Let’s take another trip in the wayback machine. It’s 2001, give or take a year, and fans of Joss Whedon’s wonderful world of slayers, vampires, witches, werewolves, and more can see Buffy defend Sunnydale, while Angel tackles evil in L.A. There were occasional crossovers or references, but they were still independent shows that took place within the same fictional universe. Returning to today, Dark Horse Comics started “Season 9” this week with the debut of their new series “Angel & Faith.”
IDW did a nice job with Angel and that group of characters, but I have to admit that it is nice to have everyone at least in the same world again, instead of what some thought of as the parallel universes that existed with the characters being with two different publishers. “Season 9” is the follow-up to last year’s “Season 8” which brought Buffy back for what Whedon and the others involved conceived as what would have been the next season of Buffy, had one existed. While of course the TV show “Angel” only had five seasons, this new comic is being included as part of “Season 9” because, in the words of editor Scott Allie, “…both series take place in the same world, facing similar challenges, in the aftermath of Season 8.”
However, this is a very different world from the time we visited in the wayback machine. Most notably, Giles is dead, having been killed by Angel, and all magic is gone from the world. These two factors alone, particularly the fate of Giles, have many fans vowing to not read “Season 9” and basically ignoring that “Season 8” happened at all, even though Whedon himself was, and remains, involved with the creative teams.
Personally, like many readers, I was devastated when Angel killed Giles. Not just because we lost a beloved character who has been with us since day one, but also because it is part of a story that I saw as simply a rehash of what had happened previously. While there were of course differences, you cannot deny that Angel being possessed by Twilight is very similar to Angel’s reversion to Angelus years ago. Once again, Angel becomes the “big bad” and once again, Buffy is faced with the reality that she has to fight him. I think the decision to kill Giles was bad on the part of the creative team behind “Season 8.” Having said that though, I’m going to give “Season 9” a chance, as I want to see where they take the story from here. Particularly with regard to the loss of magic.
“Angel & Faith” begins with a story from Giles’ past. I believe this is fitting, even though it will be painful for some readers. It would appear that one of the major parts of the storyline will be how Angel deals with what he has done, and for him to start by following up on one of Giles’ old cases is appropriate. This fact alone will likely not sit well with many people.
Another point that some fans will not like is the inclusion of Faith. A number of readers were not happy with the fact that Giles had decided to work with her in the first place, and the fact that Giles left everything to Faith instead of Buffy is one that further upset many fans. So, putting together these two characters may be a bit risky for Dark Horse. The good news is that it has been stated that you do not have to read one title to be able to understand and enjoy the other, so those who are not happy with the developments of these characters can still read the Buffy title and not be confused.
Writer Christos Gage is starting this series with nice storytelling. He captured the essence and voice of Giles very well. Although in some ways perhaps corny, I thought it somewhat appropriate that Angel had to experience the memories of Giles and Jenny together. It will be interesting to see what they do with the statement that Angel made at the end of this issue, that he intends to raise Giles from the dead. I’m not sure that is a good idea for Angel, given the inherent sacrifices when doing that, not to mention that he would be doing this without magic (which I’m not sure is even remotely possible). However, from a story standpoint, I think if done right, it can be a very compelling tale.
Artist Rebekah Isaacs and colorist Dan Jackson have done a wonderful job with the art in this first issue. The main characters (including Giles) are perfect, and every page has good flow and nice action. The colors help make the panels jump off of the page when appropriate, but also help set a different mood when needed.
“Angel & Faith” is starting off strong, for readers who are still interested in traveling to Whedon’s universe. The story and the art are definitely there. However, I can’t fault those who choose not to read “Season 9” because of the developments of “Season 8.” Even well written stories do not appeal to everyone, and that is just as true in comics as it is in any form of “story-driven” entertainment. Love it or hate it, “Season 9” is going to be one heck of a ride. Both series will give new meaning to “Where Do We Go From Here.” Great … now that I’ve said that, I have an overwhelming desire to watch Scoobies sing and dance. Until next time, keep reading!
