Review – Curb Stomp TP (BOOM! Studios)

January 28, 2016

2–4 minutes

Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Writer: Ryan Ferrier
Artist: Devaki Neogi
Release Date: 27th January, 2016

Those of you who have seen American History X will recall one scene in particular: it involves a man biting the pavement while a foot comes crashing down on his skull, causing his teeth to shatter and his days to come to an end. It’s particularly nasty, and not for the faint hearted, yet once you’ve seen it, it’s implanted in your memory like a chip, forever etched there until the day you die. It’s because of that disturbing scene in that movie I decided to give Curb Stomp a go, and I’m pleased to report that it lived up to the reputation of its violent title.

However, act of violence aside, this has absolutely nothing in common with American History X. It has more in common with Faster Pussycat Kill and The Warriors, if anything. The heart of this story beats of pure Grindhouse inspired retro-isms, as a group of bad ass, sassy femme fatales are thrust into a turf war after one of their own curb stomps some little punk for showing disrespect. It just so happens he’s a member of their gangland counterparts, who don’t take too kindly to the murder of their own. However, corrupt politics are also afoot, and the incident is being used as an excuse for the enemy to clear the borough of Old Beach and usher in a new era of syndicate dominance powered by a future city Mayor.

Needless to say, I freaking loved this. From the 70s inspired artwork that created a vibe and setting authentic to the era, to the strong female protagonists and references to punk rock songs only fans of punk rock will know, it’s a story tailor-made for those who the gritty and stylish culture of the 70s and 80s – although it’s bound to satisfy those who enjoy a crime story with a little bit of sizzle and sass. If you’re a fan of The Warriors, then it’s an essential read, and the comparisons are strong as this is clearly a love letter to that movie and others of its ilk.

My only complaint is that it’s only a four-issue mini-series. Although it’s not a criticism, my only gripe with it is that it ended too soon. Ferrier has stated that he’ll return to this world in future if the comic sells well, so be sure to get out there and pick up a copy – not only will you not regret it, but you’ll be doing me a huge personal favour, and countless other fans too, no doubt. I personally do need more of this in my life though: it’s that freaking good.

Overall, this is a great read. For a comic about street gangs, it’s the individuality of each character that makes it so special. You’ll want to keep hanging out with them after the final page is closed, and for that reason alone it’s going to be a tale worth revisiting some time down the line. Hopefully this won’t be the last time we’ve seen these characters, but if it is, Ryan Ferrier and Devaki Neogi should be proud of their creation. It’s a cult classic in the making.

Rating: 5/5.

PREVIEW ARTWORK
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