Pop music in the 1980s was all about big hair, big sound, flamboyant costumes, and dazzling lights. They’re also attributes of the new Jem and the Holograms comic, based on the classic animated series of the mid-80s. Published by IDW Publishing, writer Kelly Thompson and artist Sophie Campbell have put together a comic which looks to pay homage to the 1980s with modern style and having a lot of fun while doing so.
For those who were not familiar with the old animated series, it was glittery series about Jerrica Benton who fronts the band The Holograms under her alter-ego of Jem. Along the way, they had all kinds of music industry adventures. This new comic book series looks to follow the same formula, but with a more modern vibe.
Jerrica Benton is the frontwoman for the Holograms, a band she started with her sister and two friends. Although she a talented singer, she suffers from crippling stage-fright. That is until she discovers Synergy and the ability to project holograms. With these, she can transform in the confident Jem and front the band.
Artist Sophie Campbell has turned the outrageousness of this comic up to 11 through some fantastic costume designs and stunning light effects. Looking at the cover and preview below it’s easy to see why this will be one of the biggest appeals of the Jem and the Holograms comic. With wild hair and rocking costumes, these charismatic designs pay homage to the fashion and music videos of the 1980s but in a way that feels modern. The lighting effects present throughout this title are the icing on the cake. With swirling yellows, pinks and blues these effects make you feel like you are almost in another world.
Whether you are nostalgic for Jem and the Holograms or not, this comic looks like it will appeal to anyone who is after a female-led series that is full of fun and heart. If the story doesn’t sound up your alley then you have to at least read it for Sophie Campbell’s stunning art.
Jem and the Holograms #1 is available from March 25th in all good comics book stores and digitally.
Take a look at very colourful 4-page preview below.
Will you be reading this rocking new series? You can let me know in the comments below or in via Facebook or Twitter.
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