Chachu #2: Leila’s Family Vacation

Leila and her Chachu continue their search for his elusive wife, the movie star Cleo Chandler. As the estranged relatives find themselves getting closer and closer to their quarry, the mysteries of Chachu slowly start to reveal themselves to Leila.

The noir stylings of Chachu’s storytelling make for a fresh and unique reading experience that continues in its second issue. There isn’t much in the way here when it comes to kinetic action, but the examination of the characters involved helps add a bit more depth to the story.

Iman Vellani’s script is solid, but at times gets a bit too bogged down by its influences. Leila is still a likable protagonist to follow and her banter with Chachu is fun to read, but there is a sense that she is still over her head in this investigation. The eponymous “Chachu” remains a somewhat evasive figure but the peaks into his past are very welcome for the story expansion.

Marianna Ignazzi’s stylized pencils make for a very distinctive visual identity that is further highlighted by Jordie Bellaire’s vibrant colors. The flashback scenes can be a bit straining on the eyes at times, but overall this is still one of the best looking books on the shelf right now.