COMIC BOOK REVIEW: ‘Ang Ilog Book 2′ ay dahan-dahang umaapaw

Who would have thought that an old fashion story line is still acceptable in our modern time? If you want a classic tale composed of history and folklore presented in an artistic Filipino-style this new local comic book has all the ingredients.

As I read it, it brings back old memories of stories told by our great grandparents during the time when our country was struggling after the 333 years of the Spanish empire. The story may happen during the Philippine-American War ensued between 1899 and 1902. The time, when our grandparents were just kids whose past time is to share frightening stories of aswang and other supernatural beings like serena and tikbalang and playing “bugtungan” (riddles), for them to divert from the hardship of life after the war.

Enough of that, let’s go back to the comics…

In terms of forms, it is graphically pleasing to see the artistic style of Rey Asturias, it is like looking at the classic style of Francisco Coching. Asturias gave justice and make it his own unique style. It is like capturing those vintage pictures you see in the museum and put it in a comic book.

While for the substance, it shows how our ancestors may have lived during those times. Rick Olivares’ storytelling is like listening to your grandparents during your summer vacation. Maybe that is why he dedicates this project to his grandmother. But just like any other kid, you will keep on asking your lolo and lola, what happens next? And you will be lost on the real path of the story because of too many twists and turns that makes you more excited.

Just like any book series, you will not completely appreciate it unless you read it from start to end. Each issue (so far issue #1 and #2) cannot survive alone but it delivers what the writer requires from his reader and that is to crave for more.

For some technicalities, you will notice some flaws on the stories, which I think the writer will be able to correct and justify for the remaining 3 issues. While for the art, there were well defined and detailed presentations, you will also notice that some character designs were based from the old Filipino actors and actresses.

In terms of originality, if you were exposed on reading the old Filipino komiks during the time that was still considered the cheapest source of entertainment, where you can easily buy it the public market. It will give you some nostalgia. But if you want to have a souvenir of the old-school Pinoy komiks, this one is dedicated for a reader like you.

It has two language/dubbing versions, one in Tagalog and the other is in English, which I think is good for all the reading public. This comic book is a good medium to keep our Filipino identities well and alive for our nation’s future generations.

Ang Ilog Book 2 is overflowing of Pilipino values of family, lifestyle, and traditions, in an adventurous way. I can’t wait to have this converted into a movie someday. “Pinoy na Pinoy ang dating.”

By KIM UNIDAD