Review – Tech Jacket #3 (Image Comics)

Publisher: Image Comics
Writer(s): Joe Keatinge
Artist(s): Khary Randolph
Release Date: 3rd September 2014

Each issue in this increasingly praiseworthy series has begun with a glimpse into Zack’s childhood as seen through the eyes of his parents. Previously, the focus was squarely on the unique relationship he shares with his father, but this latest issue opens from the perspective of his mother, highlighting the helplessness she feels, and her strong maternal instinct to protect her son, whom she will always view as a vulnerable child. These moments have contributed hugely to the increasing attachment I feel to these characters, adding another layer of depth to a series I feared would be trite and undistinguished.

Joe Keatinge has subtly cultivated a likeable, heroic protagonist right under our noses, who aside from the brazen and impetuous teen we were introduced to, is actually a pragmatic, and intelligent warrior. There’s a mischievous charm to his interactions in combat that have a street-smart vibe, engaging in a verbal battle as well as a physical one to distract, confuse, and enrage his foe to create an exploitable opening. All of these elements are encapsulated in a wonderfully choreographed action sequence that is filled with tension, drama, and a pinch of humour, drawn by the ever-impressive Khary Randolph. Through the dynamism of his work you can almost feel the destructive impact of each blow through his clever panel construction and use of angled motion lines, channeling the great Carmine Infantino’s work on the Flash at times. His obvious love of all things Anime and Manga is laid bare in one noteworthy scene that echoes Tetsuo’s transformation in Katsuhiro Otomo’s seminal classic, Akira.

Throughout the run Randolph’s art has just popped off the page, thanks in no small part to colourist Dave McCaig, whose work here is outstanding, running the gamut from muted to vibrant, but always looking natural and perfectly capturing the mood of each scene. A special mention must also go to Rus Wooton’s dynamic lettering, which adds yet another interesting visual element to the panels.

This one is really coming together nicely, and with the mysterious Mr Crowe looking set to become the focus over the next few issues, excitement levels are reaching critical mass.

Rating: 5/5.

PREVIEW ARTWORK.

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The writer of this piece was: Martin Doyle
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