Broken Frontier

Charismagic by Vince Hernandez and Khary Randolph embodies the trademark mystical mystery that Aspen is known for.  Just like Soulfire and Fathom, Charismagic draws the reader in with vibrant characters with cryptic pasts and an otherworldly menace that threatens to destroy everything.  It features all of the usual elements that have kept Aspen fans happy in the past.

This first issue, however, could have been a little stronger.  It is a very straightforward character development that only features one big event.  It does a lot of teasing and appetite-whetting, but does not give the reader a taste of anything substantial that makes us want to come back for more.  Though we learned a lot about Hank, the main character, he does not really seem likable.  In fact, the most intriguing characters barely appeared.  The girl with the crazy eyes, the cat, and the mysterious Hector all left me wanting to know more about them.

There were also a few weak points in the dialogue.  Hector’s apple metaphor was confusing in that the parts of the apple and what they represented were not clearly defined.  In fact, it seems to change midway through the explanation.  After reading it again, you can get what Hernandez was going for, but the phrasing could have been clearer.  The thought bubbles also seem like they will serve a larger purpose throughout the story, but they are inserted awkwardly throughout this issue, and do not serve to enhance this first reading.  Also, this first issue utilized a lot of dramatic shots and dialogue, even when the moments themselves were not that dramatic.  It really softened the actually dramatic moments.

Though Randolph’s art was incredible (and probably the reason this issue sold out in pre-order), any long time fan can tell you that he excels at drawing two things—beautiful women and action.  This title seems to be headed in that direction, which should excite readers, but this issue underutilizes both.  We do get a peek at a beautiful and mysterious female supporting character (in a seductive pose), but pretty much no action.  Even the magical effect of Hank’s teleportation was a little underwhelming.  He simply disappears in a puff of smoke and then appears in another spot.  Where’s the showmanship?  It does not seem Vegas-worthy or comic book-worthy.  Also, Randolph’s figures will blow you away, both in style and diversity, but the backgrounds look incomplete.

I have no doubt that Charismagic will grow to be a fan favorite on the level of Soulfire and Fathom, but it has yet to find its stride in this issue.  It shows tremendous amounts of promise, and the first issue will leave you curious, but it will not grab you and make you demand the second issue.