Happy TPB

So Grant Morrison really wanted to try to write a Garth Ennis story, huh? He even went so far as to get frequent Ennis collaborator Darick Robertson to give him a hand. The result? A violent, profanity-filled one-off story that would be in the lower tier of Ennis’ work. This book is a good reminder that people should stick to what they do best.

Nick Sax is such a dislikable character, I almost feel like Morrison is trying too hard. Heck, he’s described as a “c-word” on the opening page. The story is so predictable that anyone who has read a book before knows how Sax’s character arc is going to go. There isn’t really anything original enough about his descent into the gutter and eventual redemption to make it memorable.

I suppose the titular “Happy,” the unicorn/Pegasus horse that inspires Sax’s journey is a bit memorable. He’s a floating cartoon that only Sax can see, one that can help him cheat at cards and punch thugs’ teeth out. That contrast should maybe go a bit longer than it does. Maybe it is because I already knew the concept behind the series before starting it, but I never found the cartoon/violence mix to be that striking or amusing.

Morrison usually really shows off with his insane villains. But Mr. Blue isn’t memorable, and pervert Santa is too much of a cliché at this point to be impressive. It is another swing and a miss.

Robertson’s art is gritty and realistic, with cartoonish ultra-violence. He excels at it, of course, but again, there is something missing. The sheer joy of The Boys is missing. It seems like Robertson is going through the motions too.

If you want a POOR take on better comics, you can check this out. But I’d rather read Garth Ennis’ filthy book and Morrison’s mad and wild ideas in separate titles.