In the question of JUMPER – the book vs. the movie – the general consensus gives a clear edge to the book. One of the film’s fatal flaws is how little it attempts to explain. Had it included more of the backstory as found in JUMPER: JUMPSCARS – Oni Press’ official graphic-novel prequel – it would’ve risen above the level of mediocre.
Here, the central character of teleporting David Rice is merely peripheral. He’s being tracked by Jessica, one of the Paladins charged with located these “jumpers” and snuffing them out, lest they present a threat to the world. It’s a gig she’s being doing for 16 years, and her first mission comprises the core of the story.
Under the tutelage of Roland (played by Samuel L. Jackson in the movie), Jessica is assigned to locate a jumper believed to live in an apartment building. Because the units are so close together, the Paladins can’t get an exact read of where the jumper lives, so she must go undercover as a resident to sniff out him (or her).
As soon as she’s signed the application, her suspicions lean toward a child who has a habit of disappearing quickly and plays with toys from other countries. Clearly, this cute kid is the one she’s looking for … but can she kill a child? She stalls, and jeopardizes the mission, making way for a big twist – one I saw coming, although it didn’t put a damper on my enjoyment.
Written by Nunzio DeFilippis and Christina Weir, and illustrated by Brian Hurtt, the four-issue story is infused with as much gravitas as it has fracas, thus making for a well-balanced read – a sci-fi story with an actual point. Razzmatazz has its place, but without the exploration of relationships among the characters involved, it means nothing.
Especially for a tie-in that likely wouldn’t exist without the big-budget movie, JUMPSCARS has surprising depth. Jessica is seen carrying out her initial task and her most recent one, but that leaves nearly two decades’ worth unseen – assignments I’d like to see explored further. –Rod Lott
OTHER BOOKGASM REVIEWS OF THIS SERIES:
• BOOKS 2 FILM >> JUMPER
Related posts:
- BOOKS 2 FILM >> Jumper
- Jessica Biel named ESQUIRE’s Sexiest Woman Alive
- QUICKGASM >> 12.11.07
- LOUIS’ SERIOUS ISSUES >> 7.9.07
- LOUIS’ SERIOUS ISSUES >> 2.21.07
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Do they jump other things besides cars?