A hugely engaging, entertaining and funny comic. In London in 1972, there is a vampire attack at a David Bowie concert. Detective Inspector Jack Pike and Detective Sergeant Roach need to get the help of the Gentlemen Ghouls. These two elderly supernatural investigators realise the scale of the problem and move into action. Caught up in the hidden struggle is a brilliant reporter who knows there is a story worth chasing. The story unfolds in unexpected ways that are a pleasure to read. The second part of the story moves from London to Hell and back. It twists just as brilliantly as the first and includes the best explanation for the rise of heavy metal I have ever seen.
Martin Hayes writes with confidence and wit. He has a fond and satirical eye for the period and the details ring true all the way. The cat is a joy; the police are right out of The Sweeney and the Gentlemen Ghouls clearly wandered in from Hammer Films. They mix with ease and together give the story heart and momentum. Martin Hayes gives each of the characters depth and individuality. They engage the reader directly and forcefully. There is an emotional structure beneath the layer of parody that brings the story to life.
Alfie Gallagher’s art is a pleasure to read. It captures the requirements story with and confidence. The art is loose and relaxed; it invites the reader to enjoy the ride and not take it too seriously. They served the comic aspect to the story with the lightest touch. It never undermines the cast or makes them appear stupid.
The colouring is superb. It brings out the details of the context and the cast, giving added depth and force to the story. They slightly muted the colours which is a successful choice, it keeps the tone of the story in a lower key. This supports the mix of comedy and horror exactly; scenes are both simultaneously, which is just what is called for.
Bram Mehan’s lettering is natural and flows with the art and the story. It never calls attention to itself and moves the reader along with snagging them out of the story. The sound effects are a joy, they give a crunch to the story that fits it well.
The Gentlemen Ghouls is a great comic.
