Issue #8 is the exciting conclusion to this amazing series. I wanted to let you know that there will be spoilers from the previous issues in this review. The issue picks up right where Issue #7 left off. Bettie and Lyssa are at the Cannes Film Festival, and she was about to view the film she starred in, Invasion of the Space Commies. Bettie had successfully gotten back the key to the space ship, but she also successfully got intercepted by Benway and he’s now holding her hostage at her movie premier.
Bettie has three things on her side in this situation though. First off, Benway is clueless that Bettie has the star in her handbag. Secondly her film is around 80 minutes long so she has time to sort out a plan of escape. And, of course last but not least, Lyssa is sitting beside her. This duo has gotten out of far worse situations so far.
As the film lets out a fan spots Bettie leaving the theater and wants to discuss the film more. She lets the fan know that the writer of the film, Elroy Benway is with her, and introduces him. She invites the fan to join them at their next destination. Bettie feels terrible, but is certain that inviting this man along will increase their chances of survival. Bettie has promised to lead Benway to the star so they set out together.
Before too long trouble finds them. A man and a woman that are armed approach their group. This is where things get really hairy. I feel like I have to stop my plot synopsis here to avoid spoiling this issue totally. I can tell you that this issue is full of action. Most of the questions from previous issues are answered. And, honestly if Avallone wanted to continue the story from here, he easily could. I hope he decides to.
When Bettie Page first started I wasn’t sure what to expect from this series of comics. But, what I got was a story that bended science fiction with non-fiction aspects of Bettie’s personality. Avallone did a fantastic job of capturing Bettie’s personality. The best thing about this series is Bettie evolved from model running from the police to a bonafide hero. The story mixed some aspects of old school Hollywood and had a feel of B horror flicks without being cheesy.
Every documentary I saw/read about this amazing woman seemed to fit perfectly with what David Avallone was writing. I could see Bettie handling herself in this way when faced with flying saucers and mind control devices. I think all of Bettie’s fans are aware of just how determined she was in her life. And, I know I personally always looked up to her because of her determination and courage. She was doing all kinds of different types of modeling in a society that wasn’t really even comfortable with seeing a lady in a bikini. So, seeing this fictional version of Bettie become a secret agent bad ass was amazing, but not that far-fetched in my head.
Rating: 8/10
