THE LIGHT AND DARKNESS WAR
The Light and Darkness War was originally published in a six-issue format between 1988 and 1989. It has become a reclusive series, gaining a very small cult following, and now the series has been given the publication it rightfully deserves. Whilst some will see this publication as a way to generate money from a well-known series, it is clear that the collection has been put together to rightfully give the exposure that the comic deserves.
This new hardback edition from Titan Comics collects all six issues and is put together with the best quality, which allows the artwork to really be shown at its full potential. This collection has allowed for the issues to be remastered and comes with many special bonuses that will keep many fans happy, such as new artwork and background information on characters.
The story is well known throughout the comic fandom for both its originality and being one of the few majorly successful comic books focused on war. The story follows a veteran from Vietnam, Lazarus Jones, who is the victim in a car crash which forces him into a coma. This then results in a fantasy element, whereby Lazarus is transported to an alternative reality and is reunited with his lost brothers-in-arms as they fight a never ending war.
The main attraction of this collection for any current fan of the series will no doubt be the exclusive special features that come with the book. The foreword is written by Commander Mike Beidler and gives an insight into the importance of The Light and Darkness War for its generation, as well as his experience with the real-world situation of war veterans. There is also a background briefing from Tom Veitch which gives detailed information on characters and the alternative reality they find themselves in. The book then finishes with an essay by Stephen R. Bissette, showing how the story was established as well as Cam and Tom’s work post The Light and Darkness War.
This premium collection of the comics will be a welcome addition to the home of any current fans, but may struggle to find a new audience as many will see it as outdated and will see it as to late for a collection after 25 years from its original collection. However, the collection is worth the money for fans of original comic stories.
INFO: THE LIGHT AND DARKNESS WAR / WRITER: TOM VEITCH / ARTIST: CAM KENNEDY / PUBLISHER: TITAN COMICS / RELEASE DATE: JUNE 23RD
