Is KABUKI worth buying?

[Kristoffer]

I figure since I'm buying POWERS and may get DREAM POLICE when it comes out, I might as well complete the trifecta and get KABUKI.

[GelfXIII]

You want my advice? Ask this question on one of the boards that ISNT completely populated by fans of Kabuki. I doubt it's possible to get an objective opinion here.

Obviously I feel it's completely worth buying.

[Kristoffer]

You're right. But I figured someone, even a fan, could be fair and objective and say that it's not the greatest thing since sliced bread. That the artwork may cause headaches and seizures and that you have to be Japanese to appreciate the story. But, okay, if you say it's good, that's good enough for me.

[Shannon Chenoweth]

Kabuki kicks ass. BUT, I know a people who LOVE comics and don't dig it. It's not a traditional comic by any means. And to me, that's what makes it so appealing. Well, that and it IS good. :)
Anyway, I would recommend checking out the trades first or Kabuki: The Alchemy #1. That's the new Icon run. Head over to davidmackguide.com for all sorts of great info on Mack's work.

RC

[JABSEN]

I dig it.But like RC said not your typical comic.

[Hot Pink]

GET IT AND BUY IT AND LOVE IT.
buy the first trade and see how you love it.

or by the first issue of the alchemy and LOVE THAT.

[Shannon Chenoweth]

Well the thing is, while I tell everyone they SHOULD read Circle of Blood, that style is not like Mack's painted work a la Meta or Alchemy. Soooo, it probably is better that they get the new series and go from there. If you like the Icon stuff, go back and read Circle of Blood or Meta. I read all the books in order, but I know some haven't and still got a lot out of it, and enjoy it.

RC

[FirstGeer]

It is quite refreshing to read. I love the fact that is such a departure from the norm for a comic and has a very rich story. The fact that Mack is experimenting so much with the different art techniques really keeps it fresh. I loved the "storybook issue" ICON #2?

It is a step out from normal because it is painted, but then goes above and beyond that becuase of the oriental influences and the different mediums Mack uses in creating the paintings. I'm so glad Mack talked me into trying it out at WWC last year. I have to go back and get the earlier books, but I had no trouble jumping on at the switch to Marvel. (I did get the books Mack had at WWC, so that helped a little)

[SteveZegers]

Like everyone else has said, I really like it because it's not like anything else I buy. It's special. And the art is really something special.

[GelfXIII]

In re-reading my earlier post, I'm afraid I came off sounding more hostile and snooty than I meant. I do apologise for that tone, such was not my intent.

I think that Kabuki is one of the most original and creative books in the comics milleau, and well worth buying by anyone. That being said, there a number of comic fans (perfectly intelligent and well read people) who find Kabuki less than accessable, and willingly take a pass on it. I find David's work to be challenging and rewarding. Kind of the 'Advanced level' comics reading, if you'll forgive a little snobbery.

My advice would be to read the trades. All of them. There is a definate evolution to the story and to the story telling palette. Especially from "Circle of Blood" to "Dreams" and on through "Metamorphosis". Now with "Alchemy" David is once again re-inventing his palette and his story telling. I highly recommend all the works. To paraphrase a review once written about Roger Zelazny, "I truly envy those who are just discovering David Mack, and the joy that is before you." :D

[sicklittlemonkey025]

I figure since I'm buying POWERS and may get DREAM POLICE when it comes out, I might as well complete the trifecta and get KABUKI.
I've been reading Kabuki since Kabuki Agents came out, and have been tracking down everything else I can find ever since. It is always at the top of the stack when a new issue comes out no matter what else comes in. It is one of the most beautiful, though provoking books out there and I will continue reading it even if at some point I abandon the rest of the comic book industry all together.

[sicklittlemonkey025]

Buy Kabuki. You will not be disappointed.

[adventure metal]

I don't buy it and don't feel like I'm missing out.

[MACK!]

I figure since I'm buying POWERS and may get DREAM POLICE when it comes out, I might as well complete the trifecta and get KABUKI.


I highly recommend it. :)

[Jacob Lyon Goddard]

it's like i said in another thread, Mack and Joe Sacco are the only two creators i can think of who have done large work that has expanded past the scope and parameters laid out in Understand Comics, 12 years ago
even if you don't enjoy the story, for whatever reason, it's worth checking out; if only for that fact

[TorontoGreens]

I met David Mack at Toronto Comicon this year and at his suggestion i got the first TPB of Kabuki (he even signed it!) and after reading it i thought it was the bomb!!! I look forward to getting the rest now!!! I had never read it before, but am now hooked like tuna headed for the grill!!! Thanks for the suggestion and the great read Mack! You da Mack!

[Kristoffer]

In re-reading my earlier post, I'm afraid I came off sounding more hostile and snooty than I meant. I do apologise for that tone, such was not my intent.

