Jack the Ripper, Bruce Balfour and Paul Mendoza
Vols. 1-3, October 1989 - February 1990. $2.50 ea.
Eternity Comics, Malibu Graphics. Ordering information: Enquiries into the availability of this series can be sent to Malibu Graphics at:
MALIBU GRAPHICS
1355 Lawrence Drive #212
Newbury Park, CA 91320
(805) 499-3015
Released between December 1989 and February 1990 as a three-part series, Jack the Ripper provides a reasonably enjoyable and accurate representation of the Whitechapel murders of 1888. The comic introduces the reader to Mr. and Mrs. Sam Harlow, who are brought in as independant detectives by Inspector Abberline, fearing there may be a conspiracy involved. Meanwhile, the murders continue with relentless abandon, with shades of Stephen Knight's Final Solution theory -- the horse and carriage, the Masonic connection, the arranging of items at Chapman's feet, Annie Crook, etc.
After a number of mini-adventures, the detective duo finally present their case to Queen Victoria that there is a Freemasonic conspiracy involving members of the Royal family. The Queen promises to see to it that the murders are stopped, and the comic ends.
Not terribly imaginative, this series seems to base itself strictly on Knight's Freemason theory, and would therefore be quite predictable to the well-read Ripperologist. The plot is also incredibly rushed and, at times, the resulting loss of detail is highly detrimental. Still, the artistry is quite enjoyable (and at times very graphic).
Definitely recommended for comic book afficionados and die-hard Ripper enthusiasts, but discerning readers need not go out of their way for this one. |
