Zipper #2
From: IDW
Written by: Tom Waltz
Art By: Casey Maloney, Stacie Ponder
Reviewed by Tim Janson

In Gene Simmons’ Zipper, an alien named Xeng Ral has fled from his world where there is no such thing as individuality and all are a part of a great collective. Xeng Ral’s free will cast him as an outlaw amongst his race and he escaped to Earth and to the city of Detroit. Xeng Ral wears a cybernetic Exo suit which conveys numerous powers on him such as the ability to cloak his appearance so he can pass for human, translate any language, as well as various physical abilities. For lack of a better term the suit looks like a leather bondage outfit adorned with all sorts of zippers. It was created by Gene Simmons, after all. This eventually earns him the nickname of “Zipper” from a small-time hood named Ronnie J. whom Xeng rescued from a street gang.

There are two sub-plots at work so far in the story. The first centers on a fire and brimstone minister, Dr. Deveroux. Deveroux has been preaching to his flock about an alien invasion and Zipper looks exactly like the being he saw in his visions. The charismatic minister is preparing his congregation for a coming war.

Trouble is also coming from Xeng’s race, the Etherians, who have tracked him to Earth and set four hunters on his trail. They are intent on bringing Xeng back so their collective can be made whole again. I guess if I had to describe “Zipper” best it would be like “7 of 9” Borg from Star Trek Voyager crossed with the Jeff Bridges character from Starman.

I found Tom Waltz’ script to be very witty. The clash of cultures between the alien and the Motown street crook make for some interesting conversations and scenes. I’m most curious to see where the story goes regarding the Dr. Deveroux situation. What does connection does this minister have to Xeng Ral and his race?

Xeng’s look is courtesy of artist Casey Maloney. Xeng isn’t your typical superhero in terms of build and muscle stature. He is lean and lithe, more along the lines of Spider Man’s physique although even a bit thinner than him. Dusty Yee’s vibrant colors really seal the deal on the outstanding visuals. The contrasting color schemes fit the tone of the story perfectly.