AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE #5 by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla
"We've lived here all our lives.... and we're NEVER going to come back here, are we?"
That very quote kicks off the final chapter of the "Escape from Riverdale" arc. It sounds so simple, but it can be an overlooked concept when it comes to zombie or disaster stories. It's an element I once included in a short story of my own years ago when writing a zombie story as a first hand account. Perhaps the first hand account style is what made me reflect on what it would truly be like to have to leave everything behind. Said theme is the backbone of this issue.
This particular issue is largely narrated by Smithers, butler to the Lodges, who is the conscience and voice of reason within these pages. We also see him reflect on his life of service at Lodge Manor and it's rather touching. The rest of the Riverdale regulars are seen trying to deal with what has transpired so far, while attempting to maintain some kind of sanity. The Betty-Veronica-Archie love triangle also gains a new perspective. It's not much of a spoiler given that this arc is titled "Escape From Riverdale", but we see Archie "become a man" as he bravely and cleverly leads the crew out of town. As an added bonus, there is once again a reprint of an old horror comic. This time it's one called "A Thousand Pounds of Clay". If old horror comics are your thing, you should give it a look.
Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa once again does a fantastic job of adding emotional depth to the horror. And what can I say about Francesco Francavilla? He may very well be the best noir-style artist in comics today. Whether you've been following the series to this point or are just curious, this is definitely worth a buy. If you find it intimidating to jump on with this issue, you will be relieved to know that the trade paperback will be available in just a few weeks. The next issue is set to be a done-in-one story, with a new arc beginning in #7. No matter how you choose to read this, I stand by my statment that Afterlife With Archie is the best zombie related comic on racks today. Score: 9.5/10
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