REVIEW: Weird Detective #1

Among thisÂ week’s releases from Dark Horse you will find Weird Detective #1, the newest title from veteran writer Fred Van Lente. Joined by Guiu Vilanova and Mauricio Wallace on art, this first issue introduces us to Detective Sebastian Greene and his unique set of crime solving techniques. Best described as an average detective over the last 15 years, Detective Greene has recently turned into a super cop with amazing intuition. His recent success has raised the curiosity of his captain, who assigns Sebastian a partner to spy on him and figure out what secrets he’s been hiding. His newfound detective skills also have him getting assigned to the oddest of cases, and throughout the issue readers are presented with two odd and gruesome murders that may be related in some way. As the issue progresses and Detective Greene and his partner investigate the occurrences, readers are introduced to his unique skill set, how thing work, and even learn the truth behind Sebastian’s recent career turn.

Weird Detective #1 checks all the boxes of a strong opening issue. Fred Van Lente presents readers with an odd, yet interesting main character in Sebastian Greene, while laying the groundwork for an intriguing story arc for the character to navigate. It is obvious that Van Lente put real-time into creating a truly unique and interesting character, with a unique set of abilities that is slightly more believable than the average flight and super-strength bios. Even the murders being investigated in this issue felt like more time and attention was put into making this more than just another average dead body murder mystery. While this book has the definite feel of a sci-fi horror mystery, Van Lente has been able to sneak in a little humor based around the main character’s lack of personality. Every panel artist Guiu Vilanova provides in this issue goes toe-to-toe with Van Lente’s writing. The art for this book is absolutely beautiful and is most definitely enhanced colorist Mauricio Wallace’s contributions.

Final Verdict: You can’t really ask for much more from an opening issue. Weird Detective #1 gives enough to draw you in while holding back enough to bring you back for the next installment. The writing is strong, the art is beautiful and I highly recommend seeking this title out during your next trip to your local comic shop. Dark Horse has a hit on their hands with this one.

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