NIGHT OF THE CADILLACS #1, available from Scout Comics on September 29th, 2021, introduces readers to Hope, a loner who finds herself the target of vampire gangs, in the company of a mysterious protector, and looking for her mother who disappeared over a decade ago.
The Details
- Written By: Jake Hearns, Jeff Marsick
- Art By: Kirk “The Savage” Manley
- Colors By: Kirk “The Savage” Manley
- Letters By: Kirk “The Savage” Manley
- Cover Art By: Rob Prior
- Cover Price: $3.99
- Release Date: September 29, 2021
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Was It Good?
I’m not sure what to make of this one. It’s unusual enough to hold my attention and keep me curious about the next issue. The word ‘eclectic’ comes to mind because the combination of story, art, and concepts is so unusual.
The story itself is a mixed bag but more positive than negative. A loner named Hope finds herself hunted by rival gangs of vampires, however, the gangs don’t appear to be from around here and the reason for the hunt has some connection to her mother’s disappearance. The positive of this story is the surprising genre mashup that generates a whole range of good questions that stimulate curiosity. Where did these vampire gangs come from? How are they connected to Hope’s mother’s disappearance? Why are they after Hope? Who is this mysterious stranger named Stiv and how is he connected to Hope’s mother? These are good, solid mystery questions that crank up the curiosity meter.
The negative of the story is its lack of completion as a full chapter. The issue just ends without a cliffhanger or clear end to the scene. Stiv and Hope are in the middle of a car chase, but when they pull over briefly to talk, the issue simply ends. It’s jarring and could have used a cleaner finish.
The art is different than what you’ll see in most comics these days, in a positive way. To be fair, the inks have a slightly amateurish/indie feel, but it’s more interesting when combined with the bold color choices and highly referenced characters designs. The art quality as a whole is strangely reminiscent of Frida Kahlo’s Magical Realism style of paintings, and if nothing else, it holds your attention.
I like the eclectic mashup of genres and the unique art style. The plot structure could use some spit and polish, especially around the ending, but there’s a ton of curiosity built up to find out what happens in the next issue.
What’s It About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
During the night of a Blood Moon 14 years ago, many people disappeared, including the mother of our main character, Hope. Tonight, a new Blood Moon has risen. On her way home on the darkened streets, Hope is accosted by rival gangs of vampires trying to capture her.
The gangs appeared in the city in portal-generating Cadillacs. It’s unclear if the vampires came from another world or time or universe, but they appear to be on a mission to bring Hope back alive. When Hope is cornered, she’s rescued by a lone stranger named Stiv with his own Cadillac. It’s a death race as they try to escape gang after gang of bloodthirsty vampires.
We conclude the issue with Stiv taking some damage, Hope receiving a message, and confirmation that the gang’s don’t give up easily.
Final Thoughts
NIGHT OF THE CADILLACS #1 is an intriguing mix of gang culture, vampires, magic, portal hopping, and action. The story leaves the reader with more questions than answers about what’s happening, but the narrative is never muddled or confusing. The art is better in some panels than others, but the visuals are bold and thoroughly engaging. I don’t know where this story is going, and I’m curious to find find out.
Score: 8/10
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