I almost feel guilty for including a single-issue comic in the top five series…almost. The Roman Nose started out as collaboration between cartoonist George Folz and writer/photographer Seth Kushner but only lasted one issue. Sadly, Kushner passed away after a prolonged battle with Leukemia, but not before releasing the first issue of The Roman Nose.
This humorous comic is set in a 2114 version of Rome. Mob bosses are the city’s rulers, and they do so with the help of violent robots and the Pope. The only thing standing in the way of pure villainy is the big nose of Michelangelo Tornatore. This womanizing “super spy” has an enhanced sense of smell that helps him discover hidden enemies and potential dangers. This power combines with his witty jokes and penchant for trouble to make the clumsiest hero ever.
The Roman Nose benefits from great writing and humor, but George Folz’s art is no slouch either. Folz has an exceptionally clean style that focuses on strong lines and slightly goofy characters. In addition, the comic constantly switches from a red tint for the present and a tan hue for the past. It’s a subtle switch that completely changes the comic without becoming irritating.
Look, the main reason I chose The Roman Nose is because I enjoyed every second of the comic. I laughed multiple times throughout the issue, and didn’t find a single thing to complain about.