I think that Kabuki is one of the most original and creative books in the comics milleau, and well worth buying by anyone. That being said, there a number of comic fans (perfectly intelligent and well read people) who find Kabuki less than accessable, and willingly take a pass on it. I find David's work to be challenging and rewarding. Kind of the 'Advanced level' comics reading, if you'll forgive a little snobbery.

My advice would be to read the trades. All of them. There is a definate evolution to the story and to the story telling palette. Especially from "Circle of Blood" to "Dreams" and on through "Metamorphosis". Now with "Alchemy" David is once again re-inventing his palette and his story telling. I highly recommend all the works. To paraphrase a review once written about Roger Zelazny, "I truly envy those who are just discovering David Mack, and the joy that is before you." :DI didn't think you sounded snooty.

[who cares?]

I figure since I'm buying POWERS and may get DREAM POLICE when it comes out, I might as well complete the trifecta and get KABUKI.

you seriously did NOT just ask that question....

please tell me that was not a question...

getting Kabuki is like a law of nature... it's a given...

but seriously, like other ppl said, you cant ask this on an MB filled with rabid readers of the series and get an objective response...

my answer: it's one of the most innnovative, original and mind-blowing comic books i've ever read... every single issue i read leads me more to believe that Mack is a master genius of the medium, and an insanely intelligent and talented person and artist...

i definitely think you should give it a try, and you should pick up Circle of Blood now... and PLEASE, READ THEM IN ORDER! it's very important that you do that...

and after, if you like it, you're welcome to steal my sig pic and pimp Kabuki so we can get more ppl to read it... :p

[Yano]

Buy a copy.

If you don't like it, I'll personally give you your money back.

...or beat you to a pulp. It depends on how I feel that day.

[Murdock's Girl]

I highly recommend it. :)


First off, this amuses me.:twisted:

Secondly, I'll give you a fair objective fan perspective thingie.

The first time I read Kabuki (which was metamorphisis) i got a headache. This is no slight to david in any way, but when you are use to reading (what i now refer to as non-mack) style paneling (i.e. any marvel or dc book) it gives you a headache. I have owned a copy of metamorphsis for almost two years now. Every single time i pick it up, i find something new in it.

I would suggust this, get Kabuki Alchemy #1. It might turn you off at first (i will admit it did for me because of said headache), but get issue #2. If you aren't hooked, don't worry because everyone (even I believe david) knows that its not everyone's cup of tea. Once you read all four/five issues of alchemy pick up the metamorphsis trade...its mind blowing. :)

but please let us know what you think anyway.
:) hope that is somewhat helpful.
Tessana!?!

[MACK!]

I didn't think you sounded snooty.


Maybe you should ask this question on the regular Bendis board too :)

[AlexMiller]

Kabuki is so far in front of anything else in comics it's not even funny. I've said this in many other forums so I'm not just kissing David's ass. This was the FIRST comic book I was able to give to my wife and have her read where she saw comics as a legitimate art form. As has been previously said, it's definately challenging since it's not a traditional comic format but the reward once dialed into the story is great. At the very least you'll learn of a different approach to the comic medium. I've only recently discovered Kabuki so I can't offer up much help in the way of trades and which ones to buy...so go with the learned ones there. But if you have any doubt, check out an issue on the stands...it's quality stuff. ;)

[Humphrey_Lee]

If you buy Kabuki, Mack will touch you... that right there makes it worth it... trust me....

Heh, this never gets old....

Seriously though, go get it... what are you waiting for? :mad:

[Kristoffer]

If you buy Kabuki, Mack will touch you... that right there makes it worth it... trust me....

Heh, this never gets old....

Seriously though, go get it... what are you waiting for? :mad:I just might, fellas. BTW, not to sound snooty myself, but why is David Mack here instead of writing the next great comic book? Not that I'm complaining, I actually think its cool and shows no vanity on their part. :foom:

[moonspider]

just buy the first kabuki trade, and you'll be hooked
it dont hurt to just give it a try

[gwyllgi]

Kabuki is what got me back into comics. I bought a few trades off of Mack at Dragon Con in '04, and found him to be wonderfully polite and well-spoken, so I liked him and figured I'd give his book a shot.

It fucking BLEW ME AWAY. The artwork is gorgeous, the stories are engaging, the main character is wonderfully flawed and realistic and likeable- she's not some untouchable superhero. I like that. I like it quite a bit.

I got my girlfriend into comes with Kabuki, and she loves the series as well. I recommend it to every one I know and I'm even considering a Noh tattoo. ^.^ No... I'm not obsessed or anything...

[Talannon]

I just might, fellas. BTW, not to sound snooty myself, but why is David Mack here instead of writing the next great comic book? Not that I'm complaining, I actually think its cool and shows no vanity on their part. :foom:
Everyone can get a break!!

[Dawn]

Buy a copy.

If you don't like it, I'll personally give you your money back.

...or beat you to a pulp. It depends on how I feel that day.

I second that. ;-)

Like gwyllgi said, Kabuki is also what got me back into the comic book world. It just broke all my expectations since I've found most books quite repetitive in both stories and art style a few years back, and things got a wee boring. Then I came across Kabuki in a Borders (who woulda thunk?) and fell inlove with it.

