Paula Peril Comics 19 -
Uncovering the Mystery: A Deep Dive into Paula Peril Comics Issue #19 In the world of independent comics, few characters have maintained a cult following as dedicated as the one surrounding the red-haired adventuress, Paula Peril. Created by writer James "Jim" Mooney and artist Dave A., Paula first burst onto the scene in the late 1980s as an answer to the damsel-in-distress trope. She is a globe-trotting journalist, a master of martial arts, and a magnet for supernatural trouble. For collectors and fans, one specific issue stands as a high-water mark for the series: Paula Peril Comics 19 . Whether you are a long-time fan trying to track down a missing piece of your pull-list or a new reader curious about the hype, this article will explore the plot, rarity, artistic significance, and legacy of this iconic installment. The Context: Where Were We Before Issue #19? To understand the importance of Paula Peril Comics 19 , we must look back at the narrative cliffhanger of Issue #18. The previous issue ended with Paula trapped in a collapsing Mayan temple after thwarting a black-market artifact ring led by her arch-nemesis, the shadowy "Collector." Issue #18 was notable for its final panel: a terrified Paula staring down a stone idol whose eyes had begun to glow a sickly green. Fans waited nearly eight months for the conclusion—a significant gap for an indie title in the 1990s. The pressure was on writer and artist to deliver a resolution that respected the pulp heritage while expanding the mythology. Paula Peril Comics 19 did not just continue the story; it redefined it. Plot Synopsis: "Eyes of the Serpent God" Subtitled "Eyes of the Serpent God," Issue #19 opens not in the temple, but in a flashback to Paula’s college days at Arkham University (a subtle nod to Lovecraftian horror). We learn that a previous archaeological dig involving her mentor, Professor Armitage, unleashed a dormant entity. The A-Plot: The glowing idol in the temple is revealed to be the "Obsidian Heart of Quetzalcoatl." Unlike the standard cursed artifact trope, this heart does not kill—it swaps consciousnesses. The "Collector" (whose real name is revealed here as Elias Vane) has been chasing the heart not for wealth, but to transfer his dying spirit into Paula’s youthful, healthy body. The B-Plot: Paula’s sidekick, the tech-genius Lenny Wong, is stuck outside the temple, trying to hack a pre-Columbian locking mechanism while fending off giant spiders awakened by the collapsing rubble. What makes Paula Peril Comics 19 unique is its psychological depth. For six pages, Paula is mentally trapped inside the idol while Elias Vane pilots her body. This allows the artist to play with a "dark Paula"—a version of the hero who smirks cruelly and uses her martial arts against Lenny. The internal battle sequence, drawn as an etheric duel between a red spirit (Paula) and a grey spirit (Vane), is widely considered the best sequential art of the series' run. The Climax and Twist Without spoiling every beat for those hunting down a copy, the climax involves Paula realizing that Vane cannot survive in her body if her adrenaline spikes past a certain threshold. She purposely triggers the temple’s final collapse, forcing Vane to retreat back to his decaying original form. The temple sinks into a sinkhole, seemingly taking the Obsidian Heart with it. But the final page of Paula Peril Comics 19 delivers a twist that left fans reeling. Back in her New York apartment, Paula looks into her bathroom mirror. Her reflection smiles—but her reflection has Elias Vane’s eyes. The final caption reads: "He got what he wanted. He just didn't get all of it." This ending implied that a fragment of Vane’s consciousness now lives within Paula, setting up a long-running "Jekyll and Hyde" subplot for the next twelve issues. Artistic Significance: The Dave A. Pinnacle By Issue #19, artist Dave A. had fully matured beyond his earlier, cartoonish style. This issue is often cited by independent comic historians as a textbook example of "atmospheric pulp."
Inking: The use of heavy cross-hatching in the temple scenes creates a claustrophobic dread. Color Palette: The issue uses a limited palette—primarily sepia, deep green, and blood red. This was a risky choice for the early 90s, which favored neon colors, but it paid off in mood. Action Choreography: The fight between "Vane-Paula" and Lenny is notable for its realistic jiu-jitsu moves, sourced by the artist from martial arts magazines of the era.
