#IReadsYou Review: DIE!NAMITE Lives Volumes 2 #3

DIE!NAMITE LIVES VOLUME 2 #3
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Fred Van Lente
ART: Vincenzo Carratù
COLORS: Kike J. Diaz
LETTERS: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
EDITOR: Nate Cosby
COVER: Lucio Parrillo
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Arthur Suydam; Joseph Michael Linsner; Dave Acosta; Kendrick Lim;
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (August 2021)

Rated Teen+

DIE!namite is a series of zombie apocalypse comics from Dynamite Entertainment that utilizes some of the publisher's most popular characters and licensed properties.  The latest is DIE!namite Lives!  It is written by Fred Van Lente; drawn by Vincenzo Carratu; colored by Kike J. Diaz; and lettered by Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou.  In the new series, Vampirella and the remainder of Project Superheroes look for a new savior, and that could be Ash Williams (star of the 1992 film, Army of Darkness).

DIE!namite Lives! Volume 2 #3 opens in Hawaii where flesh-eating superheroes take on evil zombies.  Red Sonja, Peter Cannon, Black Terror, and Scarab battle a squad of Frankenstein lookalikes that Sonja should be able to control, except she can't.  Cannon reasons that they must be controlled from a satellite, but this deduction may be playing into Captain Future's hands.

Meanwhile, Vampirella, Pantha, Miss Fury, and Tabu have arrived at a local “S-Mart” warehouse.  Here, they hope to obtain that copy of Necronomincon Ex Mortis, the book that can stop this zombie plague, a book that Pantha bought online!  Standing in their way, however, is S-Mart's most famous employee, Ash Williams, and he is too loyal to allow looters inside!

THE LOWDOWN:  Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department recently began providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is DIE!namite Lives! Volume 2 #3, which is the first issue of this series that I have read.  In fact, this is the first DIE!namite comic that I have read, although I've known of the series since it first began.

What can I say?  DIE!namite Lives! Volume 2 #3 is fun.  I didn't expect much from it, but I previously suspected that I could like a DIE!namite comic book because I enjoyed DC Comics DCeased #1 when I read it a few years ago.  DIE!namite seems similar to DCeased.  Here, writer Fred Van Lente offers a breezy read with just enough craziness to hold the reader's attention.  I bet this series will really read nicely as a trade paperback.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of DIE!namite will want DIE!namite Lives! Volume 2.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #42

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #42
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITOR: B. Alex Thompson
MISC: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
28pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2019)

Rated: Teen 13+

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Convocation”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.  The series is written by Thompson.  It is currently drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #42 (“Convocation”) opens on the “Campus” in the wake of the events of “Commencement.”  Tyler Patton interrogates the recently captured Mitzy Peterson about the actions of Dr. Lucian Campbell – still alive and still plotting to bring Skull Drudgery to this dimension.

Then, there is a gathering of the round table of the Campus' leadership, which includes the EAZY girls, of course.  Tempers flare, but Tyler forms an action team that will leave the campus in order to battle a new squad of alternate dimensional versions of themselves.  Called “The Alts,” they are led by Roger Sinclair and include alternate versions of Marco Aguilar, Janisha Johnson, Karen Kim, Katie Parker, and Billy Baker.  But can Tyler and his team:  Damien, Sanee, Dylan, and Mikhail, stop a group that doesn't plan on leaving until they have this world's version of Paige – so that they can killer her?

And Dylan plots to save Marco...

THE LOWDOWN:  Yes, dear readers, we are continuing toward the conclusion of the Chaos Campus comic book series.  Every time I read an issue of this genre-busting series, however, I get deeper into the denial that the end is near.

Chaos Campus #42 continues a run of exceptionally good issues of this series.  With each issue, writer B. Alex Thompson offers what amounts to a graphic novel's worth of narrative.  Here, twenty-eight pages reads like one of those 64 page annuals or paperback graphic novels from the 1980s and 90s.  Thompson makes each issue feel like an entire story arc of imaginative storytelling, and by the end, I honestly want more of his wonderful characters and their machinations.

Ricardo Mendez has already cemented his place as Chaos Campus' signature artist.  He has made Chaos Campus as much a character drama as it is a multiverse of zombie adventure.  Alivon Ortiz's colors sparkle and bring a vividness to this world.  Of course, Krugos' lettering completes the storytelling with a thumping soundtrack.

So, dear readers, it is easy to join the Chaos Campus fun.  I have placed a link where you can order issues at the bottom of this review – just for you.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of zombies, video games, and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
★★★★+ out of 4 stars

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus here or at https://www.indyplanet.com/approbation-comics

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #41

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #41
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITOR: B. Alex Thompson
MISC: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2018)

Rated: Teen 13+

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Commencement”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.  The series is written by Thompson.  It is currently drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #41 (“Commencement”) opens with Paige, Brittany, Jaime, and Aimee (Jamie's sister) on patrol, checking the campus' generators.  So what is with the power generators?  They're being nibbled on by a new kind of zombie – the electricity and energy-sucking “ElectriCUTES!”  This new engineered stage of zombie evolution has the speed and ferocity of the previous new evolution, the “Neos,” along with the durability of armored zombies.

After the battle, Aimee doesn't want family time with Jamie, but she does have some private time for Brittany...  Meanwhile, Paige's “sister,” Tess is becoming more concerned about the really aggressive changes in her sister's personality.

Elsewhere, the devious Brass Lucian is using Mitzi Peterson's powers on his zombie experiments.  And what is Mitzi up to … that has the “Alts” watching her?

THE LOWDOWN:  Yes, dear readers, we are continuing toward the conclusion of the Chaos Campus comic book series.  Every time I read an issue of this genre-busting series, however, I get deeper into denial about the end.

