Chew #25

Written by John Layman
Art by Rob Guillory

I don't know how Layman and Guillory are just so good at giving Chew fans what they want (even when they don't know that they wanted it until after it happened) with each and every issue.  There are so many terrific moments in this comic, that it's difficult to list them all.

Here are some reasons to buy this comic, more or less in order:

-  The first page is chill inducing in the utter horror that it evokes, while also being hilarious.
-  There is a flash-forward to the final issue of the series (number 60) that suggests great changes in Tony Chu's future, while showing that other things will remain constant.
-  Amelia Mintz, Tony's girlfriend, is the only person who seems to notice and/or care that Tony has been missing for ages, and takes on the mantle of hero, in her quest to go find him.
-  The auction that Amelia's ex-boyfriend is holding to sell Tony and his cibopath abilities to the highest bidder is attended by some of the most visually interesting special interest groups you can imagine (and the two old guys from the Muppets).
-  Tony kicks ass, using a new manifestation of his abilities.
-  A fan favourite character makes his triumphant return (I'm not saying who, but it made me very happy) on the last page.

I absolutely love this comic.  Each issue cracks me up, but also maintains great consistency in terms of advancing its larger plot, and never gets lost in the jokes and endless asides. The next issue promises a Toni and Chow team-up.  I can't wait!