Portland, OR — In the midst of America’s fall, Sara attempts an escape to Mexico, but as she travels south from Oregon she must confront a past that has ties to the very beginning of the revolution.
Home Free is a 5 issue comic book series, 24 pages each, that will launch on Kickstarter October 29th!
In the first issue, we follow Sara as she helps newfound friend Emmy navigate a dangerous exit from life as a sex worker under the thumb of her brooding pimp Grip. Having embraced a quiet life after her tough teenage years, Sara herself is seeking an exit. America is on the brink of chaos as the government has lost the people, and the people have lost each other. Sara sees no choice but to leave, taking to the road, and discovering that deeper concerns might be what drives her.
John Kratky and Michelle Lodge, the creators of Home Free, have been working together in comics since 2013. Their first project together, and precursor to this series, is a graphic novel titled The Black Wall. “Although a sequel,” John Kratky adds, “Home Free is very much its own story. It works as a reaction, and makes The Black Wall a stronger work when Home Free is read first, as it puts the life-changing events from that comic into a new context.”
Their take on the noir genre is less hard-boiled, and more in line with dramatic crime-fiction. “There is nothing scarier than scared Americans and the actions we take when we feel our livelihood is at risk,” says author Joh Kratky about his approach to characters. “Fear can take anybody on a ride towards the unknown.”
Michelle has already been a part of successful Kickstarter campaigns, including her comic strip Moementality, but this will be her first with John. “The best part about comics is their dynamic blend of story and artwork, which delivers a unique experience that only they can offer,” says Michelle.
The plan is to publish each issue on Kickstarter, building to finally having The Black Wall printed, with hopes of finding a new audience for their comics in the process. The style of the comic is stark black and white, with a more realistic approach to the world and characters to maximize on the emotion of the story. Michelle adds, “With my art style, I’m hoping to convey a particular mood. I want to pull you into the world where the characters live, bringing an immersive experience for each reader.”
They both have high hopes for present success to help lay the foundation for their future collaborations in noir comic storytelling. Fans of this genre have a new creative team to dive into and discover with the launch of Home Free on October 29th.
