A pulpy graphic novel series transports readers to 1980s Los Angeles Apr 22, 2021
In the Reckless series of graphic novels, written by Ed Brubaker and illustrated by Sean Phillips, a principled if unorthodox private eye looks back on his career as a “trouble-maker for hire.” In the latest book,
Friend of the Devil, Ethan Reckless investigates the disappearance of a missing woman and, in the process, exposes a seedy and sinister side of Hollywood. The longtime collaborators spoke to
PW about their inspirations for the series, developing character across multiple story arcs, and working together but separately.
As you describe, the Reckless books are standalone graphic novels, but they are connected by way of the protagonist who appears in each installment. Can you talk about some of your models for creating this kind of series driven by a particular guiding character but with stories that stand independently of one another?