REVIEW: ‘Mamo,’ Issue #1

Mamo #1 is your new obsession by Sas Milledge published by BOOM! Studios imprint BOOM! Box. The gorgeous comic follows Jo as she goes searching for the Witch of Haresden to help cure her mother of a curse and release the whole town. Reluctantly, the Witch agrees only to encounter some personal troubles of her own.

Truly, BOOM! Studios can do no wrong. Mamo #1 is more proof. This first issue has all of the makings of a transformative piece of work, and while I have no idea where the story will go, I am completely on board for the journey. Orla is far from your typical witch. Seemingly not much older than Jo, a teenager or perhaps young adult, she’s clearly knowledgable but maintains none of the pageantry or exceptionalism. She’s clearly a bit of a misanthrope but in the alluring and “I want to be like you” kind of way. Jo on the other hand is quite innocent; unaware of the most basic tenets of magic or the world. But she’s brave and she’s determined, so she dives right in regardless.

A new series must start with either a strong plot hook or strong character building, and Mamo #1 delivers both in spades. While the majority of the issue is merely laying a path for its characters to show off their personalities, the conclusion of the issue sets up what will surely be the central plot point of the series. It’s stark, unique, and poised to offer a lot of emotion based on the characterizations so far.

Then there is the art. When I say this is one of the most beautiful comics I’ve read, I am not exaggerating. Every panel is spectacularly detailed. From wind-whipped hair to the most detailed birds I’ve seen in a comic, Milledge spared no ink bringing this comic to life. Particularly, I’m in love with the way that clothing is drawn in this comic. From Jo’s thinly striped t-shirt and rolled-up pants to Orla’s boots, tied-off jumper, and unfettered leg hair, I am both obsessed with their styles and wickedly impressed with how much detail was put into how they look.

The colors in this comic are also so dreamy. The palette is soft, like the sun is perpetually setting and the world is stationed in that moment where everything is a light blue and washed with calm before the yellows and oranges explode across the sky. The dramatic contrast of Orla’s black shirt and animal companion (an attribute I’m deeply curious about given the matching swatches and apparent magical quality) makes her stand out boldly against the placid tones around her. It indicates to me that her personality and her role as a character are going to stand out against the rest of the world’s grain. I also really appreciate the book’s font and sparing, subtle use of SFX.

Mamo #1 is the start of what will surely be an impeccable series. With captivating characters and plot set to gorgeous and detailed art, this series will surely not be one to miss.

Mamo #1 is available wherever comics are sold.