Why You Should Read It: Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Upon reading Boom! Studios’ new rendition of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, I couldn’t tell you much about how it differs from other stories that have already been told about the character – and I also couldn’t tell you that it matters.
Whether you have a history with Buffy and Wheldon’s other creations or not, the newest addition to BTVS’ extensive lore is capable of keeping old fans intrigued and drawing in new ones, too. Although the first few issues rush to get past exposition and character introductions, it still allows for newer readers to get a good grasp on who Buffy, Willow, Xander, and Giles are, even if they weren’t familiar with the likeness of these characters before.
The series has so far taken place in Sunnydale High school, and the comic is filled to the brim with quippy dialogue and characters with specific goals and truths – the most important one being Buffy’s desire to be a normal teenager juxtaposed with her life as a slayer. Each issue, in its way, explores the nuances of Buffy’s life as a slayer and contains an exploration of the same themes. Dan Mora and David Lopez, despite having noticeably different narrative styles, manage to keep the comic consistent.
The artwork in Buffy is stunning, and a really interesting modern reimagining of each character. Dynamic panels and cartooning express to the reader an organic set of emotions. We can feel Buffy’s self-doubt, guilt, and stress. Action panels are done extraordinarily well, and no corners were cut on visuals.
Overall, this comic is a great jumping on or jumping back on point for new and jaded readers alike.