Witness Point #2: Better in Every Way

Issue #2 of Witness Point solves all of the problems with the first issue. It had a strong setup but lacked any key themes or defining characteristics. The second comic completely remedies that by swapping the perspective.

This issue follows the perspective of Deputy Marshal Priya Khabrani, the mentee of the deceased U.S. Marshal from the previous issue. Khabrani is a much more compelling protagonist than Sheriff Calhoon because of her inherently suspicious nature. Author Heath Corson writes Khabrani as someone who sees the worst in everybody. Her premise as a character fundamentally conflicts with the comic’s setting: a community of criminals in Witness Protection. Every interaction between Khabrani and a “civilian” is inherently confrontational because Khabrani assumes the worst in everybody. Corson presents this idea of distrust and anger by using Khabrani as a lens to frame those ideas.

By far, the biggest improvement is the themes. While the series still lacks a clear message, this comic lays far more thematic seeds than the previous issue did. Khabrani’s suspicious nature lays the groundwork for commentary on trust and trauma. Calhoon’s sympathetic nature toward these former criminals fosters the idea of redemption. While the first issue established the setting, issue #2 excels because it establishes the meaning: it gives the comic a purpose.

However, the writing doesn’t carry the comic: Soo Lee, the artist and the colorist for this comic series, brings their A-Game in this issue of Witness Point. The artwork is dynamic and full of kinetic line-work that highlights the motion of these characters. For a mystery comic, issue #2 contains several action sequences: a fight scene, a chase scene, etc. Soo Lee’s art uses focal points to draw the reader’s eye into the center of the action, making these moments visually compelling. The colors make each panel distinct on the page. Soo Lee employs vibrant hues in contrast with each other: bright reds will clash against dark greys, defined blues against matted browns. It’s a color and linework combination that ensures each page commands attention.