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By Andy Frisk
January 13, 2010 - 20:02
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Whitley and Strutz’s second issue of their satirical comedy adventure spends a large amount of its time being just that, as well as stereotypical. While the humorous jabs, parodies, and caricatures of the likes of McKellen, Gaiman, and Ozzy were great fun last issue, with this installment, they are more like clichés and a bit heavy handed in their parody that unfortunately read more like stereotypes. Toddy is the stuffy old “queen” with the melodramatic boyfriend. Emerald is flamboyantly gay and at complete cultural odds with Toddy. Mix, add dialogue, and humor ensues. Everyman’s new traveling companion, Laverne is little more than a stereotype as well. Her lay about the house and unemployed boyfriend is even worse. Most comic book and pop culture fans have a pretty good idea who the real life people having some good natured fun poked at them are and what their behavior and personas are like, so a little less heavy handed silliness is necessary. It is only the second issue of the series though, and there’s plenty of time to get back to the task at hand, namely that of saving the UK and being genuinely funny.
While the character interactions might drag on and get overdone, there is some great dialogue between some of them. Toddy and Emerald’s banter is particularly sharp:
Look here Emerald, ya bloody ponce…
That’s Sir Emerald to you. Thank you very much.
Thanks for reminding me. I’m thinking of giving up my Knighthood now that they’re just handing them out to every queen who shakes her behind on stage.
You’re just lucky they don’t revoke them. After the reviews I saw of your last film…
Far be it for me to break up good drama, but I think there was a reason you came here, Toddy? (Interjects Toddy’s boyfriend)
Yes. Thank you for reminding me. Have you seen anyone dressed as a wizard recently? Other than yourself of course.
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| The arrival of the Fairies from issue #1. |
Strutz’s unique colored pencil, ink, and paint artwork is still great. It’s a bit more subdued this issue with less focus on the fairies and their impressionistic look (hopefully they’ll make a comeback next issue-they’re really interesting artistically). The characters look good, and Strutz demonstrates a great grasp on humorous and a mildly slapstick use of body language. The characters point, pant, pose, stand, and strut hilariously.
Overall, The Order of Dagonet #2 hopefully serves as just a bridge from a promising debut issue to a fulfilling third issue that gets down to some serious fun. Ozzy vs. Oberon, now there’s a battle to look forward to, even if we can’t understand a word of it! Based on this series' unique artwork and premise, coming back for more is recommended (I'll be back for issue #3).
For more info, check out www.firetowerstudios.com
Rating: 6 /10
