Space politics aren’t simple, and neither are the lives of the complicated protagonists in the indie comic Stellarlands. Daffney has superhuman physiology and one heck of a drinking problem. Judged heavily for both, she is sent to the moon of another planet to destroy a secret abandoned base but quickly figures out that the base isn’t as abandoned as expected. What follows is the first two issues of an eight-issue series, Stellarlands. Written by Max Ferrada, with art by Ben Worrell, colors by Wilson Co, letters by Es Kay and editor Katrina Roets, Stellarlands has all the good parts of a solid indie comic, and none of the need to hold back that you see in more mainstream graphic works.
With thoughtful character work, gorgeous planet design work, and a story that explores the wicked fears of the “other” and hidden history, Stellarlands doesn’t shy away from a world with a complicated history. If you’re wondering if space army recruitment is just as corrupt as it is here on good ol’ terra firma...it’s worse. Recruits sign away their lives for a succinct period of time, only that time isn’t flowing the same way back home. It is entirely possible for someone to go on a short mission, only to return after everyone they love has died.
In a time of political unrest and harsh realizations about what chapters in history have been covered up with most Western nations, Stellarlands feels like an important catalyst to get the reader thinking about what we ignore, how we cope, and what we will do when faced with the chance to make it right.
The first two issues of a planned eight of Stellarlands are now available. You can get copies in both digital formats and print. Be advised the prices are AUD, so it will be cheaper for US buyers.
