As Thrillbent gains wider recognition and adds even more titles, it’s the smaller, independent comics made in the same style that are truly the ones to watch. One such comic is Template by writer Quinton Miles and artist Andres Quezada. An action story with a bit of cyberpunk flair, Template follows Oversight, a spy agency, and Beta, the android based on one of their best agents. After Oversight’s original android Alpha went rogue, Beta has been closely monitored to keep the same from happening with her as she is groomed to beat her big sister. But, things don’t always work out the way they’re supposed to.
Template #7
Alpha and Beta team up one final time to take down the mad scientist in a robot body, Manuel Vega. Though they’re outgunned and running scared, through a bit of trust, teamwork, and ingenuity they’re able to prevail, handily taking care of things before Oversight even gets there. After the fight and back at Oversight, it seems Beta wants answers and Oversight has even more plans in store.
Template #7
Writer Quinton Miles continues to keep the pacing quick as he wraps up the story. Though there are a couple of missteps as far as sequencing goes and unclear direction, the “panel at a time” structure works for the story, helping the Miles give a rhythm to the story. Miles sets up the ending in such a way that there can be many more stories set in the Template universe, but this one also is resolved.
Template #8
Andres Quezada’s art finishes out the story strong. He’s able to give the characters great expressions, helping the overall flow and quality of the story. The scenes with Dr. Harding as a prisoner are able to have the guards and surrounding convey a good sense of oppression. Nathan Lumm’s colors add a great depth to the art, tending to be muted in tone, but having splashes of color for emphasis.
Template continues to be one of the better “guided view” comics, even though it comes from a relatively unknown team. With the story now finished, it makes a good statement as to just how well the format can be used to tell a story. The comic can be read through the site or on the ComicsPlus app, and the first three issues are available on Comixology for just 99¢ each.
