As we approach the halfway point of the “Copperhead” series, one aspect of the storytelling that stands out is how the storytellers experiment with the genre. While the series is essentially a Space Western, each issue presents an opportunity to advance the narrative within the parameters of a specific sub genre. For instance, “Copperhead” #7 felt like a John Carpenter film in the way tension was ratcheted up and released in an action-packed climax. “Copperhead” # 8 is an entirely different chapter tonally. This issue feels like a Mad Max inspired chase film with Deputy Sheriff Boo as the protagonist.
Written by Jay FaerberCover by Scott Godlewski
Illustrated by Scott Godlewski
Colored by Ron Riley
Lettered by Thomas MauerYou wanted more Boo? You got more Boo.
Structurally, this story follows some similar touchstones as the opening issue of the current story arc. As before, we begin in the lunar prison where Clay, Clara’s estranged ex husband, escapes. This exciting sequence sets up a conflict between him and Clara when their paths inevitably cross at some point in the upcoming issues. After this prologue, the scene shifts to the Copperhead deserts where a captive Boo is being transported to an unknown destination. The harsh landscape is a fine contrast to the cool night setting of the previous issue and provides a tougher challenge for Boo in his goal of freeing himself of his captors.
Additionally, character motivations are effectively shown when we realize that lingering resentments exist between various gang members. These perfectly set up potential conflict and hint at how Boo may triumph over his adversaries.
“Copperhead” #8’s artwork was excellent and debuted some inventive techniques new to the series. For instance, Godlweski introduces the circle shape to his panel layouts in order to suggest Point Of View during a tense shootout in the desert. His linework utilizes cross hatching to a greater degree than usual in order to add texture to the sparse location. The inking was also worth noting. The shadows created by the intense light were rendered in a subtle, yet effective way.
My favorite piece of artwork was a double page spread that illustrated an action sequence involving a hidden sniper. Even with a standard panel layout spread over both pages, the reader’s eye is guided to the bottom left panel where a character gets shot in spectacular fashion. The explosion of blood and guts was brought to vivid life by the penciling and the coloring. Furthermore, the combination of motion lines with the ‘BLAM’ sound effect gave the image a manga look that further enhanced the impact of the shot.
“Copperhead” #8 also showcases Godlewski’s knack for drawing compelling faces. Page 1’s first panel effectively reveals the sheer terror experienced by the woman in that moment. Nestor’s scheming nature is also well realized but my favorite facial work this issue was Zolo’s scarred visage. Whenever he appears, so many interesting aspects of the character are communicated in the pencils. He can be menacing, cunning yet always commanding.
The coloring in this issue was a perfect complement to the needs of the narrative. While the previous issue had a predominantly blue color scheme brought about by the night time setting, this issue only uses those particular colors in the prologue. Color is also used to transition between scenes. The flash of blue light as Clay’s ship goes into warp speed is the final panel on a page that leads to the first panel of the next page which is a warm, yellow, lens flare sunrise. Additionally, the vivid red on Boo’s bloody nose make the character seem even more resilient and resourceful.
Settings were also enhanced by the colors. Multiple characters were paired in dialogue scenes in different vehicles. The colors that infused the backgrounds made their surroundings come alive. For example, Clay’ ship had a predominantly green interior while the reveal of ‘The Bastion’ favored a heavily brown color scheme that made Boo’s situation seem even more desperate and insurmountable.
This was an enjoyable action-packed issue that escalated the conflict and thus made things a lot more difficult for our heroes. It will be interesting to see how Clay will rescue Boo and bring these outlaws to justice.
