
With the first issue of SCAR Unit, Writer/Creator Tracey Claverie and artist Rowel Rogue have presented an interesting story that captures the feel of crime procedural TV shows like Criminal Minds and Law & Order: SVU.
The main character in this first volume is FBI Agent Frank Kearse, who’s just been put in charge of a new unit called SCAR (Sex Crimes and Abuse Response). This poses an interesting challenge for Frank, as he has some issues of his own that he’s dealing with, which certainly pose a conflict for him in his new position.
The main case the unit is working involved the disappearance of some teenage girls, but like most crime procedurals, there are other, smaller cases that various members of the unit are investigating as well. This lends to the television show feel, and Claverie does a nice job of juggling the ensemble cast and the various cases they’re trying to solve. While artist Rowel Rogue does a nice job with the visual storytelling, there are some times that it’s difficult to tell characters apart, primarily due to the book being in black and white. Don’t let the lack of color keep you away, though.
The subject matter is most definitely aimed at adults, but it’s not in any way gratuitous. Dealing with issues of sexual abuse and mental health can be touchy in a visual medium, but Claverie and Rogue are respectful in their approach. If you’re a fan of crime procedurals, SCAR Unit #1 is right up your alley.
4 out of 5 Disturbing Cases
You can grab SCAR Unit over on Graphicly right now for $1.00.