Standstill #1 [Advance Review]
“What wouldn’t you do if you could stop time?” This is the chilling question posed in Lee Loughridge’s Standstill #1, a dark and gripping new entry in the world of comics. Loughridge, who made his writing debut with Midstate earlier this year, has swiftly established himself as a compelling voice in the comic book industry. Known primarily for his work as a colorist on titles like Deadly Class and The Good Asian, Loughridge’s transition to writing reveals a fresh, raw talent that fans will not want to miss.
The story centers around Ryker Ruel, a man who has stumbled upon a device that grants him the power to stop time. The concept itself isn’t new, but Loughridge’s execution is what sets this narrative apart. This is no superhero tale—Ryker is far from a hero. What begins as a seemingly noble quest for vengeance quickly devolves into a spree of high-profile robberies and cold-blooded murders. It’s clear that Ryker is a deeply flawed and disturbed individual, and it’s this moral ambiguity that makes Standstill so intriguing.
Loughridge’s writing shines through in his portrayal of Ryker. The character is charismatic and deeply unsettling, a perfect anti-hero for a story steeped in darkness. The dialogue is sharp and gritty, laced with expletives that add to the raw, unfiltered atmosphere of the comic. Loughridge doesn’t hold back, and his informal, edgy style fits perfectly with the mature themes of the narrative. The banter between characters is quick and biting, creating a rapid-fire pace that keeps the reader on edge. However, there is a slight risk that some of the dialogue may veer into stereotypical territory, with certain attitudes and vernacular feeling a bit one-dimensional. Despite this, the dialogue effectively reveals character traits and motivations, driving the plot forward while deepening the reader’s understanding of the twisted world Ryker inhabits.
Opposing Ryker’s chaos is Colin Shaw, the nerdy scientist who originally helped develop the time-stopping device. The Pentagon, alarmed by the recent string of crimes, plans to re-enlist Shaw to help bring Ryker to justice. Shaw is an interesting foil to Ryker’s unhinged violence—he’s flabbergasted by the situation and, at first glance, appears to be out of his depth. This dynamic sets up a fascinating conflict for future issues, as it remains unclear how Shaw will be able to contend with someone as dangerous as Ryker. Loughridge does a commendable job of balancing the story’s intense action with moments of introspection, particularly through Shaw’s perspective. His recent heartbreak adds another layer of vulnerability, making him a relatable, if unlikely, hero in the unfolding drama.
Andrew Robinson’s artwork complements Loughridge’s gritty storytelling beautifully. Robinson is known for his bold, deliberate line work, and Standstill is no exception. The characters’ expressions are meticulously detailed, capturing the tension, aggression, and fear that permeates every scene. Robinson’s use of a vibrant yet muted color palette adds depth and atmosphere, giving the comic a cinematic quality. The strategic use of shadows and highlights further enhances the mood, making the intense scenes feel even more visceral.
However, there are moments where the backgrounds feel a bit underdeveloped, which might break the reader’s immersion slightly. In some scenes, the lack of detail in the environment creates a disconnect between the characters and their surroundings. This is a minor gripe, though, as Robinson’s primary strength lies in his ability to convey emotion through his characters, which is crucial to the success of Standstill. The dynamic compositions, varied perspectives, and close-ups keep the visual storytelling engaging, ensuring that the reader’s attention never wanes.
Standstill #1 is a promising debut from Loughridge and Robinson. It’s a story that could easily fly under the radar, but its strong writing, captivating artwork, and dark, thought-provoking themes make it a comic worth watching. With its official release this Wednesday, 8/21, make sure to grab a copy at your local comic shop. If you’re a fan of gritty, character-driven narratives with a twist of sci-fi, Standstill is a must-read.
