Valiant Entertainment’s newest take on Savage has blended the wild-boy hero with the obnoxiousness and always-on nature of society. Max Bemis talked all about it on the AIPT Comics podcast, and he’s backed up by the incredible art of Nathan Stockman and color art of Triona Farrell. The combination of these creators is exciting thanks to Bemis’s social commentary and the in-your-face nature of Stockman’s lines with a brightness only comics can give from Farrell. Seriously, check out the giant purple monster in this issue to see for yourself.
Last issue, Savage was sick and tired of people, so he headed off to a private island to be with himself. In effect, Bemis is exploring what Savage would do if he was given everything he thought he wanted. All the hunting, killing, and exploring without the eyes of social media on his every waking moment. It’s fun to see Savage cut loose and be happy. Well, at least for a little while.
The book splits between Savage’s heaven and new hell and a check-in with the outside world and what Project Bizarre is up to. Much of the book is focused on Savage fighting a beast — that’s why we’re here, after all! — but it’s cool to see Project Bizarre’s plans coming together and likely falling apart at the same time. Stockman does an exceptional job drawing monsters in a way that’s reminiscent of Kirby. It’s bombastic and fun learning he might actually like killing monsters to the glee of those he saves in the city.
Savage certainly is good at finding things to do.
Credit: Valiant
On one key page, we get to see the world via the news on TV and Stockman does a great job to show the eclectic beasts torturing people around the globe. Shown over six panels, Stockman stuffs each panel with little details.
Aside from bonkers action and fun monster reveals, there’s also a deeper story going on with Project Bizarre and his daughter. Likely he’ll be proud of the actions she takes, but it’s also a bit stuffy and heavy on dialogue to get us there. Speaking of getting there, Savage’s motivation to go back to society isn’t completely clear. He’s definitely bored, but does he want to be a hero for the people for a specific reason? The point isn’t clearly made.
Savage offers something you can’t get anywhere else. This third issue is an example of out-of-this-world monsters clashing well with a jerk of a younger guy who can’t be stopped. Ultimately, the creators are finding a bit of purpose for Savage before he heads back into kicking monster butt and taking names.
Join the AIPT Patreon
Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:
- ❌ Remove all ads on the website
- 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
- 📗 Access to our monthly book club
- 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
- 💥 And more!
You must be logged in to post a comment.