Review - Husbands #1 & #2

Marriage is a long lasting adventure that requires commitment and responsibility on the part of those involved. After all, it's hard enough to contend with forgetting to take the trash out, let alone being whisked away into zany worlds on a regular basis, as in Husbands from Dark Horse Comics.

The first two issues are written by Brad Bell and Jane Espenson, illustrated by Ron Chan (#1) and Natalie Nourigat (#2) and lettered by Nate Piekos.

In the first issue, "Drawn In," gay newlyweds Brady and Cheeks wake up legally wed after a weekend in Vegas. Instead of doing what most Vegas romances do and file for divorce, the couple decide to give it a go and--courtesy of a mysterious wedding gift--are whisked away on a series of adventures. The adventure du jour for "Drawn In" has them both as superheroes, seeking a rare diamond.

The second issue is slightly more involved in its name, as it's called "The Well-Intentioned-But-Oblivious Prince and the Justifiably Belligerent Peasant or Equally Ever After." It features the two of them in a medieval setting, one imprisoned for refusing the Prince and the other seeking to free him.

First off, if the scenarios sound familiar that's because they likely are somewhat. The comic is based on the sitcom of the same name which recently entered its second season. The comics obviously allow the show to explore some crazier scenarios, but it's still centered on the premise that they're a married gay couple.

Secondly, Bell and Espenson have infused the comic with a ton of lighthearted humor and wit. Brady and Cheeks are affable enough and clearly in love, both showcasing traits that prove they'll have no problems at all in marriage. The wedding gift that teleports them here, there and everywhere is a little strange, but it's a comic book. It does offer unique situations that most marriages will never face and provides for fun storylines.

The art is equally as jovial as the writing. Both Chan and Nourigat demonstrate artistic talents and characters who are engaging. The issues pop with color and vivaciousness, regardless of whether or not the characters are flying on an airplane or in a medieval castle. The art is reminiscent of that in Princeless from Action Lab in that it's quality work that doesn't take itself too seriously.

If you're a fan of the sitcom Husbands, the comics are a no-brainer. Others who have never heard of the show might want to check the issues out all the same, as their lighter tone make them relatively easy to read. They're relatively charming comics that seek to remind you that love is an adventure, regardless of what you may think.

Both issues are available exclusively on Dark Horse Digital now.