Well I don’t know about you, but it is too hot to stand outside, so I am staying cool inside these days and that means that I am continuing to go down my long list of comics that I need to check out. Next up is a transformative tale told solely through the use of detailed panels and is one of the most fascinating stories I have ever experienced. Brokenland No. 2 is filled with curiosity, adventure, laughs, and discovery as we follow the adventures of a shy creature named Meeso facing the challenges of living in a brutal world plagued with garbage. This is the second installment in the Brokenland series created, written, and illustrated by the talented Drew Morrison alongside designer Jane Song. This series is truly unlike any other, and shows the power of a great story paired with beautifully crafted illustrations. I can’t wait for more people to experience this creative tale of exploration in the coming months with Kickstarter (be sure to check it out and back it if you can) coming out very soon (here is the placeholder). You can find out more about our protagonist and the creator a bit below…
Looking at the art alone, every panel is a gem within itself, and with every page, my dedication to this character grows. Morrison has created this lovable being so effortlessly that I can instantly sympathize for him and his actions. (I highly recommend giving his website a visit if you are interested in seeing more original work from him here.) Going into this second installment, I had already formed a connection with the little creature, and was looking forward to what adventures await. This series’ illustrations take you through the life of the overlooked Meeso, through their wholesome lens while approaching the harsh realities of that universe. Every drawing is a work of art on its own, but once they are strung together, the story springs to life creating an unforgettable experience for every reader. His style is so whimsical, painting a clear visual and the detail work shines through the expressiveness of the characters. From the first moment you are introduced to the characters, the illustrations pull you into this twisted and adventurous world.
I had the great opportunity to check out both parts of the series at once, and I would like to highlight how strong of a story that Morrison has created. I have played around with different films and stories with no dialogue, and I can attest to the fact that to pull off a successful final product, the audience has to be interested in the story before anything else. Brokenland has created such a lovable lore that you are rooting for Meeso right off the bat and are invested in their adventures. I think that having this story be told simply through his art is really the only way to go for the series. It wouldn’t have the same impact and would be held back by any dialogue. The story has a voice of its own and the art creates a sense of wonder that reflects the tone of the comic. I absolutely love this series and I hope that more people will check it out. You can find out more on the Brokenland website.
I think that so many independent comics like this deserve so much more spotlight than they receive. Oftentimes, I think that the work of smaller comic series can be more powerful and more well done than those of the big corporations. The Kickstarter campaign for the 2nd installment of Meeso’s epic adventures is coming soon, so be sure to check it out and support this series, along with other independent creators launching some great stories. This is one of the most unique comics (with some amazing illustrations) that I have read this year and I can’t wait for the next chapter of Meeso’s story. No doubt about it, I give Brokenland No. 2 an overall score of 16/16. I am so glad I had the chance to go on this journey. Be sure to check out the campaign in the coming weeks, issue #1 (you can get a free preview on his website here), and to follow Morrison’s and social media for updates.
