The, "Santos Sisters," are a clever pastiche. The art style is reminiscent of vintage Archie/Sabrina/etc. strips but the jokes carry a much more modern sensibility, plus there is a bunch of gentle prodding and joking about superhero comic conceits. Created by the duo of Greg & Fake, "Santos Sisters," has been self-published, had issues released by Floating World Comics, and much of their adventures (so far) have now been collected in a snazzy hardcover printed by Fantagraphics (who sent me a copy for the purposes of review when I reached out and asked for one). I greatly enjoyed reading the adventures of sisters Ambar and Alana, that's for sure!
One reason, "Santos Sisters," works so well is the clever mish-mash of nostalgic and modern vibes. There are riffs on classic comedy tropes (for example, one unveiled villain complains about the, "Meddling," sisters in a homage to Scooby-Doo), the art looks straight out of vintage funny books but with a nice modern sheen, and the problems of today are tackled but always with a nice lighthearted and fun tone--a stalker ex-girlfriend is more hilarious than scary with her 8-ball themed explosives in one strip. "Santos Sisters," works as its own standalone piece, but is even more superb when examined as a comic for those who love comics and silly fun.
Little in-jokes, such as a newscaster named "Rob Liefeldteeth," bump up against anthropomorphic robbers riding jet skis straight out of a Saturday morning cartoon or a character quite similar to Conan the Barbian. That isn't to say the comic is at all childish or only dedicated to gazing in the past. The grown-up story beats cleverly contrast with the other elements. A lot of raunchy jokes take place, for sure! As I said, there is a mix of old-school vintage style melting into some edgy and sharp humor. This comic is perfect for GenX or Millenial readers, in essence, so I ate it up.
"Santos Sisters," is a fantastic comic and I am very pleased to have this hardcover collection that I can revisit and enjoy whenever I need a strong shot of fun with no downer, "Ironic," chaser. This comic is intentionally joyful, fun, sex-positive, wacky, and full of clever homages and in-jokes. It's a real treat to read and I hope we get plenty more, "Santos Sisters," comics in the years to come!
5 out of 5 Stars.
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