The Nice House On The Sea #1 Review: A Supremely Confident Return of This Strange Form

As a dedicated comic book reader and avid fan of the horror genre, I can wholeheartedly say that “The Nice House on the Sea” is a must-read for any gamer or horror enthusiast out there. Having experienced the chilling thrills of “The Nice House on the Lake,” I was eagerly anticipating this sequel, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

The Nice House on the Lake was a remarkable series, boasting an array of appealing descriptors beginning with the letter S. It was surreal in its plot twists, subversively challenging expectations, cleverly written, and downright terrifying. The tale of a group of successful friends invited to a seemingly idyllic retreat, only to find themselves prisoners of an otherworldly consciousness as Earth perished, captivated readers from the start and left us yearning for more over the course of twelve issues. In the same vein, The Nice House on the Sea, its sequel, can be described using the same adjectives. It presents a new cast of characters in a fresh setting while maintaining the same intriguing premise. However, what sets it apart is how swiftly it expands upon the foundation laid before and alters our understanding once more.

For those who haven’t read “The Nice House on the Lake,” it would be best to hold off on this issue until they’ve finished the first one. “The Nice House on the Sea” is intended as a sequel and assumes readers are already acquainted with its concepts for maximum impact, rather than providing a fresh introduction. This new work introduces 11 characters, including an alien friend named Max, who are swiftly presented through Oliver Landon Clay’s (referred to as The Actor) perspective. Several of the surprising elements in “The Nice House on the Lake” have already become commonplace in this storyline as Max nonchalantly shows off his otherworldly form and inhabitants argue about controlling the weather. By the second year of the apocalypse, these characters seem to have already discovered many of the revelations that the original cast stumbled upon.

The intrigue of this situation arises from the contrasts, be they interpersonal or regarding their surroundings. At first glance, it’s clear that the dynamics of this setting are markedly distinct. Each character remains an accomplished and specialized individual, yet the closeness and familiarity that once defined the bond between friends at a lake house is absent. They may recognize each other, but there’s a palpable absence of concern in their interactions. This change in tone has led to divergent methods as the characters have navigated the apocalypse, yielding fresh discoveries.

At the conclusion of this issue, you’ll gain an understanding of how each character contributes to their household and a hint of the tensions that could eventually shatter their idyllic life. The narrative weaves together the intricate themes and patterns established throughout the previous series, presenting a compelling snapshot of a typical day. However, be prepared for one last surprise that justifies the agonizing anticipation between issues for The Nice House on the Lake.

In the first series of “The Nice House by the Sea,” artist Alvaro Martinez Bueno’s style evolves in tandem with the expanding narrative, setting, and characters. Initially, his artwork was marked by a mysterious atmosphere, with intricate details adding to the tranquil yet unsettling mood. Now, the residents have accepted this strange environment, leading to more disquieting shapes and forms. Max’s alien appearance, brought to life through Bueno’s ingeniously warped figure design and Jordie Bellaire’s brilliant color palette, is a striking example. The artwork continues to emphasize the uncanny nature of this seemingly idyllic place, leaving readers intrigued and relieved they can close the cover when needed.

Published by DC Comics

On July 24, 2024

Written by James Tynion IV

Art by ?lvaro Mart?nez Bueno

Colors by Jordie Bellaire

Letters by Andworld Design

Cover by ?lvaro Mart?nez Bueno

2024-07-24 16:09

Read More