BITEMARK (VOL. 1), by Lucha Comics on Kickstarter, is a coming-of-age horror story about a mousy woman given the opportunity of a lifetime.
The Details
- Written by: Michael Stinson
- Art by: Devan Muse
- Letters by: Devan Muse
- Cover art by: Devan Muse
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $11.25 (estimated)
- Release date: July 2023 (estimated)
Is BITEMARK (VOL. 1) Good?
Who doesn’t love a good monster story? We sure do, so when indie creator Michael Stinson asked us to review his latest indie offering under Lucha Comics, we couldn’t have been more pleased, and we’re happy to report BITEMARK (VOL. 1) lives up to expectations.
Stinson’s Manga-inspired story centers on Miki, a shy young woman who constantly endures harassment and bullying from her coworkers, except for her best friend Ana. When Miki is invited to a weekend away at a cabin by Ana, Miki learns Ana had a similar struggle with confidence until a visit from one of her father’s enemies bestowed a curse that became a blessing.
Readers steeped in horror comics and films will immediately pick up shades of Ginger Snaps (2000), but in this case, Miki and Ana are spiritual sisters rather than biological ones. Still, the relationship dynamic between the two women is the central focus, giving the monstrous elements a personal feel.
What’s great about BITEMARK (VOL. 1)? Stinson’s idea about a were-monster offering to bestow her curse/gift on a kindred spirit is not a new one, but Stinson puts heavy emphasis on Miki’s character development to give her an emotional journey. What happens when someone who isn’t comfortable in their skin is forced out, especially when confronted with a life-altering choice? It’s that kind of thought-provoking content we’re always on the hunt for.
What’s not so great about BITEMARK (VOL. 1)? To be clear, BITEMARK (VOL. 1) is a diamond in the rough, primarily on the technical execution and polish. Stinson’s storytelling foundation is solid, but the next step up needs work, especially in the dialog flow and the not-so-developed background behind Ana’s curse/gift. The writing isn’t up to mainstream standards, but Stinson is headed in the right direction.
How’s the art? Devan Muse’s style blends B&W indie inks with Manga influences for an entertaining mix. Similar to the point about Stinson’s writing, Muse is a diamond in the rough wherein the figure work, choreography, and facial acting are not quite ready for the mainstream, but Muse shows promise.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at the covers, or Click Here to jump right to the story description with some spoilers.
What’s BITEMARK (VOL. 1) About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
We begin with a view of the day in the life of Miki. She’s harassed, bullied, and stepped over at every turn at work and in her personal life. Ana, Miki’s best friend from work, encourages Miki to stand up for herself and invites Miki to a weekend getaway to unwind. Miki agrees.
Miki explains she’s never had a coming-of-age moment and she’s afraid of being stuck in a shell forever. Ana explains she had a similar experience until an enemy of her father showed up at her home ten years ago to exact revenge for her father’s misdeeds. Now, Ana wants to share her gift with Miki.
We conclude the issue with a demonstration, the price of a curse, and a crucial decision.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at preview images of the internal pages, or Click Here to jump right to the score.
Final Thoughts
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BITEMARK (VOL. 1) is a coming-of-age horror story that explores what happens when a miraculous offer turns into a deadly nightmare. Stinson’s plot shows loads of promise with excellent character work, and Muse’s Manga-inspired art is a diamond in the rough.
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