The nostalgia-igniting hit Netflix original series comes to comic shelves. Follow Will Byers into a dimension of decay and destruction where he must use his wits and resolve to dodge the pursuit of the Demogorgon and escape the Upside Down. Written by award-winning comics veteran Jody Houser (Faith, Orphan Black, Mother Panic). Based on Will’s unseen journey during season 1 of hit Netflix show Stranger Things.

This comic book offers us as readers a brief yet intriguing peek into the world of Hawkins, Indiana. At the same time this comic book serves as a tantalizing appetizer that sets the stage for the full “Stranger Things” comic series, though it had left me personally craving more depth and substance.

Jody Houser, known for her ability to translate beloved television narratives into the comic format, brings her signature style to this ashcan. The narrative is concise, capturing the eerie atmosphere and suspense that define the “Stranger Things” universe. Houser effectively conveys the tension and mystery that fans of the show have come to love, setting up key elements that promise deeper exploration in the series.

Despite its brevity, this comic book introduces familiar characters with a degree of authenticity. The dialogues we get in this comic book captures the essence of the original cast, reflecting their personalities and relationships. However, the limited space means there’s little room for character development or significant plot advancement. As a result, this comic book feels more like a teaser than a standalone story.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while capturing the essence of the show, leaves some room for growth. The visuals effectively depict key elements, such as the shadowy environment of the Upside Down, but occasionally lack the detail needed to fully immerse me personally. The potential for more dynamic and expressive illustrations is evident, which could elevate future issues.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to evoke nostalgia while promising new stories. Fans of the series will appreciate the familiar elements and the anticipation of seeing beloved characters navigate new challenges. However, newcomers might find the ashcan less accessible, lacking sufficient context to fully engage those unfamiliar with the show’s premise.

While this comic book succeeds in generating excitement for the upcoming series, it also highlights the challenges of adapting a rich, detailed television narrative into a condensed comic format. The potential for deeper exploration of themes and characters is present, and it will be interesting to see how these elements are developed in the full series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5