In Chaos Campus #41, writer B. Alex Thompson presents a top issue in a run of very good issues.  He offers a nice blend of character development and drama involving several characters.  I like that Thompson really doesn't create single purpose characters.  He also sets the ticking of the time bomb that is Wormsor and Nikki over their kidnapped baby, Aiden.  In the second half of issue #41, he sends a tidal wave of hot action our way, and, as always, Thompson can write action scenes that matches the best mainstream comic book writers.

Ricardo Mendez cements his place as Chaos Campus' signature artist.  Whether creating the melodrama of sibling strife or of secret love, Mendez has made Chaos Campus' drama as potent as he always makes the action.  Alivon Ortiz's colors continue to sparkle and bring a vividness to this world.  Of course, Krugos' lettering completes the storytelling with a thumping soundtrack.

It's easy to join the Chaos Campus fun, dear readers.  The ordering details are at the bottom of this review – just for you.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of zombies, video games, and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
★★★★+ out of 4 stars

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus at https://www.indyplanet.com/approbation-comics

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #39

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #39
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITOR: B. Alex Thompson
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2018; digital release date – November 7, 2018)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Penance”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.  The series is written by Thompson.  It is currently drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #39 (“Penance”) opens in the wake of the sudden kidnapping of Worm and Nikki's newborn baby by an alternate universe version of the late Roger.  The damage done to the campus by the alternate universe versions of our favorite characters (“Alts”) has created multiple campus entry points for the zombies.  Now, the campus is overrun by zombies, and our heroes are barely holding their own.

But the zombie riot is interrupted by a family reunion.  First, Jamie's father returns, seemingly from the clutches of death.  Right behind him is Jamie's sister, the “Aqua Aimee,” sporting blue symbiotic armor.  What's going on?  And what does the Schaeffer family reunion mean for our heroes?

THE LOWDOWN:  Dear readers, we continue toward the conclusion of Chaos Campus.  This genre-busting series continues to surprise with shocking reveals and new characters, new old characters, and also the narrative-changing returns.

B. Alex Thompson continues to add unresolved subplots and cliffhangers, pushing us deeper into this chaotic series.  I truly enjoy how he uses his vivid imagination to continue to grow the universe in which this series is set.  His imagination is why it is hard for me to believe that Chaos Campus is coming to an end.  He can't possibly be running out of ideas.

Meanwhile, Ricardo Mendez continues to bring Thompson's world to life in vivid graphical storytelling.  Every issues seems to involve a cast of thousands, and Mendez expertly depicts the kind of large storytelling that Marvel and DC Comics churn out as big event miniseries.  Alivon Ortiz's sparkling colors and Krugos' lettering complete the storytelling, making it all pop.

It's easy to join the fun, dear readers.  The details are at the bottom of this review.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
8 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus here or at https://www.indyplanet.com/approbation-comics

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

------------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #37

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #37
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITOR: B. Alex Thompson
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
28pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2018; digital release date – November 7, 2018)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Restitution”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.

The “Higher Learning” story arc gives way to a new story, “Restitution.”  It is written by Thompson; drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #37 ("Restitution") opens in the wake of the battle to stop Paige's father, Parker Patton, who had become the villain, “Tech Locke.”  As the story begins, Paige, Jamie, and Damien are attempting to kill off the remaining horde of Neo-Zombies in order to protect a nearby survivors' colony.  Suddenly, Tess Raven, Paige's sister (of sorts), joins them in battle, but Paige and Damien would rather take her prisoner.

Paige is willing to hear what Tess has to say, but they are suddenly separated from the other two.  Paige and Tess also discover that they are suffering from drained powers.  The cause may be the sudden appearance of some of Paige's friends and allies:  Brittany, Sanee, Darren Wormsor, Roger, Oliver, Mikhail.  However, this Brittany seems strange.  Roger is supposed to be dead!  And Sanee is in full attack mode.  Meet the alternate friends from another world, the “Paige Hunters.”

In order to escape them, Tess will finally have to tell her origin story.  Now, she is going to reveal her true connection to Paige.

THE LOWDOWN:  B. Alex Thompson has recently presented some big story lines in the Chaos Campus narrative, such as “The Road to Salvation” and “Higher Learning.”  It is clear that Thompson is building towards something big as he heads to the end of this series.

Chaos Campus #37 directly ties into the trippy Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies: Extra Credit #10, with its alternate take on the beginnings of Chaos Campus.  There is also a connection to the early issue, Chaos Campus #7.  Here, Thompson offers a wonderful and mind-bending trip through multiple universes, alternate worlds, and mirror images.  I am loathe to spoil it, but Chaos Campus #37 is one of the series' best issues.

Artist Ricardo Mendez delivers sterling storytelling as he depicts a head-spinning number of dimensional jumps.  Mendez seems to be the ideal artist to graphically chronicle Thompson's current Chaos Campus status quo, and he continues to show that he can do the big event stories.

Colorist Alivon Ortiz makes the art crackle in living color, and Krugos' lettering continues the steady beat of this series, pounding out fonts like surround sound.  So where does Thompson go from here?  Let's keeping following, dear readers, because it is worth discovering.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus at comiXology. 

