Midnight Mover

    (Oni, 2003)
™ and ©2003 Gary Phillips

As far as crime comics go, this is just another good one. As backhanded as that might sound, it’s the truth: There’s no hook or shtick to make this comic book stand out amongst its peers, but it remains a fine example of its craft. Phillips provides an accessible, intelligent, and well-paced story, while Love and Wasson’s art is clean and pleasant—not too detailed but rich enough to support the dark, moody atmosphere.

When a bodyguard for an escort service finds murdered the call girl he was supposed to protect, he decides to split rather than try to explain his involvement to the cops. As he flees into the desert as far as his damaged car will take him, the two L.A. detectives on the case search for the suspect. But, once the crime makes the news, there’s no more hiding.

Good stuff, but there are no big surprises, no twists, no true suspense. All of the characters are developed as the story unfolds, and, while none is forgettable, neither are any truly remarkable. The story is engrossing but not captivating. And the wait for the next issue won’t keep anyone awake at night, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be picked up.

— Jim Johnson
Jump to issue:
  NotesWriterArtist
#1

March, 2003
Cover Price: $2.95
4 copies available from $1.91 		Gary PhillipsJeremy Love
#3

June, 2003
Cover Price: $2.99
1 copy available for $1.75 		Gary PhillipsJeremy Love
#4

September, 2003
Cover Price: $2.99
1 copy available for $1.75 		Gary PhillipsJeremy Love