Grommets # 1 (2nd Print)
Written by: Rick Remender, and Brian Posehn
Illustrated by: Brett Parson
Image Comics
2024
*Spoilers, but it’s a story about growing up, so not really..
There’s a lot of people milking 80s nostalgia right now, but this feels infinitely less cynical and more organic than most of it. It’s not “about” the 80s, but at the same time the 80s aren’t “tacked on” either. It’s a story that happens to take place in the 80s and as such, there are some stereotypical 80s things, but it’s not band t-shirts that take me back. It’s everyone’s dad smoking with kids in the car, it’s a kid asking another kid “what kind of skateboard do you have”, a hand written label on a cassette tape. Other properties have a hard time being subtle, they want to scream at you “HERE’S THAT DURAN DURAN SONG THAT WAS POPULAR THAT ONE TIME REMEMBER?!” This doesn’t do that and it friggin’ refreshing, because I do remember that one time in the 80s, I just don’t want to be pummeled with it.
“Grommets #1” 2nd print, is another title I meant to review when it hit comic book shelves at the end of May, but I just didn’t have time to get to it. Penned by Rick Remender and comedian Brian Posehn with artwork by Brett Parson, is a fantastic dive into the heart of 1980s skater culture. Set in the Sacramento suburbs of 1984, it follows two best friends, outcasts who find solace in skateboarding and punk rock music amidst their tumultuous lives.
The depiction of ’80s skater culture is spot-on, capturing the spirit of a generation that transformed skating into a global movement. The narrative isn’t just a period piece; it’s a moving story about friendship, resilience, and finding one’s place in a world that often seems indifferent. Remender and Posehn weave a tale that resonates with authenticity, reflecting both the era’s cultural touchstones and the personal struggles of its characters.
Reading this issue was absolutely awesome! While many works today lean heavily on ’80s nostalgia, “Grommets” stands out for its genuine and organic approach. The ’80s backdrop enhances the story without overshadowing it, avoiding the trap of gratuitous references. Instead, it evokes the time period through subtle details, mainly kids discussing their skateboards, and music. These touches bring the era to life without resorting to cliché or overtly nostalgic gimmicks.
“Grommets #1” is a refreshing read that offers a heartfelt look at a transformative time, both in the world of skateboarding and in the lives of its young protagonists.
Heya! I just also happen to do another sort of skateboarding comic review that you can check out right over here!
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