Barnstormers is the newest comic from Dark Horse by Eisner Award winning writer Scott Snyder (Wytches, Swamp Thing) and artist Tula Lotay (Supreme: Blue Rose, All-Star Batman).
Barnstormers #1 explores the evolving relationship between two young pilots, John and Helen, who travel from town to town, entertaining folks with their airborne antics. The comic book is set during the barnstorming era, which was the golden age of aviation, spanning from the end of World War I through the 1920s. It’s a story that will take you on a journey of adventure and romance, all while showcasing the wonders of aviation during the early days of flying.
Once you open the pages of Barnstormers, you’ll be captivated by the unique style of artwork by Tula Lotay. The illustrations have a vintage look and feel, which perfectly complements the time period of the story. The artwork brings out the best of Snyder’s creative writing, giving you an immersive experience that takes you right into the heart of the action. You’ll feel the wind brush past you as John’s plane takes off into the clouds, or the adrenaline rush as Helen performs death-defying stunts mid-air, leaving you awestruck.
Scott Snyder’s creative writing is a perfect match for the comic book’s theme. The elegant characterization of both the protagonists, John and Helen, is what makes the comic book stand out. Snyder cleverly intertwines their backstory with the plot to create an engaging, character-driven story. The way their common passion for aviation brings them together and how their romance blossoms, all within the constraints of the era, will leave you wanting more.
Barnstormers also highlights the challenges and setbacks that the aviation industry had to face at the time. The concept of aviation was still in its infancy, and the technology that we take for granted today, such as GPS and radar, was nonexistent. Pilots used to fly by sight and relied on their intuition to navigate through the skies. In Barnstormers #1, you’ll get an insight into the perils and risks that pilots had to take to make a living as entertainers.
Barnstormers is an exceptional comic book that will transport you to the era of early aviation. The comic book showcases the wonders and challenges of that period, where aviation was an adventurous pursuit rather than a mode of transportation. The characterization and relationship between the protagonists, John and Helen, is the real highlight of the comic book. The creative writing and artwork are perfectly in sync, giving readers an immersive experience that will leave them wanting more.
Barnstormers #1 hits shelves at local comic shops on July 5, 2023 from Dark Horse Comics.