
The fascination with serial killers is at an all-time high, reflecting something deeper about our collective mindset. In the world of comics, this morbid curiosity blends seamlessly with fantasy, offering fans a unique way to explore these dark themes. Those Not Afraid, a murderous team-up comic from Kyle Starks, Patrick Piazzalunga, and Marco Brakko, exemplifies this blend with a thrilling and darkly humorous story.
The plot centers on two killers—The Ladykiller and The Home Intruder—who embark on an unlikely competition to claim the all-time kill record in their state. Their exploits are documented by Cece Galloway, a young true crime podcaster who’s clearly caught the attention of one of these ruthless fiends. The result is a love letter to fans of the serial killer genre, with unforgettable characters, a high body count, and an offbeat, darkly comedic tone.
The first issue wastes no time introducing the two antagonists and their distinct killing styles. Cece, who’s coined nicknames for the killers, brings her own charisma to the mix, and her narration adds a clever, meta layer to the story. As a short-series comic, Those Not Afraid delivers an explosive start, with gripping kills and intriguing character dynamics that leave readers eager for more. With the next issue dropping in February, now is the perfect time to grab a copy of the debut issue.
Patrick Piazzalunga’s artwork is a standout, amplifying Kyle Starks’ gritty and sinister narrative. The visuals perfectly complement the dark humor and tension, creating an atmosphere that’s as chilling as it is entertaining. Each character is fleshed out with unique quirks, making their interactions and inevitable clashes even more compelling.
I’m already counting down to issue #2, and you can bet I’ll have a review for it next month. If you want to learn more about Those Not Afraid, check out its page on Dark Horse’s website.
Rating: 4.5/5
Writer:
Kyle Starks
Artist:
Patrick Piazzalunga
Colorist:
Marco Brakko
Letterer:
Jim Campbell
Cover Artist:
Glenn Fabry
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