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Theatrics #1
Theatrics
Graphic Novel:
Rudy Burns is living it up in 1920s New York. He has good looks, a rich girlfriend and a thriving Broadway career. One night stumbling out of a speakeasy he gets attacked and loses everything. But it's what Rudy chooses to do next that makes the story. The results are quite theatrical...
Rudy Burns is living it up in 1920s New York. He has good looks, a rich girlfriend and a thriving Broadway career. One night stumbling out of a speakeasy he gets attacked and loses everything. But it's what Rudy chooses to do next that makes the story. The results are quite theatrical...
- GenresGraphic NovelsComics
130 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 6, 2017
I was pleasantly surprised at this comic. The blurb is quite vague and the comic cover is a bit basic in my opinion so I wasn't really sure what to expect. Turns out the story is quite interesting and the artwork and colours are gorgeous. I don't want to give anything away but I thought the story's execution was what made it so good. I also loved how at the end, there was a bit on how the comic was done and why it was done the way it was. I will be reading Volume 2 when it comes out and I would read more by Gibson.
* I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
* I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This comic is about a sunny-boy in 1920's New York city. He's an actor and apparently quite successful too, but he gets robbed after having had a bit too much to drink. Unfortunately, him fighting back means the robbers use a crowbar on him which messes with his good looks so he loses his job, money, status, and girlfriend - one after another (no, she didn't leave him because he's poor, she's the money in the realtionship in fact).
The only person he can count on is his nephew and he has a weird idea to get them back on their feet that leads to the world of underground fighting.
The art and story were OK but nothing special. Maybe one has to read more than this first volume but I'm not sure I'll continue. It's really not a bad story but a bit too generic for me. The art was appropriate in that it equally reflected the MC as a dandy at the beginning and as a Mr-Hyde-like monster later.
This comic is about a sunny-boy in 1920's New York city. He's an actor and apparently quite successful too, but he gets robbed after having had a bit too much to drink. Unfortunately, him fighting back means the robbers use a crowbar on him which messes with his good looks so he loses his job, money, status, and girlfriend - one after another (no, she didn't leave him because he's poor, she's the money in the realtionship in fact).
The only person he can count on is his nephew and he has a weird idea to get them back on their feet that leads to the world of underground fighting.
The art and story were OK but nothing special. Maybe one has to read more than this first volume but I'm not sure I'll continue. It's really not a bad story but a bit too generic for me. The art was appropriate in that it equally reflected the MC as a dandy at the beginning and as a Mr-Hyde-like monster later.
February 20, 2018
A pleasant surprise. Rudy is one of the top actors on Broadway, but a mugging one evening ruins his good looks and his career. The book goes through Rudy hitting rock bottom and then his friend's idea on how to reinvent himself as a boxer. I was surprised when I got to the end of this and it ended in the middle of the story. There was no indication up to that point that the theory was not self-contained.
Received a review copy from TPub and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Received a review copy from TPub and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
First of all the artwork in this is amazing. I really loved the colors and also how the style changed slightly as the story progressed and a different mood was needed. The story is pretty straight forward but still good and it was interesting to watch how the two main characters both changed as the book progressed. My only big complaint is that I thought this was going to be a complete story since there is no 'volume 1' on the title and it is in fact the first part of a series. Still I did like it enough to take a look at the second volume whenever it does come out.
First of all the artwork in this is amazing. I really loved the colors and also how the style changed slightly as the story progressed and a different mood was needed. The story is pretty straight forward but still good and it was interesting to watch how the two main characters both changed as the book progressed. My only big complaint is that I thought this was going to be a complete story since there is no 'volume 1' on the title and it is in fact the first part of a series. Still I did like it enough to take a look at the second volume whenever it does come out.
December 25, 2017
Boy! O! Boy! I never knew there were lots of individual comic book writers and Artists apart from the Studio ones until I came across this and the other series of Comics recently. Well, I know Cyanide and Happiness and other comics are there but I'm not sure How they make money, this is a serious business I must say.
Theatrics is a Graphic Novel about Rudy Burns a Broadway actor in 1920's who has everything one could ask for but a robbery goes wrong and the man is disfigured. When the Broadway is all about good looks what would a once-successful actor do to revive his life? The story is more of a rag to riches but we are left with a cliffhanger because only half the book is released and I'm already waiting to read the rest.
