When I heard that DC Comics was introducing a new imprint to their brand, I was ecstatic, to say the least! I became engaged with the medium during high school, when I visited my local comic book shop and bought an issue of Snyder's and Capullo's "Batman." Young Animal, which is being curated by Gerard Way, caught my interest with the focus on the oddities and strangeness of the universe. This imprint filled the gap that Vertigo left when it began to focus on creator-owned titles over the original fantasy and horror aspects of the DC universe. After reading all four series, I say that this is a success for the company by producing these avant-garde comic books.
1. Doom Patrol
"Doom Patrol" was the first series released by "Young Animal". Written by Way and illustrated by Nick Derington , the series follows Casey Brinke, an EMT who discovers a dismembered Robotman, and Larry Trainor, devoid of negative energy. Casey must work with Danny, the Living Street, and Flex Mentallo, Man of Muscle Mystery, to bring a separated Doom Patrol together to fight incomprehensible threats. The art is quirky and catchy, while the dialogue fits the series quite well. I would consider this to be a worthy successor to Morrison's run in the '80s and the perfect introduction to this imprint.
2. Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye
"Cave Carson" has been one of my favorite series this year. Way is not only double downing on running and writing this imprint, but is co-writing this series with Jon Rivera while Michael Avon Oeming provides the art. Oeming's art showcases the top of his game following his run on "Powers" and "Mice Templar." Cave Carson, a former adventurer with a mysterious cybernetic eye, is mourning the loss of his wife. However, his eye goes haywire, causing frequent hallucinations while his past adventures haunt him as well. I have been impressed with the other characters present in the series. I enjoyed seeing the Metal Men, Dr. Magnus, and vigilante Wild Dog playing a part in the story. The science-fiction inspired plot and Kirby-like visuals keep forcing me to buy the next issue.
3. Shade, the Changing Girl
Loma, an alien on planet Meta, does not fit in. She feels out of place and that there is nothing she can do with her life. So, she decides to steal the madness coat of famed crazed poet Rac Shade, and travels to Earth where she ends up in the body of Megan Boyer, a bully at the local school. It's difficult learning new customs as it is, but it's even harder when you live with choices that you did not make. Cecil Castellucci 's writing and Marley Zarcone 's interior work is truly phenomenal. I would highly recommend this series to those who enjoy the surreal and the psychedelic style of the '60s. Finally, the series is bizarre and odd in so many of the right ways. In other words, this is truly a distinct comic on the market today!
4. Mother Panic
"Mother Panic" is the fourth and final series in the "Young Animal" imprint. It focuses on Violet Paige, an heiress who is returning to Gotham City to punish her rich friends. The book is steeped with grit and psychological aspects, reminding me of Vertigo--it's mature themes are not there to make the issue edgy just for the sake of pushing the envelope, but it is actually relevant to the story. Jody Houser is in her wheelhouse with writing, but Tommy Lee Edwards' pencil contributes to the importance of this new character. I love the rough interior work. Also, I cannot wait to see her connection with Gotham City.
Based on my experiences with Young Animal, I would say this is a success for the company since it inhabits many parts of the universe that were left untouched following "The New 52".
