Comics based around the pandemic we all lived through are few and far between. In Crocodile Black, Eisner-nominated writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson and artist Somnath Pal tackle what makes someone turn to crime in a pandemic-riddled dystopia.

Danny, a seemingly mundane young man lost in escapism, with a spiraling lack of control over his life, witnesses something during a delivery job that will change him forever, turning things as dark as the black, crocodile skin boots that he can’t take his eyes off of.

Crocodile Black delves deep into the psyche of its characters, exploring themes of desperation, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of one’s actions. The artwork by Somnath Pal is nothing short of stunning. Som’s attention to detail using a soft feel to tell a hard story is wonderful. Patricio Delpeche use of color and shading creates a sense of foreboding and tension that permeates every page.

Johnson’s writing draws us in with every page. The pacing is perfect, keeping the tension high throughout the debut issue. The characters seem well-developed and complex, each with their own motivations and struggles.

An aspect of Crocodile Black that stands out to us is its setting in a pandemic-era world. While many stories have explored post-apocalyptic settings, few have tackled the aftermath of a global pandemic, which we all lived recently. This adds an extra layer of realism to the story, making it feel all too relevant in today’s world. Johnson does an excellent job of weaving this element into the narrative.

Crocodile Black is not going to be for everyone. Some may be pandemic’d-out and a story based around this might be too much. However, the story is captivating with outstanding artwork to match. Those looking for something new and different and those looking for a crime thriller will be in for a treat.

Crocodile Black has a compelling storyline to its exquisite artwork and in our opinion should not be missed. Phillip Kennedy Johnson (Alien, 007: For King & Country) and Somnath Pal have created something that seems to be truly special with this series, and we can’t wait to see where they take it next.

Crocodile Black #1 hits local comic shops on May 8, 2024 from BOOM! Studios.