Mark Russell grabs you from the very beginning with Vanishing Point #1, the stunning premiere of his new anthology series from Mad Cave Studios. Russell brings together science fiction and existential horror to deliver a story that is as thought-provoking and emotional as it is unsettling. Juan Doe joins Russell on this premiere journey with their outstanding artistic talents.
The tales featured in Vanishing Point are stories with a twist in which the twist is not the point of the story, but a beginning point from which to ask what it means to be alive. In “Screams“, the captain of a mining ship goes on a ten year solo mission to the Jupiter Asteroid Belt where he makes a horrifying discovery!
Science-fiction aren’t usually my jam, but the combination of writer Mark Russell and publisher Mad Cave Studios caught my attention. Russell was able to mix sci-fi with just the right dash of horror to create something more up my alley. Vanishing Point was slightly outside my usual wheelhouse, but it was definitely worth exploring that is for sure.
Russell doesn’t just create comics; he embeds profound themes in every series, allow us to reflect on human nature within a capitalistic framework. His debut story, Screams, illustrates this brilliantly. It explores the humanity of a captain who chooses to work in isolation for 10 years, far from his family. This decision resonates deeply, especially for those grappling with the balance between financial security and family life. For me, as a husband and father, it struck an even deeper chord, highlighting the struggle of prioritizing stability while cherishing moments with your family.
As most people know that any great sci-fi comic needs an exceptional artist to bring the story together. For issue one, Juan Doe teamed up with Mark Russell to visually translate the story’s atmosphere and tone. Doe beautifully designed the characters, minimal though they are, and immersed me in this solitary tale with stunning ship and space designs. While the series is set to feature contributions from some of the industry’s best artists, I wouldn’t have been disappointed if Doe had illustrated the entire run.
Mark Russell once again delivers an impactful story that makes me reflect and leaves me better for it. The Captain’s unwavering determination to ensure his family’s well-being, regardless of the stakes, forms the heart of this tale. Taking raw emotion and mixing it with a bit of sci-fi horror, this premiere installment of the Vanishing Point anthology series is nothing short of phenomenal.
Vanishing Point #1 hits local comic shops on May 7, 2025 (FOC: April 14) from Mad Cave Studios.
Vanishing Point #1 Preview
