ACG COMICS

James O'Barr's Original Sins

Crow Rating: 3 Crows

Published: 1999

Cover art: James O'Barr

Author/Artist: James O'Barr

Comic Overview
Sins is comprised of a two-part story, written and drawn by James O'Barr, entitled, "Silo". Barbed Wire Halo Studios originally published the story in 1989. Silo follows a day in the life of a semi-futuristic U.S. Army troop headed across a jungle terrain. The enemy is a robotic looking Russian Army. Silo follows the plight of 5 members of this U.S. troop who, despite their very obvious differences, are brought together to fight a common foe. Can these misfits overcome personal and physical restraints to overtake the Russian Army? Or will they become headstones in an Army graveyard somewhere? Also included in the comic is a Crow gallery of previously unpublished drawings by O'Barr dating from 1993 through 1994.

Personal Thoughts
This story, by James O'Barr, is very different from "The Crow". I think that is what I like most about it. Although the O'Barr touch is evident in the storyboards, the premise is totally different from that which we normally equate with him. O'Barr has ventured into territory, which obviously necessitated him to call upon his knowledge of military life and lingo. This is evident in the dialogue between the characters and the detailed storyboards. At times, it is difficult to keep up with the characters. The story follows an afternoon trek that takes the characters into harms way, to a confrontation with the enemy. There is no time period specified in the story. Readers are presented with images from the past, present, and future. Given the shortness of the story, it makes you wonder if there is more to come. Possibly future Sins volumes? The comic also contains a Crow gallery of 7 drawings, not previously seen. In one of the drawings, the subject has a very strong resemblance to Eric, from The Crow film. The others tend to have more of the look and feel of Eric in the graphic novel. My only complaint, with the comic, is that the ink and paper used makes some of the story boards hard to see, and, especially in the Crow gallery, takes away from the quality of the work.

Where to find this comic
If your local comic store carries O'Barr comics, they should have a copy of these volumes. You can also send a fax inquiry to Avalon Communications at 514-936-8058. As always, check eBay auctions www.ebay.com .