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

----------------------

Review: CHAOS CAMPUS: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies: Extra Credit #10

CHAOS CAMPUS: EXTRA CREDIT #10
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
EDITOR: B. Alex Thompson
MISC. ART/BACK COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S./$1.99 digital-comic (2018; digital release date – October 31, 2018)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Beginnings are Endings that Begin”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a zombie apocalypse comic book series that mixes in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure.  Chaos Chaos is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies: Extra Credit is a “side series” to the main series.  It offers readers something “extra,” and is also set in the continuity of the main series.  Both series are the creation of B. Alex Thompson and are published by Thompson's company, Approbation Comics.  Chaos Campus: Extra Credit is written by Thompson; drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Oritz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #10 opens at the EAZY sorority house, the current location of debauchery and maybe, of an orgy.  College boys are ready to unleash as many loads as possible, and one of them is Paige's slutty boyfriend, Roger.  Buxom Brittany, Paige's friend, has had enough of Roger's cheating ways, and she plans on telling him off.  But she sure is in for a surprise.

Roger wants Brittany to convince Paige that the three of them should form a threesome, especially because he knows Brittany is bisexual and has romantic feelings for Paige.  But the kinkiness will have to be put on hold.  There are zombies about.

THE LOWDOWN:  I did not like Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #9 as much as I usually enjoy the main series.  It was not one of B. Alex Thompson's better efforts, but it was still enjoyable because it's a Chaos Campus comic book.

Extra Credit #10 is quite enjoyable, and it holds a delightful surprise for longtime readers.  It is a retelling (in a way) of the first two issues (more or less) of the original series, Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.  I went back and took a look at Chaos Campus #1 and #2, and one of the things I realized is that the series could have taken a totally different direction than it did back then.  That exemplifies the fluid nature of both this series and of the Chaos Campus concept.  Chaos Campus is not “anything goes.”  However, it can be described as “anything is possible.”

As usual, artist Ricardo Mendez presents solid storytelling, and Alivon Ortiz's sharp colors add a vividness to the retelling that the original chapters did not have.  Letterer Krugo provides the new soundtrack of screams and comedy.

So, for those who can't get enough zombie-action from the main series, try Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #10.  It give it credit for being extra special.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Chaos Campus will always want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies: Extra Credit.

A
8 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #10 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #36

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #36
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
MISC. ART/BACK COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
36pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2017; digital release date – October 24, 2018)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Higher Learning, Part 4 of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line, “Higher Learning,” comes to an end.  It is written by Thompson; drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.  In this story arc, Paige is reunited with her father, who also happens to be the villain, Tech Locke, and her “sister,” Tess Raven.  Now, Paige's friends must free her from his father's influence … if they can.

As Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #36 opens, the heroes, led by Paige's mother, Morgan, have invaded Tech Locke's stronghold.  Jamie takes charge in a bid to free Paige as well as the recently captured Brittany, but Paige is seemingly all-in on her father's plans.,

The bad guys prepare to assist Locke's ally, Doctor Lucian Campbell, who wants to ascend as “Skull Drudgery's” vessel.  Luckily, the heroes have some new allies from the other side, and by the end, many of these opponents, on both sides, are going to have to pay the ultimate price for their actions.

THE LOWDOWN:  After bringing “The Road to Salvation” story line to an end, writer B. Alex Thompson, offered a few issues of standalone stories.  Then, he turned his attention to what may be his most ambitious story arc to day, “Higher Learning.”  Chaos Campus #36 brings it all to an end, and it may be the series' first double-sized issue used to conclude an arc.

As usual, artist Ricardo Mendez uses his art and graphical storytelling to deftly mix the magic and the reunions.  However, with “Higher Learning,” especially with this issue, Mendez shows that he can pull off big, event-sized storytelling.  This is his version of a DC Comics “Crisis” series or his Marvel Comics Civil War.  His dynamic compositions and kinetic page designs explode off the page with action and confrontation.  Colorist Alivon Ortiz makes the art crackle in living color, and Krugos' lettering continues the steady beat of this series, pounding out fonts like surround sound.

So where does Thompson go from here?  He plans on ending Chaos Campus some time within the next 15 issues, so enjoy the new stories while you can.  I heartily recommend Chaos Campus #36, so go back and get issues #33 to #35, dear readers, so you can get your “Higher Learning.”

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
8 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

-----------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #35

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #35
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
MISC. ART: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
COVER: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2017; digital release date – October 24, 2018)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Higher Learning, Part 3 of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line is “Higher Learning.”  It is written by Thompson; drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.  In this story arc, Paige is reunited with her father, who also happens to be the villain, Tech Locke, and her “sister,” Tess Raven.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #35 opens in the “Campus Survivors Compound.”  Paige's mother, Morgan, wants the group to have a really good plan of action before they launch an attack on Tech Locke's compound to retrieve her daughter.  Jamie and Brittany, newly recovered from her injuries, are raring to go.  What they don't know is that Paige is willing to help her father and is all-in on his diabolical plans, which she doesn't see as diabolical.

Locke will assist his ally, Doctor Lucian Campbell, who wants to ascend as “Skull Drudgery's” vessel.  In order to do that, he needs the “Ever-Ice,” and that can only be found on an alternate Earth – an “Ice Earth” that Tess visited a few years ago.  But Tess will need Paige's magical powers, which are only getting stronger, to open a portal to that world.

Meanwhile, the other two EAZY sisters are in a pitched battle against Neo-Zombies outside Locke's compound.  Now, they must follow Paige and Locke to the Ice Earth, but if they do, tragedy will also follow them.

THE LOWDOWN:  After bringing “The Road to Salvation” story line to an end and delivering a series of standalone stories, writer B. Alex Thompson turns the focus of Chaos Campus' narrative eye to Paige Helena Patton.  The fun thing of that, especially for regular readers of Chaos Campus, is that this story arc, “Higher Learning,” means a return of favorite characters that have been absent for several issues or even longer.  Thompson brings family drama, tragedy, and real pain to Chaos Campus #35, and he also delivers some epic action.

