Dysphoria #1 (Hollow Tree Entertainment)

writer: Allison Torrey
artist: Liana Sposto

via Cargo Collective

One of the perks of visiting a local comics shop is the chance to catch some local comics talent, stuff you likely won't find anywhere else (unless you've heard of the Internet, and really, who has?), lucky finds if you're really lucky.  I happen to love chance discoveries.  I think I've made a lucky one indeed.

Dysphoria is about a futuristic resistance movement and the guy who's destined to be its hero.  Okay, so not hugely revolutionary in concept, but as always it's execution that's key.  Allison Torrey and Liana Sposto are a dynamic combination.  Torrey's scripting is fairly minimalist, so that leaves ample room for Sposto's expressive work to shine.  It really is shocking to discover talent this good on such a low-key title.  I predict big things ahead for both of them, whether it's in this series or elsewhere.  

It's a kinetic read from start to finish and instantly hooks you into wanting more, all very perfect for a comic book, where classic serial storytelling soars.  

The lead character's name is Malcolm Reed, which for me is an instant link to something else I love, Star Trek: Enterprise, which featured a tactical officer of the same name.  I've been trying to remember another place I've caught the name, unless I've come across Dysphoria before.

I'll definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for further issues...