Godkiller: Walk Among Us (2009)

Godkiller is a curious little gem; one of those "motion comics" that have been popping up online for a few years now. Animators and a team of voice actors take the artwork from the comic; perform some digital puppetry to add motion to the panels while a team of voice actors brings the characters to life- a hybrid between graphic novels and full-blown animation.

Godkiller is the first part of a clever episodic three-part release of what will be delivered as a full feature scheduled for March 30, 2010. These 'short-form DVDs' are short little chunks of the whole story, giving that 'comic feel' of waiting between issues.

The story takes place in some dark wreck of a future - pretty standard post-apocalyptic fare. Blood and organs are a prized currency, leading to organ-stealing rings harvesting those living that are still clean. The story revolves around a boy and his kid sister living in an orphanage in one of the few 'good parts' of town. Sis is ill and in need of a new heart, which leads him to an encounter with a group of organ-stealing prostitutes.

The artwork is lifted directly from the comic. The voiceover work is well above average. Overall, it was an enjoyable story, over quickly and making me wait anxiously for the next chapter to be released. A fast, beautiful 25 minutes.

Flipping the case over, I noticed the extras. Also included on the disk is a .PDF of the two issues of the Godkiller comic that were animated for the film, as well as a 40-minute .mp3 audio book version of the first serialized chapter of the prequel novel Godkiller: Silent War. I found it a nice little bonus.

These 'animated comic books' are a real love-hate issue with fans. Personally, I'm one of those who dig 'em- and this was no exception.   For more information about this and the other products from Halo-8 head over to their website at www.halo8.tv

3 of 4

reviewed by Jeremy Gaggins

© Copyright 2009 John Shatzer