100 Bullets: The US of Anger #1

Released in 2004, The US of Anger served as a self-contained story arc within the broader 100 Bullets noir crime series published by Vertigo. The narrative explores the complex, often dark intersection of American political tension and the series' central premise involving Agent Graves and his untraceable attache cases. It was conceived as a way to expand the philosophical depth of Brian Azzarello's gritty underworld while maintaining the thematic consistency of the original long-running run.

The distinctive aesthetic of this issue is defined by the work of artist Eduardo Risso, whose high-contrast, expressionistic style became the visual hallmark of the franchise. Risso’s collaboration with colorist Grant Goleash emphasized the heavy shadows and stark lighting synonymous with neo-noir graphic novels. Upon release, the issue was well-received for its ability to deliver a punchy, atmospheric standalone chapter that resonated with both long-time readers and newcomers to the series’ morally ambiguous landscape.