Comic Review: Penguins vs. Possums #7
Written by: Laura Hong-Tuason, CC2K Comics Editor
Since the dawn of time, a secret war has been waged between penguins and possums, each determined to annihilate the other. While they’ve kept their battle confined to the shadows throughout the millennia, the secret is finally out, with the human race stuck in the middle. Which side will you choose?
Writers: Sebastian Kadlecik, John Bring, Lindsay Calhoon Bring
Illustrators: Sebastian Kadlecik, John Bring
Penguins vs. Possums #7 marks the penultimate issue of this fantastic series published by Fanboy Comics (soon to be Fanbase Press). Tension is erupting between these two species, and the outcome of their inevitable war to end all wars won’t be pretty.
The penguins up to this point have proven themselves to be utterly ruthless and determined to do whatever it takes to bring the possums down. After all, they did just kill a bunch of humans at a naval base in order to secure a hydrogen bomb. That’s no laughing matter, and even humans Felicia and C.J. are realizing the gravity of the situation. Full of bloodlust and heavily armed, Emperor Xiao is ready to bring the possums hell and kill Amaru once and for all.
While the plight of both the penguins and possums is not a simple black and white matter, the possums seem to have it more rough. They are constantly coping with defeat and casualties, and the opening of issue #7 greatly reminds us of how much they’ve lost. Amaru does not take the latest death of a good friend well, but with it comes the return of another who may bring back the hope and strength he so desperately needs to lead the possums to victory.
Compared to previous issues, Penguins vs. Possums #7 is serious in tone. The fun and games are over, as both sides prepare for their ultimate showdown. The motivational differences between Xiao and Amaru is deeply felt in this issue. Whereas Xiao is fueled by hate and his fortitude to be a far better, albeit tyrannical, leader than his father, Amaru is empowered by love and his determination to be the leader his fellow possums believe him to be to protect his clan. It’s not difficult to see who the winner will most likely be, but who knows what twists and turns writers Kadlecik and the Brings have in store for the final issue.
If a best moment had to be picked from this issue, it is the one between Amaru and Zolin, whose relationship has been tumultuous throughout the story. The revelations that come out of their scenes together is gratifying and profound to say the least, and one readers don’t want to miss.
The art by Kadlecik and Bring continue to be lighthearted and dark at the right times. How both artists can bring so much life to the emotions of anthropomorphic characters is a huge feat. From anger to wild abandon, from sadness to enlightenment, the art in Penguins vs. Possums is expressive and powerful. The art is sure to impress in the final issue, which I can only imagine is filled with tons of action and loss, and hopefully culminates in some form of peace.
Penguins vs. Possums #7 is available for purchase now through Fanboy Comics. It will also be available digitally soon at Comixology. For all the latest updates, you can find the series on Facebook and on Twitter.
4.0 out of 5.0