First of all, this Graphic novel is wonderful, the artwork is mind-blowing and it is a Studio quality. With regards to the story for a comic, it is completely new and different. Such a pleasant read it was and Neil Gibson must have a lot in his kitty to offer. Looking forward to reading the second Graphic novel which would give us a closure. The story was pretty easy for me to get in and start reading. Rudy seems to be a very mysterious man. We do not know What's on his mind and that keeps the readers hooked to the Graphic novel. Let's wait and see What Neil Gibson and the team has to offer in the future publications.
Happy reading :)
Theatrics is a Graphic Novel about Rudy Burns a Broadway actor in 1920's who has everything one could ask for but a robbery goes wrong and the man is disfigured. When the Broadway is all about good looks what would a once-successful actor do to revive his life? The story is more of a rag to riches but we are left with a cliffhanger because only half the book is released and I'm already waiting to read the rest.
First of all, this Graphic novel is wonderful, the artwork is mind-blowing and it is a Studio quality. With regards to the story for a comic, it is completely new and different. Such a pleasant read it was and Neil Gibson must have a lot in his kitty to offer. Looking forward to reading the second Graphic novel which would give us a closure. The story was pretty easy for me to get in and start reading. Rudy seems to be a very mysterious man. We do not know What's on his mind and that keeps the readers hooked to the Graphic novel. Let's wait and see What Neil Gibson and the team has to offer in the future publications.
Happy reading :)
January 10, 2018
What would you do if you lost everything? I you were at the end of your rope and the bottom of your bottle. That is what happened to Broadway actor Rudy Burns. One night, everything was taken from him. His only option? To become someone else entirely. To REALLY put his acting skills to the test and become a professional boxer because,
“If you want to get rich, sell to the rich. If you want to get FILTHY rich, sell to the dirt poor!”
I absolutely love the old 20s looking graphic style. Set in the prohibition era it was a great story of love, loss and a man trying to get his life back after it is brutally taken away from him at the top of his game. I highly recommend this and can’t wait for further instalments to see Rudy’s (or the Count’s) life come together.. or come apart.
“If you want to get rich, sell to the rich. If you want to get FILTHY rich, sell to the dirt poor!”
I absolutely love the old 20s looking graphic style. Set in the prohibition era it was a great story of love, loss and a man trying to get his life back after it is brutally taken away from him at the top of his game. I highly recommend this and can’t wait for further instalments to see Rudy’s (or the Count’s) life come together.. or come apart.
December 5, 2017
Couple of days back I received a copy of Theatrics, a graphic novel from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Written by Neil Gibson, illustrations by Leonardo Gonzalez, Jan Wijngaard colorist and Jim Campbell letterer.
The story is not that much complex but the story is well narrated via panels. The hero of the novel is Rudy Burns, tall, handsome and attractive Broadway actor. One night while coming out of a bar he was attacked by ruthless criminals. Rudy retaliates but he was assaulted from the back, pounded mercilessly by the thugs.
Rudy wakes up to find he had lost his good looking feature which is very much needed for Broadway. From then on he comes to know he has lost his money, girl friend and his home. Nobody gives him an opportunity. Finally like every beaten soul he makes up his mind for suicide. Before trying to kick the chair Rudy sees a mail and reads it, which tells him how hard he had come up in the life.
Rudy changes his mind, Sammy gives him a idea to become a boxer. Little bit hesitation first then Rudy understands that taking up boxing is also a kind of acting. Sammy creates a myth that Rudy now known as Barbarian Count.
And Sammy utters these golden words:
“What everyone really wants is not just a story, but a distraction from their tough lives. They want to escape. It’s why they drink. It’s why they read. It’s why Broadway is so popular. It lets people escape. People want to be entertained”.
“If you want to get rich, sell to the rich. If you want to get filthy rich, sell to the dirt poor”.
“You look like a monster, but you care like a father. You’ll scare the opponents, but charm the punters”.
Rudy Burns life turns as he wins matches one by one, his career graph finally shows a upward curve. Now Sammy pushes Rudy further by making him fight with famous boxers, with that ends the first volume of the novel.
In the final pages the author has given some examples of how the graphic novel is done and what fine tunings they have to do before final print.
The artwork and coloring are excellent. The artwork for Rudy Burns character before and after the accident and panel showing the life of Rudy from the tears (the image which I have given below) are worth mentioning. A good method they had followed is instead of giving chapters they separated as Act 1 and Act 2.
