6 days ago
Sneak Peek: ‘This Ends Tonight' Is A Revenge Tale Dressed To Kill
Exclusive First Look: variant cover of 'The Ends Tonight' by Adam Hughes (issue #1),
The slick undertones of Quentin Tarantino and the wild-eyed aesthetics of Elton John collide in a most visceral manner by way of a new three-issue limited series entitled 'The Ends Tonight', whose fashionable edits are inspired by the 1970s—think 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' meets 'Rocket Man'.
The infamous Las Vegas Strip serves at the setting for this ravishing new comic book tale and is conceived by legendary talents—with writer Gerry Duggan ('X-Men', 'Falling In Love On The Path To Hell'), co-writers Kelvin Mao and Robert Windom ('Seven Sons'), and artists Jae Lee and June Chung ('Inhumans', 'Seven Sons') at the helm.
The synergy fostered from their previous project compelled them to work together again. As Windom explains, Sin City served as a treasure trove of inspiration: 'Jae, June, Kelvin, and I were celebrating in Las Vegas, having just wrapped up our previous Image Comics book 'Seven Sons'. Gerry joined us, and the idea to do this revenge-themed, chaotic, all-nighter-chase-throughout-Vegas tale was born.'
Each issue centers around the bonds that women form with each other, and in this case, forged vis-à-vis a carnal and violent bloodbath.
Exclusive first look cover by Jae Lee and June Chung (for issue #2),
Additionally, the style notes for this comic book have been integral to sculpting these narratives. As Duggan explains, the city exudes 'main character' energy—and whose glitz & glamour life-force they wanted to channel into this project, 'the women in our story celebrate strength and individuality. 'This Ends Tonight' is a three-issue miniseries. Each issue tells the story of a different group of women all going through the best and worst of times. All three issues take place on the same night and the fun is when their paths cross.'
Issue #1 dives into the story of Anna and her sister Katie. 'Anna is a sleek assassin who quickly ditches her heels so she can kick you in the face. She has to protect her little sister at all costs, so there's a confident versus meek distinction in their dress and style,' Duggan explains. Visually, this issue spotlights 90s minimalism, with its simple and sleek aesthetic.
Issue #1 preview: Anna and Katie.
Issue #2 involves Kristen throwing a bachelorette party for her little sister Beth on the eve of her nuptials. 'Kristen is Old Hollywood glamour—classic but conservative. Like if Greta Garbo knew how to dismember you. Beth is the oblivious little sister, a human Tamagotchi who dresses a bit trashy and provocative to reflect youthful bravado unbacked by life experience,' says Mao. The team were mindful to reinforce the duo's yin/yang personas through their attire; and as a result, this issue oozes a retro-classical allure.
Kristen and Beth in bachelorette party mode.
Issue #3 focuses on Rachel and her best friend Claire. 'Rachel is a sporty, trained fighter. She likes to wear Converse shoes so she can either flee or do the chasing at the drop of a hat. A number of the women have a penchant for swinging katanas. Their dry-cleaning bills are about to go through the roof,' Windom says in jest. Additionally, this issue is perhaps the most audacious in appearance—leaning into the modernist trend of dominatrix-meets-high-fashion.
Issue #3 : Rachel and Claire
Lee asserts that the most challenging element to tackle was crafting distinctive looks for every character. He turned to iconic designers for inspiration: 'I love the Tom Ford era of Gucci, Donna Karan, and the Calvin Klein 90s runway looks. Shoulder pads are still in, right? But the outfits also reflect the feel of more modern designs, like Mônot, Hervé Léger, and Christopher Esber…with a bit of Kill Bill and Elvis thrown in, too, of course!' This meticulous mélange resulted in dynamic appearances that reflect the persona of each woman.
Moreover, there is 'playful practicality' built into each woman's bold wardrobe, 'it's about attitude and fighting style here. For example: Using a bow requires form and poise, so a dress looks better than jeans. A streamlined coif, slick clothes, and boots work better visually and practically for a getaway driver, or motorbike rider, than high heels and a skirt,' adds Lee.
Kicking ass in style. Issue #1 exclusive first look - 'This Ends Tonight'.
'This Ends Tonight' will not only be a high-octane thriller but a sensual feast for the eyes. For those seeking to recreate inspired wardrobe looks of these femme fatales, Lee suggests the following, 'seek out vintage stores and from designers like Alaïa, Mônot, Hervé Léger, Christopher Esber, Prada, Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier, and so many more!'
This Ends Tonight, variant cover b.
'This Ends Tonight' issue #1 (of 3) will be available at comic book shops on Wednesday, July 16 (Final Order Cutoff deadline for retailers is June 23).
