Total Sell Out (Brian Michael Bendis’…)

(Image, 2003)
™ and © Image Comics, Inc.

Don’t go into Brian Michael Bendis’ latest graphic novel expecting a work with the depth and complexity of one of his crime novels like Torso or Goldfish. It is what it is: a collection of short stories from throughout his career as both cartoonist and independent comics creator, with no greater pretensions or marketing spin to make it into anything else. Bendis himself has called this a “mix tape.” To continue the analogy, consider it a collection of B-sides, extra tracks, and “unplugged” rarities. As such, it is at times inconsistent and uneven, but also hilarious, chilling, and enormously entertaining.

Broken into five sections, Total Sell Out starts with a collection of autobiographical essays from Bendis’ days in Cleveland. Next comes a series of sketches and stories that the writer admits were experiments in storytelling or anecdotes that simply never found their way into any of his larger work. Then, there is a section simply entitled “Schtick,” containing Bendis’ favorite editorial cartoons from the days when he did such things. (Some are actually pretty good!)

Rounding out the collection is a grouping of stories he illustrated for other writers like Warren Ellis and James Hudnall and a portfolio section of covers and other works. Those who like Bendis the writer more than Bendis the artist will find these sections of the least interest. A bonus section includes Bendis’ essays and introductions to other works. Overall, it’s a great anthology that can be read a number of ways: Aspiring creators could study this to trace the evolution of the best writer in comics today. Bendis fans will find it a convenient assemblage of hard-to-find work. And, finally, as a collection of short popcorn-like tales and jokes, it makes for great bathroom reading (especially “My Blue Heaven,” one of the most uproarious pieces of potty humor ever printed).

— Stephen C. George

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Cover Price: $14.95
1 copy available for $18.00

Brian Michael Bendis