Writer: James Tynion IV
Artist: Martin Simmonds
Letterer: Rus Wooton
Designer: Jillian Crab
Editor: Alex Antone
Thanks to Image and Skybound for the review copy!
A bold and refreshing reimagining of one of the most revered and classical horror stories ever created. horror maestro James Tynion IV and acclaimed artist Martin Simmonds reunite for a Dracula mini-series that’s sure to add even more prestige and fans to its long history.
There have been a plethora of attempts at this source material over the years. Whether it be comics, movies, books, tv shows, games, etc. It’s hard to come up with something fresh and inventive. Well, leave that to Tynion and Simmonds who have found a way to do just that! Together they have breathed new life into this tale of woe with carefully structured dialogue and very unsettling and disturbing imagery.
Tynion has leaned into the psychological aspects of this story initially as is expected with the material presented. The first issue is paced methodically and carefully enough to build the backstory and deliver some very tense and disturbing scenes, many of them between Mr. Renfield and the doctor. We start to see John’s fascination with Renfield even as he is warned by his future father in law. We also get a good look at the innocent but curious Mina as she converses with Lucy also about Renfield and shows her somewhat rebellious side. Simmonds’ art is just breathtaking with its vivid colors and his trademark frenetic style. Renfield is just plain creepy. Visually, this might be the most disturbing version of Renfield I have seen. The tones and shades are a spectacle to behold for the eyes alone. I love the reds and blacks that are strewn across each panel like a tapestry of blood and lingering blackness. We’re truly witnessing greatness here. A master at work! These two gentlemen have created a masterpiece with this first issue and I cannot wait to read and digest the next issue. It couldn’t have landed at a better time and you would be hard-pressed to find a better comic book than this to add to your pull list this week! Sink your fangs into this and let the words and imagery slowly drip into your mind. You won’t be disappointed!
My review – 10/10 Superb!!
Universal Monsters: Dracula #2 is now available.
Check out the interview our own Editor-In-Chief did with James and Martin about the title here:
Are you going to pick up the comic? Feel free to leave a comment below or chat with us on Twitter at @TheConCollectve!
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