Until the last few pages, the first issue of Bad Influences seems like a slice-of-life book. Zack Overkill is relating his new life to the reader and it’s all rather amusing. The issue opens with an event then Brubaker goes back and explains it—humorously and cinematically. Even with the ending’s change in narrative tone, this series has stronger writing than the last one. Brubaker’s allowing himself to have some fun.
That fun isn’t just in the humor of the scenes, but of the narrative in general. Incognito now feels even more like the illegitimate, albeit darker offspring of Tom Strong. Especially during the flashbacks to Zack’s conflicts since the last series. I don’t remember the last time Brubaker seemed so enthusiastic (so, of course, I’m guarded for what comes next).
Great Phillips art—it takes place in New York, which lets Phillips open up.
It’s quite strong.
Leave a Reply