Written by: Juan Diaz Canales
Illustrations: Juanjo Guarnido
Coloring: Juanjo Guarnido
Publisher: Dargaud
Blacksad: Ergens tussen de schaduwen – Achter de schermen – Comic Book Review
We tend to review many stories in our comic book section, but sometimes we get treated to something extra, namely artbooks based on the series that pass the revue. This time we have the chance to have an in-depth look at a fairly known series, Blacksad. While there will be no actual story to review this time, the lengthy interview, artwork and a massive storyboard might just keep us occupied a fair bit longer than a normal comic book.
Just like the Murena Artbook, there is no actual story value to be found here, except for the storyboard which is in the writer’s original language: French. Nonetheless, this creates a certain image for those who are interested in the flow of Blacksad, but then again, you probably won’t be interested in an issue like this, if you don’t properly know the series. That aside, there’s a proper interview with Juanjo Guarnido and Juan Diaz Canales who are responsible for the creation of this rather adult black cat adventure series. Over the course of several pages you’ll be treated to their thoughts on their careers, their past, how they’ve met and even the techniques or style choices used in the actual comic books. If you truly want to dig into the world of Blacksad, there’s probably no better chance to do so.
The storyboard section, which is the bulk of this album, does not only contain the actual sketches that were used for the creation of a story, but also the choices that were made afterwards, to actually bring things to life. Things vary from lay-out choices, even small reworks if some details needed to be enlarged or toned down and of course, how the story would properly progress and have to look when it’s completely finished.
It’s also fun to find some sketches enlarged to serve as a nice background for a fair amount of pages, and the artwork at the end of this issue adds a fun conclusion piece after a rather lengthy read.
Conclusion
Blacksad: Ergens tussen de schaduwen – Achter de schermen is a great addition to your Blacksad collection, and even for those who are interested in what goes on in the mind of a rather talented duo that ended up creating a very popular series. You’ll be treated to about two hours of reading material in a fancy looking jacket, filled with artwork and the foundation of somewhat a masterpiece.
Blacksad: Ergens tussen de schaduwen – Achter de schermen - Comic Book Review,
No Comments