I am a huge fan of Brubaker and Phillips. So much so that I’m not sure I have a favorite series they churned out. I know I have them all and in multiple forms. And I know that there are parts of each that I remember sticking out. But I don’t think that there is one series or storyline that I love more than the rest. They are all just THAT good.
Pulp is a graphic novel about a man who writes for comics. He runs into someone who knows him from a past life and a series of events unfold, which I’m not going to ruin for you. It takes place in 1939, with flashbacks and sequences from the comics he wrote. It has the typical Brubaker and Phillips feel, so it will feel like home if you’e a fan. And if you’re not, it will be something that is a welcomed change.
Whether you like Fatale, Kill or be Killed, Incognito, etc. this is a great addition to your Brubaker and Phillips collection. It isn’t like the others, the story is a little less gritty. But, there is a need for justice and the side of right; which they always exhibit so well. And sure, the way to justice isn’t clean. But, in their comics the end game is all that matters. How you get there is just a technicality.
The art is a classic style that I have always loved and been partial to. While many these days prefer something different and modern, the Noir style is endearing to me. So, if you don’t like the more classic style of art this isn’t for you. They even use style to distinguish between the comic you are reading and the comics written by the main character, which is a nice little addition.
Overall, this novel is what you would expect from the duo. Great art, good story, that signature Brubaker Phillips feel and a world that sucks you in until it’s done with you. It might not be AS good as the other stories, but it is still good. If you are considering reading it, I would definitely give it a try. I gave it an eight, because it was good. But, some of their previous work is at least a nine or even a ten. And if you haven’t read Brubaker and Phillips projects before now, and I can’t stress this enough: GET STARTED ASAP!!
