GRIMM FAIRY TALES PRESENTS WARLORD OF OZ #1 Review

Do we really need to journey back to this realm? Read on to find out.

The official description from Zenescope:

Peace has been restored to Oz. The fallen Witch, Lynessa, and her sister, Zinna, are fading into memory like a bad dream, soon to be remembered only in tales meant to frighten children. But there is one witch that still draws breath in Oz and she has not forgotten the power of her masters or the evil that they left behind. Soon the people of Oz will face a foe more frightening than any enemy that has come before… The Warlord of Oz has arrived!

I’m not going to lie, when it comes to this universe there are plenty of corners that are screaming for exploration and I honestly wasn’t sure if Oz was one of them. Prior to this I felt like the audience was given a complete yarn, but this creative brought about a worthwhile continuation and instantly proved me wrong.

Joe Brusha worked with script writer Jeff Massey to seed the beginnings of what promises to be an endlessly engaging trip into somewhat familiar territory. We’re given a realm, and a kingdom, that seems infected to the core with a shadow that’s crafting discontent and unrest among its populace. Meanwhile back in Kansas, Dorothy Gale is dealing with family troubles and disturbing visions that might just spell doom for her down the road. In short: it’s not wholly original but the finished script is engaging.

If the written word is not enough to get you to your local comic shop, than the illustrations by Miguel Mendonca should do the trick. From the first page to the final panel the talent offers a lightly detailed rendition with soft forms that are perfectly accentuated via colors handed in by Grostieta. This turns out to be a high caliber display that earns a chance to be among the other issues in your buy pile this week.

Grimm Fairy Tales presents Warlord of Oz #1 is a striking start to a journey that promises revelations, returns and even the occasional reunion. Recommended.