S.C.A.R.L.E.T.T.: Heavy Is The Head #1 of 4 Review

S.C.A.R.L.E.T.T.: Heavy is the Head # 1 of 4 Review

Fernando Lyons

6/22/2014

I recently had the pleasure of reading issue number one (of four) S.C.A.R.L.E.T.T.: Heavy is the Head from Sinister Studios.  While the art style and cover art are great and will attract a lot of readers, this is one book that you should definitely not judge by its cover.  The story is where this book really excels. 

This new series follows the life and adventures of Mitchell Coltrane, who has just taken over the role of the new SCARLETT (Special Covert Assassination Reconnaissance Logistics & Espionage Trained Tactician).  While there is plenty of action in issue number one, to simply call this book an action comic would not be doing it any justice.  This is so much more.  Co-writers Terrence Sykes and D.M. Eason, do an excellent job of crafting a world and creating a relatable character, who outside of being a super-assassin, is a just man dealing with real-life issues just like the rest of us.  Perhaps the genius of the story-telling is how the story seamlessly transitions from intense action scenes to touching moments, and back to intense action, without disorientating the reader.  Of course, it is expected that any story based on assassins and covert operations, would also be suspenseful and intelligent.  Issue number one definitely meets this criteria. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this issue, and found myself emotionally invested in the protagonist, Mitchell Coltrane, by time I was done reading. 

Terence Sykes' raw and gritty art style lends itself perfectly to the story, and the colors by Regal, enhance each scene, from the intense action scenes to the touching family moments.  Be warned, that there are some very graphic scenes and some other mature content.  I didn't find these scenes unnecessary or gratuitous, but more conservative readers may find them to be too gory and/or or offensive.  This one is definitely for mature audiences only.

Needless to say, that I can't wait to see how the story of SCARLETT and Mitchell Coltrane develops in the next three issues of the series.  If you are into graphic novels, and/or you enjoy a great story, I suggest that you pick this one up.

Bottom Line: 

+ Suspenseful and Intelligent Story, Well-Rounded and Fleshed-Out Protagonist, Gritty Art Style, Great Character Design. 

- May Be Too Graphic for Some.