Dark Matter Vol. 1: Rebirth TPB – Review!

I just finished reading an advanced copy of this graphic novel and I must say I am impressed. The story is written by science fiction veterans Joseph Mallozzi and Paul Mullie, better known for their work on the Stargate franchise. The artwork is done by Garry Brown with colorist Ryan Hill. These combinations equal one gritty science fiction tale wrought with a bit of action and a whole lot of intrigue. Here’s the synopsis:

The six-person crew of a derelict spaceship awakens from stasis in the farthest reaches of space. Their memories wiped clean, they have no recollection of who they are or how they got on board. The only clue to their identities is a cargo bay full of weaponry and a destination—a remote mining colony that is about to become a war zone! With no idea whose side they are on, they face a deadly decision. Will these amnesiacs turn their backs on history, or will their pasts catch up with them?

Though the story of the shipmates awakening prematurely with no memory is not an original idea, the way the story unfolds is engrossing enough to pull the reader along and really want to find out more. The artwork is amazing and Garry Brown is a superb fit for creating the desolate space ship and the gritty characters within. Ryan Hill’s colors are an excellent compliment to the rich inks and further set the stage for this science fiction thriller.

If you haven’t followed the series weekly, I would recommend you catch up with the series when the graphic novel is released. Volume 1 includes issues 1-4 of the miniseries. A preview can be found on Dark Horse’s website in addition to information on how to pre-order a copy through them. If you are a fan of Firefly or the Stargate franchise, you will not be disappointed in this title.