'NAMWOLF review

(Review by Melody Werner)
'Namwolf is a 2017 4-part supernatural war series published by Eric Powell's (of The Goon fame) outfit, Albatross FunnyBooks. Written by Fabian Rangel Jr. and illustrated by Logan Faerber (who was gonna do that ANAD Blade series, but that sure fizzled out), it follows a young, scrawny man with a big nose who is drafted during the Vietnam War--only to find out when out over in 'Nam that he's a werewolf. A 'Namwolf, to be exact. 'Namwolf is excellent, so let me tell you why.

I could see some people taking umbrage with the visuals. Personally, I like the colorful and cartoony aesthetic and the way it pairs with the gorier scenes. Think Pinocchio if he wanted you dead.  It can be sketchy at times or not the best drawn, and your mileage may vary, but all in all I think it's a seriously good looking book. It pops. The action scenes are delightfully gruesome for sadists like me and, let's be honest -- you (c'mon, you're reading a review for a comic called 'Namwolf of all things. Papa Wertham would be veeeery disappointed with you). The overall presentation of the book is top-notch as well, which I get the idea is maybe a perk of Albatross.

'Namwolf is unashamedly pulp, but that doesn't mean it's stupid,  or bad. While it isn't the greatest pulp out there, it's like an A- and that's not something anyone's ever gonna complain about. The theme and story are neat, even if it's not in a Black Mirror way, y'know. The premise is fun and neat, and they really run with it. The characters aren't particularly memorable and it's kinda hard to care when any die if you can't even remember their names. Sure, that's not the point and interesting side characters would've just been gravy for a series like this, but I like gravy and that would've really pushed it over the top. The pacing is lightning fast, but it doesn't feel too rushed. It's the kinda series which is so damn satisfying if it's your bag, that it'll leave you with a stupid fuckin' grin on your face by the end. Hopefully. 

'Namwolf isn't at the top of its class, but it is most definitely a resounding success in the field it attempts to be a part of and should be a must-read for any pulp enthusiasts out there. It's up there. If you liked The Goon, Big Man Plans, Hillbilly, or The Spider King, then get out there and give this one a bash. I know I'll see about snagging a physical GN of it, so it can go on me shelf. If this is the kinda level of quality one can expect from Albatross FunnyBooks, then I reckon there's another cracking "new" publisher on the block. 'Namwolf gets a 9/10 from me. Also, the ending 100% leaves things open for more adventures. I sure hope so :p

Awesome

Summary:
Read the name. If it sounds dumb to you, probably avoid it. If not, try it. 's goooooooooood.

(originally posted: 4/26/2018)