Revival is a tale about dead people returning to life…so zombies, but well not exactly. Those to have recently passed return to the world of the living, but that’s only the surface of what is taking place in the rural town of Wausau, Wisconsin. Writer Tim Seeley and artist Mike Norton take us on a wild ride of noir horror.
For one day in rural central Wisconsin, the dead came back to life. Now, it’s up to Officer Dana Cypress to deal with the media scrutiny, religious zealots, and government quarantine that has come with them. In a town where the living have to learn to deal with those who are supposed to be dead, Officer Cypress must solve a brutal murder, and everyone, alive or undead, is a suspect.
Tim Seeley presents a fresh and unique take on the undead in Revival. The “revivers” may have the similar idea of zombies, but defy the traditional expectations of the genre. Moving away from the standard portrayals, Seeley gives us a gripping mystery infused with paranormal horror but really grounded in a noir-inspired core.
Revival features a rich and diverse cast of characters. Each individual is well-crafted and developed with purpose, creating a slower-paced story in the beginning, but is deeply rewarding in the end–just have patience. Every character has a role to play and Seeley’s storytelling ensues that each introduction feels integral to the broader story at hand.
Mike Norton truly elevates the story even further with his fantastic illustrations. Each character design is given a distinct and memorable design, making it easy to connect with the ensemble cast. The detailed illustrations of rural Wisconsin town enhance the small-town atmosphere that complements the script. Norton’s ability to bring Seeley’s vision to each panel results in a seamless, immersive experience. Not to mention the absolutely stunning covers by Jenny Frison.
By the end of the first deluxe volume, Revival delivers a captivating and well-crafted story. The conclusion not only threads together but left me hungry for more in the series, eagerly awaiting opening the second deluxe volume.
Tim Seeley and Mike Norton have created something truly special with Revival. The first deluxe volume is a must-read for fans of Seeley and Norton, but also those looking for a horror noir tale with fantastic characters. It’s the kind of story that lingers with you, urging you to uncover what’s next.
The Revival Deluxe Edition Volume 1 is available at local comic shops and bookstores everywhere from Image Comics. Revival has been adapted into a television series premiering June 12 on SyFy.
Revival Deluxe Volume 1 Preview
