A Sinister Journey Through Nostalgia: Purgatori Grindhouse #1
The serene summer of 1978 sets the stage. Four friends lounge under the golden sun, enjoying the quiet calm of a beach day. However, their peaceful retreat unravels with the arrival of a striking redhead named Copper. Brought to life by the creative duo of Ray Fawkes and Alvaro Sarraseca, with Salvatore Aiala’s haunting colors, Altered States: Purgatori Grindhouse #1 introduces a tale brimming with supernatural terror and retro flair.
A Hitchhiker with Secrets
Copper’s journey begins innocently enough—a lone hitchhiker seeking warmth by a bonfire. But her presence is far from innocent. Jimmy and Tori, the classic small-town couple navigating love and insecurities, are drawn into her orbit. As the fire crackles and shadows deepen, Copper’s true nature surfaces.
Unbeknownst to her newfound companions, Copper is tethered to an ancient malevolent power. This dark force offers unearthly strength to its followers, but the price is steep—a sacrifice that must be paid in blood. The group’s night spirals into chaos, with Copper leading them down a path they can’t escape.
A Love Letter to Slasher Horror
Condensed into 28 tension-filled pages, this comic pays homage to the slasher films of the VHS era. The story doesn’t attempt to overcomplicate. Instead, it leans into the simplicity of its inspiration, creating an atmosphere rich in nostalgia. With its tightly packed narrative and eerie aesthetic, it mirrors the grainy allure of classic horror films from the golden age of video stores.
The story’s structure is reminiscent of the best slasher flicks: unsuspecting characters, a chilling villain, and a steady buildup to a shocking finale. Fans of the genre will find its pacing and suspense deeply satisfying.
Haunting Visuals and Atmospheric Storytelling
The artistic collaboration between Alvaro Sarraseca and Salvatore Aiala captures the essence of this supernatural thriller. Sarraseca’s layouts guide the reader through the unfolding terror with precision. His style, while polished, retains a raw edge that fits the story’s gritty tone.
Aiala’s colors elevate the narrative further, layering each panel with tension and unease. The muted tones of the beach scene contrast sharply with the vivid hues of transformation, making the supernatural moments stand out. The visuals immerse readers in a world where horror feels inevitable.
The Rise of Purgatori
The emergence of Purgatori, born from violence and desperation, solidifies the story’s impact. The creation of this demonic figure is chilling yet compelling, offering a glimpse into the darker corners of human ambition. The pacing ensures every moment counts, with no panel wasted. Each line and stroke serves to heighten the tension and propel the story forward.
Despite its simplicity, the narrative delivers a lasting impact. It doesn’t rely on over-the-top theatrics but instead builds suspense with precision and purpose. This restraint keeps readers hooked, eager to see how the chaos unfolds.
Nostalgia Meets Horror
Altered States: Purgatori Grindhouse #1 is a love letter to horror’s past while carving out a space for itself in the genre’s future. Its blend of supernatural themes, slasher tropes, and dynamic visuals creates a reading experience that feels both familiar and fresh.
For fans of horror comics and retro-inspired storytelling, this issue is a must-read. With its gripping narrative and striking artwork, it pulls readers into a world where darkness lurks behind every corner.
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