Bendis Does It All

Imagine if you will the 1930s. Two boys are playing tag and they come across a human torso. It’s the opening of Brian Michael Bendis’ and Marc Andreyke’s “Torso: A True Crime Graphic Novel.” This depression era tale of a mass murderer who terrorized the city of Cleveland is based on a true story. It’s perfect fodder for Bendis as he masterly manipulates factual historical figures to tell a riveting story. And along the way make commentary on queer fear and the perception of the dregs of humanity.

Elliot Ness is now the city’s Safety Director with a cemented reputation as the man who is untouchable. Meanwhile we follow the detectives on the torso case. Partners Simon and Myrle have a solid rapport with each other. While they’re not like an old married couple, they do understand and listen to each other. They also face unsettling truths about themselves and their relationship evolves as the story unfolds.

If you feel as if Bendis is manipulating every emotion you have while reading this trade, he is, and he makes you love it. Besides the partners and this crime spree, there’s Ness’ reputation and his marriage. Here again Bendis shows a man whose ambition causes him to make rash decisions. In an emotional peak Ness does something irredeemable and the cost to his life and career are devastating.

The core of this drama is the crime itself. Just who is the torso killer? What’s his motivation, and why does he choose the victims he does? In real life these questions are never answered, but once again Bendis gives the reader a logical possibility that closes the distance between the ‘30s and now. It is a timeless story that meets many heights and a dizzying crescendo that will leave you heartbroken and angry.

Out of the many inventive scenes in this graphic novel is the interrogation scene between Ness and the suspected killer. Here Bendis forces the reader to see things from a different perspective – both physically and psychologically. Having said that the artwork is a combination of photographs, collages and drawings. The book done entirely in black and white adds to that surreal yet concrete reality that Bendis and Marc Andreyke have created. This world is constantly changing and through words and art design Bendis (yes he is credited with the artwork on this trade) and Andreyke are able to entertain and educate simultaneously.

If you need more reasons for getting this trade, then check the back where actual photographs of the case and the real people who played a role in narrative are seen. You’ll wonder why Bendis does not illustrate his work more often.

All in all “Torso” is both a treat for the eyes and thought-provoking enough to feed your inner psychologist. Entertainment while learning something about yourself is a rare feat done by master storytelling. With the rights of the film safely back in Bendis’ hands perhaps we may see a move to the big screen. Until then there is the trade where you can relive the story as many times as you wish.