Sacrifice is a new self-published comic from artist Dalton Rose and writer Sam Humphries (recently acclaimed for his work on Our Love Is Real). It’s the story of a young man who suffers from epilepsy and has a penchant for gothy new wave music. And one day, he has a seizure and is mysteriously transported to the ancient world of the Aztecs. That’s the high-concept right there, and it’s also most of the plot of this first issue. So since there’s not room for too many surprises in 24 pages once that initial idea is revealed, the real draw here isn’t in finding out what happens, it’s in the execution. And, as one would hope, the execution is spectacular.
For starters, the art: This is Dalton Rose’s first major comics work, but his linework possesses an ease and confidence that belies his status as a newcomer. The sharp, clear lines and use of stark light and shadow recall artists such as Moebius, Paul Pope, Alex Toth, and Paul Grist, but with a unique kinetic flair. Each face is distinctive, characters move in their own style, and the storytelling is smooth and clear. The cast is introduced and there’s lots of action, but it never gets confusing.
Also notable is Pete Toms’ spectacular coloring. The vivid hues add dimension, direct focus, and work seamlessly with the pencils and inks in conjuring up an unspoiled natural world and a long-gone civilization.
And of course, there’s the story that holds it all together. Sam Humphries is on fire here, driving the script a million miles an hour back through time and across the vistas of a bygone South America. We hit the ground running from the first page, and Humphries’ text is our tour guide as we meet the characters, spin through modern-day San Diego, and end up surrounded by warriors with spears and clubs.
It’s pretty amazing how much is packed into this one issue. It’s a totally unique and undiluted blast of excitement, and it’s only the first quarter of the story. There’s a lot more fun on the way.
Sacrifice is a six-issue self-published limited series, available through select comic shops and online distributors. For a full list of participating stores and information about obtaining issues, see the official Sacrifice site.