We3: A 21st-Century Frankenstein
Released in 2004 through DC’s Vertigo imprint, We3, by writer Grant Morrison and artist Frank Quitely, is a compelling and emotionally resonant comic book miniseries. It’s a story that continues to resonate with readers, and has even drawn the attention of filmmakers like James Gunn, inspiring elements in projects like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
The Premise
We3 follows three animals – a dog named Bandit (designated “1”), a cat named Tinker (“2”), and a rabbit named Pirate (“3”) – who have been kidnapped and transformed into cybernetic weapons by the military. Encased in robotic armor and equipped with limited speech capabilities via skull implants, they escape their captors and embark on a journey to identify “home.” The narrative echoes classic animal adventure stories like Sheila Burnford’s The Incredible Journey (1961) and Robert C. O’Brien’s Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, while likewise exploring themes of animal experimentation akin to William Kotzwinkle’s King Rat.
A Collaboration of Talent
Grant Morrison, known for works like Animal Man, Doom Patrol, and The Invisibles, was at the peak of their creative powers when writing We3. The series is considered one of Morrison’s most accessible and tightly-written comics. Frank Quitely’s artwork, inked by Jamie Grant, is equally crucial to the story’s impact. Quitely’s distinctive style, particularly his depiction of the animals, enhances the emotional weight of their plight. The visual storytelling is innovative, pushing the boundaries of the comic book medium.
Why Read We3?
- Timeliness: The story’s themes of artificial intelligence and the ethical implications of technological advancement experience particularly relevant today, given the rapid development of anthropomorphic AI.
- Critical Acclaim: We3 won two Eisner Awards in 2005: Best Penciler/Inker for Frank Quitely and Best Lettering for Todd Klein. It was nominated for Best Limited Series but lost to Darwyn Cooke’s DC: The Recent Frontier.
- Visual Innovation: Quitely’s art is experimental and visually striking, demonstrating the potential of the comic book format.
- Influence on Modern Filmmaking: James Gunn, Co-Chair and CEO of DC Films, has publicly expressed his admiration for Morrison’s work, and We3 is believed to have influenced his portrayal of Rocket Raccoon and other animal characters in the Guardians of the Galaxy films.
A Modern Frankenstein
Like Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, We3 is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of attempting to control nature. It’s a propulsive, violent, and ultimately heartbreaking story that explores themes of innocence, exploitation, and the search for belonging. It’s a story that will likely stay with readers long after they finish it.
We3 by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely is available in bookstores, comic shops, libraries, and digital retailers, including as a standard softcover graphic novel and a DC Compact Comics Edition. It is also available on DC UNIVERSE INFINITE.
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