No Brainer #1 [Review]
In the ever-expanding universe of comic books, anthologies offer a unique space for creators to flex their storytelling muscles across various genres and styles. No Brainer #1, written and illustrated by Edison Neo (also known as "Eddie"), is a prime example of this creative versatility. Comprised of four distinct stories, this anthology showcases Neo’s wide range of artistic abilities and storytelling prowess, delivering a fantastic blend of action, comedy, emotion, and outright silliness.
The anthology kicks off with Thoomgard: Final Mission, a tale that introduces us to the intergalactic hero, Thoom. Forced into retirement, Thoom is “voluntold” to make one last trip back to the academy that trained him. The story is a delightful romp, imbued with the kind of sharp writing and high energy that harkens back to Saturday morning cartoons. Neo’s art shines here, capturing the vibrant landscapes of Thoomgard’s universe.
Next, Growing Up shifts gears entirely, offering a poignant look at the nature of friendship and the inevitable changes that come with time. This touching short story centers on how one summer can cause school-aged friends to seemingly grow apart. The narrative is heartfelt and relatable, capturing the bittersweet essence of childhood memories. Neo’s art style adapts seamlessly to this more intimate and grounded tale, using soft lines and warm colors to evoke a sense of nostalgia and innocence. It’s a beautiful, introspective piece that adds emotional depth to the anthology.
Injecting a dose of humor, Attenborough Never Stops is a comedic short that stands out for its clever concept. The story features an unseen narrator vividly describing a gruesome scene in nature, in the style of a nature documentary. The juxtaposition of the narrator’s calm, educational tone with the violent events unfolding on the page is both hilarious and jarring. Neo’s artwork here leans into the absurdity, with exaggerated expressions and dynamic action that amplify the comedic effect. It’s a fun, light-hearted break from the more serious themes of the previous entry.
The anthology wraps up with A Quick Tip from Eddie on Making Good Impressions, a short and playful piece that serves as a charming conclusion. In this final segment, Neo offers his unique take on making good impressions, blending practical advice with his signature humor and wit. The artwork is simple yet effective, reinforcing the casual and friendly tone of the narrative.
Overall, No Brainer #1 is a fantastically put-together anthology that highlights Edison Neo’s exceptional talent and versatility. Each story brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the action-packed adventure of Thoomgard, the heartfelt nostalgia of Growing Up, the comedic brilliance of Attenborough Never Stops, or the whimsical advice in the final piece. Neo’s ability to seamlessly transition between different genres and artistic styles is impressive, making this anthology a true showcase of his wide-ranging skills.
For fans of diverse storytelling and dynamic artwork, No Brainer #1 is a must-read. It’s a fantastic piece of media that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impression. Eddie’s work in this anthology is a testament to his creative genius, and it’s certainly worth checking out.
If you’re interested in seeing more from Eddie, you’re in luck! His Kickstarter campaign for No Brainer #6 (that’s right…there’s more anthologies where this came from) is live, and can be found here.
Be sure to support more of Eddie’s works in the future— he is an artist and writer with a bright and exciting path ahead.
Check out Neo on Instagram and Twitter!
