Dirtbag Rapture #1
‘Dirtbag Rapture’ #1 took me by surprise and instantly became one of my favorite debut issues of the year. The introduction of Kat Garcia, our grumpy, foul-mouthed protagonist with a unique talent for transporting ghosts, was an absolute delight. She’s a disaffected young woman who treats the ghosts residing in her mind like annoying tenants in her own mental apartment building. Kat’s charm lies in her humor, confidence, and the way she navigates her burdensome “gift.”
The issue sets up a complex existence for Kat, as she finds herself caught between the warring factions of angels and demons. According to one of her ghost passengers, Hannah, the demons are hell-bent on taking over the world. However, things aren’t as clear-cut as they seem, as a cop possessed by a demon presents a different version of events. The conflicting accounts leave Kat, and the readers, questioning who to believe and what the true nature of the conflict is.
This first issue is dense, filled with a lot of information and world-building. We are introduced to Kat’s unique group of friends, a quirky trio consisting of a necromancer, a multidimensional traveler, and a bigfoot hunter. They provide a non-judgmental support system for Kat, and their presence feels perfect for someone with her eccentricities. Additionally, we get a montage that explains the origin and evolution of Kat’s powers, stemming from a near-death experience. While the concept of being a paranormal Uber for the dead is wild, there’s also a sense of pathos for Kat, who yearns for relief from the constant requests of ghosts, finding solace in drugs.
The impending war between angels and demons takes a backseat to the more intriguing dynamics of Kat’s relationships with ghosts and her friends. The tug of war she finds herself in presents a captivating conflict within herself, as she struggles to find her place amidst the supernatural chaos. While the battle between good and evil may not be the main draw of the series, the groundwork laid in this second issue suggests that issue three may be where the conflict truly takes flight.
In conclusion, ‘Dirtbag Rapture’ #1 is a captivating and layered debut that showcases the complexities of Kat Garcia’s world. The series excels in its portrayal of Kat’s relationships and the challenges she faces as she navigates her unique abilities. With its intriguing premise and well-developed characters, ‘Dirtbag Rapture’ promises an exciting journey ahead, and I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds in subsequent issues.
