Review: James Stokoe’s Artistic Talents Shine In ‘The Twilight Zone’ #3
by Tom Smithyman
Overview
It’s really creator James Stokoe who is in the zone in this issue – visually at least. He delivers a gorgeous issue, from cover to cover. The story takes a back seat to the artwork, but it’s still classic material from this well-respected anthology series.
Overall
9/10Come for the artwork; stay for the story.
James Stokoe delivers a visual tour-de-force in The Twilight Zone #3 from IDW. The artist, who also wrote the issue, showcases his highly detailed pencilwork from the first page to the last. That introduction features an ancient urn. The middle is a battle royale reminiscent of The Lord of the Rings’ fight at Helm’s Deep. And the end is … well it’s The Twilight Zone, so it’s a surprise.
Like the original TV show, this series is presented in black and white, which is perfect for showing off Stokoe’s intricate linework. He does good colorwork on other projects, but splashes of blues, reds, and greens would only distract here.
The story, called “The Relic”, is clearly a labor of love for the storyteller. He must have poured months into this single issue — or he is the fastest penciler in the industry. Even the more straightforward pages are so thorough you can’t help but stare at them to find the hidden details you missed at first glance.
The story itself deals with an old-fashioned siege. Arrows fly. Swords swing. And a machine gun mows down armored warriors. (Like I said, this is The Twilight Zone.) Of course, little is as it really seems, which becomes evident when one of the warrior chants “Beat the heat!” and “Stay cool this summer!” No, this is not your grandfather’s war at all.
Stokoe’s story is interesting enough — and those few lines are so out of place that they have as much stopping power as his artwork. But be clear: You’re reading this issue because of his illustrations. Even Stokoe seems to understand this as there are several stretches where he eschews dialogue and relies only on his visuals.
With artwork this strong, it’s a smart move.
The Twilight Zone #3 is now available in comic books stores and on digital platforms from IDW.
