The Complete Geisha

Rating:
Summary: Geisha Goodness!
Review: Geisha is the story of Jomi Sohodo, an android adopted into a loving family, who lives in a world that looks down on "synths" trying to make it in the art world, but has to take a job in the family business, security, to pay her bills...until she's approached by an art dealer (among other unsavory business dealings), Peck, to fake...ahem, reproduce a painting.

Her first security job sees her having to protect one of the highest paid super models, Natasha Hostynek, from ex-manager turned psycho stalker, George Brant who tries to sell candid pictures of them to Peck. But when Peck shows no interest Brant snags an important item from Peck's office who sets his bodyguards, Glock & Spiel, on him.

This is an intricately designed, intertwining, action-packed, chase story with absolutely stunning artwork by Andi Watson. You can see how Andi's art has developed and evolved from the mini to the one-shot, but his intelligent storytelling whether writing or illustrating remains.

Andi knows what to tell and what to illustrate to move the story along. You have to pay attention when you read an Andi Watson book because he inserts so many subtle clues that if you read it too fast you might not get it; facial features, hand gestures, clues in the background, all move the story along. Slow down and enjoy the show.

I forgot how much I liked Geisha and how much was going on in this book until I reread it. The best part about the Complete Geisha is not only do you get the 4-issue mini series, but also the one-shot and short stories in one well designed package.

Be sure to read Andi Watson's Dumped, Breakfast After Noon, and Love Fights from Oni Press and Skeleton Key from Slave Labor Graphics!

Rating:
Summary: Where's the Watsonesque art?
Review: I was hoping that the art would be consistent with Andi Watson's chic style found in Breakfast After Noon, but I was disappointed that it was used only in the one-shot. I believe the art would have made all the difference, making Geisha a cozier, enjoyable read. Also, the story's theme seems a bit overplayed already, what with Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electronic Sheep and Aldiss' Supertoys Last All Summer Long. All in all, Geisha is seriously lacking in certain aspects.