Comic: Tara Togs - The Silence of Unicorns (2024) + Video

Original release: 2024 (Kickstarter)
Created by: Stref
Genre: Adventure, Mystery, Fantasy
Pages: 68
Publisher: ComicScene / Shift
Country: Scotland

Tara Togs began as a homage to the spirit of Tintin, carrying echoes of that classic adventure style while gradually evolving into something of its own. What started as a familiar foundation has since taken on a distinct identity, shaped beyond its original inspiration.

Created by Stref, a Scottish creator. 
The character first appeared in a short story titled Hot Dog, released through ComicScene. 

From there the project expanded into a Kickstarter campaign in 2024, which led to this first full adventure, The Silence of Unicorns.

Our story begins in Belgium in 1940 with a playful tone that carries through the opening. The humor is present from the start and establishes the world clearly. A valuable “horse” painting is introduced and quickly becomes a central focus, immediately setting up a sense of mystery.

We are then introduced to Tara in the present day in Scotland, specifically Tattiebogle, Edinburgh. She is an aspiring professional photographer, an ambition shaped by her late father, giving her a clear personal motivation from the outset. On a personal level, this connection resonated with me, reminding me of my own photography endeavors and my late father. Visually, she is defined by her distinctive appearance, particularly her twin ponytails, which evoke Pippi Longstocking.

 

The narrative follows a classic setup of being in the wrong place at the right time, where curiosity pulls Tara into situations she was never meant to be part of. As the connection to the painting becomes more relevant, Tara is drawn into the unfolding story, forming the foundation for the adventure ahead.

The mystery is cleverly built around a missing “horse” painting and a legendary “unicorn” painting, which together drive the story forward and create a strong sense of intrigue.

 

  

This is a full adventure, with car chases, gunplay, hiding, horse riding and more, along with encounters with a small but memorable cast. Among them are the private detective Heggy and the medium Lexi, who add personality and variation to the journey. We also get a unique side character in Major the talking myna bird, who brings an extra layer of charm. I always enjoy classic mystery tropes like a mysterious figure, who is only partially revealed throughout the story. By keeping him in the background, the story maintains intrigue and leaves the reader questioning his true involvement.

 

 

Tara herself stands out as both funny and quick-thinking. She feels resourceful and active, pushing the story forward rather than simply reacting to it. The action is well structured and rewarding to follow, making it difficult to stop. There is a strong sense of momentum that keeps you wanting to read on and discover where it leads.

The dialogue leans into Scottish and British flavor, with words like “bloke,” “golly,” and phrases such as “just the ticket.” At one specific point it was slightly challenging to follow, but it’s all fun, and it adds authenticity and strengthens the sense of place.

 

Visually, the scenery is well drawn, with strong attention to buildings, vehicles, and the overall environment. It creates a grounded and believable world that supports the story. Some of the designs, especially the cars, feel distinctive enough that they could easily translate into collectibles.

By the end, the inspiration becomes clear not only in tone but also in storytelling style, often associated with the ligne claire tradition. At the same time, it never feels like a copy, but more like a companion piece that stands on its own.

Tara comes across as a younger, more modern lead. While she may be in a similar age range as Tintin, she feels younger in spirit, giving her a different kind of presence in the story.  
 

 

10/10 - There is a real sense of joy, like finding something you did not realize you had been missing. It is an engaging and enjoyable read that leaves a strong impression and a curiosity for where Tara’s adventures might go next. It would be interesting to see a future adventure set in Sweden.

Following the release of the book, two short stories were produced for Aces Weekly: Tara Togs in Halloween! and Tara Togs in Lost Gold of the Forth.

 

 

  

 

An enhanced version of Hot Dog is planned to be included in the upcoming collection Tara Togs: Year One.
Look at the ongoing Kickstarter here: 
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/comicscene/tara-togs-year-one 

In addition, a short parody strip titled Tara Togs and the Orange Dust Gang has recently been released in the comic anthology Falcon, offering a lighter, non-canon take on the character. 

 

 

If you got this far, now go back and look at the cover again for The Silence of Unicorns, there is 2 unicorns hidden in that image, can you find them...

