Corruption, sex, and violence — what else would you expect from a new comic book series hoping to capitalize on one of film’s grittiest genres? Grindhouse movies are all about excess and extremism.. And Grindhouse: Doors Open at Midnight #3 takes those themes and runs with it.

Here’s the official word from DarkHorse:

The correctional transport ship Antares is home to the baddest beauties this side of the Milky Way, but when their demented warden starts taking her jollies from the prisoners’ hides, the babes of Block E fix to bust out!

After what felt like a lackluster premier, writer Alex De Campi delivers a much stronger follow-up with this first installment of his new story: Prison Ship Antares. The setting couldn’t be more Grindhouse-esque — a woman’s penal colony is hurdling through outer space; these unlucky ladies have been selected to populate a new planet but they must be “cleansed” of their sins prior to arrival. Cleansing, of course, is brutal, and sparks a mutiny on board. It’s hard to say why this story feels so much stronger than De Campi’s first efforts, but it does. I suspect its because De Campi has chosen to focus on more than just sex and death — this first issue already includes themes of loyalty, xenophobia and colonialism.

Simon Fraser is a strong artist, and deserves high kudos for his work on this title. His range is impressive — from buxom women, to gory murders, to beefy mindless clones, Fraser can do it all. And with flare. His lines are robust, and his style rich with details.

After a subpar premier, Grindhouse: Doors Open at Midnight returns with a strong sophomore effort. Let’s hope this good momentum keeps going.

4/5