Comic Book Review: The Vault #1

The Vault #1

Written by: Sam Sarkar

Art by: Garrie Gastonny

Color by: Sakti Yuwono

Cover by: Bagus Hutomo

Published by: Image Comics

Cover Price: $3.50

Release Date: July 27. 2011

A small team of treasure hunters struggles to excavate a dangerous and legendary treasure pit before a massive storm hits Sable Island, the "Graveyard of the North Atlantic".Equipped with all the latest technology, the scientists believe they are prepared against all of nature's fury, but nothing can prepare them for what they are about to unleash from The Vault.

Image's new horror mini-series starts off with a splash this week as Doctors Michael Page and Gabrielle Parker try to find treasure in Sable Island waters off the coast of Nova Scotia. This first issue is a well developed introduction to the characters and the conflict. Five people trying desperately to find a treasure to reward their hard work. One newcomer with the right equipment to finish the job and the demand for more money. One hurricane barreling their way. And the mysterious discovery.

The art by Gastonny and Yuwono does an impressive job portraying the events, especially the underwater scenes. Also, the first couple of splash pages, carrying a bit of foreshadowing as well as mystery, are very impressive.

Sarkar's tale is an intriguing one even if, admittedly, not devoid of horror movie cliche. But Sarkar's use of real islands and real events creates a realistic feel to what we know will become unrealistic supernatural mayhem. And I love unrealistic supernatural mayhem. Sarkar's tale does have a slightly choppy feel and some of his transitions could be smoother, but it's not so detracting to ruin the tale.

If you like horror movies and horror comics, then plunge into The Vault. You won't regret it.