Idolized #1

So-called "Reality TV" has been around for more than a decade now, and just like detective dramas and sitcoms, it's now (for good or ill) an integral part of national television.

I'm not a huge fan (though I admit to following Survivor in its early years and watching a season or two of American Idol), but it's not surprising to see the genre making its way into comics.

Idolized is the latest attempt to merge comics and American Idol, and so far - it's a solid effort.

It focuses on Joule, a beautiful young woman who lives in a world where superpowers are commonplace. She sees the TV show "Superhero Idol" as an opportunity - not for fame and money, but as a chance for revenge.

But are we getting her true story, or is this just a fabrication for the TV cameras? It's one of the things that can make or break a reality TV show, as the manufactured drama isn't nearly as interesting as the real thing. We're getting just enough of a look behind the scenes to wonder, but we'll have to watch as the mystery unfolds.

The story is written by David Schwartz, and it's very effective in setting up the series, and presenting the possibly-tragic origin of Joule. The art is by Micah Gunnell, with colors by David Curiel, and it's quite good - lively and animated, the style seems to owe a lot to Art Adams (who also provides the striking cover).

The series also offers a stunning photo cover, as model Rachel Clark provides a real-world look at Joule.

I ended this issue with the same opinion as I posted about issue #0: this is certainly off to an interesting start. Idolized may be one to watch.

Grade: A-