Clare’s Comics Catalogue – Red Rocket Comet
It’s been a while but I’m back with the latest from that one man, small press machine, Matt Garvey – Red Rocket Comet.
Synopsis
The story of a superhero, Red Rocket Comet, and his arch nemesis, Dark Skull unfolds over two timelines and in a very unique way. Garvey has employed the talents of two very different artists on this comic, Grayham Puttock and Andy Clift, each taking on a different timeline. Andy Clift (The Adventures of Captain Cosmic) handles the colourful flashbacks to a simpler (better?) time, while Grayham Puttock takes on the darker story unfolding in the present day.
Review
I’m counting this as Matt’s third “hero” comic, after The Ether and The Devil In Disguise. Is there anyone out there doing better, more subversive takes on vigilante heroes? If so please let me know cos I want to read them. I don’t think I’ve ever really considered what superhero retirement would be like, but Garvey has. It’s not sunshine and rainbows that’s for sure, but what would you expect from the mind behind The Ether and white NOIR?
I must say that on the basis of his art in this one I went straight to the Comichaus app and read #1 of The Adventures of Captain Cosmic! In his foreword to that issue Andy proclaims his love for Silver Age Comics, and that is evident in his work on Red Rocket Comet. Honestly? I’d quite like to see an entire comic of Red Rocket Comet versus Dark Skull done by Andy,
It’s not unfair to say that the art from Grayham Puttock in the second time line is bleak. I think that’s the point. Red Rocket Comet, or as he’s better known now, Jerry, is clearly a troubled individual. Having hung up the superhero suit I think you could say he’s not exactly living his best life. Puttock handles the twists brilliantly, and the truly macabre last section sent a chill down my spine. If you’re not still thinking about the final 3 pages a couple of hours later there is something wrong with you.
Grab a copy
Red Rocket Comet is available from Matt’s web store now but there are only a few copies left so do hurry. If you’d rather support your local comic book shop, it’s currently in stock at Forbidden Planet Glasgow, Chaos City Comics in St Albans and Get Ready in Rochester, Kent.
