Luna Express: Magical Girl Meets Late Capitalism
Luna Express is the latest deliriously epic graphic novel by the incredibly talented Campbell Whyte, and it offers a refreshingly modern twist on the magical girl genre. Imagine if Sailor Moon grew up and had to deal with the crushing weight of a gig-economy day job—that is exactly the energy Celeste and her friends bring to this vibrant new story. Published by Top Shelf Productions, this book is a visual feast that balances supernatural action with the mundane struggles of adulting.
The entire adventure is written and illustrated by Campbell Whyte, who is well-known for his award-winning Home Time series. In this new outing, Whyte takes us to the city of Perth, Australia, and fills it with strange threats that are as imaginative as they are terrifying. Celeste, our protagonist, was always told she could grow up to be anything she dreamed of, but her reality is delivering bread for her parents’ bakery, the titular Luna Express.
The Supernatural Struggle in Luna Express
What makes Luna Express so compelling is the duality of Celeste’s life. During the crummy daylight hours, she is just another delivery biker navigating the streets of Perth. However, when the stars come out, her destiny shifts into something far more powerful. She gains incredible super-strength and speed, yet these gifts haven’t exactly made her life any easier. In fact, her magical abilities often feel like just another “second shift” she has to manage alongside her friends.
The plot thickens when Celeste and her social circle are targeted by a series of unsettling supernatural attacks. These aren’t your typical comic book villains; the team must battle bizarre foes like land-sharks, roller-skating disco mushrooms, and even mind-bending art exhibitions. Meanwhile, they are trying to unravel a deep-seated mystery that connects their hometown to an ancient, unsettling force. Transitioning between the neon-soaked night battles and the sun-drenched day shifts creates a pacing that keeps the reader constantly engaged.
The Surreal Setting of Perth
The way Campbell Whyte depicts Perth is unlike any other urban setting in the medium. It isn’t just a backdrop; the city itself feels like a character undergoing its own transformation. As Celeste and her reluctant team investigate the strange occurrences, they are forced to confront their own personal dramas and the limitations of their friendship. In addition, the use of color is masterful, with palettes that shift to reflect the emotional state of the characters and the intensity of the magical phenomena.
For fans who enjoy tracking comic book covers, Whyte’s work stands out for its unique, hand-drawn aesthetic that rejects the sterile look of some modern digital comics. Every page of this graphic novel is bursting with life, from the intricate details of the bakery to the chaotic energy of the disco mushroom attacks. It is a testament to what a single creator can achieve when they have a singular vision for their world.
Furthermore, the “late capitalism” angle provides a biting satire that many readers will find relatable. The idea that having superpowers doesn’t exempt you from needing to pay rent or maintain a bike is a clever deconstruction of the genre. Consequently, the story feels grounded even when land-sharks are roaming the suburbs. This groundedness makes the stakes feel real, even as the visuals push into the realm of total delirium.
In conclusion, Luna Express is a must-read for anyone who wants a comic that is as smart as it is beautiful. Campbell Whyte has created a world where magic and reality collide in the most unexpected ways. Whether you are a fan of classic magical girl stories or experimental indie comics, there is something in this Perth-based odyssey for you. Don’t miss out on this vibrant journey through the nights and days of Celeste.
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