An entertaining graphic novel set in 1920s. I enjoyed it very much.
The story is not that much complex but the story is well narrated via panels. The hero of the novel is Rudy Burns, tall, handsome and attractive Broadway actor. One night while coming out of a bar he was attacked by ruthless criminals. Rudy retaliates but he was assaulted from the back, pounded mercilessly by the thugs.
Rudy wakes up to find he had lost his good looking feature which is very much needed for Broadway. From then on he comes to know he has lost his money, girl friend and his home. Nobody gives him an opportunity. Finally like every beaten soul he makes up his mind for suicide. Before trying to kick the chair Rudy sees a mail and reads it, which tells him how hard he had come up in the life.
Rudy changes his mind, Sammy gives him a idea to become a boxer. Little bit hesitation first then Rudy understands that taking up boxing is also a kind of acting. Sammy creates a myth that Rudy now known as Barbarian Count.
And Sammy utters these golden words:
“What everyone really wants is not just a story, but a distraction from their tough lives. They want to escape. It’s why they drink. It’s why they read. It’s why Broadway is so popular. It lets people escape. People want to be entertained”.
“If you want to get rich, sell to the rich. If you want to get filthy rich, sell to the dirt poor”.
“You look like a monster, but you care like a father. You’ll scare the opponents, but charm the punters”.
Rudy Burns life turns as he wins matches one by one, his career graph finally shows a upward curve. Now Sammy pushes Rudy further by making him fight with famous boxers, with that ends the first volume of the novel.
In the final pages the author has given some examples of how the graphic novel is done and what fine tunings they have to do before final print.
The artwork and coloring are excellent. The artwork for Rudy Burns character before and after the accident and panel showing the life of Rudy from the tears (the image which I have given below) are worth mentioning. A good method they had followed is instead of giving chapters they separated as Act 1 and Act 2.
An entertaining graphic novel set in 1920s. I enjoyed it very much.
December 4, 2017
How the mighty have fallen! Rudy Burns is the greatest actor on Broadway and is loving the limelight. But when a chance mugging leaves him severely disfigured, the life he took for granted disappears in an instant. With no job, no money, no woman and no home, he has truly hit bottom. Neil Gibson’s new dramatic graphic novel set during the roaring twenties, tells the tale of a man whose hubris brings him to ruin and begins the slow process of rebuilding his life in a most unusual way. Theatrics is brilliantly illustrated by Leonardo Gonzalez whose previous works include the Twisted Dark series.
I am glad to see that, more and more, graphic novels are getting away from the super hero genre and presenting stories that are truly out of the box. It is original ideas such as this that will promote continued growth in graphic novels as an art form.
The book contains some illustrations of graphic violence from beatings but is otherwise not unsuitable for young adult readers.
My only peeve is that it ends rather abruptly. There will obviously be second volume which I am looking forward to but to say that this volume ended in a cliffhanger does a disservice to the cliff.
Four stars. #Theatrics #NetGalley
Note: The review was based on an advanced reading copy obtained at no cost from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. While this does take any ‘not worth what I paid for it’ statements out of my review, it otherwise has no impact on the content of my review.
FYI: On a 5-point scale I assign stars based on my assessment of what the book needs in the way of improvements:
*5 Stars – Nothing at all. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
*4 Stars – It could stand for a few tweaks here and there but it’s pretty good as it is.
*3 Stars – A solid C grade. Some serious rewriting would be needed in order for this book to be considered great or memorable.
*2 Stars – This book needs a lot of work. A good start would be to change the plot, the character development, the writing style and the ending.
*1 Star – The only thing that would improve this book is a good bonfire.
I am glad to see that, more and more, graphic novels are getting away from the super hero genre and presenting stories that are truly out of the box. It is original ideas such as this that will promote continued growth in graphic novels as an art form.
The book contains some illustrations of graphic violence from beatings but is otherwise not unsuitable for young adult readers.
My only peeve is that it ends rather abruptly. There will obviously be second volume which I am looking forward to but to say that this volume ended in a cliffhanger does a disservice to the cliff.
Four stars. #Theatrics #NetGalley
Note: The review was based on an advanced reading copy obtained at no cost from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. While this does take any ‘not worth what I paid for it’ statements out of my review, it otherwise has no impact on the content of my review.
