A subtle horror story is typically the most unnerving kind, and writer Jim Zub has one of those on his hands with Glitterbomb. The fact that it ties into the disgusting nature of how Hollywood actors are treated only sweetens this horror tale, but is it good?
Glitterbomb #3 (Image Comics)
So what’s it about? For the full Image summary just read this:
“I GAVE HIM A PIECE OF MY MIND…” Fan-favorite JIM ZUB (WAYWARD, Thunderbolts) and newcomer DJIBRIL MORISSETTE-PHAN tear into the heart of Hollywood in GLITTERBOMB, a dramatic horror story about fame and failure.
Why does this book matter?
There’s a lot to like with this series with the most interesting element being how the reader is just as clueless as the protagonist as to what is going on. The sick thing though, is that it’s changing her to the point where she doesn’t even care. Meanwhile, artist Djibril Morissette-Phan has made this title feel realistic and brutal which are key to making it work.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
Tragic but true.
Zub introduces the issue with a conversation about fame and the sad truth of why folks try to achieve it. It ties in nicely with Farrah’s current state in Hollywood and reminds us the industry is as brutal as these new horrific powers. As that interesting conversation percolates in your mind the story continues to surprise, which is frankly unfair. How Zub can keep you questioning what will happen next, what the characters motivations are, or what they can possibly be thinking is a great talent. This leads to more delicious gore, fun power plays as Hollywood types do, and snapshots of Hollywood.
One of the biggest wins for me with this issue was how well Zub writes Farrah’s son. The kid is cute and spot on for a child his age with his behavior and dialogue. He adds a bit of joy to the book to remind us this is the real world where horror and manipulation do not exist at every moment. Her son also reminds us she has a lot to live for and protect.
The art continues to look great (god the gore is good) and the colors by K. Michael Russell are colorful in atmospheric ways. Once again, Morissette-Phan deserves props in making Farrah’s son look believable since kids are so hard to draw. Layouts continue to be great at pacing and drawing the reader in too which is key when it comes to horror as the brooding terror needs to creep up with timing.
Well she’s frighteningly chipper.
It can’t be perfect can it?
It’s unclear once we reach the cliffhanger if Farrah is aware of what is going on or just doesn’t care. Up until now she’s been a bit scared of what is happening to her, but now I’m not so sure. Is there a monster inside her or is she changing? That’s unclear, and while this might drive you to be more interested in the story, it feels as though we’re missing an opportunity here. While we’re asking questions, what the hell did she do to the guy in the back seat? Like…how does that work? It was badass sure, but confusing.
Is It Good?
Glitterbomb continues to be intriguing as it captures the horror of Hollywood and the “monster inside you” story well. It’s starting to fall into the trap shows like Lost fell into as there aren’t enough answers to justify the reader’s interest, but it’s still early yet.
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