Links:
Buy Tara comic here:
https://share.google/TBUu2AETEihRUlSFG

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066742922160

Stref´s Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/stref70/

Original kickstarter for The Silence of Unicorns:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/comicscene/tara-togs-the-silence-of-unicorns

There is also a companion video with Stref, talking about about the progress. 

Article written by: Sonny Mikszath

Movie: The Slasher Nurse (2025)

Release: February 8, 2025
Written by: David Kerr
Directed by: David Kerr
Starring: Felissa Rose, Amber Fulcher, Michael McGlynn, Regina Groth
Produced by: Slasher 15 Productions, Unusual Company

David Kerr and his company Slasher 15 Productions are the driving force behind this project. He’s no stranger to crowdfunding , having launched around fifteen campaigns so far on indiegogo. His latest project, Uncle Fred’s Monster Problem, shows he’s willing to lean into the obscure, which even reminded me of a friend’s movie, Hermit: Monster Killer (2016), by Ola Paulakoski.

It’s worth noting that The Slasher Nurse (2025) is actually a remake. Back in 2017, Curse of the Slasher Nurse was released, also as a Kickstarter project, followed by a sequel, Return of the Slasher Nurse (2019). As I understand it, David Kerr combined elements from both previous films into a stronger slasher experience. I haven’t seen the earlier movies, but from the trailers, sound and camera quality look a bit low, while this new version feels like a step up. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The story is set twenty years after a prank goes wrong. Grace and her friends head to a cabin for a getaway vacation, but someone is back for revenge and the killings are bloody with some very creative slasher-style moments. As the film went on, I found myself enjoying it more and more. Sitting down to write this review, I realized the movie had grown on me. Honestly, I could see myself giving it another viewing fairly soon.

Amber Fulcher, who plays the nurse, is especially noteworthy. She also produced the movie, performed stunts and more, just as she did on the previous Slasher Nurse films. 

There’s even a funny scene where one of the lead characters suddenly picks up a rifle kind of nowhere and my friends and I couldn’t stop laughing, that looked so funny.
It’s also worth mentioning that a short film called The Slasher Nurse: Farm House has been made by David, targeted for a Halloween release. It serves as a short sequel and expands the universe a bit further.

One of the fun things about projects like this is spotting who is famous. Many crowdfunding projects often bring in cult names to attract attention and this one doesn’t disappoint.
Felissa Rose shows up, best known from Sleepaway Camp (1983). 
Brian Bremer appears, recognizable from Pumpkinhead (1988). 
Jim Krut shows up, he’s that memorable helicopter zombie that really stood out in Dawn of the Dead (1978). 
Beverly Randolph, associated with Night of the Living Dead (1985). 
Gareth “Slasher Trash” Morgan, known for running the Slasher Trash fan community and his documentary work exploring the slasher genre. 
Diana Prince, aka Darcy the Mail Girl and Joe Bob Briggs’ sidekick, also appears as a lovely nurse in the beginning, hard to miss. 
On top of that, Bryan M. Dorn, producer of Blood Moon, makes an appearance. I just recently reviewed that movie here on the blog. --> https://tinyurl.com/y4rs6hc2

The Blu-ray I got is labeled as a limited edition. I’m not sure if it will be sold outside of Kickstarter, but I’d guess a non-limited version might appear later. This edition includes deleted scenes, bloopers and a Making Of feature + a small print, a nice bonus. When I popped this into my PC, I saw the Blu-ray was named Farm House? Interesting… Another nice thing was the envelope I got in the mail had the company logo all over it, that was sweet. 

 

I rate this 8/10
Mostly for the duck that stole the show. 

 

 

IMDB
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26926062

Slasher 15 Productions
https://slasher15.square.site/

Original indiegogo campaign
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-slasher-nurse-horror-film-finishing-funds/x/7276749#/


Article written by: Sonny Mikszath

Comic: Heavy Metal Magazine - #001 - (2025)

Release Date: May 7, 2025
Publisher: Heavy Metal International
Length: 232 pages Kickstarter Success: Raised over $780,000 from more than 10,000 backers.

