A classic French comic series gets a deluxe treatment for its 50th anniversary in The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec Vol. 1. Paris, 1911. One gloomy night at the Museum of Natural History, a pterodactyl escapes from its display and wreaks havoc upon the city. Enter journalist extraordinaire Adèle Blanc-Sec, who must use her wits and firepower to get to the bottom of this bizarre mystery. An enchanting antihero, Adèle is fearless, brash, and thoroughly ill-tempered, smoking and cursing her way through the case — always barely escaping peril to tell her tale.
When it comes to legendary French comic creators, Tardi is a name that absolutely has to be in the conversation. With a career that dates back to 1969, he has established himself as one of the leading names is bande design – with his works focusing on the horrors of the First World War also gaining him a following amongst English speaking readers. But globally, he is arguably best known for his long-running fantasy mystery series – The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec. The series garnered Tardi a huge following throughout Europe and was also adapted into a live action film from renowned French director Luc Besson.
This new series of hardcovers from Fantagraphics not only showcase the series for its 50th anniversary but will also mark the first time that the entire series will be released in English. It goes without saying that this is a perfect introduction to those who have yet to experience Tardi’s work. The series is a melting pot of several genres including mystery, crime, adventure, steampunk and fantasy – yet it never gets too bogged down in tropes. It is also a series that never takes itself too seriously with Tardi not being afraid to point out some of the more absurd aspects in his own work. He has a natural gift for world building that really shines through in this opening volume.
Tardi’s art remains the main highlight. It has a unique quirky style which is packed with detail. This is particularly highlighted with his background art which has always been one of his strong points. Whilst well known for the dark bleak settings he created for his WWI comics; he is also capable of creating unique worlds that are full of charm.
This is a perfect introduction for newcomers to Tardi’s work and a worthy celebration of 50 years of Adèle Blanc-Sec. Longtime fans will also appreciate this deluxe treatment which is a must have for serious collectors.
The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec Vol. 1 is out now from Fantagraphics (9798875002380, h/b, £26.99)
Or support your local bookstore.
Want regular updates and weekly reviews on the latest in graphic novels and manga? Follow us on Twitter @turnaroundcomix.