Ricardo Mendez's art and graphical storytelling deftly mixes the magic and the reunions.  As he did in the second issue, Mendez also conveys how important this story arc is both in terms of Paige's development and in her personal story and in terms of how the story affects the future of the series.  In this thirty-fifth issue, Mendez also offers readers six cool double-page spreads that greatly heighten the sense of drama and action; they are like a kick of adrenaline to your imagination, dear readers.

Alivon Ortiz's dazzling colors and impressive color effects make “Higher Learning's” magic look … well, magical.  Krugos' lettering continues the steady beat of this series, as he carries readers into an alternative world of high-powered action.  I heartily recommend Chaos Campus #35, so go back and get issues #33 and #34, if you have to, as you prepare for the conclusion of “Higher Learning.”

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus at comiXology or at https://www.comixology.com/Chaos-Campus-Sorority-Girls-vs-Zombies/comics-series/63703?ref=c2VhcmNoL2luZGV4L2Rlc2t0b3Avc2xpZGVyTGlzdC90b3BSZXN1bHRzU2xpZGVy

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

-----------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #33

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #33
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
MISC. ART: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
COVERS: Ricardo Mendez with Alivon Ortiz
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2017; digital release date – December 20, 2017)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Higher Learning, Part l of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, adventure, and magic, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy goddess-type Brittany Ann Miller.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #33 opens in the aftermath of “Lineage” (from issue #32).  Paige is having bad dreams, and the uncertainty and the frustrations with the responsibilities and hopes placed on her begin to push her to a breaking point.  Her friends and her mother, Morgan, and brother, Tyler, try to comfort Paige.  Even Oliver offers help, but Paige is not sure about his motives.

However, the fam and the friends are not the only ones who have been noticing Paige's emotional and mentally vulnerable state.  Tech Locke, always one dream or portal away, makes his move in trying to recruit Paige to his side.   What could Tech possibly have that would make Paige turn her back on her family, friends, and mission?  It's a secret.

THE LOWDOWN:  After bringing “The Road to Salvation” story line to an end, writer B. Alex Thompson continued to bring levity to Chaos Campus via a series of standalone stories.  However, in the most recent standalone story, “Lineage,” writer B. Alex Thompson revealed that Brittany shares her body with an ancient Greek goddess known as “the Twelfth.”

Now, Thompson turns Chaos Campus' narrative eye to Paige Helena Patton with the beginning of a new story arc, “Higher Learning.”  At first Tech Locke, the mystery man who is obsessed with Paige, seems like nothing more than a pest.  Thompson throws in a twist when he uses not Locke's own secrets, but the secrets others keep as the hook to pull readers into this new arc.

As usual, Ricardo Mendez's art and graphical storytelling are strong, and in many ways, he has become the second signature “voice” of Chaos Campus.  This series' narrative engine runs smoothly under the guiding hands of Mendez's compositions.  It seems that, at least for now, no one can transform Thompson's Chaos Campus scripts into comic book art and storytelling better than Mendez.

Good coloring has blessed Chaos Campus, and the colors and dazzling color effects by Alivon Ortiz make even the quite pages in issue #33 pop. Letterer Krugos continues the steady beat of this series, and that beat may very well carry more of you, dear readers, to Chaos Campus #33.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A

9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus #33 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

----------------------------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #32

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES No. 32
APPROBATION COMICS

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Miguel Marques
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
MISC. ART: Ricardo Mendez
COVER: Ricardo Mendez
28pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2017; digital release date – July 19, 2017)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Lineage”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #32 (“Lineage”) opens in the aftermath of “Juggernauts” (from issue #31).  Brittany is totally whacked out, wandering around, half-dressed in a hospital gown, and muttering strange numbers.  Luckily, Jamie is around with her giant adjustable wrench and Paige with her magical energy sword to fight off the zombies that wanna snack on a zombie-actin' Britts.

Also, luckily, Paige has figured out what those numbers are, and now, it is time to meet the parents – Brittany's parents?!  Who is “the Twelfth?”  Who are the “Thirteen Survivors?”  What is the true history of the “Greek gods” and Mount Olympus?  Who is “the First” and can she be stopped?  And who can stop her?

THE LOWDOWN:  After bringing “The Road to Salvation” story line to an end, writer B. Alex Thompson continues to bring levity to Chaos Campus via a series of standalone stories.  I thought “Juggernauts” was the best of the lot, but “Lineage” speaks well for itself.

Ricardo Mendez's art and graphical storytelling remains strong.  His art in “Juggernauts” reminds me of the storytelling that readers would find in Marvel Comics' The Punisher titles.  Mendez's storytelling retains its nice pacing, but he shines in the offbeat “Lineage,” which changes pace several times.  It also offers just enough brutality and gruesomeness to capture the Chaos Campus style.  Colorist Miguel Marques replaces Russell Vincent Yu for this issue, and his colors are glorious.  The colors on the first six pages, especially on Page Six's magic portal, capture the nighttime setting with a touch of sorcery.

What else can I say about B. Alex Thompson.  He is one of my favorite comic book writers, and for the better part of two decades, I have have been enthralled by the breath and scope of his storytelling.  “Lineage” is a pleasant surprise as another chapter in the ongoing origin stories of the girls from EAZY.  And it presents the unexpected in terms of an origin story.  Letterer Krugos ably shifts the changes in tone and pacing, managing, as always, to complete the storytelling.

Chaos Campus #32 is the last standalone before the next story arc, and it is an enjoyable one that will entertain old and new readers.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus #32 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

---------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #31

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES No. 31
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Russell Vincent Yu
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Ricardo Mendez
28pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2017; digital release date – July 12, 2017)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Juggernauts”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #31 (“Juggernauts”) opens in the aftermath of “Super Chaos Babies.”  A small military unit arrives at the remains of Salvation East, destroyed by the betrayal and conflict within Jamie Lynn Schaeffer's family (specifically her twin sister, Aimee).  Instead of sanctuary, the soldiers find Neo-Zombies and the massive slasher, Kurtis Kasey the Body Snatcher (created by Phantom Avri)!

