The Good
The concept of stories focusing on serial killers has been seen many times. Joshua Williamson takes it and runs in a new direction. Many times the focus is simply put on trying to capture the killer but NAILBITER delves more into what causes an individual to become one.
The premise of the story deals with an FBI Agent determined to figure out why one particular town in Oregon has birthed so many serial killers. Just as he figures out what's going on, he goes missing. It's up to his friend to try to pick up where he left off in order to uncover the truth about his disappearance and the history of killers.
It's easy to see that Williamson has everything mapped out completely. With every tiny detail we discover in the town, the creepier things get. With the fact that the FBI Agent has gone missing, it's easy to assume a killer is currently active. It just might be there is more than one.
Mike Henderson provides the art. Henderson has worked with Williamson before on MASKS AND MOBSTERS. His style captures the feel of Williamson's script nicely. With Adam Guzowski's colors, the mood is complete. Buckaroo, Oregon is clearly not a town you'd want to visit.
The Bad
Once you get to that last page, you might find yourself cursing over the cliffhanger. Having to wait until June 4 is going to be rough.
The Verdict
Horror and thriller comics aren't easy to do. Because of the comics medium, they often fail to truly deliver the chills and suspense the creators are trying to convey. Joshua Williamson and Mike Henderson show us they have a pretty damn good idea how to do it right. It's a joy to see a dark story make its point without relying on over-the-top or gratuitous scenes. With a big mystery and a killer (or killers) lurking about, you won't know if the main characters will survive for many issues. The tension created in this first issue sets the tone for the series and you won't be able to resist coming back for more. Just be prepared for a cliffhanger that will keep you waiting in anticipation until the next issue.
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