Connect with us
Frostbite #2 Review

Comic Books

Frostbite #2 Review

Frostbite is the scariest comic on the stands today, but not for jump scares or monsters. No, instead it’s the concept of the very real threat of global warming. The second Ice Age has come and this story takes place 57 years into it so those who can remember when the temperatures were normal are few. Is it good?

Frostbite #2 (Vertigo Comics)

Frostbite #2 Review

Listen to the latest episode of our weekly comics podcast!

So what’s it about? The Vertigo summary reads:

The start of their journey did not go exactly as planned, but Keaton made a deal to get Vic to Alcatraz safely, and nothing will dissuade her from carrying out her contract. With their main transport knocked out, and roving gangs looking to block their path, Keaton and crew are going to have to get clever if they’re going to stay alive.

Why does this book matter?

Writer Joshua Williamson has created a vividly real world that’s easy to drop in on and experience. The protagonist has a complicated back story and, though she’s doing it for a job, can potentially save the world. Frostbite is a disease that turns people into ice from the inside and they’re on a quest to potentially find the cure.

Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?

Frostbite #2 Review
Feeling guilty Keaton?

The best elements of this issue reveal what the world is like, particularly in Los Angeles where most of the rich people fled in the early days of the cold creeping in. The surfer dude persona is now some kind of ideal, or at least the uniform of those who work at a Heat Shop. The story gets colder from there (heh) and much more dangerous. A key detail of the protagonist is revealed followed by further information about Frostbite, which ramps up the story and increases the need to get Vic to safety.

The art by Jason Shawn Alexander continues to be photographic in detail when it comes to faces and clothing. There’s a nice texture in background and Keaton looks so real (with great facial expressions) you’ll find it hard to believe this isn’t a moving picture. The action is brutal too, with blood splatters and flying knives looking quite dramatic. In one panel for instance, Keaton throws a knife that’s colored white to increase its stark contrast of the black background and the character who has been stabbed. The vehicles are also quite cool and detailed. Alexander gives them a futuristic feel, but also functional.

It can’t be perfect can it?

Though incredibly badass, Williamson has Keaton cut through an immediate threat so easily it plays to show violence but no real challenge. The scene is brief giving the script a bit of action, but doesn’t entirely feel necessary. Keaton herself seems to run with overt emotions and there’s little character work done here aside from a memory to open the issue.

Frostbite #2 Review
The rich are the worst.

Is It Good?

Gritty science fiction storytelling that’s incredible real. It’s well worth a look if you like a thought provoking story with a strong premise.

Join the AIPT Patreon

Want to take our relationship to the next level? Become a patron today to gain access to exclusive perks, such as:

  • ❌ Remove all ads on the website
  • 💬 Join our Discord community, where we chat about the latest news and releases from everything we cover on AIPT
  • 📗 Access to our monthly book club
  • 📦 Get a physical trade paperback shipped to you every month
  • 💥 And more!
Sign up today
Comments

In Case You Missed It

I Heart Skull-Crusher! #1 I Heart Skull-Crusher! #1

‘I Heart Skull-Crusher!’ #1 review: Apocalyptic squad goals

Comic Books

Marvel reveals new X-Men era titles, art, and more, launching July 2024 Marvel reveals new X-Men era titles, art, and more, launching July 2024

Marvel reveals new X-Men era titles, art, and more, launching July 2024

Comic Books

DC reveals 'DC: Pride' and 2024 Pride Month celebrations DC reveals 'DC: Pride' and 2024 Pride Month celebrations

DC reveals ‘DC: Pride’ and 2024 Pride Month celebrations

Comic Books

Full June 2024 DC Comics solicitations: Gotham by Gaslight sequel and more Full June 2024 DC Comics solicitations: Gotham by Gaslight sequel and more

Full June 2024 DC Comics solicitations: Gotham by Gaslight sequel and more

Comic Books

Connect
Newsletter Signup