Red Before Black #2: Pancakes and Pain
Creative Team
writers: STEPHANIE PHILLIPS
artist: GORAN SUDŽUKA
colorist: IVE SVORCINA
letterer: TOM NAPOLITANO
publisher: BOOM! STUDIOS
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Red Before Black #2 is a wild blend of action and well-scripted dialogue that is sure to impress comic fans. It doesn’t just build on the exciting story from Issue #1, but raises the stakes.
Having just been released from prison, Val is offered an opportunity to prove herself to former contacts by taking wildcard Leo out of the equation. When the hit job goes sideways, the two end up at a diner of all places.
While Issue #2 follows two plot threads in its 20 page story, the script flows incredibly well thanks to writer Stephanie Phillips. Readers can expect this entry to focus on Val’s perspective—similar to Issue #1–but this doesn’t mean Leo is deprived of her moments to impress. Instead, Val’s interaction serves as a way for Leo to showcase how formidable she is despite her eccentric and energetic personality.
Val’s position as a double agent is further expanded in this issue and while the diner sequence is more exciting, it offers a structural balance that gives well-placed breaks. However, readers may find themselves cheering like Romans once did for gladiators when the action takes off by the third act.
The illustrations Goran Sudžuka and colors by Ive Svorcina capture the bright tones of a crime story set in Miami, Florida, and the panel designs offer intimate closes-up as Val and Leo exchange words over black coffee and pancakes.
While the script and colors are top notch, the illustrations and panels steal the show in this issue. The attention to small details like voiceless characters in the background or the close ups of Val’s sunglasses and their respective reflection make the visuals a slick experience.
Final Verdict
Prepare for an unpredictable and exhilarating issue that will have readers counting the days to Issue #3 as Val and Leo aren’t just two of the coolest and deadliest characters on comic book stands; but their chemistry is infectious.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 9.5 |
| Story/Plot | 9.50 |
| Art/Line Work | 9.75 |
| Colors | 9.5 |
| Final Score | 9.6/10 |