Review: Ricky Rouse Has Got a Gun

Apparently, China, at least in general, feels very differently about intellectual property than does the rest of the world; they even have a word, shanzhai, to signify the relationship between their indigenized imitations of foreign cultural icons (no, really, look it up!) And while this idea is not the central focus, its mechanism drives the plot of Ricky Rouse Has Got a Gun. 

 Richard Rouse, traumatized by war in Afghanistan, deserts and washes up at Fengxian amusement park in China.  Hucheng, the parks owner, inspired by Richard’s name, hires him to wear his suspiciously familiar and yet unique cartoon mouse costume as Ricky Rouse. The rest unfolds like the best of Die Hard!

Jorg Tittel’s story unfolds action at a smart clip to a satisfying resolution, a bit of shanzhai itself in its use of thriller tropes that nonetheless engage and entertain. While some might lament that the issue of copyright infringement vs shanzhai is only cursorily explored, John Aggs’ Eduardo-Risso-like linework delivers the story clearly and strikes a tone equal to the subject matter, with discrete color and page flow, that, while relatively straightforward, allows the story to breathe.

Thanks so much to Victorio “Don’t let him tell you he can’t draw” DeLuca of Mega City Comics

out in Camden Town in London, England, who took the time to talk to me, suggest some local talent, and even make an exchange of sketches with this weirdo!

Thanks, Victorio! Someone give that man a raise!

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