This article will discuss one of the most prominent English writers and screenwriters of our time, the author of a huge number of comics that have become truly iconic, whose name is Alan Moore. “Keepers,” “V means vendetta,” “League of Outstanding Gentlemen,” and many other works will be examined in an article.
As part of this article, one of his best comics will be considered, which is rightfully worthy of the title of graphic novel, "Keepers".
History of the work
Worked on the creation of the "Guardians" Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. The first as an author, and the second as an artist. The production of twelve issues of the comic book took place from September 1986 to October 1987.
In this comic, they did not use the existing characters from DC, since the series was limited, respectively, it was not planned to continue. It was decided to create new characters for him.
The action of the comic takes place in an alternate reality. Superheroes in this world appeared in the 40s. XX century, and helped the US Army in the war with Vietnam.
However, in the 80s, when the main events of the novel take place, costumed heroes became illegal, even despite the fact that crime and gang organizations rule the world. In addition, the United States and the USSR are in severe confrontation, which at any moment can develop into a nuclear war.
Plot
The alternative reality in which comic book events take place differs from the real history of mankind in 1938. Further development takes place differently.
In the 60s. the Americans, who felt that the Vietnam War was not getting the best outcome for them, used their secret weapon, Dr. Manhattan. He has superpowers that no other character in the series has. Thanks to him, the United States in one part defeats Vietnam.
According to the plot of Alan Moore in The Guardians (book), the action begins in 1985, when the sensational murder of a man named Edward Blake is committed. It would seem that there is nothing particularly remarkable in this if the costume of Comedian, a former costumed hero who had been prohibited by the government, were not found at the crime scene.
Rorschach became interested in the murder - the last masked superhero who ignored the state’s locked up. He decides that someone is trying to eliminate all former superheroes. No luck to anyone who gets in his way.
Characters
In the novel by Alan Moore "Guardians" there are many pretty interesting characters. One of the most famous among them, undoubtedly, is Rorschach. Not only is he one of the main characters of the comic strip and the film, released in 2009, but he is also one of his most interesting characters.
Rorschach, whose real name is Walter Joseph Kovacs, is the most controversial character in the work. He is not a positive hero, but also a negative one. This is an extraordinary person who has very serious mental problems due to childhood injuries. He constantly wears a mask on his face and is engaged in catching bandits, criminals and other villains, over whom he arranges lynching.
Although he does not possess powers, Rorschach is a very physically strong person. In addition, he is agile, cynical and prudent, he has a sharp mind and he is fluent in firearms and martial arts, which makes him a real thunderstorm for local criminal masses.
Another important character is Dr. Manhattan. This is the only hero who has real superpowers. In the past he was a nuclear physicist, but due to an accident that happened to him in 1959 in the laboratory, he was decomposed into atoms and received incredible strength. After the ban on costumed heroes began to work for the government.
Comedian (Edward Blake) - it was he who was killed at the very beginning of the comic book. Rorschach is investigating his death. Despite the fact that according to the plot the Comedian was killed, he regularly appears in flashbacks.
Interesting Facts
In 2009, based on the plot of Alan Moore's graphic novel "The Keepers", a full-length film of the same name was shot, which received rather mixed reviews from critics. In addition, the tape failed at the box office, collecting only 185 million dollars with a budget of 130.
The film had animated inserts that were later released as an animated mini-series called The Legends of the Black Schooner.
Despite the fact that the film directed by Zach Snyder and screenwriter Alan Moore "The Keepers", according to critics, was not the most successful, the comic book series itself became truly iconic, gaining widespread recognition. She is rightfully considered one of the best creations in the world of comics.
Conclusion
The writer Alan Moore's "Keepers" is one of the best works. This is recognized by almost all fans of his work. Of course, among his creations there are many other worthy works, but this one certainly stands out, standing out for its exciting plot, incredible atmosphere and interesting, outstanding characters.