Comic Review: Aggretsuko: Down the Rabbit Hole

Overview:

Life for Retsuko is full of monotony and never-ending work. However, on one particular evening alone in the office, she finds herself being chased by a white rabbit. Tripping along her way, Retsuko finds herself spiralling down the rabbit hole to a fantastic world full of mysterious creatures.

Poor Retsuko explores this Wonderland in manic as she enters a rat race, becomes a servant, joins a tea party, and plays golf with the Red-Faced Monarch. Unfortunately, all Retsuko wants is to go home. Although, she may have to face her anger before she can get there.

Our Take:

Aggretsuko Down the Rabbit Hole is the latest in a growing collection of comic adaptations of the hit Netflix animated series. In fact, it was released alongside the Aggretsuko: Super Fun Special and ahead of Aggretsuko: Out of Office. All these new comic titles are in time to get us excited for the fourth season of the original animated show to return this December.

This stand-alone single-issue comic book is a direct parody of Lewis Carrol’s classic fairy-tale, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.  Truthfully, there is a long and significant history of Alice and Wonderland appearing in comic books. The public domain property features a balanced approach to humour and fantasy, making it an ideal vessel for entertaining children. Much of the comic book industries success is built upon the shoulders of Alice adaptations during the 1950s and 60s.

Of course, this interpretation of Wonderland comes with its own Aggretsuko-sized twists. The story manages to incorporate many of the themes from the animated series, turning Wonderland into a paperwork-themed nightmare. Additionally, Retsuko’s friends are scattered throughout cosplaying as the lovable characters from the classic tale, such as Haida playing the role of The Mad Hatter.

The plot does well to take Alice’s adventures and make them about Retsuko’s own personal demons. Throughout the story, she is forced to confront her feelings towards work, life, and relationships. It works to make the surprise ending even more impactful.

Unfortunately, this book goes by far too fast. The elaborate plot of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is not meant to squeeze into a tight single comic book issue. Without an understanding of the source content, readers are sure to be lost as to what is transpiring. And even well-versed in Wonderland lore, this comic was a challenge to read at the pace at which it moves.

Conceptually, this is one of the best Aggretsuko comic books available in a growing collection. Although, in execution, more detail, attention, and panels, would have gifted this parody with a more readable story. Regardless, for fans of Retsuko and friends, this is a book still worth reading as it puts the beloved characters in a fun and recognizable setting.