Mind MGMT: New & Improved #1 (ONI PRESS)
Here goes another writer/artist that I've heard a lot of good things about. So, when I saw Matt Kindt's name in the solicitations and the title of the book sounded interesting, I had to get my hands on it, and I'm glad to say that Matt Kindt and his all “New & Improved” version of Mind MGMT published by Oni-Press is worth the read.
For people who already have a grasp on the lore from the previous six volumes, Matt Kindt comes right out and says that you should forget all of it because this is going to be something brand new. Or is he just messing with us and playing on the fact that our brains have already been erased of everything that happened in those first six volumes? Honestly, with a book called Mind MGMT, I wouldn't put it past him. Enough of all that, let's get back to the story at hand.
credit: ONI PRESS
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
The story wastes no time getting started and throws you right into the thick of things. We quickly meet who appear to be the main characters, and one of them possesses a unique ability that is interesting enough to keep you reading just to find out more about it. What really hooked me is the dynamic between the two partners. There is enough mystery surrounding both of them that you immediately start asking questions and wanting answers.
LET’S TALK CONCRETE!
I don't want to give too much away because I feel like you, the reader, need to experience this one for yourself and come to your own conclusions. That's part of the fun. Just when you think you're starting to understand what's going on and the story is heading toward a conclusion, Matt Kindt hits you with something else that leaves you scratching your head in the best possible way.
The illustrations by Kindt remind me a lot of Jeff Lemire's style. If that type of artwork doesn't do much for you, then this story might be a harder sell. But for me, this style is perfect for the type of storytelling on display here. It feels rough, mysterious, and just a little unsettling, which fits the book perfectly.
FINAL GRADE: 9.0
Overall, in my opinion, this was a solid first issue. If you're a fan of X-Files mixed with a healthy dose of espionage, strange mysteries, and the feeling that someone might be messing with your brain while you're reading it, then run to your local comic book shop and pick up Mind MGMT: New & Improved #1.
But what do I know? I’m just a guy who loves reading comics. If you’ve read this comic, let me know down in the comments. Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow Fanlight Zone on all platforms.
