Advance Review: A High-Flying Conclusion In ‘Barnstormers’ #3
by Tom Smithyman
Overview
All good things must come to an end – and this limited series was a great one. They story wraps up in a satisfying manner, complete with luscious artwork. It’s easy to understand why this series, originally presented in a digital-only format – won an Eisner Award.
Overall
9.5/10From its outset, Barnstormers has been about three characters. While the initial focus has been on the two high-flying criminals – the Bonnie and Clyde-esque Tillie and Bix – Zeke West has been in the background narrating. In the limited series’ final chapter, the Pinkerton man finally steps into the spotlight, eclipsing the scofflaws.
We know from the first issue that West ends up killing the pair. He told us as much. But the conclusion to this fantastic story is all about the chase. West is smarter than the other pursuers – cops and amateur gumshoes who are only looking for Tillie and Bix because of a sizable reward. For West, it’s more personal. He already has an unblemished track record. Bringing the pair is, as he puts it: “Puts a shiny gold button on my whole career.”
Writer Scott Snyder brings these wonderful characters to life. While most of the focus has been on the Tillie and Bix, we still feel like we know West because of his narration from previous issues. And while it would have been nice to have a greater focus on him earlier in the story, it’s better late than never. Fans of the two criminals will not be disappointed in this issue either. While the focus isn’t always on them, they dominate plenty of scenes – including a strong conclusion in which Bix confesses his regrets.
Tula Lotay, whose work on this series has thrust her into the upper echelon of comic artists (upstart publisher DSTLRY has just announced a new series with her and Becky Cloonan) continues to shine here. Whether it’s the characters clad in 1920s leather bomber jackets or the armada of biplanes that takes to the air to thrill onlookers, this series is the perfect fit for her style.
The second half of this double-length issue includes some process work, including Snyder’s original pitch, Lotay’s luscious concept art as well as the evolution of the Barnstormers’ logo.
It’s easy to understand why this series won an Eisner Award for best digital series and why it needed to be in print. It’s difficult to ogle over the artwork on a computer monitor or phone screen. These pages needs to be held so they can be more thoroughly examined and celebrated.
Barnstormers #3 will be available for purchase on September 6, 2023.
