Velvet #1 - Review

Velvet #1

Writer:
Ed Brubaker

Artist:
Steve Epting

What Image Comics says about this title...

'When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the personal assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years...and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action.'

My thoughts about Velvet #1

The narrative is beautifully written and the art is elegant. Brubaker and Epting do well to create a sense of mystery and intrigue in this issue right off the bat. We are delivered an action packed spy comic (with a quality storyline) centred around Agent Velvet Templeton who is naturally more than she appears. The story develops throughout this issue at a fast and manageable pace.

Execution of spy stories is only getting harder for writers of these types of comic books. Spy comics are everywhere and have been done time and time again. So why choose this title? Firstly, the cover art is brilliant (pictured above). Secondly, the mood of the issue is sullen and dark and has that unique Brubaker touch (I loved Fatale, even though I read only a few issues). This is a polished comic book that in my opinion will be worth sticking with.

Epting's art work on this issue is precise and sets the perfect mood for a quality spy comic aimed at mature readers. Dark shadows and silhouettes throughout the later part of the book make this issue visually attractive. 

Readers will regard this comic as well thought out and fitting for the period we might find ourselves in today as 'spy comic book readers' in the modern age of comics. Jess Nevins at the conclusion of the issue provides a fascinating history of spy fiction through the Cold War period which perhaps helps provide insight into the direction Brubaker plans to take Velvet as a spy story.

For me, this comic was the stand-out issue for this week. I was not overly impressed with Pretty Deadly #1, and while I really enjoyed Sex Criminals #2 I found it hard to write a review about that issue (just read it and you'll understand why!). Velvet is this week's must read for me! Go get yourself a copy.

So what do I give it?

A well executed and well thought out spy comic in a world full of spy comics. I give this issue top marks.

Grade: A

What was my favourite comic book cover for this week's new releases?

Those who read my reviews tend to know what I look for in a quality comic book cover. I try stay away from Superhero comic book covers (unless its Wonder Woman and something very unique) and look for something interesting, something different, but always a female!

Whilst I was not dazzled by any particular cover this week, my pick for this week is:

Vampirella #35 
Cover Artist: Fabiano Neves

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf

When the world's best secret agent is killed, Velvet Templeton, the Personal Assistant to the Director of the Agency, is drawn off her desk and back into the field for the first time in nearly 20 years... and is immediately caught in a web of mystery, murder and high-octane action - See more at: https://www.imagecomics.com/comics/releases/velvet-1#sthash.lZdEVHXx.dpuf