The phrase “You can't judge a book by its cover” wasn't meant to be taken literally, but it's a statement that can be applied to comics. In one way, it's true because a flashy cover and catchy title doesn't necessarily mean the project will be good, just like the reverse doesn't mean something isn’t worth checking out. Then you have Sex Criminals by Writer Matt Fraction and artist Chip Zdarsky, where two things can be true at once.
When you look at the title, it’s enough to draw you in. What does it mean to be a sex criminal? Is this something to take literally? Does the kissing on the cover of the comic book mean this is a series that revolves around intimacy? If it’s all about naughty bits, why has it won and been nominated for so many awards? The answer to all of those questions is easy to answer. Despite the name of the series, there is plenty of depth.
Yes, this is humorous
First of all, yes, there is a lot of comedy within this series. Matt Fraction knows that you can’t name a story this and go with seriousness throughout. And then there’s Chip Zdarsky putting random jokes in the background. Together, they provide laughs and smiles from start to finish. And, as someone who’s read this series at least three times, the jokes are needed.
It’s also not comedy for the sake of it. All of the jokes are timed perfectly. Sometimes they come during an awkward moment that would make most people laugh at themselves. Other times, the jokes are used to break up a tense situation. But, more importantly, they fit the character, and it’s not toxic.
There are toxic moments throughout the series, and they are addressed. But those are teachable moments. Throughout the series, you’ll see people who do and say disgusting things. And while some of them don’t get what they deserve, that’s an unfortunate part of life, but it’s a reality we live in.
What's the story?
Suzie, a librarian, realizes she can freeze time after she climaxes, and Jon has a similar experience. The first time they get together, they realize they aren’t alone. However, neither has any idea how true that is. Not only are there others, but their powers differ in interesting (and strange) ways.
Jon convinces Suzie that, to save her library, they should use their powers to freeze time and rob the bank where he works. Unbeknownst to them, there’s a trio of people who are assigned to keep people with sex powers in check, but everything isn’t what it seems to be with them.
The idea of sex
When it comes to sex, some of it can be fun or funny. The creative team highlights that in many ways, but none more than with the lead characters, Suzie and Jon. Throughout the run, they do things that make them happy and do their best to have conversations that lead to playful, intimate interactions. Sometimes it involves them being drawn on.
One of the most important moments came when discussing sex workers and the stigma that surrounds them. This story shows the positive side of things, like one of the characters being a brilliant college professor. And before you say this is just a story, there are plenty of people who work in that industry and have a multitude of reasons for being there. The story reflects the reality of that and it does so without judgment.
The importance of protecting your mental health
Lastly, we come to the discussion of mental health and its importance. Everyone has things going on, and they manifest in different ways. Sometimes it leads to people becoming a danger to themselves and others. Or they leave you numb and unable to fully enjoy or handle life. It’s not a comfortable feeling or conversation to have, but having them isn’t a bad thing. Thankfully, stories like this help normalize mental health and the value of practicing proper coping skills.
I won’t go too deep into things because the ending of this series is one of the best. It isn’t a happy or sad finale, but it is beautiful.