I’ve been excited to dig into the Eden comic series for a long time. Sci-fi comics are my jam, and the art, family dynamics, and survive-at-all-costs feel of Eden drew me in. Also, we all know I can’t resist a story with themes of a dying Earth, a dystopian system, and corrupt corporations.
| Title: Eden | Writer: Christopher Sebela |
| Story by: Alain Bismut and Abel Ferry | Illustrator: Marc Laming |
| Release Date: April 9, 2024 | Publisher: Humanoids |
| Page Count: 136 | Genre: Sci-Fi / Dystopian |
Synopsis
Desperate to escape a dying Earth, a family schemes their way onto a massive spaceship towards a new planet, Eden. But shortly after they take off, they discover the terrifying truth, and their journey toward salvation becomes a fight to survive.
The world is dying. Massive overpopulation strains the Earth’s resources, endangering all of humanity with the threat of famine, disease, and war. Governments and the environment alike crumble, and the populace take drastic measures to stay alive. Their only hope is Eden, a newly discovered distant Earth-like planet unspoiled by the choices of man. Massive Edencorp spaceships begin to shuttle millions of lucky people to the safety of Eden, chosen by lottery.
The Oximenko family has survived for years through scavenging, street smarts, and hope. When a neighboring family wins the Eden lottery, Gabe Oximenko hatches a plan to swap out his family with the winners. Everything is going according to plan until the Oximenkos are shocked out of cryosleep and learn the truth of their journey. Now, the family must once again fight for survival, but this time an entire transport ship is looking to make sure they never make it to Eden… or anywhere else!
Writer Christopher Sebela (Godfell, Crowded) and artist Marc Laming (Star Wars, James Bond 007) have come together to craft a sci-fi thriller of environmental collapse and corporate greed. From a story by Alain Bismut and Abel Ferry, with colors by Lee Loughridge and letters by Troy Peteri.
Review:
The Earth is dying. The only escape is Eden – a safe and habitable planet that’s only a shuttle ride away. Of course, tickets for the shuttle aren’t easy to come by. There’s a lottery in place, with only a few randomly selected to leave Earth for Eden. The Oximenko family is used to survival and doing what’s necessary. When their neighbors win the Eden lottery instead of them, the Oximenko family is willing to do whatever necessary to take their place.
I was so drawn to Eden by the premise. A family willing to do whatever it takes to leave Earth, regardless of the cost? Yes, please. Unfortunately, the premise ended up being my favorite part of Eden. While I enjoyed Eden’s art and family dynamics, the story slipped and ended up in a wild direction.
I also had issues with some of the action scenes. I felt I was missing some of the action and I was viewing the scenes from the wrong angle. It was a bit frustrating, to be honest. The overall narrative of the story also felt rushed, with inexplicable choices made at times. While the ending redeemed some of the confusion and “mess” of the narrative, I might think twice before reading the next volume (if there is one).
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Thanks to Humanoids for providing me with an advanced review copy! All the above thoughts are my own.
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