2000AD #1850 Review


It’s an issue of first’s this week, as 2000AD #1850 kicks off a number of new stories and arcs. Inside we have Judge Dredd, Damnation Station, Flesh and Brass Sun, so let’s get stuck in.

First up is Judge Dredd. This issue has a decent premise which I’m liking so far – like some stories seen previously, it’s not overtly Dredd-centric. Michael Carrol writes well with a knowledge of the setting, using a previous character’s perspective as she gets into the Judge system is a unique angle I appreciate. Likewise Paul Davidson offers some impressive art that’s sure to help get this story across.

Next is Damnation Station. The first thing noticeable here has to be Mark Harrison’s visuals. The art blends between neon blurs in the background with well defined detail and more loose depictions for people and characters, adding immensely to the setting. Speaking of which, Al Ewing is setting up an interesting story, with the location and background only teased through carefully written dialogue so far.

After this is Flesh. Pat Mills, as usual, throws the reader head first into a script that has little background or explanation, save for a few prudent suggestions and name drops in dialogue. The art work is very reminiscent of old-school comic books (before we invented color)  with James McKay providing that old-school feel that makes for a unique approach these days.

Finally, we have the return of Brass Sun. While I always think new readers would appreciate a re-cap on returning stories, Ian Edginton does a good job at easing in, with enough exposition to get to grips here. Likewise, the art of Inj Culbard is more than welcome – a little flat color-wise for my tastes but the level of detail needed is here.

4/5

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