Caught between a flesh-rending rock and flesh-eating hard place, the soldiers call upon “Project Seventy-Two” to save them from Kasey.  However, their Seventy-Two turns out to be another slasher familiar to readers of Chaos Campus, Mikhail Grishuk the Meat Man.  Now, its Kurtis vs. Mikhail, and no one should get caught in the middle of this slasher-on-slasher kill-fest.

Meanwhile, the EAZY girls are about to find themselves getting involved when they should be resting from their recent adventures.  What happens when one of the slashers runs off with one of the girls?

THE LOWDOWN:  After bringing “The Road to Salvation” story line to an end, writer B. Alex Thompson continues to bring levity to Chaos Campus via a series of standalone stories.  “Juggernauts” is the best of the lot – so far.

Ricardo Mendez's art reminds me of the storytelling that readers would find in Marvel Comics' The Punisher.  Mendez's storytelling has nice pacing and offers just enough brutality and gruesomeness to capture the Chaos Campus style.  Colorist Russell Vincent Yu dresses the story in gritty hues, dominated by the uniform gray of military order and violence.

B. Alex Thompson does his readers a nice turn by returning some of their favorite “slashers.”  I had not forgotten the inimitable Kurtis Kasey since the very first time I saw him (perhaps, Chaos Campus #9-10), and had often hoped he would return.  In Chaos Campus #31 Thompson uses returning characters and settings to move the story to its next destination.  It is up to letterer Krugos to heighten the story's violent and comically violent melodrama, which he does

Chaos Campus #31, like many issues of the series, is a good starting point for new readers.  Although this issue is rooted in the series' distant and recent past, “Juggernauts” is easy to follow.  Plus, the ending will make readers, both new and old, want to come back.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

8 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2021 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

------------------

#28DaysofBlack Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #30

[For the last two decades, B. Alex Thompson has been one of the most prolific independent comic book publishers, via his Approbation Comics.  He has published a number of ongoing series, miniseries, graphic novels, webcomics, one-shots, and trade paperbacks in several formats and genres, including science fiction, social dramas, horror, and anthologies.  Thompson's signature series is the delightful "Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies."]

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS. ZOMBIES No. 30
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Vincenzo Sansone
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Vincenzo Sansone with Alivon Ortiz
28pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. print/$1.99 U.S. digital (2017; digital release date – July 5, 2017)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Super Chaos Babies”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #30 (“Super Chaos Babies”) opens in the aftermath of “One Night at Pheromones.”  The girls have joined their friend, Oliver, in a bid to stop “Brass Monkey,” a diabolical cybernetic chimpanzee, from destroying a colony of surviving humans.  However, the EAZY girls are exposed to a strange form of radiation during the battle and revert to childhood – with a twist.  Jamie, Paige, and Brittany now have super-powers.  But can they save this survivor town from the ape's evil plan when their new powers may have a lethal side effect?

THE LOWDOWN:  After bringing “The Road to Salvation” story line to an end, writer B. Alex Thompson brings some levity to Chaos Campus via a series of standalone stories.  The previous issue's one-off tale was “One Night at Pheromones.”  Now, we get “Super Chaos Babies.”

Thing about these standalone stories is that they allow the artists to shine, as artist-colorist did in “One Night at Pheromones.”  This time artist Vincenzo Sansone and colorist Alivon Ortiz take the show.  They deliver art that reminds me of some of the weird science fiction horror comics created by the recently deceased comic book legend, Richard Corben.  Sansone's storytelling has horror elements, such as the zombies, which are fast paced.  The cybernetic design of Brass Monkey and the laboratory settings add a counter-balance that blends the horror with the sci-fi.

Alivon Ortiz's colors have a painterly quality that has the look of a prestige painted comic, the kind that appeared in Heavy Metal and Marvel's late, great Epic Magazine.  As usual, the lettering by Krugos sets the tempo and mood, and fits into all the right places on the page.

Chaos Campus #30 is a surprisingly good one-off issue, but what else would I expect from B. Alex Thompson.  He writes strong science fiction/horror comics that do not take themselves too seriously while being true to both genres.  Chaos Campus #30 is also a good place for new readers to start.

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

A
9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

Buy Chaos Campus #30 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
https://twitter.com/ApproBAT
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

-------------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #28

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #28
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Ricardo Mendez
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2016; digital release date – May 10, 2017)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The Road to Salvation, Part 4 of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is the long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series from Approbation Comics.  Mixing in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure, it is the creation of B. Alex Thompson.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line is “The Road to Salvation,” which finds the Chaos Campus trio in the middle of a squabble involving “Salvation,” a now-divided human sanctuary.  The girls also fend off the fearsome “Neo Zombies” and deal with a Jamie-lookalike, her long-lost twin sister, Aimee.  This fourth and final chapter of “The Road to Salvation” is written by B. Alex Thompson; drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Ortiz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #28 opens to find Princess Aimee... trippin.  Embittered about everything, including the fact that Jamie “stole” the man she loved (the “Snake Eyes” like Damien), Aimee is going to tear down her own Sanctuary West and also Sanctuary East.  And she is going to use the Neo Zombies to do her dirty deeds.

Well, the Chaos Campus girls are not going to take it, but when things fall apart, can going back to the beginning be the answer to what happens after the end of Sanctuary?  Plus, there is a reference to director Ridley Scott's classic film, Alien.