FYI: On a 5-point scale I assign stars based on my assessment of what the book needs in the way of improvements:
*5 Stars – Nothing at all. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
*4 Stars – It could stand for a few tweaks here and there but it’s pretty good as it is.
*3 Stars – A solid C grade. Some serious rewriting would be needed in order for this book to be considered great or memorable.
*2 Stars – This book needs a lot of work. A good start would be to change the plot, the character development, the writing style and the ending.
*1 Star – The only thing that would improve this book is a good bonfire.
January 23, 2018
Thank you to the publishers for providing an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
This comic is about a successful Broadway actor who is involved in a mugging, resulting in the loss of his job, money and girlfriend. The plot itself was a bit boring and I found myself having to stop and return to it numerous times.
I did however, really like the artwork. It was brilliant how subtly it changed as the story progressed.
This comic is about a successful Broadway actor who is involved in a mugging, resulting in the loss of his job, money and girlfriend. The plot itself was a bit boring and I found myself having to stop and return to it numerous times.
I did however, really like the artwork. It was brilliant how subtly it changed as the story progressed.
December 28, 2017
First things first: I received this book through NetGalley.
This one was a brutal one. But I really enjoyed and liked the story a lot.
The characters were interesting. The artwork was stunning. I had a really good time reading this.
I didn't expect the end, tho. I didn't know there was going to be another part.
This one was a brutal one. But I really enjoyed and liked the story a lot.
The characters were interesting. The artwork was stunning. I had a really good time reading this.
I didn't expect the end, tho. I didn't know there was going to be another part.
November 16, 2017
3 .5-3.75 Stars
A darkly engrossing and gritty 1920s-era graphic novel set in New York City with a good start for a storyline and some solid artwork. I especially enjoyed the illustrations of the MC that look similar to what I would imagine Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde would be like. A fun beginning to a new series. For graphic novel fans or anyone who appreciates the darker underbelly of 1920s NYC.
Net Galley Feedback
A darkly engrossing and gritty 1920s-era graphic novel set in New York City with a good start for a storyline and some solid artwork. I especially enjoyed the illustrations of the MC that look similar to what I would imagine Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde would be like. A fun beginning to a new series. For graphic novel fans or anyone who appreciates the darker underbelly of 1920s NYC.
Net Galley Feedback
February 4, 2018
'Theatrics' by Neil Gibson with art by Leonardo Gonzalez was a different type of story than I've read before from Neil Gibson, but I liked it. Just to let you know this volume does not complete the story.
The story takes place in 1920s New York. Rudy Burns is a handsome leading man on Broadway, until the night he gets too drunk, and then robbed and beaten. His good looks are gone and he finds that even though he is a talented actor, the life he has is over. He deals with all the usual feelings of despair, then an unusual opportunity presents itself for him to have a different kind of acting career.
I've preferred the darker things that this studio has put out, and perhaps this story will have more of that. Rudy is certainly a bit monstrous in appearance. The art is on par with other books by TPub, which is to say workable, but not amazing.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from TPub, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
The story takes place in 1920s New York. Rudy Burns is a handsome leading man on Broadway, until the night he gets too drunk, and then robbed and beaten. His good looks are gone and he finds that even though he is a talented actor, the life he has is over. He deals with all the usual feelings of despair, then an unusual opportunity presents itself for him to have a different kind of acting career.
I've preferred the darker things that this studio has put out, and perhaps this story will have more of that. Rudy is certainly a bit monstrous in appearance. The art is on par with other books by TPub, which is to say workable, but not amazing.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from TPub, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
March 15, 2018
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 2.0 of 5
I haven't read many graphic novels for a while now but when I saw this one, with an obvious theatre connection, and set in the Roaring 1920's (an era I enjoy reading about) I thought that this just might be the right book for me.
Rudy Burns is living the high life. He's a sought-after Broadway actor. He has women adoring him, but he's happy with his wealthy, socialite girlfriend. And when he decides to stay out all night and party, no one is going to stop him as long as he keeps spreading the cash around.
When he leaves a club well after closing hours one night, after having too many drinks, he is jumped by a group of thugs. Not in his right mind, thanks to the drinks, he thinks he can fight back and take them all one, which only brings more anger from the thugs, who take Rudy out with pipes and a crowbar, and they work him over.
Even with a long rest period and as much cosmetic surgery as could be done in the 1920's, Rudy's good looks are now gone. In fact he now looks more like Frankenstein's monster - a patchwork of skin and bones - than the red-hot golden boy. He's always been the leading man, but no Broadway play will have him now. He can't even get parts as the villain in smaller theatres - his looks frighten people.
