REVIEW: STRING #1

Mad Cave Studios’ String #1 is an intense first chapter that elegantly combines an intriguing premise, compelling characterization, and beautiful art. The narrative revolves around Yoon-Sook Namgung, 25-year-old Korean-American female patient who has the unique characteristic of being able to detect, at the same time, two classes of strings which are being used by people to link them.

Blue Strings: Representing sexual connections between individuals.
Black Strings: Symbolizing a chilling link between murderers and their victims.

This ability is the base of a fascinating plot combining mystery, thrill and fun. The narrative is set in the life of Yoon-Sook, civilian consultant of Seattle Police Department, and her special input turns out to be her double-edged-sword, both for the benefit of the personnel near her and her discomfort.

Paul Tobin’s script shines in its portrayal of the protagonist, Yoon-Sook, whose sharp wit and resilience make her an instantly relatable and compelling character. Her interactions with Detective Luke Mayfield, her assigned partner, form the emotional core of the issue. Their banter, filled with humor and awkward honesty, reveals layers of personality and establishes a partnership that feels both fresh and authentic.

Remarkably, Yoon-Sook’s ability to perceive naturally occurring social bonds leads to conflict and comedic situations, particularly when she exposes secrets that would otherwise be kept private. This subtle narrative effect guarantees that every scene is fodder for the narrative, mixing exposition in natural speech.

Carlos Javier Olivares’ work is a prize exhibit in String #1. The layouts are cinematographic, transporting the viewers into both the meditative stillness and the explosive action blocks. Sara Colella ‘s colouring enhances the work even more, using bright colors that bring out the presence of each panel. The use of color is especially noteworthy, in the context of scenes that highlight Yoon-Sook’s potential, where the strings appear both other-worldly and visually arresting.

In its essence String #1 tackles some of the most fundamental issues of human interrelations and individuated morality. By virtue of being able to see links, Yoon-Sook and the audience are confronted with uncomfortable re-assessments about those who live and work near her. String #1 establishes a high expectance for what promises to be an outstanding set of sequences. By marrying a compelling story, interesting characters, and breathtaking visuals, the writer will be excitedly awaiting the next part. Mad Cave Studios has provided a debut issue that is new and appropriate, mixing humor and thriller and romance. [Agreeing but updating the script]No matter you are already a comic literature enthusiast or not, String #1 is a book that has to be read. With compelling narratives, beautiful visuals and challenging themes, String #1 comes through as a very distinctive release. We look forward to the rest of Yoon-Sook’s Saga in an epochal series.

SCORE:
5/5

Writer: Paul Tobin
Artist: Carlos Javier Olivares
Colorist: Sara Colella
Letterer: Taylor Esposito
Publisher: Mad Cave Studios

Author Profile

Al Mega

I'm Al Mega the CEO of Comic Crusaders, CEO of the Undercover Capes Podcast Network, CEO of Geekery Magazine & Owner of Splintered Press (coming soon). I'm a fan of comics, cartoons and old school video games. Make sure to check out our podcasts/vidcasts and more!