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Saturday, October 29, 2005

Transmetropolitan: graphic novels that redefine journalism

One of my favorite series ever...

Review - Transmetropolitan: graphic novels that redefine journalism:
"Written by Warren Ellis with illustrations by Darick Robertson, the Transmetropolitan series is sure to leave you thinking. With introductions written by actor Patrick Stuart and Darren Aronofsky, director of Pi and Requiem for a Dream, these are not your kids' comic books. These are brutally drawn, intensely written graphic novels designed to appeal to intelligent and free-thinking adults.

Spider Jerusalem, the anti-hero of the Transmetropolitan series, does not immediately inspire confidence in his character or his journalistic methods. Having sequestered himself in his private compound on a lushly wooded mountain, Spider is not so politely informed by his editor that he must complete his contract for two books. He must return to the city he escaped from because Spider can only write in the bustle and dysfunction of a gritty urban environment. In the meantime, Spider must go back to work for the 'Word,' the city's high-profile newspaper, to support himself and gather material.

And so Transmetropolitan begins.

The city Spider returns to (presumably New York) is not any city we recognize. Set some undefined distance in the future, the city represents the worst of cities as we know them today and the path they might be following should poverty, corrupt politics and unbridled technological advancements proceed without intervention.

Spider is not pretty to look at, either. Temperamental, violent and fond of mood enhancers and firearms, Spider seems set for self-destruction. He proves himself a highly capable investigative reporter, though, and sets about uncovering the truth behind the city's dehabilitating ills in a world run by despotic politicians and corporate media..."

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