To add insult to his injuries, his girlfriend, returning from France, tells him that she 's going back to France where she's met someone she wants to be with.
He is about to give up and take his own life, when his best friend, Sam, has an idea that will still involve acting. Sam wants to make Rudy into a mysterious figure ... a Count who is seeking vengeance for his family ... and get him into some boxing matches.
What I liked about this was the over-all concept, the fact that Rudy becomes a rather true character that we can actually get behind and root for, and the general art layouts and angles.
What I didn't like, though, stood out a little more.
The story is just a little bit lopsided and rushed. We don't really get to know Rudy except for superficially.
There is a HUGE change in Rudy after he gets beaten up. Yes, we should expect some emotional change, and author Neil Gibson does a nice job of helping us understand the pain Rudy is going through. But there is a physical change beyond the startling, facial appearance. He appears to have grown about six inches and put on 100 pounds of muscle since getting the crap beaten out of him. And his now changeable demeanor - violent and brutish when acting the part of The Count, and brooding and kind when alone - is not at all what we first saw in the happy, carefree man.
Also, 1920's New York had its own style and feel and verve and Gibson never writes to this, except to toss in a few choice words (such as "clams" for money), and certainly artist Leonardo Gonzalez does not capture this period at all. If you had told me this was the 1950's I could easily have believed it.
The fact that we haven't captured the period doesn't change the story much, so why was it set in this period?
I wanted to like this book, but it just unraveled on too many factors to be worth recommending.
Looking for a good book? Theatrics is a graphic novel that doesn't take advantage of the period in which it is set and rushes through the story and the art.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't read many graphic novels for a while now but when I saw this one, with an obvious theatre connection, and set in the Roaring 1920's (an era I enjoy reading about) I thought that this just might be the right book for me.
Rudy Burns is living the high life. He's a sought-after Broadway actor. He has women adoring him, but he's happy with his wealthy, socialite girlfriend. And when he decides to stay out all night and party, no one is going to stop him as long as he keeps spreading the cash around.
When he leaves a club well after closing hours one night, after having too many drinks, he is jumped by a group of thugs. Not in his right mind, thanks to the drinks, he thinks he can fight back and take them all one, which only brings more anger from the thugs, who take Rudy out with pipes and a crowbar, and they work him over.
Even with a long rest period and as much cosmetic surgery as could be done in the 1920's, Rudy's good looks are now gone. In fact he now looks more like Frankenstein's monster - a patchwork of skin and bones - than the red-hot golden boy. He's always been the leading man, but no Broadway play will have him now. He can't even get parts as the villain in smaller theatres - his looks frighten people.
To add insult to his injuries, his girlfriend, returning from France, tells him that she 's going back to France where she's met someone she wants to be with.
He is about to give up and take his own life, when his best friend, Sam, has an idea that will still involve acting. Sam wants to make Rudy into a mysterious figure ... a Count who is seeking vengeance for his family ... and get him into some boxing matches.
What I liked about this was the over-all concept, the fact that Rudy becomes a rather true character that we can actually get behind and root for, and the general art layouts and angles.
What I didn't like, though, stood out a little more.
The story is just a little bit lopsided and rushed. We don't really get to know Rudy except for superficially.
There is a HUGE change in Rudy after he gets beaten up. Yes, we should expect some emotional change, and author Neil Gibson does a nice job of helping us understand the pain Rudy is going through. But there is a physical change beyond the startling, facial appearance. He appears to have grown about six inches and put on 100 pounds of muscle since getting the crap beaten out of him. And his now changeable demeanor - violent and brutish when acting the part of The Count, and brooding and kind when alone - is not at all what we first saw in the happy, carefree man.
Also, 1920's New York had its own style and feel and verve and Gibson never writes to this, except to toss in a few choice words (such as "clams" for money), and certainly artist Leonardo Gonzalez does not capture this period at all. If you had told me this was the 1950's I could easily have believed it.
The fact that we haven't captured the period doesn't change the story much, so why was it set in this period?
I wanted to like this book, but it just unraveled on too many factors to be worth recommending.
