Forget Marvel VS DC: Binge-worthy South African comicS to love in 2022
What once was a tell-tale sign of geekiness has become part of the pop culture canon – comic books. Muscular superhumans power their way onto our screens and t-shirts, inspiring ordinary folk to overcome the stumbling blocks of life with superior positivity! We often associate powerhouse comic book publishers with the likes of Marvel and DC Comics – forgetting that South Africa sheathes some of the most impactful, on-the-rise comics to date!
It is time that we support local comic book artists and publishers, finding a deeper connection to superheroes who look like you and me. Characters that display the heroism we love on-screen; whilst navigating the unpredictable, chaotic, stunning and diverse landscapes of South Africa.
Here are South African comics books you should get into in 2022 (plus, some of the comics listed below are free to binge online).
Kwezi by Loyiso Mkize
Endearingly known as South Africa’s first major superhero comic book, this coming of age story is about a 19-year old who discovers he has superhero powers. Based in Gold City, an alternate universe Johannesburg, Kwezi creates a seamless balance between teen hero invincibility and juggling a separate social life with friends and family. Created by professional comic book artist Loyiso Mkize, the story takes the reader on a spectacular journey of self-discovery and responsibility set against an ultra-modern South African background.
Find out more: https://www.facebook.com/Kwezicomicbook/
Young Hustla Comics
Dubbed the comic book for entrepreneurs: this series boasts more than visual entertainment, instead, aims to eradicate youth unemployment and poverty in South Africa. The face of the mission is the main character, Tshepisang, an intelligent architect student with big dreams and a determined spirit to match. Supported by relatable characters and the dynamics of bustling Soweto – Young Hustla is a collector’s item that celebrates the individuals who actively hustle to make a better life for themselves, the go-getters and game-changers. An extension of South African youth.
Find out more: https://www.younghustla.co.za/
Sophie the Giant Slayer by Kay Carmichael
A delightful black and white comic that defends the stance that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Set in a dystopian universe where giant monsters invade the Earth – life seems set for destruction when a sword-wielding hero comes to the rescue. Years later, a little girl Sophie becomes the hero Earth needs, fearlessly slaying giants.
Find out more: https://kaycarmichael.co.za/sophie-giant-slayer or read more: https://tapas.io/episode/39423
Nero: Genesis by Luke Molver
Set in a dystopian version of future South Africa, Nero is a scrawny wetware engineer content on getting by and enjoying life with friends – until he creates a supercomputer that has the potential to end the human race! Nero is now on the run from the giant corporations who seek his tech for themselves and want him dead. Nero: Genesis is brimming with South African flair, referencing the language and local cultures – creating an atmosphere that is relatable and fantastical. This comic is great for lovers of well-written storylines accompanied by epic action scenes against a sci-fi backdrop.
Find out more: http://lukemolver.com/ or Read it here: https://tapas.io/episode/103317
Did we miss something? Leave your local comic book recommendations in the comments below and share this article. Check back to ReUnite Entertainment for more geekiness.
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