Mechanics aren’t the first class of professionals that spring to mind when looking for heroes. They’re important when there’s a problem under the hood or an oil change is needed, and everyone wants one in the family for free consultation, but the heroism usually ends there. That’s why Red 5 Comics’ new release, We Kill Monsters, is such an interesting story, utilizing a working class role in an extraordinary way. Created and written by Christopher Leone and Laura Harkcom and illustrated by Brian Churilla, We Kill Monsters is a fun ride with exciting action, endearing characters, and real emotions.
The story opens by introducing Jake and Drew Basher, a pair of brothers with a passion for cars, a passion so strong that they own their own repair shop, Basher Bros. Total motor-heads in and out, the love that Jake and Drew share for vehicles is only matched by the brotherly love they share for each other. Thrown into the mix is Drew’s former fiancé, a tough bartender named Vanessa. From the moment they’re introduced, it’s clear that the two characters still have feelings for one another, but Vanessa ended the relationship due to the closeness Drew shares with his younger brother.
But all of that is set aside when both Drew and Jake are mysteriously attacked one night by a monstrous beast—blue skin, a spiked mane, and salivating fangs comprise this creature. From that point on, it’s survival that matters to the brothers Basher.
We Kill Monsters is another enjoyable comic released by Red 5, the same publisher responsible for Neozoic, a trade paperback I greatly enjoyed. This story is packed with exciting road rage, amusing gore, and classic monsters—but none of those elements are why I ultimately appreciated the comic. The characters are simply endearing, filled with simple but genuine charm. Because there are only three in this first issue, plenty of time was spent fully introducing the players involved, especially Jake and Drew.
Not much has yet been revealed about their past, but it’s foreshadowed that something humanly sad occurred between the brothers that caused their bond. Also foreshadowed is a possible rift that exists, one that holds the other back. Events that transpire in the first issue show that this rift will probably escalate as time progresses, causing for a story wholly worth reading.
This comic book review originally appeared on Comic News on 26 May 2009.