Looking for a good book? Theatrics is a graphic novel that doesn't take advantage of the period in which it is set and rushes through the story and the art.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2017
This is a really good graphic novel. The story follows a successful actor (Rudy Burns), who loses his career when he is attacked by a gang of street thugs. Rudy finds he is no longer a handsome, up and coming starlet. He can no longer attract good roles and he finds himself really down on his luck. His girlfriend abandons him, intent on making a new life for herself in Paris, and he loses his flat. As Rudy wallows in his penniless state Rudy decides to end everything but something happens which makes him rethink what he is about to do.
Together with the support of a friend Rudy reinvents himself and becomes "The Count", a European immigrant who has lost his family and is seeking to box as a way of dealing with his grief. Rudy having lost all that he has, really throws himself into this new career, but he still struggles, not too sure that this is who he really wants to be and unsure if this new life is one that he really wants for himself.
This is a gripping story. I couldn't put it down once I started and I was quite disappointed to find out that this is book one in a series. The artwork is good but it is the actual story the draws the reader in and holds them there. I didn't realize that this was the first volume and I really want to know what happens next. Will Rudy survive as The Count? Will his friend betray him?
The story make you want to cheer Rudy along but there are just so many possible twists and turns in the story and these make it hard to see what might happen. Rudy's fall from grace is so well depicted and the way everything falls apart so quickly is painful and sobering. His gradual recovery is exciting and creates a sense of hope in the reader although this is tinged with suspense. Will Rudy continue to rise or will he fall?
Definitely a must - read.
Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
December 30, 2017
This is a story that takes place during the Jazz age of the 1920s. I like historical period based comics and the New York’s urban roaring twenties era mood to the story captured in the art and storyline was a treat. The story is about Rudy Burns a successful Broadway actor who had it all in terms of the world’s eye: Money, fame, relationship and a best friend who has been with him all the way with his success. But overnight Rudy would lose all of it when a robbery attack left his face disfigured.
The story did a good job of capturing Rudy at his highest point and also at his lowest. The writer Neil Gibson really thought through this. Readers will be drawn into the story and see the contrast and people’s reaction towards Rudy. I thought the story capture the shallowness of the entertainment industry and also the sad plight of those who come and go in terms of being celebrities. The book really captured well the psychological trauma that Rudy went through and how broken he has become.
The story itself is not finished with this book; the ending merely sets up things up for a sequel. I’m interested to see what the next installment to this original and creative story would take us.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Net Galley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
The story did a good job of capturing Rudy at his highest point and also at his lowest. The writer Neil Gibson really thought through this. Readers will be drawn into the story and see the contrast and people’s reaction towards Rudy. I thought the story capture the shallowness of the entertainment industry and also the sad plight of those who come and go in terms of being celebrities. The book really captured well the psychological trauma that Rudy went through and how broken he has become.
The story itself is not finished with this book; the ending merely sets up things up for a sequel. I’m interested to see what the next installment to this original and creative story would take us.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Net Galley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
November 30, 2017
Rudy is an actor on Broadway in the 1920's. New York is wonderful to him as he is a "leading man" that everyone loves. One night while partying, he gets drunk. As he walks home, he is mugged and beaten up. He wakes up in the hospital thinking nothing is wrong. His face is badly hurt -- he doesn't have his good looks anymore. When he gets out, he finds that he has lost everything including his girlfriend. What will he do? His friend has a suggestion. Will he do what his friend suggests? Will he act again?
The author and illustrator did a great job making the story come alive. In this novel, I gain a different view of New York City in the 1920's. I saw the heartbreak and harshness of the real world. It can be a cruel world when you are down on your luck as Rudy was. It made me think about how easy it is to take life for granted and not appreciated. I recommend that everyone read this excellent graphic novel!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The author and illustrator did a great job making the story come alive. In this novel, I gain a different view of New York City in the 1920's. I saw the heartbreak and harshness of the real world. It can be a cruel world when you are down on your luck as Rudy was. It made me think about how easy it is to take life for granted and not appreciated. I recommend that everyone read this excellent graphic novel!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
November 12, 2017
This is a light read, but a pretty engaging one. When one of the stars of the golden age of the Broadway stage gets heinously mugged one night he becomes someone not even the blind girl in ''Frankenstein'' could love, a drunken sop and a wreck both physically and mentally. So with the help of his best friend he tries to find a way for revenge, but it's going to be his most demanding role yet, living full-time as a vengeful European Count with a habit of going berserk in the boxing ring. I wish I'd been told this was book one of two, for I was wondering what on earth was happening to the revenge side of things; but I was also having a lot of fun. Some of the art is a little too fussy (a key female character losing half her face for no reason courtesy of a small box of artwork dumped on top willy-nilly) but the colours and design generally are spot on. And the story is certainly one to engage – I'll definitely intend to be back for round two.
