INCREDIBLE DOOM

The residents of an intentional community in the 1990s struggle with new and changing relationships.

Part rock stage, part sanctuary, Evol House belongs to the band The Disappointments and teens who have nowhere else to go. Allison fled her abusive father with the help of her outsider boyfriend, Samir, and they now sleep in the attic. While Allison thrives on the residents’ chaotic behavior and her newfound freedom, Sam sees Evol House as a negative influence. Their opposing views are intriguing: Allison enjoys the adventure and experiences everything on offer, while Sam hides in video games, distrusting the shoplifting and other risky behavior. Sam and Allison’s relationship is realistically depicted, including the gradual shift in his love from protective to controlling. Tina, another resident, struggles to stay motivated when a chance at a new life and romance appears. Her view of Evol House as a found family sworn to defeat apathy and help those in need is impactful, contrasting with their bleaker reality. After numerous run-ins with local teen Ryan lead to Evol House residents cyberbullying him on a BBS, tensions culminate in a dramatic showdown. The minimal but emotive drawing style combined with realistic and humorous dialogue creates an immersive atmosphere. The discussions of morals, familial and relationship ties, and finding meaning in life, along with glimpses of the cast members’ backstories, are equally strong. Most characters appear White; Sam’s mother is cued as Iranian, and Tina is Native American (no tribal affiliation is given).

Engrossing and dramatic.