Comic Review: Watchmen
Going back and re-reading my original review, I find that, over time, I've mellowed a little. The content is still objectionable, but I find that now I am less... judgmental? ;)
Comic Book: "Watchmen" (12 part maxi-series)
Author: Alan Moore
Artist: Dave Gibbons
Available: In trade paperback form at most online bookstores. In original twelve part series at most online collectible websites.
Background: Originally published by DC Comics as a twelve part maxi-series in 1986, this has become the definitive comic book, in addition to "The Dark Knight Returns," and which vaulted comic books into the ranks of "art" and "real fiction works." Originally conceived using the stable of Golden Age DC Comics heroes, the plot had to be slightly reworked using entirely new characters when DC Comics vetoed the concept of soiling its characters with the sordid events of the book. Most, if not all, comics are now held up to this work for comparison. Every one of them falls short.
Summary: With the Keene Act passed, costumed vigilantes are outlawed and all must retire. In the wake of the Cold War's start and the anti-communism tensions on the rise, most of the vigilantes retire and/or go to work for the government. Chronicling the rise and fall of the vigilantes over a period of almost 20 years, several complex, distinctly un-comiclike characters emerge as memorable legends and then must come out of retirement, overcome their personal flaws and race against the clock to avert a world-wide tragedy. The result is the most shocking comic ending you will ever read.
Mad Parts:
+ Whenever Rorschach comes into frame. Void of compromise, he is twisted in his black and white view of the world, but understandable. Especially mad is the part when Rorschach walks into a bar to interrogate "low-lifes" and the bartender, after trying to pretend he's missed Rorschach, just collapses and pleads, "please don't kill anybody." A hoot.
+ The heavy realism and attention to detail in Dave Gibbon's artwork. You can't help but be sucked into this sordid visual world he's created.
+ The moral dilemma forged through the course of the book that culminates in the climax of the book. You will NOT forget this ending.
Props:
+ For proving that comics aren't just for kids. This story is so textured and deep that you will need a rebreather just to get started.
+ For creating characters that follow through with how they are established. Most works have characters jump out of character in order to have a "happy ending." There are no "happy endings" here.
Slops:
+ This book is SO ungodly. Abounding with cursing, taking Jesus' name in vain, premarital sex, nudity, acts of violence, drinking, smoking, etc this is just NOT a clean book by any moral standards.
+ While this book is a "classic," it is still revered in a world where godliness/holiness is, sadly, not a sought after trait. The tone and mood of the book are bleak and without redeeming qualities. Artistically, it is perfection, however this comes at the cost of moral bankruptcy.
Mad Minister's Verdict: Very conflicted on this one, folks. However, being one who loves Jesus first and foremost and a writer/artist second, I had to rule against recommending this one. There's just too much crap to sift through for the good stuff. Don't read it unless you're going into the field and need to study the industry standard. I must say, however, that is the best written comic book I have ever read and it deserves the critical praise it received.
Mad Points: 2 outta' 5.