CHILLING ADVENTURES OF SABRINA #1 by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Robert Hack
The latest entry in the Archie Horror line has finally arrived and couldn't be any better. Writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa of Afterlife With Archie fame has once again cracked the code and delivered a macabre masterpiece. In fact, I'd say that Chilling Adventures of Sabrina has made even more of a stunning debut than Afterlife With Archie, not to take anything away from that fantastic book.
Once you open that eye-popping (pun intended) die-cut cover, you are immediately sucked into this world thanks to Robert Hack's dynamite artwork. It has a very "October" atmosphere - you will see what I mean by that before long. Going with the time period of the 1950s-60s seemed like a wise choice because this book evokes classics like The Omen, Rosemary's Baby, and countless Vincent Price offerings. Speaking of Mr. Price, I heard his voice as I read for Edward Spellman. Let's also not forget that Sabrina was introduced in 1962, so it makes the period even more fitting.
This inaugural issue follows Sabrina from infancy to her first days of high school. Long story short, she is the offspring of a devil worshipping warlock and a mortal woman. I don't want to spoil all details for you, but will say that the backstory provided is rather chilling, yet intriguing and will make you an instant fan of this series. Yes, she is still raised by her aunts Hilda and Zelda, with her trusty familiar cat Salem by her side. Although her family is a bit more sinister than what we've seen in other interpretations, they all genuinely seem to love each other. It brings an interesting dynamic to the book.
I was quite amused to see witches Betty and Veronica show up to unwittingly summon Madame Satan, a character whose connection to Sabrina must be seen to be believed and will guarantee that you will come back for the second issue. There's also some generous supplemental material which includes a reprint of Sabrina's first appearance in 1962 and a Robert Hack sketch gallery.
There probably isn't a better $3.99 Halloween gift you could treat yourself to than this. Trust me, you'll be blown away as if someone broke the "no telepathy in the house" rule. Score: 10/10
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