The holiday season often conjures images of joy and warmth, but Misfortune #0 flips this expectation on its head, plunging readers into a tale of shadows and danger. Allen Dunford, Rodrigo Catraca, and Dave Lentz craft a story that merges horror, mystery, and heroics, set against the backdrop of a seemingly peaceful small town. With a gripping narrative, atmospheric art, and sharp lettering, this debut issue establishes a dark and intriguing world filled with questions and danger.
A Town Caught in Darkness
The comic opens on an idyllic scene: a little girl joyfully builds a snowman in the middle of town. It’s picturesque, evoking a sense of innocence and holiday cheer. But this serenity is shattered when the girl hears a mysterious voice calling from the woods. Dave Lentz’s brilliant lettering hints at the voice’s sinister nature—its jagged edges and eerie placement suggest danger long before it’s visible. Believing the voice to be someone in need, the girl ventures closer, only to be snatched away into the darkness by an unseen force.
The narrative then shifts to a busy Christmas shopping trip, where we meet a family—a mother and her two children, Lani and her younger brother Andrue. Their sibling banter feels relatable, grounding the story in a sense of normalcy. But this too is disrupted when Andrue wanders off, drawn by the same shadowy voice. The monstrous figure lurking in the shadows seizes him, and this time, someone notices. Lani, driven by instinct and love for her brother, chases after him, following the creature deep into the forest.
In the woods, the horror truly unfolds. Lani discovers the monstrous abductor in its full, terrifying form, collecting children from the town like trophies. Just when all seems lost, a new figure emerges from the shadows—a hero wielding the same dark powers as the creature, but seemingly fighting for good. This shadowy protector is as enigmatic as the antagonist, raising as many questions as answers. Who is he? Why does he possess the same abilities? And can he be trusted?
Allen Dunford’s script leaves readers with tantalizing questions while maintaining a tight focus on the emotional stakes. Lani’s desperate pursuit of her brother anchors the story, making the supernatural elements feel personal and immediate.
Atmosphere in Every Panel
Rodrigo Catraca’s artwork perfectly captures the story’s duality—innocence colliding with darkness. The early panels, with their snow-covered streets and festive cheer, lull readers into a false sense of security. This makes the transition to the shadowy forest all the more jarring and effective. The contrast between light and dark becomes a recurring visual motif, reinforcing the theme of duality that runs through the narrative.
The creature’s design is chilling, relying on shadow and suggestion to evoke fear. Its undefined edges make it feel otherworldly, as if it could disappear or expand at any moment. The shadowy protector, by contrast, is visually striking—a figure cloaked in darkness but wielding a faint, glowing light. This design choice hints at their ambiguous morality, adding another layer of intrigue.
Catraca’s use of color is also noteworthy. Reds and purples punctuate the otherwise muted palette, heightening the tension during key moments. One particularly striking sequence occurs when Lani chases her brother into the forest. Her frantic movement through the dark trees is captured with dynamic paneling and splashes of vibrant red, emphasizing her fear and determination.
A Voice in the Darkness
Dave Lentz’s lettering is integral to the comic’s impact. From the very first page, the voice of the shadowy creature is given a visual personality that conveys its malevolent intent. The jagged, uneven style of the text feels dangerous, as if the words themselves are sharp enough to cut. This clever use of lettering enhances the reader’s understanding of the creature without needing explicit exposition.
In action scenes, the sound effects amplify the drama. Each punch, crash, and cry is bold and visceral, leaping off the page to immerse readers in the moment. Meanwhile, the dialogue flows naturally, guiding readers through the story without ever feeling intrusive.
Light, Shadow, and the Bonds That Drive Us
At its core, Misfortune explores the tension between light and dark—both literally and metaphorically. Lani’s unwavering determination to save her brother speaks to the strength of familial bonds, even when faced with overwhelming odds. Her bravery in the face of fear grounds the story, giving readers an emotional anchor amidst the supernatural chaos.
The shadowy protector introduces an intriguing moral complexity. Their abilities mirror those of the monstrous antagonist, suggesting a shared origin or connection. This duality raises questions about the nature of good and evil, and whether the line between the two is as clear as it seems.
A Unique Blend of Horror and Heroics
What makes Misfortune stand out is its ability to blend genres seamlessly. It’s part horror, part superhero tale, and entirely captivating. The balance between the grounded emotional stakes and the larger supernatural mystery ensures that the story resonates on multiple levels.
The creative team’s synergy is evident on every page. Allen Dunford’s writing provides a strong foundation, Rodrigo Catraca’s art brings the world to life, and Dave Lentz’s lettering ties everything together. The result is a cohesive and compelling debut issue that leaves readers hungry for more.
Final Thoughts: A Haunting Holiday Tale
Misfortune #0 is a gripping introduction to a world where shadows hide more than secrets. It’s a story about family, bravery, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. With its atmospheric art, compelling characters, and lingering mysteries, this comic sets the stage for a series that promises to be as thrilling as it is thought-provoking.
Whether you’re a fan of horror, dark heroics, or simply well-told stories, Misfortune is a must-read. It’s a haunting holiday tale that reminds us of the strength we find in the face of darkness—and the questions that arise when the line between hero and monster begins to blur.
If you enjoy comics like Something is Killing the Children, Hellboy, or The Darkness, you’ll feel right at home with Misfortune. Its unique blend of horror, action, and emotional depth makes it a standout addition to any comic collection. Don’t miss the chance to experience this chilling and captivating debut.
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