By Dustin Cabeal
What’s frustrating about Blackwood is that it’s clearly following the Dark Horse formula of mini-series over ongoings. Its what made Hellboy and the Mignolaverse successful because each new series is inviting to new readers. With Blackwood wrapping in one issue, it’s clear that this segment of the story will come to a close, but that the bigger story is just starting. I’m frustrated because I want to read a lot more of this series and who knows how long we’ll have to wait for it.
The opening of this issue was surprising. I did not expect that and man oh man did it shock me. If anything this issue is a reverse of the previous issue, starting off with the shock and working towards a calm that will feed into the conclusion. It’s a fantastic bit of storytelling in that way.
After the opening, which I won’t spoil, we find the students back on the van heading to school yet again. Insect lady that we meet in the previous issue is mounting an attack that they know nothing about. Her first move is sending giant fucking insects at their van. One gets through and stings the driver, and the rest of them are sent to the hospital… again. Once released they banter with the new dean some more and one of their supernatural abilities are revealed.
The setup for the finale seems interesting. These kids are being thrown into the shit, which makes for high stakes and drama. Typically, you’d think that all the main characters would be safe, but I don’t get that impression at all with Blackwood. Even Dorkin doesn’t come across as a writer concerned with the safety and continued existence of his characters. The story above all else seems more likely and he is killing it on the story front. This is by far one of the best series I’ve read all year from any publisher.
Veronica and Andy Fish continue to deliver stunning work. It’s creepy; it’s frightening to look at. Each panel oozes personality and not just horrific personality. There are funny and light-hearted moments that come across in the art alone. The opening panel was shocking and will stay with me for quite some time. Part of me wishes I hadn’t read this at midnight, but we’ll see what dreams arise. If they come in the form of Veronica and Andy’s artwork, it’ll be a pretty sweet dream if I say so myself.
I may be foolishly frustrated that Blackwood only has one more issue, but its hard not to want a lot more of this series. It's my hope that the sales are backing this title that readers are supporting it and enjoying it as much as I am. To have a book that’s entertaining, horrific and enticing makes Blackwood a comic no one should miss.
Score: 5/5
Blackwood #3
Dark Horse Comics