|
Monkey Vs Robot
“Why can’t we all love each other, monkey and our robot brother?”
Being a fan of James Kochalka, I was certainly excited when I opened up my mailbox to find Monkey Vs Robot. If you aren’t already fan after reading American Elf or Superf*ckers, then this is a good place to begin to explore this one of a kind talent in the world of comics. Top Shelf Comics recently released this unique graphic novel.
The Story
Monkey Vs Robot is about exactly what the title implies: it is about a little monkey and a robot battling away in the middle of a secluded jungle. But, don’t be too fast to dismiss this tale as simple.
Sure, on the surface it a story told with sparse words and uncomplicated artwork about a monkey and a robot fighting one another. However, if you look beyond the obvious, Monkey Vs Robot could be viewed as an allegory about the combative nature of humankind. Have we really evolved to a grand degree from an angry little monkey in the jungle? Did you see the people fighting for cheap laptops at Wal-Mart on Black Friday? Look at that ruckus and tell me if it doesn’t bare a striking resemblance to monkeys fighting for a banana.
This simple tale could also be viewed as a metaphor for the way that people resolve disagreements. Maybe there is a bit of the monkey and the robot in all of us?
Who ultimately wins? Do the spoils of war go to the monkey or to the robot? In order to satisfy your curiosity, you must go a pick up this enjoyable graphic novel.
If you have never read any of Kochalka’s comics, Monkey Vs Robot is a great place to get started. I recommend it wholeheartedly. After reading this bizarre little gem, I will bet that you will be perusing the aisle of your local comic shop looking for another serving of Kochalka brand strangeness.
9/10
The Artwork
Kochalka’s artwork is deceptively straightforward yet is very expressive. It is amazing to see his ability as an illustrator to express a wide range of emotions from his characters with only dots for eyes and clean lines. Too elaborate of artwork would have been inappropriate for the subject matter. The artwork is in simple black and white and compliments the story of a little monkey and a robot perfectly.
8/10
Overall (Not An Average) 8/10
Suzie Lackey |
 |
|
Monkey Vs Robot
Written and Illustrated by James Kochalka
Published by Top Shelf Comics
Review: The Book 9/10 The Artwork 8/10 Overall 8/10
Related Reviews |
