Review – No West to Cross #1
Nov 16, 2011 by     3 Comments    Posted In: Reviews

Let me just start right off by saying that I loved this issue.  I absolutely enjoy how when I get something brand new to read, my expectations are blown away.  I seem to suffer from this.  When I look at something, at first it doesn’t catch my eye.  Maybe it’s because I’m so used to Super Hero stuff that I get closed minded when it comes to other types of comics, but I can happily say that my first glances have been proven wrong.  Man From Space was one, Vic Boone  – also from 215ink – was another.  No West to Cross is right at the top of the list of comic surprises though.  So why don’t you take a spell with me and I’ll spin a yarn for ya about this here comic called No West to Cross.  Whaddya say?

As I was reading this issue, I fell right into it.  Becky, our hero and Cowgirl, begins by telling us about this myth that the old west was a “Man’s World.”  Don’t try and correct her on that, you’re liable to get a bullet put in ya somewhere.  As her words cross the page, we watch as a little boy is kidnapped from a small town.  For what reason though?   Could it be for money?  Are there some bandits up over yonder that want a hold on a small town?  Are these just ruthless ruffians who want to cause trouble?  That’s for later in the issue, but for now, Becky fills us in.  As the kidnapping takes place, some bullets fly, and a mother is distraught, the foundation is set for this three part story.  The next panel takes us right into the middle of the action, as Becky is chasing down a bank robber.  Within the next four pages, and they are very well used four pages, it is definitely established that Becky is no mere lady.  She is as hard as any of the other men in this untamed world, and she can be just as ruthless too.  She’s no one to be trifled with and can stand her ground to any adversary put in front of her.  Becky is a cowgirl.

No West to Cross is the creation of David Pinckney.  And what a creation it is.  The words he has put down really draw you into this world where a woman, and a very attractive one at that, rides the untamed parts of the west, not for her own profit or ego, but to help set things right for the folk that can’t do it on their own.  As the story progresses, David does a fantastic job of filling you in on what he wants you to know about Becky’s back story.  I know there’s a whole lot more to her, but you can’t put it all in one issue.  David’s characters are not one, or two dimensional, but really do have some feeling to them.  Even the secondary characters come across as having effort put into them being as fleshed out as possible.  I love that about a story.  With this world he has created, I could feel my own excitement grow as the action and drama took place.  David’s words really did draw me into the story, and as it should, he’s got me hanging on what will happen next.

Zack Basset’s artwork is great.  With the way he draws Becky, she is drawn as this seductive looking, very attractive woman who has this edge about her.  He stays very consistent with her looks throughout the issue, and also does the same for the rest of the cast and background.  I will say this though, it did look like some of the art was rushed, almost like he tried to push through it quickly.  If Zack takes just a bit more time with each panel, it would look absolutely amazing.  Zack Basset will be one to keep an eye out for.  As he perfects his skill, it wouldn’t suprise me to see him working on other titles in the future.

Let me also add that Peebo Mondia’s inks and colors really put the issue together.  If it were just black and white, that would be OK, but it wouldn’t have the feel that is does with the colors that Peebo has added to it.  It has a dull sense to it, but that’s what it should have.  The colors in this world shouldn’t be shiny and flashy, it should be dusty, old, and worn.  Peebo makes it look and feel exactly like that.

I’m very glad I got a chance to review this issue.  I’m glad I didn’t miss out on what could be one of the best 215ink has to offer so far.  It’s a story of adventure, mystery, and one amazingly sexy cowgirl.  Don’t tell Becky I said that though, as I don’t want her to pistol whip me or put a bullet in me somewhere that I would rather not have a bullet.  Keep it up guys, I’ll be looking forward to issue two.

Script: 8/10
Artwork: 8/10
Parental Concern:  Yellow to Orange for some blood and gunfights.

 

 

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3 Comments Add Comment

  • Jason Newcomb November 16, 2011 at 2:23 pm

    I got my copy here. Looking forward to reading it.


  • Tim Morse November 16, 2011 at 6:35 pm

    I really think you’ll like it Jason. Very interested to hear what you think about it!


  • Chance Peterson November 16, 2011 at 8:13 pm

    This is something I wouldn’t normally think to pick up but I’m glad I got to read it. It’s an interesting story and I’ll be looking for the next issue.