Author: Greg Lozano
This review is Spoiler Free
Many say that first impressions are usually among the most important. While it may seem like a shallow comment, there is truth to it. With that, praise will be given for Crocodile Black’s first issue. One of the most intriguing things a storyteller can do in the first chapter is to create tension, leave just enough hints, and create a fixation in the reader that demands more. Such a trick is commonly known as a hook, and establishing one quickly and intriguingly is no simple feat. Crocodile Black did it right, and now I want more. This issue’s only real downfall is its length. However, that isn’t exactly a fault as it allows readers to reread the chapter several times to look at the details in the panels to see if there was anything that may have been missed in the first reading.
The story predominantly follows a character by the name of Danny, who, from a snippet of dialogue in a scene with a mental health professional, is known to suffer from “Obsessive Disorder.” The comic does not say Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and the volunteer staff members who are also licensed clinicians at Geek Therapy’s People of Con thought it important to clarify that “Obsessive Disorder” is not a DSM-V diagnosis. That means there may be similarities in the comic to OCD, but there may also be inaccuracies due to creativity and lack of expert insight. Those who have OCD or OCD traits may still find a connection with the character but should not expect an accurate representation of their lived experience.
Not much in the first comic is explained about Danny’s situation other than he is doing food delivery during the pandemic, where his parents seem to have more control over his life than he wants them to. In a way, this story uses the shared trauma that many experienced during the pandemic to sympathize with the troubles people endured without leaning heavily on the setting. Rather than feeling like a crutch, it feels like a set piece that could go in any direction.
What leaves me curious about future entries in this series is whether the author will be playing with the idea of multiple perspectives. The audience is not exactly introduced to a large cast, but key characters look like they can carry the story in several directions. This led me to investigate and find that it will be a 5-part series. While short overall, not every story needs to be a long-running series. In fact, some of the best stories told are generally ones that have their end in mind.
I look forward to reading every issue from the creative team behind this piece. If each of the 5 entries is as good as the first, then it will definitely be worth the read and the time. Cheers to Eisner-nominated writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson and his team for the thrilling storytelling, incredible art, and striking lettering. This was a joy to read.
Curious about how Crocodile Black will develop? Don’t miss out on future issues! Stay tuned for more reviews and insights. Support the creators by following their work and consider donating to Geek Therapy and their project, People of Con, to increase our reach and accurate reviews of comics.