Wednesday, April 7, 2021

American Dreams #3 Review by Anthony Andujar Jr

Publisher: Short Fuse Media Group


Writer: Daniel Kalban  

Artist: Dody Eka   

Inker: Tebe Andry 

Colorist: Warnia Sahadewa 

Letterer: Matt Bowers


 



      As Jake begins a new career working at his sister's job, as Harry Houdini’s new showman. But in the midst of nightly success, sinister foes lurk the streets of New York. Aleister Crowley is hired to assassinate a reporter that has exposed the exploitation of labor workers in the slums of the city. The kind of Slums that Jake previously worked in before gaining his abilities. But Crowley has more in mind for the meta humans of New York. What is Crowley planning? And what does he  have in store for Jake and those that oppose him?


   This issue was a surprisingly enjoyable issue. Kalban spends a bit more time on Jake’s new environment as Houdini’s fellow entertainer, and seeing how this has earned appreciation from his family. Despite having such powers, and entertaining the masses, it doesn’t earn him much favor from his father. Kalban continues to weave historical figures into the story, intersecting different characters into Jake’s journey, delivering an amusing reading experience. Jake gets to use his powers more, and dons the costume in addition to facing off against some foes that challenge him. Admittedly, much about Jake’s powers are still unknown, and I only hope some of those elements are explained at some point over the course of the overall story. But for this issue, it doesn’t detract from the super heroic pulp action that Kalban delivers. This issue felt a bit more in line with issue 1, delivering some solid character moments, and pacing compared to issue 2. 


   As for the art, Eka delivers some good page real estate, especially with the action set pieces. I’d imagine that Eka had an enjoyable time illustrating some of those moments, and with Andry’s inks and Sahadewa’s color work, it shows. Much of Sahadewa’s color work shines in this issue, displaying a sense of power as Jake showcases his other abilities in action. Bowers lettering is easy to comprehend and accompanies the art more seamlessly, making this an enjoyable read throughout. This was a good read that is on par with issue 1. I definitely recommend checking this issue out. Kalban has introduced some interesting players into the series, generating more curiosity at how all of these characters will shape Jake’s journey as a person and an up and coming superhero.


No comments:

Post a Comment