Comics Review: "BLACULA: Return of the King" Revives, Saves, and Improves a Classic

BLACULA: RETURN OF THE KING

ZOMBIE LOVE STUDIOS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Scott Hampton

COLORS: Jason Shawn Alexander

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander

ISBN: 978-1-958509-00-5; paperback (January 31, 2023)

128pp, Colors, 19.99 U.S., $26.50 CAN

Rated “T+ / Teen Plus” or “16 years and up”

Blacula: Return of the King is a full-color, original graphic novel (comic book) that is based on Blacula, a 1972 vampire horror and Black exploitation film.  Published by Zombie Love Studios, Blacula: Return of the King is written by Rodney Barnes; drawn and colored by Jason Shawn Alexander (with some contributions from artist Scott Hampton); and lettered by Marshall Dillon.  Barnes and Alexander are the creators of the dark fantasy and vampire horror comic book, Killadelphia (Image Comics).

Blacula the film starred renowned African-American actor, William Marshall.  He played the film's title role, an 18th-century African prince named Mamuwalde.  In the year 1780, after a dispute, Count Dracula punishes Mamuwalde by turning him into a vampire and cursing him with the name “Blacula.”  Dracula seals Mamuwalde in a coffin that he hides deep in a crypt in his castle in Transylvania.  Blacula reemerges in the United States in 1972 where he pursues a human woman in what turns out to be a doomed romance.

Blacula: Return of the King opens in modern Los Angeles.  Tina Thomas, a young African-American reporter, writes for “Dark Knights,” a blog that “chronicles all things unnatural, uneasy, and undead in the greater Los Angeles area.”  For the past six months, people have been disappearing, and the word on the street and rumors from the shadows insist that the legendary vampire that haunted Los Angeles in the early 1970s has returned to kill.  That's right; Blacula's back.

During her reporting, Tina meets Kross, a young Black man whose family has been plagued by the curse of Blacula since his first appearance.  Kross leads a group of children, a band of “Lost Boys,” if you will, and all have also been hurt by the plague of undead that follows Blacula's blood lust.  Kross and his boys are determined to hunt and to kill Blacula, and before long, Tina finds herself joining them.

Blacula is also on a mission – his own kind of hunt.  He is searching for the one who forever changed his life centuries ago and cursed him with the mocking name, “Blacula.”  His enemy's name is Count Dracula, and that's right.  Dracula's back, too.

THE LOWDOWN:  I want and need to convince you, dear readers, to read Blacula: Return of the King.  It may be the most inventive and artistically ambitious graphic novel about a vampire since Jon J. Muth's Dracula: A Symphony in Moonlight and Nightmares, which was originally published by Marvel Comics in 1986.

The art and coloring by Jason Shawn Alexander is at times regal and elegant, as if hinting at what Prince Mamuwalde once was.  At other times, it is a blustery and frantic, desperate and stormy, and impressionistic and insane.  It is in these moments that the storytelling reminds reader of the backdrop to the horrific melodrama.  The victims of both Blacula and Dracula, as well as their undead acolytes, are the lower classes, the poor, and those living on the edge of an already frayed society.

That is why what writer Rodney Barnes offers is a true sequel to the 1972 film.  Blacula the movie was a very “Black” film, and Blacula: Return of the King is a very Black comic book.  Blacula, Tina Thomas, and Kross and his lost boys are all living the legacy of slavery and bondage, which is suffering and degradation.  In a way, the characters are living the best that they can, but they are cursed by history, both national and personal.  Blacula may be a monster, but he kills for food, a fate forced on him.  It is like fate of the young African-Americans characters here, who live in a gloomy world of abandoned and ignored neighborhoods.

Barnes and Alexander have made in Blacula: Return of the King a vampire story that is an amazing layered work – literal, metaphorical, and allegorical horror.  It is a sequel that honors the original and advances the story forward in way that is faithful in spirit and in potential.  And as a horror comic book, it is a damn fun read.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Blacula, of Dracula, and of great vampire fiction will want to read Blacula: Return of the King.

[This issue contains an introduction, “Blacula and Me” by Rodney Barnes.  It also includes “Prince Mamuwalde Lives!: Resurrecting Blacula,” written by Stephen R. Bissette and edited by John Jennings.]

