Advance Review: ‘Benjamin’ #1 Brings High Quality

The art for the various covers are the respective creations of artists Christian Ward, Malachi Ward, and Leomacs. All three covers are exceptional in their own ways — they each evoke the idea that this is a blockbuster type narrative. Unfortunately, since Leomacs also does the interior art, there is a concern that cover B may be hinting at a possible plot point in another issue. For the moment, it is currently adding to the mystery of the narrative one finds within this issue. The interior work is less surreal than his cover design, but it as close to the label of “masterpiece” as possible in terms of quality. There is a sense of motion in both the still poses as well as those featuring a character doing something.

Letterer Becca Carey presents some interesting fonts that see application that differ from the standard. Carey also does a great job of suggesting timing of each speaker’s lines.

Colorist Luca Bertelè uses a palette that enhances both the realistic and surrealistic elements of the art. Because of Bertelè doing such a great job, it is possible to miss one specific small detail near the beginning of this issue.

Writer Ben H. Winters is obviously building to some kind of resolution even at the start of this three-issue series. So this reviewer has high hopes the story is a mystery box tale that will not fall into the traps of narratives such as Lost (2004-2010). As far as characterization goes, Winters is relying on a lot of tropes and clichés. Nevertheless, he never makes any of the characters feel truly stock. This includes the characters who only exist to populate the narrative. Winters also seems to be using certain storytelling methods, such as ranting monologues, that most comic writers would not have a main character do. At least not while having discussions with other characters.

Benjamin #1 has a final order cut-off of May 26th and is due for release from Oni Press on June 18th.