COMIC REVIEW: FTN reviews Death Sentence #1

Written by: Monty Nero

Art by: Mike Dowling

Published by: Titan

What would you do if you found out you had super powers? For most of us this would be the best day ever, and your whole life would change for the better. However, what if those powers came at a price… like you only had 6 months to live? Would you still want the powers? Would you be a good guy? Or release your inner villain cause your dying so who cares what happens?

This is the dilemma three young people are faced with in Death Sentence when they are diagnosed with the STD G+. That’s right, an STD that gives you super powers AND kills you in 6 months. Now I’m here to write a comic review, not explain to you how STD’s are transferred… so if you have to ask please use other resources on the internet to get that information.

Now back to the topic at hand… This story follows Verity, a graphic designer, who may be the strongest of those diagnosed with G+; Weasel, a once mega popular turned failing indie musician; and Monty, a media personality who seems to be able to get any woman he wants. The first issue shows them dealing with being diagnosed and how it is affecting them and those around them. So far it seems these three people aren’t related to each other at all; it will be interesting to see of they end up coming together during this series.

Death Sentence could easily be a huge hit and could be made into a movie that I would go and see at least twice while it was in theaters. It’s a fantastic story, a completely unique concept, and the personalities of the characters are addicting. (I will totally be the president of the Verity fan club!!) There are moments of anger, sadness and identity questioning that are mixed with witty dialogue (which may or may not involve the use of the word urethra), discovery of super powers and slimy bosses who just want to make as much money as possible off of their dying employees.

The writer of this fantastic new story is none other than Monty Nero. Haven’t heard of him you say? Well he’s new so you get a pass this time, but after this review there is no excuse. I’ve always loved the name Nero and have associated it with great, talented, and artistic people (and a steakhouse in Vegas) and Monty Nero definitely lives up to the name. He is able to take a subject that most would see as taboo and make it relevant to the world of super heroes and add a little humor along the way. Each character is very different and he does a great job at giving them their own identity.

The artwork is also fantastic in this book! I would have never guessed Mike Dowling was new to the comic world cause he nails every single panel. His use of subtle details, like a WWF shirt, immediately catch my eye and make me love the comic even more. Every time I flip though the pages I notice something new, which I can’t say about a lot of comics today.

With 3 very different main characters; an amazing writer in Monty Nero and the artistic talent of Mike Dowling, there is something for everyone to love. So go out, buy this comic and spread the love around… But remember to use protection. (Bags and boards people, this is a comic book review!!)

4.5 out of 5 nerds