Revival #27 Review

For the most part, this issue switches between two different storylines, both linked by a vague theme of motherhood. On one hand, Dana’s sections focus on her determination to protect her child, which is a welcome return to one of the charachter’s strenght,s while Em’s segments focus on the possibility of a ‘reviver’ child and the fear of parenthood.

Of course, on its own, each of these sounds rather dull. What works, however, is how Tim Seeley pitches them against the right antagonists. With Dana, Ed presents the perfect stand off. Rather than simply come out with threats, Seeley effortlessly writes the slimey, vauge mannerisms that are ripe with hidden warnings. It’s this stand off that helps create some of the more tense sequences. As for Dana, I’m still enjoying the return of Abe and the unlikely trio make a good team, at least thanks to Seeley’s writing.

As for the artwork, well what else is there to say? Mike Norton is a talented artist and that is proven in every issue. His pencils are sharp, consistent and it’s clear he knows his way around the cast. Still, the setting doesn’t give Norton much room to experiment (it’s all blue skies and white snow) but there are segments here and there. Whether it’s a new setting or a zombified fish, Norton puts effort and detail into every panel.

All in all, this is how I think Revival should be; a focus on small town drama with a looming storyline threaded throughout. Revival #27 doesn’t drop the ball and, in many ways, I think a break from the major developments makes them more crucial in the few pages they do appear in.