With a cover showing characters in family portrait-style wearing matching wool jumpers, it’s clear from the start that this second issue of Papercuts and Inkstains features the same irreverent humour as its predecessor. This is also reflected in the brief introduction, which raises a smile before any of the three stories within have been read. It all bodes well, setting up an anthology that doesn’t disappoint.
Cast Adrift is a sci-fi story with a twist. Written by Rob Jones, it’s reminiscent of a Future Shock from 2000AD, and because of such, some readers may guess the ending before they get there. Fortunately, the joy is in the journey as much as the destination; the writing is tense, yet also wry and amusing, Rory Donald’s chunky artwork a perfect accompaniment that uses darkness to brilliant effect.
Together Forever takes the everyday chore of walking the dog, twisting it into a horror story that is also incredibly funny. Words and pictures combine brilliantly; writer Mike Sambrook’s dialogue guarantees a smile – if not a laugh – on each page, while Jim Lavery’s art gives us characters full of expression. Again, seasoned comics readers may guess the ending, but there’s a knockout punchline that will have even the most cynical chuckling to themselves.
Jones and Sambrook team up for writing duties on the final story, Profits of Doom. The only tale that doesn’t stand alone, it continues from the first issue, although this isn’t a problem if you missed it. They’ve saved the best to last, as a group of inept cultists face the aftermath of a spell gone wrong. It boasts some brilliant visuals, artist Mike Smith giving each character distinctive personalities despite their faces being hidden, and dialogue packed with enough innuendo to make Sid James blush.
In the acknowledgement at the end, the creators mention the love and enjoyment that has formed this second issue, and it’s something that is passed on to the reader, making it immense fun. There’s an anarchic wit present from start to finish, which makes Papercuts and Inkstains vitally refreshing, a brilliant and hilarious publication that should make Madius Comics and all concerned incredibly proud.
PAPERCUTS AND INKSTAINS #2 / WRITER: ROB JONES, MIKE SAMBROOK / ARTIST: RORY DONALD, JIM LAVERY, MIKE SMITH / PUBLISHER: MADIUS COMICS / RELEASE DATE: JULY 15TH
