PopCultHQ Comic Book Review: 451 Media's 'NVRLND' #2 (of 4) [Out 9/14]

PopCultHQ received a preview copy of ‘NVRLND’ #2 from 451 Media Group. In stores on September 14th, the creative team for this new edgy miniseries features writing from Stephanie Salyers and Dylan Mulick and illustrations by artist Leila Leiz. And in case you missed it, you HAVE to read our review of NVRLND #1.

Second star to the right and straight on till morning.’ That’s the cryptic clue cooler than cool rocker Peter Pan gave to Wendy Darling and Tiger Lilly. You know what that means – the underground NVRLND party is back on! The Lost Boys are going to play a set at the party, and everyone who is anyone will be there. There are only two problems. One, Wendy is grounded, and two, that means Hook and his band of pixie pushing pirates will be there too. The kids of Hollywood High are getting so high they never land, James Hook wants to grasp control of that scene no matter the cost. Tonight Peter Pan and James Hook will fight for the right to control NVRLND. Tonight we see if Peter Pan knows how to fly!

Here is PopCultHQ’s spoiler-free review of NVRLND #2 (of 4)…

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review: NVRLND #2 (of 4)

Just got my hands on an advance copy of ‘NVRLND’ #2 from 451 Media Group a couple of days ago and with how much issue one (released last Wednesday, 8/10) impressed me, I had to dive into the next issue of the series and all I can say is WOW! My review of issue one highlighted the brilliance of the title. The following day, 451 Media released a music video (which can be found below – a MUST SEE!) featuring musical group The Raveonettes. The video was masterfully made and gave a sense of watching a trailer, but not for a movie or tv series, but for a comic book! This rare method of promotion for the comic book miniseries not only captured the essence of the title through its terrific directing, it was inspired by this second issue and they couldn’t have been more spot on.

Writers Stephanie Salyers & Dylan Mulick have created a rare gem that belongs in any collection as it will likely transcend time with its material. The story Salyers and Mulick have delivered is an ideal, and dare I say perfect, example of how to modernize a well-known fairy tale and attract a larger audience through its narrative and content. NVRLND is the new bar for which all other fairy tale re-imaginings must attain. Never has an age-old story such as Peter Pan embrace a true sense of authenticity of 21st century nightlife and the club while also incorporating the undeniable reality of the dark and sometimes hazardous side of the underground scene.

Artist Leila Leiz has masterfully created and exemplified this fantasy environment through her illustrations. Throughout the entire issue, I caught myself spending more time on each page. More time on each panel. Why? Because as compelling and exciting as Dylan and Stephanie’s story is to read, you cannot help but take the time to absorb and appreciate the brilliance and vibrancy of Leila’s work. And the two-page full splash page is one of the most beautifully breathtaking splashes I’ve seen all year that conjures up a slew of emotions within its panels: shock, exhilaration, fear, and even some pulling on the heartstrings. Its fun and unique panel layout, accompanied by the adrenaline-charged pivotal moment in the series, make these two pages a truckload of eye candy. Okay I’ll say it… Leiz’ artwork for NVRLND is the $***!

Dylan, Leila and Stephanie are an idyllic cadre of creators who have happened to converge and put forth their best efforts at the exact same moment to produce what will likely become nominated in multiple categories at the 2017 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards. 451 has struck gold with this creative team and title!

The only thing I suppose I can say negatively about NVRLND is that I foresee myself being upset that the title came to an end. However, I know with that closure will come a great sense of fulfillment and elation as I’ve just read what is my definitive pick for miniseries of 2016. Hands (and hooks) down!

PopCultHQ’s Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Buy Issue #1 Digitally on Comixology: http://bit.ly/NvR_cX

Synopsis for NVRLND #1:

NVRLND is a dark and magical retelling of Peter Pan set in the present-day landscape of Hollywood. Wallflower turned wild-child Wendy Darling befriends the fierce Tiger Lily and falls into the music rave scene of the underground club NVRLND. Intoxicated by the music, Wendy falls for the enigmatic Peter, lead singer of the band The Lost Boys. Peter is everything a girl could desire: handsome, daring, and reckless. Wendy discovers Peter is mixed up with the mysterious tattoo artist James Hook, who preys upon the young who flock to Peter, “hooking” them on the new designer drug, Pixie Dust. You think you may know the truth about NVRLND, but the truth is, you know nothing. NVRLND is a story for anyone who never wants to grow up, but may not live long enough to have a chance.

451 Media Group is proud to present the original music video accompaniment to the launch of Dylan Mulick and Stephanie Salyers’s exciting new graphic novel, NVRLND.

Check out the amazing music video created for NVRLND featuring The Raveonettes…