I recently came into possession of a comic book that is a real treat. It began as (and continues to be) a web-comic that was later printed into a full volume. The writer/ creator of this independent work, Paul Roman Martinez, presents a world that explores actual events and people in the 1930’s and adds a fantastic spin to it all. The story behind The Adventures of The 19XX, can best be described by the creator himself: Somewhere in the 20th century…not long after the end of the Great War, those who were capable of hearing it, received a revelation… another Great War was coming. This coming war would push the limits of technology, split the atom to create the power of a small star, and bring together forces more evil than the world has ever known. That this war would happen was man’s fatal destiny, but the outcome of the war and the details of it were not as clear. A weak League of Nations banded together to form a group. A group capable of doing what those countries could not. A group of adventurers, explorers, and scientists from every allied country search the globe and fight a battle far from the public eye. This group is The 19XX, all the public has been told is that they are fighting for all of the good in humanity to survive the nineteen hundreds and beyond. I really enjoyed reading the first collection of this comic The Rise of The Black Faun. I think mostly because I really am drawn to old era stories like this. It reminded me a lot of The Rocketeer, which is one of my favorite characters of all time. The first adventure has the heroes searching for particular ancient relic that the Black Faun has their sights set on in order to cause ultimate destruction. These adventures had a mixture of elements that when combined gave this world Martinez created a unique feel such as the ghost of Harry Houdini aiding the 19XX or the Nazi-like Black Faun which utilize war vehicles that look as if they are inspired by AT-ST walkers straight out of Return of the Jedi. The pages of this story explode with characters that have an unexplainable vibrant feel to them. Martinez put a lot of energy into this project and it’s evident on every panel not to mention the website that showcases the comic itself. I can’t wait to get back to the website to get to know them better. (Did I mention the entire story is available to read for free?!) You can also get the first two volumes in print. This comic is definitely something I’d recommend checking out.
Check out their kickstarter as well : https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/134284667/sketchbooks-based-on-the-adventures-of-the-19xx-co
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