 

(originally posted June 13 - 2025)

 

Introduction
It's a thrilling moment to finally have the new Heavy Metal magazine in my hands. This issue was a Kickstarter project and I proudly backed it to get the first number. As a 42-year-old who has been reading this iconic comic my entire life, this feels like being young again. In Sweden, we've had a version of the magazine too and my collection reflects this, a mix of Swedish editions and dominating with the American version. I've often dreamt of learning French to experience the original Métal Hurlant firsthand. Its interesting that that magazine also did a well received Kickstarter for a revival.
Heavy Metal is also the magazine that got me into writing comic stories, some have also been drawn and published here in Sweden. Some with very heavy influence from classic Heavy Metal stories. Maybe someday I have my own stories in future magazine of this new era. 

The Wait – The Angry Mob!

Though the magazine arrived later than its appearance in stores, I completely understand. The overwhelming number of orders caused delays, as the team behind it explained. Some got offended that retail customers got theirs first. To address this, the new Heavy Metal team created a special group for the initial backers, humorously named "The Angry Mob." I love the playful tone behind this idea, even though I'm not angry myself. Being part of "The Angry Mob" feels exclusive and fun, we even have our own area to engage, connect and...

The Cover

The cover of this issue is a masterpiece by the legendary Greg Hildebrandt. It's bittersweet that he didn't get to witness the profound impact this cover has had on this new era of the magazine. The homage to the Heavy Metal movie is unmistakable, the astronaut, Taarna, the car and Loc-Nar. The astronaut depicted reading another Heavy Metal issue: 

#314 (released in February 2022). That was a special variant (Cover B) also drawn by Greg, which included an insightful interview with him. In this new magazine there is also a nice tribute article to him.

The numbering on this new magazine cover stands out too. While initially, I felt a sadness seeing it labeled as "001," the inclusion of the legacy numbering #321 is a nice touch that soothes the sentiment. However, I do miss seeing the year prominently displayed on the cover and spine, it's a detail I've always appreciated and its absence feels like a loss.

One small design quirk caught my eye, the tagline "The World's Greatest Illustrated Magazine" is placed behind Taarna, which is fine in itself, but there's a curious transparency effect on the dragon's wings. It made me wonder why they chose this approach.

The Inside Scoop

The tactile quality of the magazine is exceptional. Just holding it, you can feel the premium materials and admire the pristine clarity of the artwork, a testament to the care put into this revival. The opening message from Frank Forte, Editor-in-Chief, sets the tone beautifully. In his note, he reflects on Heavy Metal's journey from its inception in 1977 to the present, emphasizing that the goal now isn't to "fix" the magazine but to "elevate" it. It's a well-written piece that resonates with long-time readers like me.

The inside of the magazine is a delightful treat, it feels sturdy yet delicate, much like holding a small kitten, you just wanna take care of it. This issue, spanning an impressive 232 pages, is a perfect blend of nostalgic charm and fresh narratives, offering something for both longtime fans and new readers alike. While I won't touch on every story, here are the highlights that truly caught my attention:

Bug Part 1 by Enki Bilal

What a fantastic start! This story captures the essence of Heavy Metal with its distinctive art style and storytelling. It pulled me in immediately, a strong opening for the issue.

Taarna The Last Taarakian: Rebirth part 1 by Leah Moore, Kohn Reppion, Anna Morozova
Legend of Taarna - Autophonomania by Joseph Michael Linsner

It saddens me that I haven't read the previous stories about Taarna. I've been meaning to for so long but never got around to getting the newer issues. I really love the movie so reading more of her is very intriguing, but times fly right. I was worried they might not continue her story , but I was pleasantly surprised to see her here, not just once but in two stories, in two different styles. Her presence feels like a reassuring bridge between the magazine's storied past and its future.

The Mercenary by Vicente Segrelles

Classic Heavy Metal, The Mercenary have been with the magazine from the start. Felt very nostalgic to find it in this number, very fitting. This story evoked mixed emotions, both sadness and intrigue. While I miss the Renaissance-like, oil-painted artwork that once defined it, the digital style used here still works, albeit in a different way.

Cold Dead War: The Aftermath by Craig Wilson

What a pleasant surprise! This short expansion of the WWII zombie tale, based on a story from the Heavy Metal (1981) movie, is a great addition. Having the original 4-part comic, I was thrilled to see this continuation. However, I was a bit disappointed that George C. Romero wasn't involved this time.

