Having seen that the theatrical release for “I Kill Giants” came out late last month and is now available to stream, I felt this would be a good time to go back and touch upon the series that inspired the movie. Originally released in 2007, Joe Kelly and J.M. Ken Niimura’s 7-issue limited series stands as one of the most poignant and emotional stories ever presented in a comic book, crossing the void that so often exists between the comic realm and other literary works.
Cover by J.M. Ken NiimuraWritten by Joe Kelly
Illustrated and colored by J.M. Ken NiimuraBarbara Thorson, a girl battling monsters both real and imagined, kicks butt, takes names, and faces her greatest fear in this bittersweet, coming-of-age story called “Best Indy Book of 2008” by IGN.
One of the more interesting Limited Series/Graphic Novels from the new millennium, “I Kill Giants” is very much a modern teen drama masquerading as a fantastical adventure. It is a wonderful piece of art that transverses what one would expect from a comic book. Hinting and touching upon real-world issues that are far beyond the normal context. Unfortunately, this is one of those reviews that will be extremely difficult to get through without spoilers. Given that I am trying to spur you, the reader, to go out and experience the book before you are exposed to the theatrical version, I will keep this review very guarded. Just know that the cornerstone of the story hinges on a very real and very common tragedy. One that has no prejudices or preconceived notions. A tragedy that is grimly relatable to many of us.
With such limited context how can you be moved to invest your time in a series that literally hinges on a character revelation in the penultimate issue? Needless to say the reason I was drawn to the series, and most people should be, is the amazing writing and story from Joe Kelly. Having become a Marvel icon in the late 90’s with his work on the X-Men Universe, Kelly’s career reached a different strata in the 2000’s with his DC work. Particularly Superman. Yet, as much of a industry force as Kelly was, his independent works were few and selective. Having published only a handful of titles at Image Comics, “I Kill Giants” was a revelation for the writer, showing he could branch off in a more mature and intricate direction than what his work at the Big Two would lead you to believe.
So, without revealing too much of the plot, what is it about this story that has captivated so many people? The story chronicles the life of a young teen, Barbara. Whose geeky nature and ever present rabbit ears mark her as a social outcast. Beyond her awkward sense of being and obsession with Dungeons and Dragons, she is always hunting giants. And she has no qualms about letting you know. Giants, you see, are the bane of her existence. They stalk her at every corner. These omnipresent monsters are all around and it is her responsibility to protect and inform the general populace of this growing threat. Unfortunately, she’s the only one that can see them, or kill them. As the weight and stress of this responsibility push on her, her mind, trapped in a fantasy land that may or may not be real, is witness to all sort of fantastical visions. From fairies to sprites and signs in the clouds. As she finally shares these visions with a new friend, her emotional balance and that of the fantastical world that surrounds her come to a head.
And that is the end of the review. Revealing anymore would be a disservice to those who have not experienced the story. If you fancy yourself a true connoisseur of the comic book medium, then you must take it upon yourself to read this series. I make no exaggerations when placing it side to side with the great fantasy independent works of the modern comic book age such as “Bone,” or “Sandman.” Take the time to cherish it and you’ll instantly be transported into Barbara’s world and feel, almost firsthand, the pain and reconciliation she encounters. “I Kill Giants” should be read by all, and I hope that we give the series and the movie our continuing support.
