Something is Killing the Children #37: Big Box Monsters
Creative Team
writer: JAMES TYNION IV
artist: WERTHER DELL’EDERA
colorist: MIQUEL MUERTO
letterer: ANDWORLD DESIGNS
publisher: BOOM! STUDIOS
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Something is Killing the Children (SIKTC) #37 draws you in like a classic horror film, delivering an anxiety-inducing experience that reminds readers why they should be afraid of the dark. From the writing to the art, the entire team has put together another excellent story.
Continuing the “Road Stories” arc, this issue begins mid-mission as monster hunter Erica Slaughter takes on the latest creature in a small-town big box store.
The issue begins with two retail employees bickering at a cash register in an empty department store. Like many their age, the topic of relationships dominates their life. It’s a clever moment to include as it will quickly be contrasted by the grand and mysterious world of Erica Slaughter.
Writer James Tynion IV has made conscious efforts to leverage the latest arc as a way to re-introduce the character. While the previous issue highlighted Erica’s nurturing side, this entry emphasizes her prowess as a lone black masked hunter. The department store setting serves as a unique location and enhances the horror elements when the lights are shut off and danger lurks in the corners.
The illustrations from Werther Dell’Edera and colors by Miquel Muerto are top notch—with a particular scene of Erica holding a chainsaw standing out in this issue.
The script guides the visuals in creating dark and light set pieces, and this allows the illustrations and colors to combine for intense imagery and also have their own moments to shine. A particular scene of Erica holding a chainsaw will be one of the standout moments as it incorporates darkness, line work, and color use.
Final Verdict
This issue cements Erica Slaughter as one of the most badass characters in comic books and leaves you breathless with the sound of chainsaws ringing in your ears.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 9.75 |
| Story/Plot | 9.75 |
| Art/Line Work | 9.75 |
| Colors | 9.75 |
| Final Score | 9.8/10 |