Rarity and Collector's Value Why is Paula Peril Comics 19 specifically so sought after? Several factors contribute to its high secondary market price:
Low Print Run: By the time Issue #19 rolled around, the indie bubble of the early 90s was bursting. Publisher "Adventure Comics Press" only printed 3,500 copies—half the run of Issue #15. The "Variant Cover" Fiasco: Two covers exist for Issue #19. The standard cover (Paula holding the idol) and a rare "mail-away" variant (a black-and-white sketch cover of the spirit duel). Only 500 sketch variants exist, making it a grail item. A CGC 9.8 copy of the variant sold for $1,200 in a 2023 Heritage Auction. No Digital Reprint: As of 2025, Paula Peril Comics 19 has never been officially scanned or released on digital platforms (ComiXology et al.) due to a rights dispute between the writer and the inker’s estate. The only way to read the true story is to own the physical floppy. Paula Peril Comics 19
How to Find Paula Peril Comics 19 Today Given its rarity, finding a raw (un-graded) copy is a treasure hunt. Here are tips for collectors:
Check Independent Conventions: Major cons like SDCC or NYCC rarely have it. You need smaller regional shows in the Midwest or South, where indie comics from the 90s often linger in $1 bins waiting to be discovered. eBay Alerts: Set an alert for "Paula Peril 19" with the "Newly Listed" filter. Because it is obscure, sellers sometimes list it as a lot with no photo. Look for lots that include Adventure Comics Press titles. Facebook Collector Groups: The "Paula Peril Pulp Society" group has 3,000 members. Members sometimes sell duplicates at fair market value (currently around $80-$150 for a standard copy in VF condition).
Legacy: Why This Issue Still Matters Paula Peril Comics 19 is more than a comic book; it is a time capsule of independent storytelling. At a time when Marvel and DC were dominated by chromium covers and muscle-bound anti-heroes, Paula Peril was telling smart, character-driven horror-adventure with a female lead who was both vulnerable and ferocious. The twist ending of Issue #19 directly influenced later independent titles like Rachel Rising and Lumberjanes . It proved that a small press book could handle psychological horror as deftly as any mainstream title. For the modern reader, seeking out Issue #19 is an act of archaeological discovery—much like the character herself. It is a rewarding, challenging, and visually stunning read that reminds us why we love the medium of comics. Final Verdict: If you see a copy of Paula Peril Comics 19 in a dollar bin, buy it immediately. If you see it for under $50, consider it a steal. And if you own the sketch variant? You are holding a piece of indie comic legend. Happy hunting, adventurers. Uncovering the Mystery: A Deep Dive into Paula
Paula Peril " (Paula Perillo) is a courageous investigative reporter for the Daily Gazette in Big City, known for getting the story regardless of the danger. The comic series, created by James Watson, follows her adventures as she battles mobsters, supernatural threats, and her professional rival, Veronica Vilancourt. While there isn't a single issue officially labeled as "Comics 19," the number 19 is often associated with the series in terms of anthology page counts and specific film runtimes . Common References to "19" in Paula Peril The Paula Peril Collection (2006–2012): This significant volume is a 196-page reprint of the classic issues 1–6, featuring her earliest adventures and short stories from the Paula Peril Anthology . Film Duration: One of the most popular short films in the franchise, Paula Peril: Mystery of the Crystal Falcon (2009), has a runtime of approximately 19 minutes . Core Series Guide The series is typically categorized by major story arcs and graphic novels rather than a continuous long-running issue number. Description Mystery of the Haunted Hotel A 48-page graphic novel where Paula investigates kidnapping and secrets at the Grand Hotel's gala re-opening. The Secret Temple Saga A multi-part storyline (beginning around issue #10) involving the Serpent Cult and a mysterious character named Memnon. Prison Break Payback A comic sequel to the Case of the Jade Eye film, following Paula as she is pursued by escaped convicts she helped convict. Curse of the Golden Dragon Often cited as the origin story for Paula, detailing her early drive to uncover corruption. Recent & Upcoming Releases The Adventures of Paula Peril: COMICS
The Paula Peril comic series, created by James Watson and published by Atlantis Studios, is structured around graphic novels rather than standard issue numbering. Recent projects include "Jewel of the Undead" and "Prison Break Payback," with content available through the official Paula Peril Adventures website .
