Fray

Hundreds of years in the future, Manhattan has become a deadly slum, run by mutant crime-lords and disinterested cops.  Stuck in the middle is a young girl who thought she had no future, but learns she has a great destiny.  In a world so poisoned that it doesn't notice the monsters on its streets, how can a street kid like Fray unite a fallen city against a demonic plot to consume mankind?  Joss Whedon, the celebrated creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, brings his vision to the future in this unique tale.  As inventive in the comics medium as in that of television or film, Whedon spins a complex tale of a skilled thief coming of age without the help of friends or family, guided only by a demonic Watcher.

To this day, and likely til the day I’m dust, Buffy is one of my absolute favorites.  The show, the comics, and obviously the character – I just love everything Buffy.  Having such adoration for the series as a whole, I stumbled upon Fray on sale and figured it was worth a shot.  Let me tell you, it’s easily one of the best things I’ve ever bought, comic or otherwise.  I almost feel bad waiting to buy it on sale as it is well worth the full price.  Almost.  Sales are still good.

First off, I have to say that I struggle with the notion of this new Slayer competing for my love of Buffy as favorite.  She is that awesome.  Melaka Fray is one hell of a character, and I have to give Joss Whedon immense props for writing her so well that it could make me ponder who my favorite is.  It should be no surprise that he could do that, but still, it says a lot.

So who is this amazing Slayer of the future?  Well, when it comes down to it, she’s a thief, through and through.  Bonus for her of course, she has the innate strength, speed and agility that come with her “lineage”, yet she just takes that for granted.  Like any of the previous Slayers, the news of what she really is did not blow over well.  This probably was only made worse by who told her, that being her demon Watcher.  Yes, demon Watcher.  Once she gets into the mix though, she gets in seriously deep.  Far deeper than she could have ever expected once the protagonist shows their face.

Coupled with the fantastic story that Whedon has written is the spectacular artwork that penciller Karl Moline and accompanying colorists present.  It is absolutely wonderful to look at throughout the entirety of Fray.  As great as the art is as a whole, I truly have to applaud the character design for Mel.  She is just beautiful, and in my opinion is honestly a perfect appearance for the character.

One thing I specifically have to mention.  If you’re not one to read forwards of TPBs, do so with Fray.  It’s a good read, and also makes mention of something I completely agree with.  You’ll end up loving and hating Joss for one particular character.  I probably lean more toward hate, but I’ll leave it at that for you to experience on your own.

Whether or not you’re a Buffy fan, this is one title I wholeheartedly recommend you pick up.  There are a few things here and there that relate back to previous knowledge, but in no way is necessary to enjoy it.  Every once in a while, I’ll find a title I reread, and I’ve already done so with this book three times.  If that’s not enough to convince you, go out and pick it up to prove it for yourself.

For more information on Fray or other Buffy the Vampire Slayer comics, check out Dark Horse Comics.