THE LOWDOWN:  Chaos Campus brings to an end an excellent story line “The Road to Salvation.”  This series really hit its stride once the issues started being numbered in the 20s.  I like to remind readers that Chaos Campus is one of my favorite comic books, and Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #28 reminds me of why I fell in love with this series so many years ago.

And I love Chaos Campus because it has evolved.  Once a horror action comedy, individual issues offered parodies of well known dark fantasy, horror, and science fiction films.  Then, while holding onto its sense of humor, the character drama and storytelling became polished, and the series matured.  Chaos Campus came to remind me of The Walking Dead, both the comic book and the television series it inspired.  Still, Chaos Campus has the spirit of Sam Raimi, as it takes the best of George Romero's dead movies and blends its with other “zombie apocalypse” fiction to be something different.

Writer-creator B. Alex Thompson gets stronger as a writer with each issues, and his series reaps the benefits.  Artist Ricardo Mendez is an excellent collaborator for Thompson because Mendez conveys the mood and style that defines Chaos Campus.  Mendez's art is the Chaos Campus graphical storytelling that was meant to be... as far as I'm concerned.

I read Chaos Campus #28 as a digital comic on comiXology, and the digital format really shows off Alivon Ortiz's rich coloring.  Another recent frequent collaborator, letterer Krugos, continues to convey a sense of action in comic via his fonts.  He completes the process that makes Chaos Campus a comic book that I find to be pure fun... while also being shameless in its humor.  So on to the next story arc!

POSSIBLE AUDIENCE:  Fans of zombies and of horror-comedies will want to try Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies.

9 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

Buy Chaos Campus #28 at comiXology: https://www.comixology.com

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

----------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS: Extra Credit #9

CHAOS CAMPUS: EXTRA CREDIT No. 9
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
EDITOR: B. Alex Thompson
COVER: Ricardo Mendez
BACK COVER: Ricardo Mendez
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S./$1.99 digital-comic (2018; digital release date – October 24, 2018)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“Connective Tissue”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a zombie apocalypse comic book series that mixes in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure.  Chaos Chaos is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

Chaos Campus: Extra Credit is a “side series” to the main series.  It offers readers something “extra,” and is also set in the continuity to the main series.  Both series are the creation of B. Alex Thompson and are published by Thompson's company, Approbation Comics.  Chaos Campus: Extra Credit is written by Thompson; drawn by Ricardo Mendez; colored by Alivon Oritz; and lettered by Krugos.

Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #9 finds the girls back on campus thanks to an inter-dimensional portal.  Paige is using her considerable supernatural power in an attempt to bring zombies back to life.  The girls are caught up in a bid to help a doctor, Ian, and his sister, Linz, rid themselves of an infection that has transformed them into something similar to vampires.  The laboratory of Linz and Ian's father could hold help for them, but it is having some nuclear meltdown issues...

Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #9 is not one of B. Alex Thompson's better efforts, but it is still enjoyable.  Why?  As I have written before, Thompson has refined his sexy Chaos Campus trio into the kind of comic book characters that can attract a following.  The story does not always have to be the best, because they are the best.  Obviously, they have caught my interest.

I find myself becoming more attracted to the art by Ricardo Mendez the more I see it.  His graphical storytelling is good, if not stylish, and I like his take on the Chaos Campus girls.  Mendez's art benefits from the strong coloring by Alivon Ortiz.  The colors are pretty and the effects and separations are spectacular; the reds really convey the sense of an impending nuclear disaster.  Letterer Krugo, as usual, gets the most out of his sound effects when they convey the sounds of zombies, gunfire, and action-violence.

So, for those who can't get enough zombie-action from the main series, try Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #9.  You, dear reader, can even get this “Extra Credit” from comiXology.

7 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


Buy Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #9 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com


The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS: Extra Credit #7

CHAOS CAMPUS: EXTRA CREDIT No. 7
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Ricardo Mendez
COLORS: Alivon Ortiz
LETTERS: Krugos
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Ricardo Mendez (2017 Monterey Comic Con Convention Exclusive cover)
32pp, Color, $9.99 U.S./.99¢ digital-comic (2017; digital release date – April 12, 2017)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The NecroMager”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a zombie apocalypse comic book series that mixes in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure.  The creation of B. Alex Thompson, Chaos Campus is published by Thompson's company, Approbation Comics.  Chaos Chaos is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

Thompson is also producing a Chaos Campus side series, Chaos Campus: Extra Credit, which offers readers something “extra,” but (apparently) in continuity to the main series.  Thompson also releases a “convention exclusive” variant cover edition of Extra Credit.  Thompson recently provided me a copy-for-review of Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #7 – Convention Exclusive 2017 (for the Monterey Comic Con).

Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #7 opens in the middle of Paige's funky dream that finds her in a too-revealing swimsuit, in a situation of submission and humiliation, and in a meeting the mysterious Locus.  Back in the waking world, Paige reunites with Jamie and Paige and also with the ongoing battle against the “Neo-Zombies.”

There are also some new complications.  Jamie makes a shocking announcement.  A killing machine named “Denvey” joins the fray.  Locus is real, and she has friend named “Spook.”  And a friend, Brian, turns out to be a budding magic-baddie and a total frickin' asshole and ass-wipe.

As usual, I enjoy whatever Chaos Campus comic book I read.  Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #7 does not have the dramatic (or humorous) chops of the regular series, but it is wacky, offbeat, and gleefully gruesome.  I enjoyed the guest characters:  Locus, Spook, and Denvey, which are the property of comic book creator, Adam Black.

The art by Ricardo Mendez is quite nice.  What he lacks as an experienced draftsman, Mendez makes up with imaginative illustrations.  To me, Mendez feels like a natural at comic book storytelling.  As usual, Alivon Ortiz delivers strong coloring, this time conveying the chaotic situation of this issue.  Letterer, Krugos, gets the most out of “sound effects,” especially “Budda Budda” for gunfire.