December 8, 2017
This is the promising first volume of what I know is going to be an amazing series. Set in the 1920s during prohibition, a heart throb actor is attacked outside a speakeasy and has to rearrange his life after having his face disfigured.
The illustrations are dark and atmospheric and complement the story perfectly. Even though the story hasn't got anything particularly original to offer at this stage, the characters and the art work pull you in and have you desperate for more. Even though this is only the introductory stage, the characters are well developed and have so much to offer the story as it progresses, there's a conspiracy in the making and you can't help but be suspicious of people's motives for the actions in this novel- I for one will be following the series and investing in the print copies as soon as the full collection is available.
*A free copy was received in exchange for a review*
The illustrations are dark and atmospheric and complement the story perfectly. Even though the story hasn't got anything particularly original to offer at this stage, the characters and the art work pull you in and have you desperate for more. Even though this is only the introductory stage, the characters are well developed and have so much to offer the story as it progresses, there's a conspiracy in the making and you can't help but be suspicious of people's motives for the actions in this novel- I for one will be following the series and investing in the print copies as soon as the full collection is available.
*A free copy was received in exchange for a review*
November 25, 2017
I didn't think I was going to like this, because it's totally not the type of Graphic Novel I typically read but it was really good!
A super cocky Broadway actor in NYC in the 20's gets CRAZY drunk one night and gets the living crap beat out of him - and his face completely smashed in and destroyed. Of course, since he is no longer handsome, he no longer gets cast in the lead roles... or any roles for that matter. He loses his home and his girlfriend too, and all he has left is his childhood best friend who believes he can get everything he lost and more by playing one final part... and playing it so well that NO ONE can ever know he's acting.
Great artwork, an interesting story with interesting characters, I whipped right though the first volume and I'm dying to know what happens in volume 2!
A super cocky Broadway actor in NYC in the 20's gets CRAZY drunk one night and gets the living crap beat out of him - and his face completely smashed in and destroyed. Of course, since he is no longer handsome, he no longer gets cast in the lead roles... or any roles for that matter. He loses his home and his girlfriend too, and all he has left is his childhood best friend who believes he can get everything he lost and more by playing one final part... and playing it so well that NO ONE can ever know he's acting.
Great artwork, an interesting story with interesting characters, I whipped right though the first volume and I'm dying to know what happens in volume 2!
December 14, 2017
This comic had me pleasantly intrigued , the story kept me interested and flipping the pages all night long . The story takes place in the 1920s when Rudy Burns, a famous actor is beaten up after a night of drinking . He is hurt so badly that he looses his job, his girlfriend and well everything in his life he held dearly. But when he does something totally different and well a little bit dangerous . Things get really interesting
First off i fell in love with the graphics in this one . It has such a great noir feel to it , it is gritty and dark . The way i love my comic books . You will notice that the graphics change just a little when the story calls for it . The characters are gritty and determined to make things work in the jobs they have chosen . You see Rudy go from pretty boy actor to as tough as nails fighter in the ring . He uses the looks to his advantage even when he is beaten up and looking not so good . I really found Rudy to be very relatable he is a guy just trying to make it any way he can . Even if it is not legal.
I totally enjoyed reading this book and i loved the characters and the story line . I didn't realize that there would be a book two . I am hoping there would be a book two . So if you want a great graphic novel to read this Christmas this the book for you .
November 3, 2017
I received this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 out of 5 stars.
Rudy, a famous movie star who is also pretty, gets mugged after leaving a speakeasy in the 1920's and he was hurt very badly so he lost all of his good looks. Now, Rudy has to navigate through life with working on his career because he can no longer rely on his looks to get him by. I really liked Rudy's character development throughout. I was engaged in the story the whole time. I can't wait until volume 2 is released! I really want to know what happens next!
4 out of 5 stars.
Rudy, a famous movie star who is also pretty, gets mugged after leaving a speakeasy in the 1920's and he was hurt very badly so he lost all of his good looks. Now, Rudy has to navigate through life with working on his career because he can no longer rely on his looks to get him by. I really liked Rudy's character development throughout. I was engaged in the story the whole time. I can't wait until volume 2 is released! I really want to know what happens next!
