PopCultHQ

PopCultHQ received a review copy of Whodunnit? TPB from Dark Horse Comics. This collected edition is available on July 16th (bookstores) & July 17th (comic book shops). The creative team for this trade paperback features writing by El Torres, art from Vicente Cifuentes, and colors by Ulises Arreola.

The patriarch of one of the wealthiest families in the country is found dead in the bedroom of his mansion. Every member of the entire family is a suspect!

As each of their secrets is revealed and dark pasts come to light, the chief inspector is determined to find the killer. And on the day of the murder, a maid looking to start a new life began her first day on the job, but she holds a secret of her own.

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Mysteries are some of the most beloved forms of fiction to capture the public’s attention. From Sherlock Holmes to Miss Marple, detectives have been making their mark on readers for generations. It is only natural that comic books should be the next logical outlet for this most staunch of storytelling forms. And this fine trade paperback (TPB) houses an adventure that will satisfy any literary appetite. Readers will especially appreciate the engaging script and the outstanding art/colors. So grab your magnifying lens because the game is afoot.

WRITING:

El Torres does a marvelous job crafting a world set against the classical 19th-century backdrop; full of fine families, hidden secrets, and compelling casework for the detective. What sets it apart from other mystery comics I’ve read in the past is that each character stands apart on their own. No one is a mere prop to advance the plot, even figures such as the butler or cook. That takes talent, and El Torres has it in spades.

ART:

Vicente completely nailed it with the artwork for this mystery. Having the characters be anthropomorphic animals was a stroke of genius. In addition to presenting a new creative dimension, this will lock readers in from the first page until they close the book. Combined with the fantastic and detailed layouts that help bring this world to life, the whole TPB is a veritable feast for the eyes.

COLORS:

The saying “Go big or go home” can be applied to many facets of life. When selecting the colors for Whodunnit?, Ulises Arreola most certainly went all out. It is an explosion of color throughout the entire book. Equally important is the use of dark tones and blacks for the shadows at just the right moments to heighten the tension of certain scenes. My cap goes off to Ulises for a fine job as the colorist.

OVERALL ASSESSMENT:

From the moment I saw this TPB’s cover, I knew it would be nothing short of delightful. Indeed, as a fan of both mysteries and comic books, I find this volume to be the best of both worlds for readers. Thanks to the creative team’s efforts, a thrilling script, gorgeous artwork, and terrific colors make the entire thing worthwhile. The surprises along the way will ensure that anyone who picks up a copy of Whodunnit? will enjoy themselves immensely.

PopCultHQ Rating:

5 out of 5 stars

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