Independent Propaganda

Reviewed by Eraklis Petmezas / Writer for Independent Propaganda

If you’ve been waiting to read something by Guy Delisle but were apprehensive because of the seriousness of his travelogues, Aline is the book to try. It has all the beauty and charm of his artwork. His mixture of ink and pencil works well for the absurdity of the subject matter. His storytelling really adds to the comedic effect.

Each letter of the alphabet is transformed into a vignette of a different women’s story. It starts off with Aline who is sunning herself, with a friend, on the beach. She soon meets a young man whom she takes back to her place. After offering him a drink that she has drugged the man soon passes out. She then crawls into his skin and ends up having sex with her female friend while using the mans body. Each story is just as surreal. The men are often portrayed as chauvinistic and clueless. Throughout these wordless tales one point comes across without fail, women are the predators and the men are helpless in their path.

At times it is reminiscent of Bill Plymton’s work. The character’s bodies are always transforming and contorting in shape. Delisle’s fluid line is confident and his sequential skills really shine. His characters leap and move on the page and he really draws you into the story.

It’s a fun book well worth your time. When you’re ready for more of Guy Delisle’s comics try Pyongyang: A Journey To North Korea and Shenzhen: A Travelogue From China. They are both beautifully drawn and intriguing books. What ever books you do decide on you won’t be disappointed. He is a cartoonist to look out for.

Aline costs $9.95 and is distributed from Drawn & Quarterly.

About The Writer: Eraklis Petmezas graduated from the Savannah College of Art & Design with a BFA in Illustration. In the years to follow he created art for numerous musical acts and quite a number of editorial illustrations. He recently worked on story boards for animation. His first love will always be telling stories. He is working on new comics as quickly as the voices in his head will let him. This year also saw him join the successful 803 Studios, an artist collective out of South Carolina. This year he also started Sketch Charlotte, a weekly meeting of local artists in the Charlotte, NC area. Which continues to grow in membership You can find him on the web at: www.sketchcharlotte.com or www.803studios.net. He currently resides in the Carolina’s with his Sweet and a pug named Mr. Munchie. He would gladly accept money for art if you are willing to part with some. You can send comics to be reviewed to: Eraklis Petmezas P.O. Box 473236 Charlotte, NC 28247.

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