by Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, & Tamra Bonvillain
collects Once & Future #1-6
It’s not often that I read the synopsis for a book and say “F*** yeah!” aloud, but when I read “retired monster vampire hunter and her grandson,” I’m going to respond with “F*** yeah,” and thankfully, Kieron Gillen didn’t disappoint.
Older women protagonists are such a rarity in literally all genres, especially (too often patriarchal) fantasy, and while there are a few self deprecating lines from Bridgette about her age, it’s never at her own expense. Brigitte is a retired monster hunter and when she learns of a plot to resurrect King Arthur, she ropes in her grandson and an unsuspecting professor to save the world. Bridgette is an unflappable, badass woman, and I love her. I think she needed a moment of vulnerability towards the end, but that’s okay.
Once and Future is a very solid fantasy with a fun Arthur twist, it would translate very well into a TV show. (How is this not a TV show yet?) There are definitely echoes of other fantasy/adventure stories, and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade came to mind more than once. The pacing was a bit quick, it throws a lot at the reader in a few issues without much pause. A few characters are a little underdeveloped, especially Elaine and Rose, and Duncan’s ‘coming of age’ arc also felt a bit rushed. But Bridgette rightfully steals the show, and there’s absolutely no filler.
Mora and Bonvillain’s art was the perfect match for Once and Future. It’s light and kinetic, with facial expressions that are consistent and just over the top enough. The psychedelic colors of the otherworlds was also perfectly done. (Nancy, I love how we chose the same word!) I also liked the amount of horror and gore – enough to feel like an adult story, not so much that it felt like horror genre.
Yet another new favorite thanks to this group! I’m excited to read volume two.
Ok to air!
Reading Art 