BRZRKR: Light Draws Breath #1 (BOOM! STUDIOS)
Even in death, nothing can stop B!
For the latest BRZRKR tale, the setting is the Bronze Age. The half-man, half god, all killing machine is killed in combat (again). This time, two scientists of this era decide to cross some lines. They steal some of B’s protoplasm while he’s lying at death’s door. The result is an unexpected surprise that the world is not ready for!
BRZRKR: Light Draws Breath #1 by China Miéville, Season Butler, Alessio Avallone, Sara Cuomo and Pat Broesseau takes readers on a very unorthodox trip in B’s past.
Let’s take a look at what unfolds here.
BRZRKR: Light Draws Breath #1 by China Miéville, Season Butler, Alessio Avallone, Sara Cuomo and Pat Broesseau (BOOM! STUDIOS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The writing isn’t afraid to take some risks in showcasing the consequences of tampering with death. From the initial acquisition of samples to Zosimus’ insanity to play God, there’s an uneasiness to the actions. It results into unleashing a figure that cannot be controlled. Lugalter’s debut is met with challenges on its’ level of cooperation. Readers watch as the infant-esque version of B is as restless as his predecessor. Even with Theosebeia’s sympathy towards the young figure, there is no steering away the appetite for violence.
The rest of the issue centers around Lugalter growing up in his own path. There are some moments that seem unnecessary to the overall plot. Once events steer back into a clear direction, the writing keys in on the connection to the real B. Readers watch as there is a connection between both. It provides some substance as the overall main conflict is wrapped up quicker than expected. It leaves events on a questionable note, leading to a completed finish.
more from boom! studios!
The art is fully aware of the assignment here. A full page image of B getting his head split open by a sword sets the tone early. Carnage ramps up more as the brutality takes hold. Once B’s samples are stolen, the panels dove into the alchemy aspects. A two page spread showcases the madness unfolding. In its’ wake, the art shows Lugalter in his infancy struggles. This transitions out when he escapes with help. From here, the art gives readers a violent idea of what has been set loose.
Readers watch the brutal figure learns survival the hard way. The detour on the island sees a six panel grid walk through Lugalter’s blood-thirsty nature. Once he gets older (with full beard), the panels show his trek to find the original B. This leads to a few wild panels before the eventual close. The homage to Uncanny X-Men #251 gets a full gory page. It leads into a fast finish of the built conflict while teasing more historical moments. The ending page ties up loose ends with a steady panel to part ways with.
FINAL GRADE: 7
With BRZRKR, there is always an opportunity to take some extreme chances with the character. In this situation, the questions of alchemy and Lugalter falter cementing footing before taking off to the races. The story in premise shows a different side to this franchise & there are aspects die-hard BRZRKR fans will love. For others, this story isn’t going to connect as easy. It will appeal to those looking for something completely different with this violent franchise.
Let me know your thoughts on BRZRKR: Light Draws Breath #1in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
