The O.Z. is writer David Pepose’s first major project outside of Action Lab Danger Zone. Joining him in this sequel/reimagining of the Wizard of Oz are artist Ruben Rojas, colorist Whitney Cogar, and letterer DC Thompkins. Within this iteration is a fantastical war story about finding purpose.
Background of The O.Z.
In a Monkeys Fighting Robots interview, Pepose explains his decision to fund and distribute this series through Kickstarter is two-fold. With comic buyers having a presence on that platform and with Covid lockdowns, it was the perfect time to self-publish. Also instead of the standard single issue releases, Pepose and his crew release two-part issues. This is not only keeps people waiting a little less but gives them a fuller story unlike writing for trade. As for the Wizard of Oz setting, it’s very flexible with interpretation when it comes to regime changes. Using a familiar IP is certainly a safer business decision when going out of comfort zones.
Tour Of A Soldier
The O.Z. focuses on an Iraq War veteran version of Dorothy, granddaughter to the original. Surviving that conflict and the fallout in trying to remove the opposing regime’s influence weighs heavy on Dorothy. But what happens when Grandma Dorothy’s flashbacks to Oz make it look like she is under delusions of a dream. That’s a common criticism of the movie version that Pepose works that to his advantage. Dorothy’s situation feels helpless as she has to take care of her grandma which keeps her from getting help. The parallels between interpretations of monetary reform are still debatable; Pepose utilizes both the ideals of the Iraq War and Occupied Zone look like a lost cause under this lense. This is especially relevant with how the US military left Afghanistan to be reacquired by the Taliban.
It’s rather understandable why Dorothy doesn’t want to fight in another war, especially in Oz. Both Dorothy’s already fail at their tasks after serving their tours. What hope do they have to change anything when all they do is fight the symptoms and not the disease?
Each character both familiar and unknown try to make the necessary changes even when it cost them things. The Tin Man for example sacrifices his “heart” to become a (compassionate) war machine. The Lion Prince is trying to live up to his father’s courageous legacy. As for the turncoat Scarecrow who took the Wicked Witch’s place, there’s a bitter disillusionment surrounding him. With that “brain” full of insight he wanted, it seems he’s embracing a nihilistic cruelty to match the harsh realities he found. That in turn serves as Dorothy’s call to action as good people are suffering. Despite not having the ability to change infrastructure as it exists, someone has to be responsible for the helpless.
The Shades of The O.Z.
Rojas as artist for The O.Z. gives the series an ever-dark atmosphere with his shading. The characters are all in a war zone and it is never supposed to feel hopeful. Dark forces are around every corner and anything that’s even remotely hopeful might as well be an illusion. Meeting the Wizard for example is a highlight by Cogar. The green illusionary head looks magically majestic but behind the scenes is an even bigger surprise. No spoilers but the reveal shows just how amazing and desperate the situation actually is.
Lettering by Thompkins highlight the inner conflicts of Dorothy from her perspective. With so many things going on, the reader uses this to empathize with Dorothy. It further elevates a struggle greater than what is already out in the open. By feeling what the character is going through, readers feel the struggle that she will have to deal with in addition to the war. It’s also what makes the bigger wordmarks that emphasize actions like explosions and throws all the more impactful.
How Do I Rate The O.Z.?
The O.Z. serves as a pretty good look at a familiar setting in a new light. My only complaint is the more pessimistic side of how people look at soldiers. Whenever Iraqi people are on display they are hostile towards Dorothy. While American soldier war crimes in Iraq are notable, they shouldn’t and don’t speak for all troops; Dorothy certainly doesn’t deserve the scorn she gets. I don’t know, I’m more of a fan of inner turmoils and people reflecting on it; identity shaming just doesn’t fit well with me. Everything else from the smart parallels between subjects, the character motivations, and the mood of direness is great. Overall the first two parts of The O.Z. gets an 8.5/10.
If you’re looking for a place to buy this check out Pepose’s current Kickstarter page. Thanks for coming and as always remember to look between the panels.
