THE MATERIAL TRILOGY: PLASTIC, VINYL & PLUSH

This series, comprising "Plastic," "Vinyl," and the latest addition, "Plush," delves deep into the psyche of its characters, marrying over-the-top violence with a bizarre sense of humor and a surprisingly tender human core and it is a testament to the unique, darkly humorous, and unapologetically twisted storytelling that comics can offer. 

Let's start with PLASTIC, their original material and quite weird first story in the trilogy...

"Plastic" introduced us to a former serial killer's twisted love story with his plastic girlfriend, setting the tone for the duo's darkly comedic narrative style. "Vinyl" followed, weaving a tale around a serial killer named Walter and his equally deranged friends, further establishing Wagner and Hillyard's penchant for blending morbid comedy with gripping storytelling.

The latest installment, "Plush," pushes the envelope even further. Described as the team's "most ambitious serial killer, dark comedy, ridiculously bloody, love story yet," "Plush" throws its characters into the bizarre world of cannibalistic furries at a furry convention, taking the trilogy's signature blend of dark humour and gore to new heights. Wagner himself has candidly stated, "If you’ve read Plastic or Vinyl, you already know Daniel and I ain’t right in the head. Well, Plush is our most ambitious... This time we just put everyone in fursuits".

Critics and fans alike have praised "Plush" for its ability to balance the macabre with moments of genuine emotion and humour. A review of "Plush" #5 highlights this balance, noting how the series continues to impress with its "quirky dark comedies featuring serial killers and cannibals." The character development, particularly that of Devin Fulcher, the protagonist of "Plush," is lauded for its depth and relatability amidst the chaos of his surroundings. The review praises the creative team's skill in making readers empathize with characters who commit heinous acts, a hallmark of Wagner and Hillyard's storytelling prowess.

The artistic contribution of Daniel Hillyard, complemented by colorist Rico Renzi, brings this twisted universe to life with vivid colors and expressive characters that add layers to the storytelling. The art captures a wide range of emotions, from the intensity of a murder scene to the subtle humour of a character's glance, showcasing the duo's ability to tell a compelling story visually as well as narratively.

However, it's important to note that the "Materials Trilogy" is not for everyone. Its graphic content, dark themes, and unorthodox humour cater to a niche audience that appreciates the blend of horror, comedy, and unconventional love stories. For those who do resonate with its unique tone, the trilogy offers a refreshing departure from the norm, presenting a world where love, no matter how bizarre, finds a way, and where laughter can emerge from the darkest of places.

Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard have crafted a series that stands out for its bold storytelling, dark humour, and unexpected warmth. The "Materials Trilogy" is a testament to the creative potential of comics to explore the depths of the human (and not-so-human) condition, offering a unique, if not twisted, take on what it means to find connection in a disconnected world.

Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard's "Material Trilogy" is a fascinating journey into a disturbed universe, not suitable for the faint-hearted. This collection, featuring "Plastic," "Vinyl," and their newest creation, "Plush," dives deep into the complex minds of its characters, blending extreme violence, peculiar humor, and a surprisingly heartfelt essence, showcasing the distinct and darkly amusing narrative possibilities within comic books.

The trilogy kicks off with "Plastic," presenting a bizarre love story between a former serial killer and his plastic girlfriend, establishing Wagner and Hillyard's knack for dark comedy and captivating plots. "Vinyl" continues the saga with Walter and his group of unhinged companions, amplifying their signature mix of grim humor and engaging storytelling.

"Plush," the trilogy's latest entry, elevates their storytelling to new levels. Set against the backdrop of a furry convention with cannibalistic themes, it's described as their "most ambitious" work, further exploring the dark comedy and bloody narratives the duo is known for. Wagner's own words confirm their off-kilter approach, promising an even wilder ride in "Plush" with characters donning fursuits.

Critics and fans have commended "Plush" for its adeptness in weaving together dark themes with moments of real humor and emotion. Reviews highlight the character development of Devin Fulcher, "Plush's" protagonist, applauding the way readers are made to empathize with morally complex characters. This quality underscores Wagner and Hillyard's storytelling excellence.

Daniel Hillyard's art, alongside colorist Rico Renzi, vividly portrays this twisted world, capturing a spectrum of emotions that enhance the narrative's depth. Their ability to convey a story visually and textually is a key aspect of the trilogy's success.

However, the "Material Trilogy" isn't for everyone. Its explicit content and unconventional humor target a specific audience that enjoys a mix of horror, comedy, and atypical love stories. For those attuned to its unique vibe, the series offers a distinct escape from the ordinary, highlighting how love and humor can thrive in even the darkest corners.

Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard's series is a bold exploration of storytelling, humor, and the human condition through comics, offering a peculiar yet profound commentary on connection in an often disconnected world.