Publisher: Image Comics
Writers: SM Vidaurri, Frank J Barbiere
Artist: SM Vidaurri, Jamie Jones
Release Date: 13th May, 2015

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 I know nothing about Five Ghosts. But I’m a sucker for a sexy, sinister, painted cover – Vidaurri does a great line in anthropomorphic rabbits, and the leering skull here is a grabber – and I greatly enjoyed Barbiere’s work on DH’s Blackout, Superboy and various assorted Avengers. So can this one shot get me into Barbiere’s world, with a tale of its origin mythology and heist-romp that is more the comic’s usual fare?

First up, Vidaurri tackles the mysterious Dreamstone that (apparently) is the key source of mystical, demonic power for the protagonist generally. It’s lush, very easy on the eye with stark contrasts and sweeping vistas. It’s beuatiful to look at, and there is enough substance to the narrative to hold your attention. Whilst it is at times perplexing, it feels like a proper (if you can say such a thing) reimagined fairy story, the kernel of truth at the heart of a legend. It’s a great read, and Vidaurri plays to his strength as the whole creative package here.

Barbiere, meantime, seems to relish having the space to give us a thrilling yarn. Sometimes, Barbiere can seem a little obtuse in his writing, but here it’s direct even when mysterious like a super-powered Tintin – and, to be fair, there’s more than a touch of Hergé about Jamie Jones’ art in ‘Boats against the Current’. 

I didn’t know much about Five Ghosts coming into this one-shot. I’ve never read it. But I will now, and you should too.

Rating 4/5.

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The Writer of this piece was: Sam Graven
You can follow Sam on Twitter

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