Standstill #1
Review
Writer: Lee Loughridge
Artist: Andrew Robinson
Publisher: Image Comics
Release Date: August 21, 2024
Page Count: 60
Format: Single-issue
Standstill #1 delivers a thrilling debut that mixes quirky sci-fi with stunning visuals. Lee Loughridge's first writing project proves to be as captivating as his coloring work, while Andrew Robinson's art elevates the story over the top.
Standstill #1
ReviewWriter: Lee Loughridge
Artist: Andrew Robinson
Publisher: Image Comics
Release Date: August 21, 2024
Page Count: 60
Format: Single-issue
Standstill #1 delivers a thrilling debut that mixes quirky sci-fi with stunning visuals. Lee Loughridge's first writing project proves to be as captivating as his coloring work, while Andrew Robinson's art elevates the story over the top.
The beauty of creator-owned comics is that creators are not bound to specific roles if they've got the spark to do something new. So, while Lee Loughridge is more known as one of the best colorists in the business, his latest comic, Standstill, is his first foray into writing comics. Not only that but he's got artist Andrew Robinson along with him for the thrilling ride. As a big fan of both creators, I was excited to dive into this new series and see how their distinct styles come together.
With comic book powerhouses working together in one book, could this be a sleeper hit? Keep on reading for my full review of Standstill #1!
Overview of Standstill #1
Ryker Ruel is a raging sociopath with a mean streak for breaking the law. To make matters worse, he's stolen a top-secret device that freezes time at the push of a button. Naturally, massive international crimes are on the rise because of him. With the government at a loss for what to do, the only one with keys to stopping the lunatic is the introverted scientist who created the device. But will his brilliant mind be fast enough to stop Ryker from causing irreparable damage to the world?
Image: Image Comics
Review
For a comic about stopping time, Standstill #1 doesn't waste a second to grab your attention. Artist Andrew Robinson kills it by delivering his signature style that brings so much expressiveness and flair to the characters. All it takes is just one look at Ryker’s snarky face and you can already get an idea of what the character is all about. This first issue gives you a great glimpse into how Ryker makes for a slick villain with a suave and dangerous swagger. Complete with his bright Hawaiian shirt, think of him as like what if Ace Ventura was a cold-blooded James Bond villain. After getting a taste of what he’s capable of, it will be fun seeing how far Ryker will go with his powers and what lengths the hero will go to try and stop him.
With its extended 60-page count, Standstill #1 pieces together an intriguing story that shows how dangerous a man like Ryker can be with the power to stop time. The pacing is tight, the dialogue is snappy, and the visual storytelling is nothing short of spectacular. Lee Loughridge's years as a top-tier colorist have clearly given him a keen eye for narrative flow, and it shows how engaging this first issue is. My only gripe is that there’s still very little to latch on to the stosy’s protagonist. This first issue very much feels like the Ryker Ruel show, leaving little time to properly get to know his foil in the story. Ultimately, this issue does just enough to introduce you to the story’s key players and the stakes on the line. There’s a bit of a spy versus spy feel to it that I find intriguing, and I’m eager to see more of it as the series progresses.
Image: Image ComicsWhat’s truly interesting about this comic is that its oversized page count is actually in complete service to the art. With the whole issue consisting of two-page spreads, it’s as if you’re reading a comic book in widescreen. It makes for an ideal format for Robinson’s style because the extra space really allows you to take in the incredible details put into his work. Regardless if the scene involves a couple arguing at home or biker thugs getting their guts ripped out, there is so much flair in visuals that every moment feels bombastic. The presentation alone makes Standstill stand out from what you’ll usually find on the shelves.
Image: Image Comics
Final Thoughts
Considering Standstill is Lee Loughridge's first crack at writing a comic, I’m incredibly impressed by how fascinating the story is right from the jump. Ryker is a captivating villain with all the personality and swagger to carry a story with such an intriguing premise. It’s also a treat to see more of Andrew Robinson's art regularly. Standstill #1 sets the stage for what could be a sleeper hit for Image Comics. For fans of quirky sci-fi stories, over-the-top action, and surprisingly loveable villains, Standstill is a must-read. Don't let this fun comic slip by your radars!
Why You Should Read Standstill
- Andrew Robinson's art is incredible, with sprawling double-page spreads that demand attention.
- The issue does well to pull you into the quirkiness of its characters and premise.
- Lee Loughridge's writing debut shows promise, with tight pacing and engaging dialogue.