Comic Book Review: Dead End Kids- The Suburban Job #1
By Nolan P. Smith
When Source Point Press released Dead End Kids in 2019, they shocked the comic book world. The mini-series from writer Frank Gogol followed a group of kids searching for answers after one of their own is found dead. Chilling and emotional, the series wrapped up loose ends and left its mark on the comic world. So, then what is the new Dead End Kids about?
Dead End Kids: The Suburban Job follows three teens in the aftermath of a post 9/11 world. Three teens who used to be friends until life pulled them away. Amna, Brian, and Des all have personal demons to battle- whether it’s reeling from the loss of a loved one, trying to continue a legacy, or facing racial discrimination, each has their own issues. But fate brings them back together at an opportune moment that will shift all of their lives.
Frank Gogol and Nenad Cviticanin give us the very definition of the phrase “spiritual successor” when it comes to Dead End Kids. The story focuses on three brand new and unique characters, yet it keeps the essence of the original alive. That essence is the bond between friends in the face of adversity, in the face of the countless challenges life throws at you. This issue is titled “One Moment” and for so many reasons. One moment as in 9/11- the day the world stopped turning. One moment as in those moments that’s shaped our characters into who they are and led them on the path they are now going down.
Gogol is a master at creating emotional connections and characters we can relate to. He does it once again with our new trio, as each is headed on a crash course for their destiny, but who knows if they will all survive the ride. Cviticanin is absolutely amazing, creating character designs that are unique all their own, and instilling such emotion in a simple facial expression. The attention to detail is fantastic, and the creative use of panels is outstanding as well. Sean Rinehart does an excellent job on the lettering, and the cover by Chris Madd unifies this book with its predecessor, which is a brilliant move and looks fantastic.
Dead End Kids: The Suburban Job looks at the after-effects of one of the greatest tragedies our world has faced through the eyes of teenagers who lived it. Gogol, Cviticanin, and all of the creative team delivered big time for one of the best new releases for 2021. I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here.
Rating: FIVE Pastrami Nations out of FIVE
Nolan P. Smith is the Editor in Chief and Co-Founder of Pastrami Nation. For the past ten years, he has worked for various media outlets, from newsprint to the ever-evolving internet platform. Residing in Victorville, CA, writing has always been a significant aspect of his life. A reporter, teacher, public relations specialist, and more, he takes the most joy out of covering the world of pop culture. You can follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @pastramination.