Tripwire Reviews John Charles’ Technofreak Apocrypha

Old School British Comics

After a delay of a couple of years John Charles’ slightly crazy characters, Jon Sherlok and Maurice, return to a comic shop very near you very soon (or the comic can be bought online.) Tripwire’s contributing writer, Paul Neal recently had the opportunity to review the latest volume that the writer, artist and colourist has put together…

Where to start? Technofreak Apocrypha is a big bag of enjoyable goodies. The cover is by the mighty Clint Langley of 2000AD fame, with colours by Mr. Charles himself. There are fun text stories, references to the Fantastic Four and Archie comics and a cracking Jon Sherlok adventure. Charles’ introduction to the book explains.

Rarely has a foreword summed up a book so thoroughly. This is a collaborative book indeed.

At the core of the book is a rip-roaring three-part story titled the ‘Hunt for Jon Sherlok.’ It features some fun and blatant references to a much-loved British soap opera and an almost punk style attitude to storytelling the readers are in for a treat.

In some ways ,Technofreak harks back to the earliest days of 2000AD and Pat Mills’ loudest and proudest Thrills of the 70s. It is a comic that puffs its chest and says, “Here I am, and what of it?” It defiantly wears its heart and soul so clearly on its battle-scarred sleeve. These bold and in-your-face comics are here to be thoroughly enjoyed like the pulpy fiction it is. It is a laugh and a giggle. Technofreak defiantly wears its heart and soul so clearly on its battle-scarred sleeves and asks the reader to go on a roller coaster ride. Arguably John Charles creates the type of comics that the comic industry requires.

Another element of the book to be enjoyed is a colourful text story with thoughtful illustrations. Unlike a lot of Annuals of the past that featured text stories, this isn’t simply filler it is truly entertaining.  ‘Devil in a Red Dress’ was co-written by John and Sophie Good while they were on holiday in Greece.

Ultimately, what we have here is a book the is full of fun, that brings the comic back to comic books and will absolutely promising to make you smile.

Is it Watchmen? The Dark Knight Returns? Is it going to change your life? Probably not, but it will make you happy. What more can you ask for?  Below is a link to how to purchase the book and a list of the contents, of this giant indie comic.

https://theshift.store/products/technofreak-apocrypha

It’ll also be available to comic shops world-wide through Diamond Comics Distributors, so you could order it through your local comic shoppe!

As is always the case, Tripwire appreciates all feedback and comments.