Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Chew #15
Image Comics
Layman & Guillory
The finale of the Just Desserts arc introduces a slew of new characters and gives one of the goofiest, surprise endings I've seen in a while. The comic book gives the usual array of interesting characters, excellent storytelling and creative artwork. This issue also contains a brilliant fold-out cover where the entire cast is posing in a bizarre Last Supper nod. It's a fun read that just adds to the long list of reasons that you should be reading this series if you are looking for something different.
Thanksgiving for Tony Chu means heading home. Of course he doesn't head there alone as his partner, Colby, and girlfriend, Amelia, tag along. Tony and Amelia reconcile their differences as Amelia now accepts that Tony keeps his ex-girlfriend's toe in his freezer (you read that correctly). Tony promises no more surprises, which is, of course, laughable.
The issue is really about the introduction of Tony's family. He's got more than just the chicken chef brother. The characters in this motley lot are nothing short of hilarious. One of the most interesting of the bunch is the overly energetic twin sister, Antonelle. Antonelle (or the pretty Tony) is about to head off to the international telescope we saw back in issue four. Antonelle is an excellent companion to Tony's personality because she is so bubbly and outgoing making her the perfect character to battle wills with Tony (the brother).
The comic contains a couple of bombshells towards the end but one of the most interesting nuggets occurs in the first few pages. Savoy decides to take a bite from Tony's ear; the one he procured at the conclusion of the first arc. He learns some interesting information about Tony.
The one downer in the issue is the fact that not a whole lot happens before the ending. It feels like an introduction issue rather than an arc finale. It's a minor gripe.
Guillory is a genius. He creates unique characters seemingly at will and overloads this particular issue with a ton. He's at his most brilliant when Savoy eats his meal in the beginning of the book. No dialogue, just illustrations as he peels away the layers of Tony's mind once he takes a bite of the ear. It's excellent stuff cover to cover.
Chew is at the top of list to read each time it ships. It seems that each issue contains surprises and that each issue builds the puzzle out making the overall story more layered and worthy of a complete series re-read. I can't recommend this issue and series any more.
4 out of 5 Geek Goggles