So I highly recommend it. :)

Either way, you'll end up with books full of pretty pictures to look at!

[Persevering Guy]

I find you can really savour it with hot fudge syrup. mmmmmmmm

[Jayodjick]

There's probably nuthin I could say here better than it's already been said but...here's why I would recommend Kabuki. I honestly think it is the most unique and original comics experience available.
David's art is on par with fine art on display in any museum. I had read his Daredevil stuff, and talked to him at the Toronto con this past weekend, bought the DD stuff he had, and asked him where I should start reading Kabuki. That night my girlfriend read all the Kabuki books I brought back to the hotel, went back to see David and bought ANOTHER stack of Kabuki books. I think theyre printed with an addictive substance...;)
But seriously, if nothing else it is like attending an art gala for the price of a comic book. I hope you like Kabuki!
J!

[Murdock's Girl]

But seriously, if nothing else it is like attending an art gala for the price of a comic book.
J!

you hit the nail on the head jay. :)
Tessana!?!

[Jayodjick]

Thanks, MG. That about sums it up, huh? I wish they had shown me stuff like THAT when I was taking Fine Arts in College!

[MACK!]

Thanks, MG. That about sums it up, huh? I wish they had shown me stuff like THAT when I was taking Fine Arts in College!


Hi Jay,

Good to see you on this board, and was a pleasure to meet you and your girlfriend in Toronto.
I'm also happy to see you presenting your work here. Please feel welcome to post it on the main Bendis message board as well.

Best,
David

[Kristoffer]

Hi Jay,

Good to see you on this board, and was a pleasure to meet you and your girlfriend in Toronto.
I'm also happy to see you presenting your work here. Please feel welcome to post it on the main Bendis message board as well.

Best,
DavidIs this really David Mack? Hey, dude, wuz up! Do you think Angelina Jolie is hot and make a great Wonder Woman? I think so.

[Jayodjick]

Hi David,
Thanks a bunch, man. Was a pleasure to meet you too! Keep up the great work, and know that you've scored TWO new Kabuki readers. The Alchemy is great!
(Oh and we will be posting some stuff on Brian's board as well. Thanks for the invite...youre a class act!)
J

[MACK!]

Is this really David Mack? Hey, dude, wuz up! Do you think Angelina Jolie is hot and make a great Wonder Woman? I think so.


Hey welcome to the board.
Please let me know what you think of Kabuki when you get a chance to read it.

As for Wonderwoman, I was thinking Mandy Amano would be a great wonderwoman. :)

[TomBlinker]

so like we are talknig about kabuki must read. is it possible to find fear of the reaper and dance of death? i read it and i think it gives much more the feel of kabuki than cicle of blood

[Dannñ B]

Hey welcome to the board.
Please let me know what you think of Kabuki when you get a chance to read it.

As for Wonderwoman, I was thinking Mandy Amano would be a great wonderwoman. :) Yeah, I think that guy was banned a long time ago.

[jason hissong]

As if this hasn't been praised enough in this thread (there's no such thing, really). . .


What David Mack does with his Kabuki work is so far above and beyond any other comic work on the shelf today. It's one of the most thorough, articulate, and well put together pieces of comic art I've ever read.

-j

[jactinglim]

Snootiness aside, my first reaction was "Oh. My. God. Someone is asking is Kabuki is worth buying. In a David Mack message board. LOLOLOLOL! I might as well ask a cat if catnip is ok =^.^="

I say the best person to decide for you is yourself. And you can get a free preview from Mr David Thornton's website! If you don't even wanna risk a penny for one single issue, I mean.

You can sample both the painted/collaged colored works as well as the black and white works as well interpretations by other great artists like Rick Mays and the others. Then you can decide how you like Kabuki, not for its artists, not for its story, but Kabuki itself :)

Then you can decide then and there if you get headaches reading them, or a sort of creative pseudo-orgasm... er, I might have said that in a better way (blush) sorry to anyone offended. Anyway, good luck! And may you soon make your informed decision ;)

[GelfXIII]

Actually, I kind of think that reading Kabuki on a computer screen would be incredibly difficult. I find myself turning the books over and sideways so often that if I was looking on a screen I'd be sure to give myself serious neck strain! :lol:

[amy]

i recently bought circle of blood.

I've only skimmed it so far but i like what i've seen.

[bairdduvessa]

Yes, Yes Oh God Yes

[jason hissong]

It's worth buying, without a doubt.

It's my opinion that Mack is the most talented young person working in comics.

[John Drake]

I'm planning on Buying the first trade of Kabuki before the year ends.

[alt.ego]

For those who may not have seen, KABUKI is being posted daily on newsarama, so you can check it out for free, before deciding to buy.

I also just got Masks of the Noh, and Skin Deep from my public library. I agree, David's art / layouts / storytelling are something special - truly integrating text and depictions to move things along as few other comics have, and as only comics can.