So, for those who can't get enough zombie education from Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies, you'll get schooled in the ways of necromancy and backstabbing in Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #7.  You, dear reader, can even get this “Extra Credit” from comiXology.

7.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

Buy Chaos Campus: Extra Credit #7 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com
Visit Adam Black and Locus Comics at http://locuscomics.com/


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

------------------

#IReadsYou Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #27

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES No. 27
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Anita Zaramella
COLORS: Anita Zaramella
LETTERS: Elisa M. Coletti
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Ricardo Mendez
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2015; digital release date – December 14, 2016)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The Road to Salvation, Part 3 of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a long-running zombie apocalypse comic book series that mixes in elements of comedy, horror, and adventure.  It is the creation of B. Alex Thompson and is published by his company, Approbation Comics.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line is “The Road to Salvation,” which finds the Chaos Campus trio in the middle of a squabble involving “Salvation,” a now-divided human sanctuary.  The girls also fend off the fearsome “Neo Zombies” and deal with a Jamie-lookalike.  This third chapter of “The Road to Salvation” is written by B. Alex Thompson; illustrated and colored by Anita Zaramella; and lettered by Elisa M. Coletti.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #27 opens in the past via Paige's boogie-woogie magic and time traveling.  There, our badass chick heroes learn that Jamie and her lookalike, Princess Aimee of Salvation West, are twin sisters, and that they were separated at birth.  Now, it is time for Jamie to be reunited with her mother, Queen Raimee of Salvation West.

Jamie isn't exactly crazy about her new situation, and she finds further complications with Damien, Salvation West's Storm Shadow (G.I. Joe) lookalike head of security.  When tragedy strikes, however, the dynamics change.

Chaos Campus is currently in the middle of an excellent story line.  I believe that this series has hit its stride since entering the 20s.  I like to remind readers that Chaos Campus is one of my favorite comic books.  It is certainly as good as many and better than most of the nostalgia titles published by Marvel and DC Comics.  B. Alex Thompson offers a winner to readers, one that needs to come out of the shadows of indie comics obscurity.

I am fascinated by “The Road to Salvation” story line, and I think that it could be told as a separate miniseries.  Anita Zaramella does solid work as artist this issue; her imaginative layouts keep the story exciting, but she is also good at the emotional moments.  Her coloring gives the story the feel of animation, and that gives the story a sense of movement and flow.  The lettering by Elisa M. Coletti captures the swings in tone and mood that shape this issue.

9 out of 10

Buy Chaos Campus #27 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

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Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #26

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES No. 26
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Jose Henrique and Anita Zaramella
COLORS: Anita Zaramella
LETTERS: Elisa M. Coletti
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Ricardo Mendez
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2015; digital release date – September 21, 2016)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The Road to Salvation, Part 2 of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a long-running comedy-horror, adventure, and zombie apocalypse comic book series.  It is the creation of B. Alex Thompson and is published by his company, Approbation Comics.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line is “The Road to Salvation,” which finds the Chaos Campus trio in the middle of a squabble involving a human sanctuary, called “Salvation.”  They also deal with the fearsome “Neo Zombies” and with a Jamie-lookalike.  “The Road to Salvation” is written by B. Alex Thompson; and illustrated by Jose Henrique and Anita Zaramella; and lettered by Elisa M. Coletti.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #26 opens as Paige and Brittany and Tyler (Paige's brother) and forces from Salvation East meet Jamie's lookalike from Salvation West, Aimee.  Pardon me; that's “Princess Aimee.”  Thanks to this spoiled princess, Jamie is about to learn more about her past... and her parentage.

Meanwhile, in Salvation West, Jamie makes a colorful discovery about one of her captors.  Now, it is time to hear from Princess Aimee's mother, Queen Raimee, the leader of Salvation West, about the origins of the schism of Salvation.  And it involves some mad scientist shiz-nit.

I have mentioned before that I believe that Chaos Campus has hit a stride since the series numbering arrived in the “20s.”  It is one of my favorite comic books, and I like watching everything that has happened so far come together to form a solid block of entertaining that is on par with any comedy slash humor titles published by Diamond Distributors' premiere publishers.

“The Road to Salvation” story line is a standout because it not only offers origin stories of its main cast, but it is also pulls back the curtain on the series' backstory.  This issue features solid graphics from the team of Jose Henrique Anita Zaramella, and Elisa M. Coletti.  As always, Thompson gives his readers an engaging story that has me ready for the rest of this story arc.

8 out of 10

Buy Chaos Campus #26 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

---------------------

Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #25

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES No. 25
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Jose Henrique
COLORS: Anita Zaramella
LETTERS: Elisa M. Coletti
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Jose Henrique
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2015; digital release date – September 14, 2016)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The Road to Salvation,” Part 1 of 4”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a long-running horror-comedy and zombie apocalypse comic book series.  The creation of writer/comics impresario, B. Alex Thompson, Chaos  Campus is published by his company, Approbation Comics.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

The previous story line, “The Pink,” ended with tragedy.  The new story line is the four-part “The Road to Salvation,” and it finds our heroines caught in a civil war, of sorts.  This story is written by B. Alex Thompson; drawn by Jose Henrique; colored by Anita Zaramella; and lettered by Elisa M. Coletti.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #25 opens to find Paige and Brittany imprisoned.  Luckily, the people doing the imprisoning surprisingly include Paige's brother, Tyler, and her mother, Morgan.  There is a happy reunion with Jamie, who is suspicious of their new circumstances.  But Jamie's troubles are just beginning.  Plus, meet the “Neo-Zombies.”

