The first story, "It Will Roam Tonight" is a standout. This appears to have been written by Ditko himself, as it is literally overflowing with his Objectivist/Randian philosophy.
The middle story, by Charles Nicholas and Vince Alacsia seems out of place in the context of the Ditko bookends. While not a subpar tale, it doesn't hold the higher standards of the other two.
The final story is downright incredible. Ditko's art is mesmerizing, and effectively (and creepily) conveys the musician's spiral into madness.
How these Ditko stories have yet to see a modern day reprint is beyond me, as they are prime examples of him delivering the goods, and then some--exceeding beyond expectations.
Fester, the two Ditko stories here are phenomenal!
ReplyDeleteThey're quick stories, but the art is brilliant! The hulking monster in the first story is so well executed. And the way Ditko shows the shadowy form of Karenski, with the one eye glaring at us with intense madness.....Wow, what a masterful peak Ditko was on during this period.
I would imagine Fantagraphics might one day cover this in their Ditko Archives series, but dang it I'd like to see a large format book (IDW/Yoe Books style!) collection a huge amount of Ditko's run in this era.
Thanks for your continued excavation of Ditko gems!
Javier
my pleasure, Javier! There's SO many "lost" treasures just waiting to be rediscovered when it comes to Ditko. I think may fans don't realize just how much of his work is out there!
ReplyDeleteBoth Ditko stories are incredibly imaginative. Some of my favorite work. The faces and body language is superb. I will note that, per Robin Snyder, Ditko has stated he didn't write any Charlton stories, aside from the Question/Blue Beeetle. These stories were likely written by workhorse Joe Gill.
ReplyDeleteI'm new to this site, and I'm very glad I found it.
ReplyDeleteIt's partly because of the British setting that I say it, but "A Touch Of Genius" is a story that would've been at home in one of those Amicus horror anthology films.
I've always liked Ghost Manor's custom of working the host into the story visually, with this host and "Winnie the Witch" before him. That's why his line "I'm moonlighting as a waiter" in "Power of the Drums" is pretty entertaining/