Blacksad

Graphic novels have a reputation for being a touch heavy-handed. The same is usually true of pulp fiction; they often show all the finesse of a sledge hammer. Yet the artwork in the graphic novel Blacksad, a noir detective story in graphic novel format, shows moments of unexpected subtlety. In one notable panel, a ballerina almost imperceptibly meets the gaze of a background onlooker reflected in a mirror. It’s a drawing of remarkable technical sophistication, yet artist Juanjo Guardino makes it look easy. There’s an attention to aesthetic detail rarely seen in graphic novels. The story, written by Juan Diaz Canales, is perfectly suited for the format. This is a beautiful example of the graphic novel playing all the strengths of its hand.