Spooked

    (Oni, 2004)
™ and © 2004 Antony Johnston & Ross Campbell

Readers of this graphic novel might reminded of the 1990 movie Ghost for reasons other than the obvious supernatural comparisons. Johnston’s story also contains the perfect balance of elements that won that film so much critical acclaim: action, emotion, suspense, and—most importantly—strong characterization.

Readers of Johnston’s previous work (including Three Days in Europe, also from Oni) already know he’s no stranger to strong characterization, as demonstrated by story protagonist Emily Spook. Despite an unfortunately contrived last name, Johnston’s character is a well-developed centerpiece for this thrilling storyline. Emily is an artist prone to ghostly possession, and her current mindguest is a magician murdered by a coven of netherworldly spirits. Emily forms a bond with the mage, who convinces her to search for his killers.

With Emily’s Goth outfit, lip piercings, sunken eyes, and the like, Campbell seems to go out of his way to make her an ugly and unpleasant character. Yet this makes Johnston’s transformation of her into a worthy heroine all the more satisfying. And satisfying is what this is, despite an odd and abrupt turn of events near the end. But that’s no reason to get spooked. The only thing to be scared of is missing this perfect blend of horror, crime, and personal drama.

— Jim Johnson
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