PopCultHQ received a review copy of ‘Cult Classic: Return to Whisper‘ #1 from Vault Comics. Available February 28th, 2018, the creative team for this series features writing from Eliot Rahal, art from Felipe Cunha, colors by Dee Cunniffe, and lettering from Taylor Esposito.
Here’s PopCultHQ’s spoiler-free review of…
Cult Classic: Return to Whisper #1
Writer: Eliot Rahal
Artist: Felipe Cunha
Colorist: Dee Cunniffe
Letters: Taylor Esposito
Cover Artists: Irene Koh (A), Felipe Cunha (B)
In Shops: Feb 28, 2018
SRP: $1.99
In 1997, a group of teenagers discover a treasure of immeasurable wealth. Fearing that their newfound fortune will be stolen from them, they make a pact: One day they’ll all come back as adults, divide their riches, and live happily ever after. Fifteen years later, they have returned. Not to uncover a fortune, but to bury a friend.
From Eliot Rahal (Ninjak vs. The Valiant Universe, The Paybacks) & Felipe Cunha (Flash Gordon, Turok) comes the first full-length series in the much-anticipated Cult Classic Universe!
PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
‘Cult Classic: Return to Whisper’ #1
Welcome to the town of Whisper. A seemingly innocent, peaceful community. That is until a group kids uncover secrets that lay within the town. And what initially united them as children could very well divide them as adults.
With a story like this, there is a lot to flesh out: how things were in the past, what’s transpired since, and what the present looks like today. This first issue is tremendous at providing just enough backstory for context, while providing a healthy share of the adult characters’ lives as they now are in 2012.
Though the flashbacks are set in 1997, for me, personally, it felt reminiscent of something in the 80’s decade. But when your present day is fifteen years later, 2012 does allow the inclusions of newer technology than in, say, 2000 (e.g. smartphones).
What stands out most in this first issue is the emotional pull from it. It’ll make instantly recall times of your youth, generate some of those “feels” we had when we were younger, and also the sometimes painful “adult” issues that likely may have tugged at your own heart. It’s relatable, engaging, and hard to put down. You just want to read more. And more.
Writing:
Eliot Rahal’s narrative and delivery are magnificent. The back-and-forth from the childhood years to the present couldn’t have been delivered any better. Nice segues, smooth transitions, and nothing over-complicated.
Rahal has only scratched the surface with how this ‘Return to Whisper’ will transpire which, quite frankly, is rather scary. With what the writer has delivered in issue one, any subsequent issue seeking to outdo the prior will be mind-blowing. Cult Classic: Return to Whisper #1 is classic storytelling a its finest. I’m extremely excited to see what Rahal brings next!
Art:
The illustrations, though seemingly rough at first glance, add a nice charm to the story. Felipe Cunha nicely brings Eliot’s characters to life. Even with simpler line art, each character is easily recognizable. Felipe also has moment of fine detail in the backgrounds which offer a nice compliment.
The color choices by Dee Cunniffe accentuate the warmth and tone of the story. Soft and minimal, it certainly compliments the art without taking away from it or being distracting. Dee really blends the purple and blue hues well in many panels, offering a coldness or somber environment. Great work with shading and rain splatters/drips too.
Taylor Esposito has a lot on his plate in this first issue, but the consummate professional proves once again that he’s up to the challenge. Dialogue, sound effects, varying captions, a distinct television font (voice), and the writing entries of a reporter, Taylor provides not only solid lettering throughout, but distinct voices for each.
PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:
The creative team assembled really came togther in this premiere issue. Rahal’s storytelling (a standout performance) is beautifully fluid, Cunha and Cunniffe make for a great one-two punch, and Esposito always brings the goods. This is a fantastic release from Vault Comics.
A combination of youthful innocence and real-world adult issues, Cult Classic: Return to Whisper is chock-full of mystery, drama, and heart. With its ‘Goonies’ vibe and mystery blanketing the town, this comic invites the reader to reminisce into their own childhood. Whisper looks to be a town of even more, yet uncovered, secrets that pulls you in as well. The intrigue alone will have you hooked. This debut issue will certainly have you anxious for issue two, if not assure you that it’s pull-list worthy. And remember…Stay plugged in. Stay tuned. And stay alive.
PopCultHQ’s Rating:
4.5 Out of 5 Stars
‘Cult Classic: Return to Whisper’ #1
can be purchased Wednesday, February 28th!
<[Creator Spotlight] Writer of the Month – January 2018: Eliot Rahal>
<[Creator Spotlight] Letterer of the Month – January 2018: Taylor Esposito of Ghost Glyph Studios>
Be sure to follow the creative team!
Writer – Eliot Rahal
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Artist – Felipe Cunha
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Colorist – Dee Cunniffe
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Letterer – Taylor Esposito
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Publisher – Vault Comics
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