Review: Blossoms 666 #3

With Riverdale and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina both being popular shows, Archie Comics are seeing as a resurgence of interest in their material, and Blossoms 666 is a worthwhile limited series to invest in. Described by writer Cullen Bunn (The Sixth Gun, Fear Itself: The Fearless) as “one part Omen, one part Cruel Intentions, all Archie!”“, and he“s not wrong. Prior information about the Archie Comics characters is helpful, but not necessary, as this story works as a standalone piece. Cheryl and Jason Blossom aren“t candidates to be the rulers of hell in the cannon Archie Comics, but like with many other stories under the Archie Horror banner, we get to ask ”“ but what if they were?

The art in Blossoms 666 strives for realism, despite its surreal plot, and it achieves it beautifully. The usual Archie characters definitely look different compared to their traditional counterparts, but are still recognisable and distinguishable. One standout aspect of the art is the use of red, in regards to the Blossom siblings. Their bright red hair stands out no matter where they are. This choice to make them as vibrant as the bloody and satanic imagery is a solid one, making the siblings appear that bit more demonic, especially in contrast so super sleuth Betty and her blonde hair. Even when on the same page as redheaded Archie, it is Cheryl that stands out more vividly.

The paneling gives attention where it is needed, laying it out in a way that is easy to follow, and leaving enough in the background to flesh out the scene, so that our characters are not speaking into the ether. Screams of terror permeate into the scenery, bold and yellow, showing the speaker“s blood-curdling fear.

As we reach the midpoint of this five issue limited series, Cheryl and Jason are still scheming their ways to become the Anti-Christ. However, a new combatant has entered the ring ”“ long lost sibling Julian. Opening up with an explanation for how the Blossom twins are actually triplets, this Archie Horror miniseries reaches its midpoint, scaling up the deception. While answering some questions ”“ what happened to Ethel? ”“ it results in even more, leading to hunger for the next installment.

[yasr_overall_rating size=”medium”]

Writer: Cullen Bunn
Artist: Laura Braga
Colouring: Matt Herms
Letting: Jack Morelli
Publisher: Archie Horror