Advance Review: Artist Jae Lee is Heavenly In `Seven Sons’ #1
by Tom Smithyman
Overview
From the first page, superstar Jae Lee‘s artwork grabs your attention and never lets go. Add in a strong, yet controversial, script that tells the story of seven children born of virgin mothers on the same day and you have the makings of a compelling tale.
Overall
9/10From Sean Gordon Murphy’s Punk Rock Jesus to Mark Millar’s and Peter Gross’ American Jesus, the second coming of Christ has been a popular topic not just in popular culture, but in comic books as well. Now, writers Robert Windom and Kelvin Mao along with superstar artist Jae Lee delve into the thorny subject in a strong premier issue of Seven Sons.
Taking place mainly in 1998, Seven Sons has its origins 21 years earlier when seven identical sons were born to seven virgin mothers on all seven continents. Six of the children – known as the Seven Jesi – were killed before the prophesized date of their coronation as God’s second son. Now only Pergi remains to take his rightful place and to usher in a new golden age.
Any book that depicts the Messiah is bound to offend someone, and this entry is no exception. Perhaps the most troubling aspect is that the story’s antagonists is a group of Muslim terrorists known as Allah’s Watchmen. This group is responsible for killing the Jesi, and by the end of the first issue have infiltrated the stadium with the coronation is being held.
The event, of course, is a media circus. A million people are packed into a massive stadium in New Canaan, formerly known as Las Vegas. Don’t worry though, the faithful without a ticket can watch on pay-per-view for the princely sum of $99.99. During the preshow event – complete with the curing of a crippled man – advertisers hawk miracle mugs and other wares in a “Jesus is Reborn” sale.
As compelling as the story is, it’s Lee’s art that truly brings the story to fruition. From the first page that depicts old Las Vegas as a Christian mecca to a breathtaking stadium dedicated to the seven sons, Lee has proven his mastery of the topic as well as the artform.
By the end of this first issue, we’re left with more questions than answers. It’s a good storytelling technique, but it also forces the reader to have faith in the storytellers. That seems appropriate given the controversial subject matter.
Seven Sons #1 will be available for purchase on June 15, 2022.
