Witness Point #1: A Strong Setup with An Empty Center

Nathan Fillion and Heath Corson have crafted a simple yet compelling story. The premise is incredibly simple; a small-time sheriff investigates the death of a U.S. Marshall. However, Fillion and Corson place so many distinct characters in the story that the murder is really a mystery. Witness Point introduces a plethora of characters into the story, each one completely different from the other. Carter Calhoon, the protagonist of the story, works well as an every-man lead that the audience can interpret the story through. As Calhoon investigates, so too does the reader. The authors take their time revealing information, allowing the reader to grasp a better understanding of the world of Witness Point.

The art in this comic is distinctly charming as well. As with the story, the simplicity of it is the highlight. Soo Lee’s art style in Witness Point underscores the western vibe of the comic. Everything looks a little dirty and worn: chairs have stains; desks are messy; clothes are wrinkled. Lee’s linework is bold on the edges and gentle on the interiors, highlighting the shapes of objects and entities but softening their features. It’s a subtle stylistic choice that further enhances the overall mood of the comic. 

The comic struggles with a theme. While the comic has clear direction, the message is less clear. Readers will enjoy the story, but they likely won’t feel anything during it. While early into the story, the issue doesn’t establish any moral questions for the reader. Calhoon operates in a town that has lost its rules, yet the comic never goes anywhere thematic with this. No reason is provided for the reader to care beyond the plot mechanics. Ultimately, the lack of concrete themes makes the story feel empty.