REVIEW CORNER: Narco # 1

Narco # 1 (2026)

Writer: Doug Wagner
Artist: Daniel Hillyard
Colorist: Dave Stewart
Letterer: Ed Dukeshire

Rating: 09/10

This week, I’m reviewing issue one of “Narco” from Image Comics. Created by Doug Wagner, known for “Vinyl” and “Plastic,” this series emerges from the Materials Universe. It begins with Marcus Wesphal, who suffers from a rare narcolepsy that causes him to pass out when excited. He leads a quiet, homebound life and has a harmless crush on the girl next door. However, after witnessing her murder and collapsing, he becomes the prime suspect. Now, he must step outside his apartment to find the real killer. Although the tone is relaxed and casual, especially considering Marcus’s narcolepsy, the story intensifies toward the end. Wagner skillfully blends dark humor and strong character development, making Marcus and his friends relatable. The script is a smooth read, blending mystery with a Gen Z perspective and some dramatic elements, heightening the story’s tension. Daniel Hillyard’s artwork captures vivid facial expressions and a trendy vibe that shine through each page, complemented by Dave Stewart’s striking colors, creating a classic indie horror atmosphere. This engaging mix of chill and suspense makes “Narco” a fresh take on the slasher genre, adding a noteworthy new entry to the Materials Universe.

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