Lester: "That Cold Feeling" by Fernando Dagnino

This story's stunning art style draws you into a richly atmospheric world, reminiscent of classic noir. The narrative and visuals come together seamlessly, creating a compelling and memorable reading experience.

Sixella: "The Last Roots" Part 1 by Janevsky

This one transported me to another world entirely. The blue hues in the artwork set a mesmerizing tone that perfectly complements the story. I'm eager to see where this tale leads.

Valentina Part 1 by Sergio Gerasi

Lustful, stylish, and evocative, this black-and-white story reminded me of the works of Manara.
It's exciting to see so many "Part 1" entries, as it hints at future installments of the stories I enjoyed most.

Metal Strips: Zeke & Edsel by Frank Forte

These two quirky characters from the Heavy Metal movie's "Nosedive!!!" sequence are back in a short comic strip created by Frank Forte. The humor and charm of these characters remain intact and the inclusion of "Metal Strips" in the magazine adds a fun, lighter element to balance the longer narratives. Hope for a new Zeke & Edsel in every magazine forward.

These two quirky characters from the Heavy Metal movie's "Nosedive!!!" sequence are back in a short comic strip created by Frank Forte. The humor and charm of these characters remain intact and the inclusion of "Metal Strips" in the magazine adds a fun, lighter element to balance the longer narratives. Hope for a new Zeke & Edsel in every magazine forward.

Final Thoughts

This issue is pure gold. It's clear that a lot of thought and passion went into curating the stories and artwork. While I skipped over a few tales and was a bit short that just means there are still surprises waiting for you when you pick up your copy.

Now, where's issue #002? I need it in my hands before it hits the stores this time! I'm already impatient to see what the next installment brings! 😄

Rating: 11/10
Links:
Original Kickstarter
Get the comic here: Heavy Metal Official Shop

Article written by: Sonny Mikszath

Comic: Beowulf Collection (Issue 1-6) – (2025)

 Grant Lankard’s Beowulf is a 159-page Kickstarter project by the Pittsburgh-based creator. Released in January 2025, this collection brings together issues 1-6 (originally published in 2024) and weaves an epic tale where mythology intersects with the modern day. This ambitious work captivates readers with its blend of fantasy, mystery, and humor, making it a compelling read for fans of both classic and contemporary storytelling.

 

The adventure begins in a distant land (Denmark), where a discovery sets off a chain of events that connects individuals across the United States. From a struggling poet (Victor) in the Midwest to a determined teenager (Hazel) on the East Coast, their lives are intertwined by a common thread: an ancient dragon is on the loose, and its awakening has consequences for both the noble and the sinister. As the past comes alive, characters must navigate their roles in a world where destiny cannot be ignored.

While avoiding spoilers, it’s safe to say that Beowulf masterfully balances modern settings with mythological undertones. The inclusion of a mysterious talking cat, Mooney, and its sharp wit adds levity to the stakes. The story is laced with clever humor, subtle media references, and a well-paced unfolding of events that keeps readers engaged throughout.

António Brandão’s artwork is a standout feature, blending the mundane and the magical with ease. Each panel is meticulously detailed, capturing the depth of the narrative and the emotions of its characters. Grant Lankard’s coloring enhances the storytelling, adding vibrancy and mood to each scene. A particularly delightful touch is the dragon scale background used at the start of each new issue, a design element that readers will appreciate as the story progresses.

 

 

The collection excels in its character dynamics and storytelling. The interplay between mythology and contemporary challenges is handled with care, making the narrative accessible yet deeply immersive. The humor lands well, and the seamless integration of references to different media adds an extra layer of enjoyment. While the story is well-written, some elements, such as the quick acceptance of events by certain characters, might feel a bit under explored.

Grant Lankard’s Beowulf is an engaging and visually stunning work that delivers a satisfying mix of adventure, humor, and mythology. The connection between past and present, the stakes of a dragon on the loose, and the mystery of who will rise to face it make this collection a rewarding read.

With its rich storytelling and striking visuals, Beowulf earns a solid 6/10. 

Grant has a new Kickstarter going, a 30+ page sequel/prequel – Beowulf: Grendel’s Curse #1
Check it out here: Kickstarter
Follow Grant here: Instagram

Article written by: Sonny Mikszath