Welcome to the Gayborhood! Scout Comics explores supernatural queer noir in their latest comic book release Death Drop: Drag Assassin #1.
Death Drop, a hitman turned drag queen, enters a race against time to find her missing drag sister as a mysterious rash of killings and disappearances spreads across the city. With the specter of her former mentor haunting her every step, Death Drop must decide how far she is willing to be pulled back into a life of violence in order to protect her community in this supernatural queer noir.
Comic books have been an essential part of popular culture for decades, captivating readers of all ages with their unique storytelling and breathtaking artwork. The world of comics has evolved considerably over the years, and the industry has made significant strides in embracing diverse voices and experiences. Death Drop: Drag Assassin is a testament to this evolution – a vibrant, visually stunning comic that explores the complex intersection of drag culture and the supernatural in a gritty, queer noir setting.
Death Drop: Drag Assassin comes from the creative team of writer David Hazan, winner of the 2019 Mad Cave Studios talent search and creator of Nottingham, artist Alex Moore.
One of the most striking elements of Death Drop is its stunning artwork. Every page is bursting with vivid colors, striking lines, and expressive faces that bring the characters and settings to life. Whether it’s Death Drop’s drag looks or the haunting landscapes of the the city, every panel is a feast for the eyes. The creative team behind the book has used the visual language of comics to great effect, creating a truly immersive world that readers can get lost in.
But Death Drop is so much more than just a visually stunning comic. At its heart, it’s a story about identity, community, and the struggle for self-acceptance. The central character, Death Drop, is a fascinating study in contrasts. A hitman turned drag queen, she’s both a symbol of power and a vulnerable outsider. As she races against time to find her missing drag sister, she must confront her own inner demons and the ghosts of her past. It’s a journey of self-discovery that feels both intimate and epic in scale, and it’s impossible not to root for Death Drop every step of the way.
Another standout aspect of Drag Assassin is its supernatural twist. The supernatural elements are seamlessly woven into the storyline, creating a world that’s both familiar and strange. It’s clear that Hazan and Moore has a deep understanding of the horror and noir genres, and they’ve used that knowledge to craft a rich, textured world that readers will want to explore again and again.
Despite its supernatural trappings, Death Drop is ultimately a story about the power of community and the importance of finding one’s chosen family. The drag community in the comic is a vibrant, supportive group of individuals who come together to confront the evil forces that threaten their safety. It’s a message of hope and resilience that feels particularly relevant in today’s world. In the face of hatred and violence, Death Drop reminds us that we’re stronger when we stand together.
Death Drop: Drag Assassin #1 hits local comic shops on June 14, 2023, a perfect way to celebrate Pride Month. The debut issue features a variant cover from Liana Kangas in addition to the main cover and variant cover from Moore.
Be sure to check out Episode 108 of the Capes and Tights Podcast featuring co-creators David Hazan and Alex Moore dropping May 17.