Into The Unbeing: Part One [Review]
In a future not too far from our own, the devastating impacts of climate change have rendered Earth a desolate, sweltering wasteland. This is the backdrop for Into the Unbeing: Part One, a new comic written by Zac Thompson, illustrated by Hayden Sherman, and published by Dark Horse Comics. Set in 2034, the story follows a team of scientists working for the Scientific Institute for Nascent Ecology and Worlds (S.I.N.E.W. - cool huh?), as they navigate the harrowing consequences of environmental collapse.
The team is led by Hildur, an expert botanist whose tragic past is overshadowed by the ongoing mass extinction. Alongside her are three other women: Abby, the resident surveyor and Hildur’s closest ally; Selva, a young and seemingly ill-prepared entomologist; and Zara, a determined geologist who constantly challenges Hildur’s authority. The dynamics within the group are strained, with alliances forming out of necessity rather than camaraderie; this creates a palpable tension that Thompson masterfully weaves throughout the narrative.
The story kicks off with the discovery of a mysterious new landmass that appears out of nowhere. The team is divided on whether they should risk the dangerous trek to investigate, but Hildur’s authority ultimately prevails, and they set out to explore this enigmatic terrain. What they find is the entrance to an unknown area, setting the stage for fresh horrors that undoubtedly await them.
Thompson does a fantastic job of building out a world that feels scarily plausible. Given the growing environmental challenges we face today, the grim reality depicted in Into the Unbeing hits close to home. The oppressive heat, the scarcity of resources, and the ever-growing death toll from environmental disasters paint a vivid picture of a world on the brink of collapse. The tension within the research team adds another layer of intrigue, as the characters navigate their own personal demons while trying to survive in this unforgiving environment.
Hayden Sherman’s art is solid throughout the issue. The main detraction for me were the panels where detail seemed to be sacrificed for the sake of scale a little too much. That being said, Sherman excels in depicting the personal interactions and mannerisms between characters. One standout page features close-ups of all four team members, capturing their emotions and depth with striking clarity. The intensity in their eyes and the subtle nuances in their expressions draw the reader in, making it impossible to look away. This page alone is a testament to Sherman’s ability to convey powerful emotions through his art, and is one that I came back to a few times.
With a frighteningly relatable setting, compelling characters, and gripping artwork, Into the Unbeing has successfully lured me into the deep, dark cavern of its narrative. Thompson and Sherman have crafted a story that not only entertains but also provokes thought about the dire consequences of our current environmental trajectory.
Into the Unbeing: Part One releases on June 12th, and it’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking sci-fi with a strong emotional core. Be sure to pick it up and prepare to be drawn into a world that feels all too possible.
