Artist insight | Storytelling
It’s amazing how much the
shape, size and order of the
panels affect the narrative...
4
PANEL SHAPES
I love using odd panel shapes, but only to give the storytelling
impact. As a rule, I only use them to heighten excitement, particularly in
action scenes. Care should be taken so that the storytelling remains clear,
arranging the panels so they flow into each other instead of confusing the
reader. Compare these two pages: one is a talking heads page with
traditional, straightforward panel shapes and arrangement, reinforcing
that this is a relatively quiet, mundane scene. The calm before the storm.
The other is an action page full of odd-shaped panels that convey a sense
of chaos while still clearly directing the reader’s eye across the page. Be
sure the shape of the panel complements the composition within.3
MONEY SHOTS
Let’s jump back to pages 2
and 3 of Bloodshot 25, written by
the legendary Peter Milligan. They
were written as a double-page title
spread meant to introduce our hero
in action. I’m paraphrasing, but the
script for the large, main panel
reads, “Bloodshot in the middle of
a firestorm in Aleppo, Syria. Bombs
explode around him. A number of
dead fighters and ruined hardware at
his feet.” I went with a full body shot,
making sure his trademark red
chest circle was clearly visible, with
his military armament and ability to
take punishment (he’s getting shot
in the shoulder). I chose a low angle
(horizon line around his knees) to
make him imposing and larger than
life. He’s charging and firing as if he’s
about to trample the reader and
leap off the page. Tilting the camera
makes it dynamic and enhances the
frenetic feel of the scene.