Writer: John Smith
Artists: Dawn Brown and Mark Texiera for Pantha
Publisher: Harris
Plot: The final piece of Vampirella's origin.
When you add to continuity, it should not destroy what came before but compliment. John Smith's story concludes Vampirella's origin with style keeping in sync with the mature tone of the book. We knew she came from Drakulon. We knew she wasn't like other vampires, but we never really knew why Vampirella was drawn to earth. This story answers that question.
The answer depends on the repellence of certain monsters who wear men's skin. The banal face of evil imagined by Dawn Brown repulsively makes this answer all too plausible, and Vampirella first being a victim explains why she wanted to help so immediately after her arrival.
Vampirella's tighter association with the Circus makes more sense at the conclusion where Harry completely disobeys his orders and does the right thing. Though these two have only been acquaintances for a short time, the fast friendship formed becomes utterly believable.
The Vampirella finale is a tad short. However, Pantha more than makes up for the length. The visceral horror continues as expected, but Mr. Smith gives Pantha a more personal reason for disemboweling the Nazi werewolves. Loved the silver coin move ala' Doctor Who, but given Pantha's strength it actually makes sense.
While Texiera is known for his pin-up type artwork, he should not be so easily dismissed. Take a look at the perfect expression of hate mixed with sorrow during the dénouement. Tears actually glisten in her narrowed eyes.
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