A comiXologist Recommends:
Michael Crowe recommends
Image’s newest science fiction book is (excuse the pun) out of this world! Gorgeously illustrated by Kagan McLeod (kaganmcleod) and intelligently penned by Chip Zdarsky (zdarsky) , Kaptara #1 is an instant classic. It’s the kind of story you didn’t know you needed until after you finish reading it. As someone whose main preoccupation in life (besides horror) is science fiction, this book was a pleasant and refreshing surprise. They hit all the notes that a book in this genre should, while simultaneously flipping on it’s head everything you might expect from a science fiction/action adventure book. This team has crafted a story that is fresh and modern. You can tell that the creators are having a lot of fun creating this world and I had just as much fun consuming it!
Kagan McLeod’s art and designs capture a classic science fiction vibe, his attention to detail is exceptional. The creatures our heroes encounter planetside are fearsome; being both familiar and frightening at once. The character designs are thoughtful, showcasing a starship crew of mixed race, genders, and sexualities reminding one of what made the original Star Trek so great. The alien beings they encounter are pulled straight from classic pulp, referencing medieval designs while still keeping them firmly planted in the realm of science fiction ala Flash Gordon. Why are alien planets always ruled by a kingdom? Because the Royals get the best clothes! I look forward to seeing even more fabulous designs from McLeod in the issues to come. The world he has created is vibrant and colorful, giving even a gorgeous book like Saga a run for it’s money.
I’ve quickly learned to expect the unexpected from Chip Zdarksy. This story does not feel like a retread, in fact many of the narrative decisions made set it apart from anything that’s come before. Playing with conventions is one way this book shines. Zdarksy is not afraid to twist familiar genre tropes, effortlessly updating them for our times. The characters introduced are multifaceted. In the small space of a first issue, Zdarksy is able to breach interesting topics and hint at the rich backgrounds of the major protagonists. What excites me the most about this series is the unapologetic inclusion of a gay character and the promise of natural, organic same sex relationships to come.
Kaptara has quickly become one of my favorite science fiction books. I’ll be praying to the Lords of Kobol for a bi-weekly release (a boy can dream, right?). If you’re itching for more from these creators after reading (and rereading) Kaptara #1 pick up Sex Criminals, written by Matt Fraction with art by Chip Zdarksy and Infinite Kung Fu written and illustrated by Kagan McLeod!
Also be sure to check out two of my favorite science fiction books: Saga, written by Brian K. Vaughan with art by Fiona Staples and East of West, written by Jonathan Hickman with art by Nick Dragotta.
[Read Kaptara #1 on comiXology]
Michael Crowe is a comixologist obsessed with the future. He dreams of one day vacationing on Mars while being served drinks by robot butlers.
