Author:
Gibbons, Dave
Title:
The Originals
Publisher & Date:
DC Comics, 2004
Recommended Age Range:
14 and up
Plot Summary:
Teenagers Bok and Lel can’t wait to graduate from high school and join their local gang, the Originals. Ironically, although called the Originals, their style of dress and the music that they like, and even their enemies are taken from Mod culture in the 1960s. Their sworn enemies, the Dirt, are hearty Greaser/Rocker look-a-likes. The age-old war between Mod/Originals and Rocker/Dirts is recast in a future full of hovers (scooters that hover), sytlish clothing, hot chicks, and senseless violence.
Reader Appeal:
The art is very stylish and the story would appeal to those attracted to mod culture, science fiction and the film “Quadrophenia.” The dialogue, however, may be difficult for some readers, however, if they are unfamiliar with British slang.
Artistic Merit:
The artwork, dialogue and pacing is well-executed, giving one an interesting glimpse into a pseudo-retro future, while revealing the follies of gang culture.
