Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: Mark Kidwell
Artist: Kylr Charles, Jay Fotos
Release Date: 10th September 2014

Given the plethora of Zombie related films, TV shows, and comic books around at the moment, I found it strange that I hadn’t come across this particular sub-category until fairly recently. The ’68 series has been around for quite a while it seems; since 2006 in fact, and comprises a number of limited series and one shots. This issue marks the beginning of a new chapter, and rather than focusing on the conflict itself, ’68 Homefront brings the Vietnam-era zombie apocalypse to Harbinger, Pennsylvania, concentrating on the civilian struggle against the hordes of undead.

As a new reader, I was expecting a measure of exposition and build-up, but there’s literally no attempt to explain how or why the undead are shambling around the country. Instead, the narrative quickly establishes three interconnected strands, and it’s not too long before the bloodletting ensues. Dialogue throughout is mostly cursory, used solely to nudge the plot along. The only characters developed to any degree so far are the local prom queen and her ‘greaser’ boyfriend (who incidentally looks more like a character from the ‘50s in his leathers and DA quiff), and the town’s terrifically named sheriff, Orten Coldiron, who looks certain to be a major player.

Kyle Charles’ art exhibits shades of Greg Capullo to my eye, which is certainly no bad thing, and features some exquisite line work, shadow detailing, and shading. Jay Fotos’ subtly balanced colour work really complements the inks, adding a realistic texture to the gory sequences in particular. There is, however, a lack of any noticeable period detailing which might help ground the story in the Vietnam-era. The vehicles, buildings and clothes would not look out of place in a contemporary setting, and it’s only the absence of technology that gives it any semblance of not being set in the modern day.

All in, it’s a solid opening salvo featuring some fantastic artwork, but a little background reading might be required to fully appreciate the premise.

Rating: 3/5

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PREVIEW ARTWORK.

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The Writer of this piece was: Martin Doyle
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You can check out more of Martins reviews and thoughts on random retro things over at Retromuse

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