Comic Review: Zsazsa Zaturnnah sa Kalakhang Maynila

If we ever start to include reviewing comics on this site, then we have to start with the top 1 new Pinoy Komik character, Zsazsa Zaturnahh. Zsazsa Zaturnnah is a fictional comic book superheroine created by Filipino illustrator and graphic designer Carlo Vergara.

Though the first part of the comics has been released in December 2002, the story is still not finished as The first of three parts of the Zaturnnah sequel entitled Zsazsa Zaturnnah sa Kalakhang Maynila (Zsazsa Zaturnnah in Metro Manila) was eventually published and released on January 25, 2012.

The character first appeared in the graphic novel, Ang Kagila-gilalas na Pakikipagsapalaran ni Zsazsa Zaturnnah (The Spectacular Adventures of Zsazsa Zaturnnah). The graphic novel won a National Book Award in 2003. Then the graphic novel landed on the 12th spot of top selling Philippine fiction books for 2005, based on records of National Bookstore.

The graphic novel was adapted into a stage musical by Tanghalang Pilipino and a film adaptation was released under the production of Regal Films, Inc. and directed by the award-winning Joel Lamangan.

Of course, what makes Zsa Zsa Zaturnahh relevant till today is its concept of having the main character Ada, an effeminate homosexual male that turns into Zaturnnah, a powerful and voluptuous female with large red hair and a muscular physique.

To comic enthusiasts, we already know that Comic superheroes are modern myhtologies. They are deep with symbolisms that reflect the culture and aspirations of a certain society. Ada turning into Zsazsa Zaturnnah symbolizes what most homosexual male aspire to – to be a full-fledged woman.

But writer and artists Carlo Vergara does not rely on is concept alone, because it is his story telling that makes you stick to his comics. The lines and artwork are funny and very well presents the Filipino life. This it what he continues to do at Zsazsa Zaturnnah sa Kalakhang Maynila (Zsazsa Zaturnnah in Metro Manila).

Zsazsa Zaturnnah sa Kalakhang Maynila (Zsazsa Zaturnnah in Metro Manila) is about a small town Filipino coming to the big city, a story which is something a lof Cebuanos can relate to. New environment, new enemies and allies, and perhapsa new–and complicated—romance. Can someone from the province survive the big city? It is up to you to find out. So if you liked the first book then you would surely loved the sequel.

Then while your at it, might as well check out Carlo Vergara’s 2013 comic adaptation of the one- act play, “Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady”. This one continues to make you laugh as well as make you wonder of the whole concept of the story.

Source: wikipedia

About the author: N.M. CABANGBANG graduated Bachelor of Fine Arts Major in Painting at University of the Philippines Cebu. He is now currently teaching grade 6 – 10 Art at B.R.I.G.H.T. Academy.