Chris Condon and Gegê Schall take us on a journey to into the unknown where mystery, nostalgia, and adventure intertwine in the whirlwind tale of Far Down Below. A debut issue truly brimming with captivating storytelling and phenomenal artwork set against the backdrop of an Eastern Pennsylvania suburb in 1983.
In the summer of 1983, teen friends Mike and Brian seek escape from rainy day boredom by exploring Brian’s abandoned family home, a notoriously haunted house. What they find below their sleepy Eastern Pennsylvania suburb will unlock the doors to adventure — and danger.
I’ll just say wow. Seriously, what a debut issue.
While at its core Far Down Below is a story about friendship and adventure, there is an undercurrent of horror that adds depth without overwhelming the plot. The dialogue between Mike and Brian feels authentic, reflecting both their camaraderie and innocence. Chris Condon’s ability to weave these moments together creates layers that enrich the story beyond simple childhood exploits.
Wonderfully complementing Condon’s excellent storytelling is the fantastic illustrations by the talented Gegê Schall. Each panel and page is brought to breathtaking life with her remarkable abilities. The artwork throughout the debut issue of Far Down Below is nothing short of phenomenal; each panel demands attention with its meticulous detail and wonderfully matched colors that evoke both nostalgia for past times and excitement for new adventures. While Condo’s writing is excellent, Schall’s artwork takes center stage adding to the overall story and allowing us to feel like active participants in unearthing mysteries alongside Mike and Brian. Not only is the artwork fantastic, the layout and design of the issue enhances the reading experience.
The pairing of these two creators in Far Down Below has made for an excellent premiere issue and as we reached the climax of the inaugural–where secrets long-hidden being to be revealed–all I could hope for is more. The captivating story and wondrous artwork has me eagerly awaiting future issues of this series.
Far Down Below is a true exploration of discovery and danger. With Chris Condon’s impeccable blend of intrigue and horror along with Gegê Schall’s phenomenal artwork, Far Down Below #1 has to be one of the best debut issue of 2025 and is poised for a top comic of the year honors if future issues are anything like this issue.
Far Down Below #1 hits local comic shops on March 26, 2025 from Mad Cave Studios (FOC: March 3).
Far Down Below #1 Preview
