Renowned writer Garth Ennis has teamed up once again with artist Jacen Burrows to launch an exciting new fantasy series titled “Babs,” published by AHOY Comics. Following their successful collaboration on the horror-themed “Crossed,” this new venture takes a whimsical turn, introducing readers to Babs, a fierce barbarian thief, and her troublesome enchanted sword, Barry, as they navigate a vibrant and unpredictable fantasy realm.
The narrative unfolds in a richly imagined world where Babs and Barry’s pursuit of treasure is thwarted by the nefarious Tiberius Toledo, who aims to manipulate the local populace’s darker impulses. Ennis infuses his trademark humor and intensity into the storyline, creating a fantasy series that is both darker and comically engaging, setting it apart from others in the genre.
With the debut issue of “Babs” scheduled for release on July 17, Ennis has shared his insights into the creative process, his collaboration with Burrows, and his evolving views on the fantasy genre. Initially critical of sword and sorcery narratives for their perceived pomposity, Ennis found inspiration in childhood classics like “Stormbringer” and “The Hobbit,” which ultimately influenced the development of “Babs.”
Creating a Distinct Fantasy Experience
Ennis characterizes “Babs” as a high-adventure tale infused with elements of humor, horror, and romance. He emphasizes the significance of crafting relatable yet flawed characters, a hallmark of his storytelling approach. When discussing the essential components of a compelling fantasy narrative, Ennis highlights the importance of swordplay, sarcasm, and hearty ale, offering a fresh perspective on traditional fantasy tropes.
Collaboration with Jacen Burrows
Reuniting with Jacen Burrows has been a smooth and rewarding experience for Ennis, who commends Burrows’ adaptability and narrative skill. Their long-standing partnership, which began with projects like “303,” has cultivated a strong creative bond, enabling them to explore diverse genres with confidence.
Intersecting Fantasy and Sci-Fi
While Ennis leans slightly towards sci-fi, he recognizes the overlapping elements between fantasy and science fiction. He values sci-fi’s capacity for social commentary, referencing iconic films like “Alien” and “Blade Runner” as key influences. However, with “Babs,” Ennis aims to tap into the comedic aspects of traditional sword and sorcery, using humor and satire to provide new insights into the genre.
Venturing into New Creative Realms
Ennis is currently in a creative phase that balances lighthearted and serious projects. While “Babs” and “Marjorie Finnegan” offer opportunities for humor and adventure, he also explores more serious themes in works like “The Ribbon Queen.” His enduring passion for war fiction continues to shape his storytelling across various genres.
Expressing excitement about his collaboration with AHOY Comics, Ennis reflects on working with familiar faces from his early days at Vertigo. This partnership signifies a new chapter in his career, merging nostalgia with innovative storytelling techniques.
A Musical Analogy
When asked to liken “Babs” to a song, Ennis humorously suggests a catchy tune that would generate significant royalties, played frequently to widespread acclaim. This analogy encapsulates the series’ potential for broad appeal and lasting popularity.
