The Vanishing Point by Mark Russell & Ryan Alexander-Tanner
Blurb:
Award-winning writer Mark Russell (Batman: Dark Age, Superman: Space Age, Exit, Stage Left!: The Snagglepuss Chronicles) and some of the comics industry's most talented artists deliver a universe full of shocking sci-fi horror tales in this new anthology series!
The brainchild of critically-acclaimed writer Mark Russell, VANISHING POINTis an anthology of short stories that are part science fiction and part existential horror. These are stories with a twist in which the twist is not the point of the story, but a beginning point from which to ask what it means to be alive. Russell is joined by artists Ryan Alexander-Tanner, Juan Doe and Alberto Ponticelli on six terrifying tales that will leave readers mystified.
Review:
Just look at that fine cover. How do you not at least consider reading what’s inside? That’s basically why I picked up Vanishing Point, without even knowing it’s actually an anthology of science fiction short stories.
Created by Mark Russell & Ryan Alexander-Tanner, the anthology collects six sci-fi shorts all written by Mark Russell, with different artists realizing each story with their own unique art styles. Since each short is so different, not just story-wise, but also in terms of tone, theme, and artwork, it’s only fair that I review each one separately. So, here are my spoiler-free mini reviews of each short:
SCREAMS
Art by Juan Doe, Letters by Carlos M. Mangual, Covers by Christian Ward & Juan Doe
While the premise and concept might not feel the most original, the execution is fittingly haunting. The use of colors and composition to highlight the isolation of space makes for a brilliant atmospheric horror tale. The fact that this whole story is told in first person further adds a personal touch to the slow spiral into insanity as the real nightmare unveils itself.
A subtle commentary on the innocent collateral of capitalistic greed, “Screams” really sets the bar high for this anthology. I absolutely loved this one.
The Tomorrow Family
Art & Letters by Ryan Alexander-Tanner, Colors by Sidney Davidson & Cover by Robert Hack
The change in art style from Story 1 to Story 2 was quite jarring if I’m being honest. Clearly inspired by The Jetsons, the story and characters have a cozy, cartoony vibe to them. At first. As the story unfolds, you start seeing the dark sarcasm and horrific realities slowly make themselves apparent within the cartoony dialogues. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the story per se, but the ending did salvage this one for me. Another dark look at a dystopian future, this time with class disparity, The Tomorrow Family does leave you pondering over whether our society is headed in the right direction.
As someone who’s lived all his life in a country with massive class and economic disparity, this one really hit home.
Cell Structure
Art by Alberto Ponticelli, Colors by Ellie Wright, Letters by Carlos M. Mangual, & Cover by Patricia Martin
I’ll just come out and say it: this was my least favorite of the anthology. Great artwork, with some very poignant questions about colonization and ecological exploitation, Cell Structure actually had a lot of potential. However, the story didn’t offer more than just world building. There seemed to be a plot building up to something, but in the end, it went nowhere meaningful. After the last two stories, I expected more.
Proof of Life
Art by Jok, Letters by Carlos M. Mangual, & Cover by Chris Weston
My favorite story of the lot, this one had everything. A very interesting premise, a plot with tension that managed to build on the world, whilst exploring a thought-provoking philosophical question, and a conclusion that built on everything that we were presented with in a way that left me with my jaw hanging in awe. I loved everything about this short and, therefore, will refrain from saying more. Go in blind, and let the story and artwork astound you.
Deathwatch
Art & Letters by Ryan Alexander-Tanner, Colors by Sidney Davidson, Cover by Phil Hester
Another super interesting premise, Deathwatch had mystery and intrigue with the perfect blend of emotional turmoil. The protagonist’s despair coupled with the institute’s overt positive attitude made for a tense read which slowly but surely ended up with a solid ending that I won’t spoil for you. Honestly, I did predict the ending, but that’s because it’s really well set up. Plus, this one is as much about the journey as it is about the nature of the world it’s set in. Good stuff.
The Mission
Art & Letters by Ryan Alexander-Tanner, Colors by Sidney Davidson, & Cover by Marcus To
The most action-filled of the six, The Mission is set in contemporary times as a Stranger invades our planet, making their way towards a machine that can create antimatter. Told from the President’s perspective in first person, the short read like an action film that’s barreling towards tragedy. A little predictable, this one might not be the strongest ending to this anthology, but it did have heart, as well as a good, captivating story.
In Conclusion:
From deep space to dystopian futures, Vanishing Point collects six sci-fi shorts, some of which will fuel your imagination, while others give you nightmares.
