21 Down: The Complete Collection

Paperfilms/DC Comics; crowdfunded

In 2002, Wildstorm, the former Image Comics studio turned DC Comics imprint, launched a number of new titles. One of the critical standouts was 21 Down. Created and written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Grey, the series featured art by Jesus Saiz and Palmiotti with noir style covers painted by Joe Jusko.

The story centered around Preston Kills, a young man with the gift of second sight, the power to see how others had died. That gift, though, comes with a catch: when he turns 21, it will kill him. Then a mysterious woman tells him he might be able to save himself after all.

The ensuing series was compelling, tightly written, and beautifully illustrated. While it was only a modest hit in terms of sales, it stood apart from many of the comics of its day in its tone, direction, and execution.

Now, a bit more than two decades later, Palmiotti arranged permission from DC to collect the series in a beautiful crowdfunded hardcover edition that includes the previously unpublished 21 Down #13. The package is very nicely produced. Any fan of the series will be very happy to have this one, and it’s cool to get a new issue after all this time. It does, though, make one want more.

– J.C. Vaughn