A independent graphic novel about a pro wrestler in space set in the year 3000? It’s in black and white too? It’s a compilation of comic strips as well?
With these three elements striking a chord as either strange or associated with usually weak work, Jeff Martin’s “Heat” may be a trade you’ll originally pass up.
That would be a huge mistake.
For those of you that grew up on a heavy diet of WWE as a kid, the thought of watching Dick the Bastard fight his way from jobber to main eventer is something both familiar and fun. In the end however, Martin does more than cash in on pop culture sensibilities, he crafts a one of a kind story that is also infectiously drawn and features two characters that you can listen to forever.
You’d never expect this book to be a futuristic buddy comedy, but that’s exactly what it becomes.
In space jail, Dick has no future. As a matter of fact, he’s a bum. That is until wrestling trainer and former legend Mad Dog Crockett gives him the opportunity of a lifetime. Kind of. While he doesn’t get to escape from his jail in space, he is able to compete in wrestling matches and pass the time somewhere besides his cell.
Confused? Think Nintendo’s “Punch-Out,” meets “South Park,” with a “Calvin and Hobbes” look.
Taught by Crockett and showing some ingenuity along the way, Dick definitely earns his name, but steals your attention in the process. Between the actual matches, the running commentary between the two below each panel, a kind of documentary-style look back at the events, after they happened, is what makes the book so cool. It provides even more laughs, as Dick and Crockett have no problem telling the world how cool they are and how dumb everyone else is. It also does a solid job of filling in the blanks of the story and makes the futuristic setting easily approachable and inviting.
The references to famous events in pro wrestling history will also induce a smile for anyone who has watched and cared about the sport. But don’t be fooled. This is so much more than a niche book for a niche audience. Simply put, this is a laugh out loud tale, supported by an art style that works. While its initially easy to knock the art’s simple approach, by the end of it all, it’s more than capable. Covering plenty of emotion and proving himself in action scenes, Martin is a unique talent that can inspire laughs with both his brush and pen.
While the added issue, which shows Crockett winning the championship is enjoyable and the art, by Dan Schneider is more suited for the medium, Martin’s style is a perfect fit for his title and proves he has something incredibly special in “Heat.”
Every once in a while, someone throws convention out the window and creates something based purely on passion, with the intention of having the masses enjoy it.
“Heat” is one such work, which manages to surprise, in spite of so many obstacles in its way.
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