Review: The Walking Dead #81

Creator, Writer: Robert Kirkman

Penciler, Inker, Cover: Charlie Adlard

Gray Tones, Cover Colors: Cliff Rathburn

Letterer: Rus Wooton

Publisher: Image

Release Date: February 9th, 2011

*Warning: Spoilers*

Another issue of the most satisfying and consistent comic book on the market hits with The Walking Dead #81 from Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard.

This is part two to the heavily promoted “No Way Out” arc and it not only lives up to the name, but all the hype! It’s terror-ific!

Things really start to move in this issue – and I do mean things! There is a nice balance between dialogue and action, as the issue opens from where we left off last issue with the kiss between Rick and Jessie. From there, as you can see by the cover, we are taken outside the walls where we witness some tense moments. As we anxiously read await what transpires, Kirkman then reels us back in – and gives us quite the..finish?

It’s a good issue; one I have been waiting for since Rick and company first became acquainted with this community.

Adlard’s art, to be expected, is just as solid. Adlard is able to express the emotion of each character perfectly – as they encounter whatever Kirkman sends their way. Whether it be some love interest, a heated argument, or a zombie hoard, Adlard’s depictions heighten the sense of fear and danger we as a reader experience. Coupled with Kirkman’s great dialogue, you almost feel as if you are partaking in the events –  almost. That knack for storytelling is why it also works so well on television.

The appeal of The Walking Dead comes in the fact – that it does seem real. You can’t help but get thoroughly engrossed in the story and sympathize with these characters.

I look at the sales charts each month and compare what’s on top and can’t fathom why more don’t pick up The Walking Dead. Do yourself a favor, break your old habits and get a new fix!