The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys #1

Gerard Way & Shaun Simon team-up with fellow fan-favorite artist Becky Cloonan for The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys #1, a brand new series that clearly demonstrates Way’s affinity for complex worlds and plots that take time and patience to fully explore.  

Killjoys chronicles a young misfit cast of characters that struggle to survive in the harsh wastelands of a world where amenities like food, electricity, and even safety are all but ghosts of the past.  Exactly where and when this story takes place remains unanswered, but the threats that surround Way and Simon’s new characters are starkly clear, with the real possibility of an untimely and painful death uncomfortable close.

Killjoys is written in the same vein of the recent Jonathan Hickman title East of West, as Way and Simon similarly make little attempt to delicately guide readers through their brand new world, and instead bombard them with numerous characters, plot threads, historical references, expansive wastelands, and grimey cities.  Way and Simon will surely test some readers’ patience in this introductory issue by raising many questions, but answering few.  For those who prefer a “slow-burn” type of story, however, this first issue offers so many teases as to the history and future of its cast and strange world that the delayed gratification from universe building will be surely worth the wait.

Becky Cloonan’s art is just stunning — and it’s her work that breathes humanity into the characters of Killjoys #1.  As to be expected with Cloonan, her knack for simple linework gives each character believable and relatable emotional depth, yet here she adds little hints of horror and grime that truly make each setting unique.  It would not be difficult to claim that Cloonan’s art may be my favorite aspect of this brand new title.

As the first issue of Gerard Way, Shaun Simon, and Becky Cloonan’s dark futuristic romp comes to a close, you’re not entirely sure where this enjoyable title is going, but you’d be remiss if it doesn’t find its way into your hands next month.  The wild setting and misfit cast offered up enough fun to whet the appetite, while further teasing just enough to be left wanting more.  Killjoys #1 reads like a book begging to be read from the outset, and readers will hopefully be treated to a great payoff over the long haul.

Gerard Way & Shaun Simon (W), Becky Cloonan (A) Dark Horse, $3.99. Released on June 12, 2013.