January 6, 2018
The cover is what first drew me to this book. The graphics and storyline kept me reading. While the story seemed pretty predictable and shallow at first, it took a darker, deeper turn pretty quickly. Without giving any spoilers, I really enjoy this story and the struggle it depicts. I was surprised to find myself quite attached to the main character, and I am curious to find where life leads him next.
November 9, 2017
Neil Gibson’s Theatrics is a story of violence, transformation, and tragedy, with the complex themes and characterization one expects to find in a novel.
Gibson gives us all these literary elements and powerful storytelling through the colorful and detailed images of his graphic novel.
A well-done product and a fascinating story.
Gibson gives us all these literary elements and powerful storytelling through the colorful and detailed images of his graphic novel.
A well-done product and a fascinating story.
December 10, 2017
Aw, man! Seriously?
This was only the first ½? Just when I was hooked.
This was a great story - very inventive and something I didn’t expect. And the art was great noir.
I’ll be looking forward to the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley, Diamond Book Distributors, and TPub for a copy in return for an honest review.
This was only the first ½? Just when I was hooked.
This was a great story - very inventive and something I didn’t expect. And the art was great noir.
I’ll be looking forward to the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley, Diamond Book Distributors, and TPub for a copy in return for an honest review.
October 29, 2018
A good strong story and wonderfully illustrated. Set in 1920s America amongst showbiz and underworld elements. Explores human relationships desires and weaknesses, also reactions to life changing incidents. Can't wait for the second part to come out!!
March 9, 2017
really enjoyed this
December 31, 2017
"You need to act like a killer, so people will treat you like one."
It is New York, 1920, and Archibald "Archie" Brown aka Rudy Burns aka the Barbarian Count is a former leading Broadway actor who is attacked in an alley resulting in disfigurement, ending his career and his relationship with Stephanie.
Archie's friend Sammy has an idea. "We need to give you a role that will entertain them. To make them want to see you.... you can play the villain." A boxer, The Barbarian Count, mystery man. Is Sammy taking advantage of Archie's fame? Will Archie lose himself in his new persona?
See my complete review at The Eclectic Review
It is New York, 1920, and Archibald "Archie" Brown aka Rudy Burns aka the Barbarian Count is a former leading Broadway actor who is attacked in an alley resulting in disfigurement, ending his career and his relationship with Stephanie.
Archie's friend Sammy has an idea. "We need to give you a role that will entertain them. To make them want to see you.... you can play the villain." A boxer, The Barbarian Count, mystery man. Is Sammy taking advantage of Archie's fame? Will Archie lose himself in his new persona?
See my complete review at The Eclectic Review
March 25, 2022
The characters are gripping and the story, whilst set in the 1920s, is not so far from what could occur in contemporary times. The artwork is striking and is beautifully coloured. The lettering both clear and expressive.
As time passes through the tale the feelings the reader feels, or at least what I felt, changes. And not always with the certainty that black and white characters provide. There is plenty of grey here, and I am not talking of the work of the colourist. There is the sting of reality throughout this half of the story. This leaves me uncertain regarding what the future holds for any one of the characters. Having said that, I can feel a twist coming - at least one - but I have no idea as to what!!!
My only complaint? This volume is not a complete story. It is something that I find frustrating. There should be some sort of story completed even if it is just a subplot. This, I guess, is a preference. Fortunately, I have bought this with volume 2 so I can consider the gap between the two an interval of sorts.
Worth the read so check it out!!! (Along with volume 2.)
UPDATE: It is a two part story. The second half is even better.
As time passes through the tale the feelings the reader feels, or at least what I felt, changes. And not always with the certainty that black and white characters provide. There is plenty of grey here, and I am not talking of the work of the colourist. There is the sting of reality throughout this half of the story. This leaves me uncertain regarding what the future holds for any one of the characters. Having said that, I can feel a twist coming - at least one - but I have no idea as to what!!!
My only complaint? This volume is not a complete story. It is something that I find frustrating. There should be some sort of story completed even if it is just a subplot. This, I guess, is a preference. Fortunately, I have bought this with volume 2 so I can consider the gap between the two an interval of sorts.
Worth the read so check it out!!! (Along with volume 2.)
UPDATE: It is a two part story. The second half is even better.
April 13, 2017
Looks beautiful, but didn't really draw me in.
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