
Every once in a while a Graphic Novel comes a long that raises the bar in comic storytelling. Giants like
Watchmen, Maus, and Sandman all redefined the way we think about comic book fiction through their thought provoking
narration and originality. David
Mazzucchelli's Asterios Polyp is a masterpiece that deserves its place amongst the modern day classics.
Being
completely unfamiliar with
Mazzucchelli's work I picked up
Asterios at
Bergen Street Comics on a suggestion from
Ms. Wonderland. I was
immediately drawn in to
Mazzucchelli's unique two tone coloring style. It was also interesting to see purple used as the main color as opposed to black ink.
Mazzuchelli's pencils are very mature and his storytelling is phenomenal. The way he combines different art styles while infusing each panel with
symbolism is truly remarkable.
Asterios is a very intricate character. At the beginning of the story, we find Asterios, once a world renown "Paper Architect" (named so due to the fact that none of his designs were ever built), penniless and depressed after losing his wife through divorce. In a freak accident, his apartment building is struck by lightning and quickly catches fire. Asterios barely escapes with his life. He then uses the near death experience as a platform to start his life over again.
Besides its engaging characters and profound story, Asterios has a very cinematic quality to it. It reminds me of the kind of character pieces you see in films like Synechode, New York with Philip Seymour Hoffman or About Schmidt with Jack Nicholson. Go on Amazon or to your local comic shops and grab this one.
P.SO
Asterios Polyp
by David Mazzucchelli
5 out of 5 stars