Writer/Artist: Scott Morse

Publisher: Top Shelf, $14.95

Barefoot Serpent is an interesting mix of a biography about Akira Kurosawa done in a children’s book format and a story about a little girl vacationing in Hawaii and her encounter with legendary spirits and a young boy as she copes with the suicide of her brother. The book has a very potent focus on suicide, depression, and hope, and utilizes the life story of Kurosawa and the story of the little girl to bring these all into focus.

Morse is a fantastic storyteller with a very unique style. The painted sections that focus on Kurosawa are told in a very innocent and brightly colored style that approaches the darker content in such a way that perfectly prepares you for the switch over to the little girl’s story. That section is told through black and white and in a widescreen style of panels throughout. Morse does a great job of basically showcasing in a short film the emotions implied between the lines of his framing sequence and also utilizes a number of familiar themes and concepts throughout Kurosawa films. The result is a very endearing, subtle, and potent story that captures a lot of emotion without being heavy handed.

I’ve had some complaints from customers that his style is far too cartoony to take seriously for some of the subject matter, but for me it’s the exact opposite. Morse manages to bring his story material into perfect focus through a simplified and innocent style. In most of his works, he has an effortless ability to experiment with numerous styles to best expand on his ideas and articulate numerous concepts. Kurosawa fans should make it a point to check this out as well. As a tribute it’s great, but it is also unique in it’s approach in subject matter and what Morse is able to take not only from Kurosawa’s works but also from his life and experiences.

If you like this then try: The Complete Soulwind, Sothpaw, Ancient Joe, Volcanic Revolver, The Magic Pickle,

Related Links: Scott Morse