ISOLA

RELEASED OUT NOW! Publisher Image Comics

Writers Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl Artists Karl Kerschl, Msassyk

Animation genius Hayao Miyazaki has had a big influence on fantasy over the last few decades, and the latest comic to deliberately evoke a Studio Ghibli-esque feel is the moody and beautiful Isola.

Set in a land of warring clans and magical, god-like animal beings, this new ongoing series follows the fortunes of Olwyn, a queen who’s been mysteriously transformed into a tiger. Now on the run from sinister forces, Olwyn’s only hope is Rook, a female soldier who’s sworn to guide her to the possibly mythical kingdom of Isola, where a cure for her curious ailment might be found…

Part fantasy adventure and part characterful mystery, Isola largely reunites the creative team behind DC’s Gotham Academy for a comic book that’s considerably darker and more violent than any of their previous work together.

The first three issues deliver a number of eye-opening set-pieces, all while setting up intriguing plot threads and compelling characters. There are points where the storytelling verges on being a little too inscrutable, but the stunning art from artist Karl Kerschl and colourist Msassyk compensates for this in a big way. Packing in a level of expressive characterisation that’s seriously impressive, it’s a visual feast that makes Isola a must-read for any selfrespecting fan of comic-book fantasy.