Crocodile Black #2: Dark Obsessions
Creative Team
writer: PHILLIP KENNEDY JOHNSON
artist: SOM
colorist: PATRICIO DELPECHE
letterer: BECCA CAREY
publisher: BOOM! STUDIOS
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Crocodile Black #2 continues its descent into madness with an angsty follow-up issue to the breakout series premiere.
Leo Black was found dead during Danny’s routine grocery delivery gig and has since become a morbid source of inspiration for violence and escapism. What started with a pair of crocodile skin boots has morphed into a sick fantasy as Danny’s obsession grows.
Set during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, this story continues to emphasize darkness slowly encroaching on Danny’s mind. The issue begins with a one-page spread of a destroyed city. In contrast to the stylistic art is a small boy who is made primarily of bright lines—similar to that of light art. As the boy goes about the destructed path on his tricycle, a crocodile jumps out of the nearby water and barely misses him.
Writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson expands the world that exists around Danny, with part of the story focused on Detective Triv and his investigation of drug distribution in the area and Danny cosplaying as his imagined version of Leo Black. The script continues to be sharp and makes every page count as tension builds. Johnson’s story is as interesting as ever, even if readers feel unsettled by how intriguing Danny’s story is.
Imagery and symbolism is strong in this series and the art by Somnath Pal (Som) and colors by Patricio Delpeche are nothing short of spectacular and fluidly shift with the dark tones of the story. The illustration, panel design, and pops of color shift to notate Danny’s violent explorations. It’s not gimmicky and instead acts like horrific reminders when they suddenly appear.
It’s been noted in the previous review that it’s obvious Danny is not the character readers should be supporting, but he continues to be so damn interesting that dark curiosity continues to take hold.
Final Verdict
A dark and riveting read, this hard hitting story continues its twisted tale with slick writing and art. While much of this issue is focused on worldbuilding and establishes new plot threads, it continues to be captivating.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 9.5 |
| Story/Plot | 9.5 |
| Art/Line Work | 9.5 |
| Colors | 9.5 |
| Final Score | 9.5/10 |