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Primitive War #1
Publisher: Artysseia
Writer: Ethan Pettus
Art: Babisu Kourtis
Colors: Maja Opacic
Letters: Babisu Kourtis
Cover: Babisu Kourtis & Maja Opacic

At the time the Primitive War comic came to my attention I had no prior knowledge of the novels the comic is adapted from. However, seeing that it’s got a mix of action, horror, and FREAKING DINOSAURS how could I not give this one a shot!? I’d be doing a disservice to little kid me and I’m not about to let him down.

The story is set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the narrative is off to a strong start in the first few pages. The creative team builds a tense and exciting opening sequence as a lone soldier is hunted. In what could have been just another random character on the run, Pettus makes a connection in a short time that gives the chase more weight than it should have. Not to mention the artwork delivers on the feeling of hopelessness and dread as the pace builds to its bloody climax. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that this is much more than men on the run from deadly monsters as mysterious shipments, hidden bases, and Russians come into play. As far as the characters we meet, Bishop is the one that clearly stands out. This is a bit of a mixed issue for me as he’s also with another character, Ibex, but we only get a few words from him as he seems more like set dressing. Now things could possibly change later in the series and give me a totally different viewpoint when I review another issue but for now, it is what it is.

The visual storytelling from Kourtis and Opacic enhances the feel and mood of the narrative while reinforcing the worldbuilding with very rich and exciting artwork. That opening sequence along with several other moments really draws you in and even more when the lack of dialogue lets the art do the heavy lifting. What’s more impressive is that the designs for the dinosaurs is more feathered and birdlike which was a bit refreshing as we don’t see this used more often since it’s been revealed this was closer to what they may have looked like.

Whether you’re familiar with the novels or not, Primitive War is certainly a comic worth checking out. This issue does all the right things in the story and artwork which leaves you wanting the second one right now! So if you need a break from the capes and tights comics, this is one that should be in your read pile as soon as possible!

Infinite Speech
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