Impressions: Dawn of Time

We Are the Dinosaurs, Marching, Marching

'Dawn of Time' by Michael Stearns is one of those webcomics out there that is obviously trying to be original and new. What's more important is that it is succeeding. This playful webcomic takes place in what could be described as the prehistoric era of an alternate reality. An era where dinosaurs and humans co-exist. In addition, it appears that much of humanity is relatively advanced having towns and trade centers.

The historical accuracy and realism of 'Dawn of Time' isn't really at all important it is primarily a comedic webcomic focusing on telling a fun, and often funny, story about the main character, Dawn. Dawn is a cavegirl, wearing the trademark fur bikini ensemble. On her adventure for food, she befriends a Triceratops and the duo go on a number of hi-jinx laden misadventures ranging from escaping a T-Rex to finding a time-traveler from the future.

While still relatively new, 'Dawn of Time' already has enough content to accomplish one of my personal favorite forms of humor, the running gag. While mostly wordless, the comic makes great use of action to further the story. And Michael does tell the story very well. While, as mentioned, it is a funny webcomic, there is continuity and it definitely feels like Dawn is on an interesting adventure.

If you've read my review for 'Gypsy' then you know I really like the art style for 'Dawn of Time'. The images are inked in black, with the only color being the light blues used for for shading. It is a very simple style and I really like seeing it used well.

The characters and backgrounds are drawn wonderfully, with a great deal of subtle detail goes into each panel. As mentioned, having very little written dialogue, having well rendered expressions and action are essential. I never had any issue following what was going on in 'Dawn of Time'.

'Dawn of Time' was yet another wonderful surprise when I discovered it. It's a unique and interesting webcomic created by a talented artist and storyteller. Like the other Webcomics mentioned this week, it really does deserve a good deal of recognition.