Brilliant creators Chris Condon (That Texas Blood, News from the Fallout) and Charlie Adlard (The Walking Dead) combine their expertise in new series Of the Earth. Is it worth reading? Here’s our review!
Published by Image Comics, Of the Earth is an instant eye-catcher thanks to the top tier creative team behind it. Written by acclaimed scribe Chris Condon and co-writer Andrew Ehrich, the 6-issue series also marks esteemed The Walking Dead artist Charlie Adlard’s return to single issue storytelling after the ending Robert Kirkman’s iconic zombie series.
It’s a character-focused first issue. We’re introduced to Tabitha as she traverses the states to the comfort of her Gramma’s home in Solitude, Texas. She clearly has a precarious history with her Gramma, having pursued a sordid life, and when she arrives back in her hometown, it’s eerily quiet and not what she remembers it to be. Condon deliberately keeps Tabby front and centre, and we as readers are just as confused as she is.
Of the Earth has drawn comparisons to beloved genre classics; look no further than ’80s cult movie Blood Simple and John Carpenter’s legendary horror The Thing. Living up to such high calibre works pits it in a tough battle to stand-up to them — they’re standing on the shoulders of giants. But with Condon and Adlard at the helm, they deliver a debut issue that takes inspiration and carves out its own unique and creative identity. Issue #1 presents its own style of horror; the sci-fi aspect will no doubt shine through soon enough.
Condon’s writing is as strong as ever, but it’s a particular joy to see Adlard’s signature artwork on the page once more. The oversized first issue feels like a gallery of Adlard artwork; it’s not a wordy debut issue, but one that favours a creepy and lingering atmosphere. Penning a creepy atmosphere is one of Condon’s strengths from across his portfolio — look no further than News From the Fallout. As a long-time Walking Dead fan, there’s definitely a feeling of nostalgia flicking through the pages and seeing his expressive artwork all over again.
Of the Earth is already a comic that leaves me yearning for more. Issue #1 introduces Tabby and sets the scene but the brilliant — and shocking — cliffhanger propels the story forward.
Of the Earth #1 lands in comic stores and online on Wednesday, 5/20
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