“The Road to Salvation” story line looks to be the next most-excellent Chaos Campus adventure arc.  This isn't the first time that an “evolved” zombie has appeared in the series, but this time, dear readers, we have the addition of some kooky family dynamics, via the Pattons, thrown into the mix.

Once, again we get a chance to enjoy creator-writer B. Alex Thompson's superb dialogue writing, especially in the case of Jamie's urban slash hip hop slang.  This “shiz” is not “wack,” and I am always impressed by how much “jive” Thompson can string together.

Jose Henrique's animation-inspired art offers excellent storytelling.  Anita Zaramella's anime-inspired coloring brings some extra zip to the story, a mixture of action, comedy, and action-comedy-horror.  Elisa M. Coletti's lettering and word balloons seem to dance away from intruding on the art, but adds some more zing to this spry episode.

I'll say something else that I have said before.  I don't know why Chaos Campus is not a multi-media franchise, already on our television and handheld device screens.

8 out of 10

Buy Chaos Campus #25 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

-------------------------

Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #24

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES No. 24
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Pramit Santra
COLORS: Russell Vincent Yu
LETTERS: Elisa M. Coletti
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
EDITORS: B. Alex Thompson and John P. Ward
COVER: Kevin Wallace
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2015; digital release date – September 7, 2016)

Rated: Teen 13+ / 15+ Only – comiXology rating

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The Pink, Part 2 of 2”

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a long-running horror-comedy and zombie apocalypse comic book series.  It is creation of B. Alex Thompson and is published by his company, Approbation Comics.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jamie Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line is “The Pink,” which finds the Chaos Campus trio and other zombie riot survivors in a house fighting an invisible enemy that arrived in a meteor.  This story is written by B. Alex Thompson; drawn by Pramit Santra; colored by Russell Vincent Yu; and lettered by Elisa M. Coletti.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #24 opens as Doctors Kim and Hollinger attempt to create a serum for the alien parasite that infects Pete.  Their next patients will be Jamie, Paige, and Brittany, and as the parasite increases aggression and gives the infected amazing abilities, curing the girls will not be easy.  Now, the infected Chaos trio can and want to deliver fatal beat-downs.

The “Pink” story line has been a nice change of pace, and since creator-writer B. Alex Thompson is often spoofing or parodying pop culture, the reader can play a game of naming the works of film and entertainment Thompson is referencing.

I see elements of the science fiction horror film, Species (1995), and the 1987 film, The Curse (which is also known as The Farm).  I am also remind of the film version of Stephen King's 1976 short story, “The Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill,” which appeared as a segment of the 1982 film, Creepshow.

Thompson continues to expand the emotional range of the characters, so this gives Chaos Campus a sense of character beyond the comedy and parody.  Pramit Santra's graphical storytelling here is good, and her jagged style fits the aggressive mood of the story and the infected characters tendency to tear their victims apart.  Russell Vincent Yu's coloring serves this sense of aggression and flesh rending quite well.  Plus, the ending bodes well for the next story arc.

7.5 out of 10

Buy Chaos Campus #24 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

-----------------------------------

 

Review: CHAOS CAMPUS #23

CHAOS CAMPUS: SORORITY GIRLS VS ZOMBIES #23
APPROBATION COMICS

[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]

STORY: B. Alex Thompson – @ApproBAT
ART: Pramit Santra
COLORS: Russell Vincent Yu and Schmerys Baal
LETTERS: Elisa M. Coletti
POST-SCRIPTING/POLISH: John P. Ward
COVER: Kevin Wallace
24pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (2015)

Rated: Teen 13+

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies created by B. Alex Thompson

“The Pink, Part 1 of 2”

The long-running Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies is a horror-comedy and zombie apocalypse comic book series.  It was created by B. Alex Thompson and is published by his company, Approbation Comics.  The series is set during a zombie invasion and follows the adventures of three members of the sorority, Epsilon Alpha Zeta Upsilon (EAZY):  ass-kickin’ Jaime Lynn Schaeffer, brainy and magic-wielding Paige Helena Patton, and sexy Brittany Ann Miller.

The current story line is “The Pink,” which finds the trio and other zombie riot survivors in a house that holds a surprise.  This story is written by B. Alex Thompson; drawn by Pramit Santra; colored by Schmerys Baal and Russell Vincent Yu; and lettered by Elisa M. Coletti.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #23 opens in the wake of the “Smart Zombies” conspiracy.  On the run with four other survivors of that debacle, Jamie, Paige, and Brittany come upon a strange meteor after an even stranger meteor shower.  Then, the group finds a house that is perfect as a shelter because it has not one, but two generators.  However, Jamie has been acting strange since her encounter with the meteor, and the house also holds a shocking connection to her past.

In the “Smart Zombies” story line, creator/writer B. Alex Thompson threw a left-hook at readers.  Chaos Campus is a humorous spin on comic books, and it is a comic take of the zombie apocalypse.  But (and its a big but) Chaos Campus offers good characters and an intriguing, evolving narrative.  With the arrival of a smart zombie, Thompson showed that Chaos Campus will defy genre expectations by whatever means necessary and unnecessary.

Chaos Campus: Sorority Girls vs. Zombies #23 is funny, and I'm assuming that it is spoofing the Species film series.  I really like the personal reveal, which is one more example of Thompson evolving our fearless zombie fighters.  This remains a fantastic comic book, and I enjoyed reading it, although I am not crazy about the artist.  Pramit Santra's graphical storytelling is good, but the technical aspects of the art is wanting, I must say.  Still, I am ready for issue #24.

8 out of 10

Buy Chaos Campus #23 at comiXology.

www.ApprobationComics.com
www.AlexThompsonWriter.com

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint or syndication rights and fees.

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