire creativity, an extended display of shapes and colors that tell the story more than words could? How about a romantic story with a spooktacular vibe?   Then do check out Heart of a Corpse.

What is this wonder? Heart of a Corpse is a simple story in a Victorian style setting about a hearse driver named “The Gentleman,” and his courting of the mortician’s daughter, Annabel. This leading to a proposal in marriage. But trouble happens, as another man, “the Brute,” wants Annabel to himself, and proceeds in nefarious acts against our romantic protagonist. Supernatural and abstract elements develop, adding to the entertaining twists that guide us to a thoughtful, beautiful ending.

The execution of the story is beautiful, classic. Like a silent movie, we as readers must rely on basic visuals, with a few necessary placards for the entire story. The characters, props, and necessary elements to the setting are mostly in shadow, with vibrant, colorful light expressing the time and mood in the background. As a result, we have actions expressed with a variety of emotions guiding the story; love, revenge, sadness, betrayal, madness.

Full of irony, tragedy, twists, and dashes of dark humor, a magnificent experience awaits those who love that perfect balance between art and story in the familiar sequential form. Best of all, the storyteller achieves that beautifully with few words and much creativity.

So that being said, pick up Heart of a Corpse. The story is divided into two issues: the entire first issue can be downloaded for free from Comixology, and the second is only 99 cents on multiple platforms (including Comixology).

– Orion Tippens, contributing writer and eclectic lover of visual-aided storytelling.

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