Paula Peril Comics 19 represents a significant milestone in the long-running Paula Peril comic book series , continuing the high-stakes investigative adventures of its titular heroine, Paula "Peril" Perillo. Created by James Watson and published by Atlantis Studios , this series has evolved from a black-and-white indie sensation into a vibrant, full-color pulp adventure franchise. The Legacy of Paula "Peril" Perillo Inspired by the 1914 silent film serial The Perils of Pauline , the series centers on an intrepid reporter for the Daily Gazette in Big City. Paula is known for her relentless pursuit of justice, often finding herself entangled in the web of organized crime, corrupt officials, and occasionally supernatural forces. The character is traditionally accompanied by her loyal photographer partner, Jimmy Smith , and often faces opposition from her rival at the newspaper, Veronica Vilancourt . Core Themes and Artistic Style The series is celebrated for its modern take on classic pulp tropes. Key elements often found in issues like #19 include: The Adventures of Paula Peril: COMICS For collectors and fans, one specific issue stands
Paula Peril Comics #19 , titled " Double-Cross ," is a significant entry in the investigative reporter's comic book history, primarily featured within the Paula Peril Anthology and various story collections . Feature Details: "Double-Cross" Original Publication : This story is one of the first short stories published in the Paula Peril Anthology #1 . Artistic Team : The original artwork was created by Wendell Cavalcanti . Availability : It is included in the Paula Peril Collection 2006–2012 , a 196-page compilation that includes various early adventures. Narrative Focus : Like many entries in the series, the story features ace reporter Paula Perillo investigating corruption and crime in Big City, often leading to suspenseful "cliffhanger" style perils. Series Background The Paula Peril series is produced by Atlantis Studios and follows a "wholesome pulp" investigative reporter inspired by classic characters like Nancy Drew or Brenda Starr, but with a modern edge. Paula Peril: Comics - Facebook
While there is no single standalone comic titled strictly Paula Peril Comics 19 , this usually refers to the 19th installment in the long-running Paula Peril comic series or a specific story found in the anthologies. Based on the series' timeline, recent major releases near this number include Prison Break Payback (released in 2025) and Peril in the Bayou Here are a few options for a "good post" depending on your goal: Option 1: The "Hype" Post (General Series) "Another day, another death trap! 💥 reporter Paula ‘Peril’ Perillo is back at it in her latest investigation. From mobsters to ancient cults, there’s no story she won’t risk her life for. Catch the latest installment of the world’s most adventurous reporter at Paula Peril Adventures ! #PaulaPeril #IndieComics #Adventure" Option 2: The Plot-Focused Post (Peril in the Bayou) "Paula’s investigation into a Deep South drug ring has her in hot water! 🐊 In ' Peril in the Bayou ,' the questions are getting dangerous and the criminals are getting desperate. Will Paula escape the trap and get her front-page scoop? 📰 Grab the full-color 32-page adventure now! #ComicRelease #Mystery #PerilInTheBayou" Option 3: The "Retro/Nostalgia" Post "If you miss the classic cliffhangers of silent film serials, Paula Peril is your girl! 🕵️♀️ Modern mystery meets old-school peril. Whether it’s the 'Serpent Cult' or the 'Mystery of the Haunted Hotel,' the action never stops. Check out the latest issues and graphic novels today! 💥 #PulpFiction #ActionHeroine #PaulaPeril" Quick Series Facts Inspired by the live-action films featuring Valerie Perez as Paula Perillo. Characters: Includes photographer partner Jimmy Smith Slim Jackson , and the treacherous rival Veronica Vilancourt Available as full-color digital downloads and limited edition print volumes. The Adventures of Paula Peril: COMICS