Comic Book Resources

Idol Thoughts 10/26

Here’s an interesting look at what people thought of the second round. I’m going to post some comment each from people who then voted for that contestant.

Caio Oliveira - from Jay Figgs

Once again, my favorite was Caio.
Excelent work on body language and facial expressions (the scene with CB on the bed is absolutely priceless), great, GREAT linework (and this time he used blacks a lot more efficiently), and he totally captured the 80’s feel. HE gets points for sticking very closely to the script (for example, his was one of the few entries that depicted the girl on the driving seat of the car).

Also, I think the fact that his CB’s wearing different clothes totally adds to the story, it gives it the feel of passing time, and I think that made a lot of difference.

Charles Paul Wilson III - from kalorama

It looks like everyone is adjusting to the “deadline pressure” a bit and producing work more in line with the quality of their original samples. Much better work all around this round (at least the ones I’ve been able to see; still a couple of MIAs). Charles Paul Wilson really nailed this one down tight. Layout, storytelling, draftsmanship. Even the lettering is excellent. Great job.

Jon Reed from polystyleneman

This guy is really where it’s at! It’s imperfect (but most great art is) but he has his own style with an enjoyable aesthetic. There’s a certain gentleness and energy to the lines all at once. I see little bits of Walt Simonson, Art Adams, Art Thirbert and it cries out for Mr. Thirbert to ink it. This is the guy I’m watching so far. he seems to get overshadowed by some of the other guys but for one am a fan.

What I like -
- The overall aesthetic is great. I like artists who establish a strong voice and style of their own. You can see the influences but unlike what I said about McDaid it takes those influences and makes something new.
- As far as texture and aesthetic go, I think you and Nick are head to head, with jose coming up a close third.
- Gestalt. It ties together. The style and panels all look like they are from the same person and occupying the same world.
- Contrasts and shadows look like they would be strong and add to the composition when inked

What could be improved -
- I wouldn’t mind seeing it get pushed a little further. But maybe you should hold off considering some of the judges called you on some of the chances you took the first time through (long necks, etc…)
- A little more variety of expression would be nice. I don’t think I saw a single smile with teeth in the three pages.
- Ok, sometimes the style might be too strong. The prom queen’s arms look like she’s been starving herself for this beauty competition
- the scene in bed to me looks more like a couple who’s ran out of interest and things to say than it does a young couple too nervous to try anything

Overall, probably my favorite of the round. Even though Jose is growing on me after looking at everyone else’s so closely, and I like Caio’s, as of now you’re my favorite this round as well. Probably the most visually interesting to me.

Dan McDaid - from the French Touch

Once again, it’s Dan McDaid that wins it for me.

Jose Holder - from davidbovey

Jose Holder’s pages for this round are “ill”. IMO, he’s had the most interesting layouts and easily the best drawn stuff in both rounds. The only question this round is whether on not he would stick to the script.

Top notch.

Wilfredo Torres - from vwhatley

Wilfredo, Outstanding work with the story and an awesome style… all the pages transition well to the end. Can’t wait to see more of your work… Page 2 - lovely girl face. I am enjoying your art…Bravo!!

Be more vocal, Pitarra fans!!