If you’re nostalgic about Invader Zim, I’ve got great news: As of June 17, 2020, Oni Press and Lion Forge will start publishing Invader Zim Quarterly, a comic series that’s based on the dark animated series created by Jhonen Vasquez. Now, you can enjoy the classic Nickelodeon cartoon in comic form with new adventures to boot. GIR’s Big Day, the very first issue in the series, takes you on a wild ride with GIR, the happy-go-lucky robot who (unintentionally) causes chaos everywhere he goes.
Anyone who likes Invader Zim remembers GIR, Zim’s dysfunctional yet lovable robot companion who disguises himself as a green dog when he’s out in public. GIR is famous for his cuteness, distractibility, high energy levels, and love of food. While he stir up problems for the alien protagonist and humans alike as a sidekick, GIR is the main character in GIR’s Big Day. Within the span of this comic, he accomplishes more than I ever thought was possible! Reading it will show you just what GIR is capable of just by being his impulsive, singing, shortcircuiting self.
Invader Zim was one of my favorite television series during the 2000s. (The first episode aired in 2001 and the series developed a cult following.) In the days before streaming was a thing, I would plan my whole day around watching it on television in the evening. Watching it served as a portal that led me to great comics by Jhonen Vasquez such as Johnny the Homicidal Maniac (JTHM) and Squee!. Although Vasquez didn’t illustrate or write this comic, he is the “Control Brain” behind Invader Zim Quarterly. That means he has a lot of influence over how this comic turned out and much like his other works, I loved every second of it. This comic retains the unique atmosphere and humor of the Invader Zim cartoon, so I wasn’t surprised to find myself witch cackling throughout the entire reading experience. No wonder it’s so good!
However, please know that GIR’s Big Day is the result of a group effort that extends beyond Vasquez alone. Eric Trueheart writes this comic in a way that takes it in directions I didn’t anticipate, making this whole comic a pleasant surprise. Aaron Alexovich illustrates the comic in a way that makes me feel immersed in the world of Invader Zim just as I did in the old days. I appreciate how the comic’s art is detailed and similar to the art style of the show. The colors are dark, thick, and vivid thanks to Fred C. Stresing doing the coloring. Warren Wucinich does the lettering in a way that evokes that eerie yet alluring Invader Zim vibe I can’t quite put my finger on, but love nonetheless. Everyone involved in this project did a great job and I can’t wait to see what other comics Invader Zim Quarterly brings into the world. I’m glad Oni Press and Lion Forge are catering to the Zim fanbase because it’s been a while and humanity deserves it. Our time has come to take over the world one comic at a time. *cue villainous laughter*
As anyone who knows me can attest, I read a lot of cute manga and comics. I find Invader Zim’s dark, edgy design and interesting humor to be a refreshing departure from my fluffy kawaii dream clouds I often preoccupy myself with. I support Invader Zim’s journey and I want to see how much of the world he’ll take over, even if it’s just one home address he squats on a block. I recommend reading GIR’s Big Day if you’re interested in seeing GIR be the main character for once instead of the sidekick. After all, GIR has a hyper, humorous personality that adds a chaotic element to every plot he’s involved in. Any comic that features him is bound to get wacky in some way and that’s why he’s so great.
Thanks for reading!
Gir’s Big Day is available from Oni Press June 17, 2020
