If you ask me, Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow is one of his best films, thanks to the moody setting and themes of witchcraft. And now, it’s getting a proper sequel via IDW Dark, with the first issue set to release on October 29th. With an advance issue in hand, I had to let you know that the moodiness and uniqueness of this classic tale are preserved. Set 15 years after the movie, Ichabod Crane reunites with Katrina after he receives a letter regarding a chain of murders in Sleepy Hollow. It’s a story that aims to unpack their relationship and possibly a new monster entirely.
The first thing you’ll notice is the artistry of Savanna Mayer’s pencils and Dearbhla Kelly’s colors. There’s a fine detail to the art that suits the time period, as if it were etched in a prose novel that has vignette pages. Adding to the beautiful artistry are double-page layouts that connect in some way, such as when a dead body lies on the left page on the right side, and then on the right, it is bagged up, effectively connecting the two. In another, there’s a double-page layout that brings us completely up to speed on the movie’s events.
As for the story, if you enjoyed the film, you’ll likely appreciate what writer Casey Gilly has in store here. It’s an organic and logical turn for the characters fifteen years after the film. There’s melodrama to explore between Crane and Katrina, as well as their developments in their roles. And of course, there’s a monster to be investigated, or at least bodies it leaves behind.
Courtesy IDW
At the start, Crane doesn’t live in Sleepy Hollow, but is pulled back just days before a new high-profile gig. Similar to the film, he’s a leader in his field of science, which juxtaposes nicely with Katrina’s witchcraft. This aspect is another that’ll reap interesting dividends, especially for its time period.
Something else this first issue gets right is the weirdness of Burton. You can practically feel the fog in some pages, or the unnerving magic at play. While Crane doesn’t look like Johnny Depp, he has a paleness that suggests he’s not your average fellow.
Courtesy IDW
The story is heavy on dialogue, which lends it a slower pace. Less a creature feature horror and more of a detective tale of the supernatural, the heavier dialogue doesn’t feel off by any means. Instead, it’s a character piece first, which is just fine. Plus, as stated above, new readers get a full rundown so they won’t feel left out if they didn’t see the film this spins out of. Could the story use more gore and violence? Certainly, though I’m hopeful it’ll go there eventually.
Return to Sleepy Hollow #1 is a moody, richly detailed return to Burton’s gothic world, balancing character drama with supernatural intrigue. While it leans more detective story than horror showcase, the foundation is strong and full of eerie potential, setting the stage for a promising continuation.
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