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Comics Review: "VAMPIRELLA Mindwarp #4" - Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

VAMPIRELLA MINDWARP VOLUME 1 #4

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Jeff Parker

ART: Benjamin Dewey

COLORS: Dearbhla Kelly

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: Joseph Michael Linsner

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Rated Teen+

“They Find Out”

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

In 2010, Dynamite Entertainment obtained the character and has been publishing new Vampirella material since then.  The latest is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.  This new series is written by Jeff Parker; drawn by Benjamin Dewey; colored by Dearbhla Kelly; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.  The series follows a mad chase across time and space, as an aged sorceress tries to steal and inhabit Vampirella's body.

Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #4 (“They Find Out”) opens in 1969... because Baroness Liesel Gruzal attempted to possess Vampirella's body.  The result was that Vampirella and the Baroness have been projected back into their bodies in the past.  Now, the Baroness is in a castle in Bavaria doing great evil... Or is she really just enjoying her new life?

Meanwhile, Vampirella is headed to Bavaria on a train full of vampire hunters!  Her companions:  Ren, now in the body of Pendragon the Great (a popular magician of the 1930s and Vampirella's friend); Adam Van Helsing of those Van Helsings; and Ravashi, the young woman who is a mystic, know that Vampirella can get them out of this jam.  But how will she do it?

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #4, which is one of many Dynamite Vampirella comic books I have read.

Vampirella Mindwarp #1 surprised me, so I have been diligently following the series since.  Writer Jeff Parker has made sure that the following issues are living up to that great opening chapter with a series of twists and turns that are not only unexpected, but also endlessly delightful.  This issue's resolution to the vampire hunters dilemma I count among them.

The team of artist Benjamin Dewey and colorist Dearbhla Kelly is delivering an eye-popping pop-art confection.  They remind me of the husband-wife art team of Michael and Laura Allred in graphical style and storytelling substance.  Vampirella: Mindwarp is humorous, delightful, and mystical … and mind-warping – so to speak.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella comics will want to read Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Comics Review: "KILLADELPHIA #27" - F**k Him and John Wayne

KILLADELPHIA #27

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

LAYOUTS: Jason Shawn Alexander

PENCILS: Germán Erramouspe

INKS: Jason Shawn Alexander

COLORS: Lee Loughridge

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Ben Templesmith

32pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (January 2023)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“There's No Place Like Home” Part III: “When God Turns Away”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander.  Published by Image Comics, it centers on a conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia.  The series is currently written by Barnes and drawn by Alexander and Germán Erramouspe.  Colorist Lee Loughridge and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and a ragtag team fighting the vampire invasion of Philadelphia.  Among them are a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), werewolves, a witch, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”).  But their current adversary is an infamous rebel leader turned monster hunter and his army of killers.

As Killadelphia #27 (“When God Turns Away”) opens, Anasi the Spider-God is contemplating his place and the place of humans in all things reality.  War and death and gods occupy his mind, and now, he must return to the streets of Hell for a meeting with an entity that does not seem bothered by deep thoughts.

Meanwhile, former President George Washington – the undead, vampire version of him – and his vampire army are put on the defensive as they fight for survival against Toussaint Louverture and his Haitian guardians.  Will the Founding Father and his boys be able to turn the tide, or will heavy losses and insurmountable odds seal their fate as another American myth bites the dust.

THE LOWDOWN:  We are at the middle point of Killadelphia's fifth story arc, “There's No Place Like Home.”  Before this arc debuted, creators Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander warned readers that they were not prepared for what was coming in the arc – which has proven to be true, very true.

The first two issues of this arc caused me sadness with their shocking endings.  This time, however, writer Rodney Barnes made me happy.  His glorious scripts are in tune with the current state of the good ol' U.S. of A.  This nation must reckon with its racist and genocidal past, and it is too late for that racial reckoning to go down gently.  At times, metaphorical and allegorical, Killadelphia is perhaps a modern Book of Revelation – with some cool vampire action driving the revelation.

New pencil artist Germán Erramouspe and colorist Lee Loughridge have joined artist Jason Shawn Alexander for this arc.  The result is a fiery cataclysm of comic book storytelling that is seemingly not sparing sacred cows.  Holding this comic book might cause our hands and forearms to catch fire before it is finished, dear readers.

Sometimes, it is okay not to be prepared for the shocks that a creative team is delivering.  Issue #27 has left me pleased.  Come share this pleasure with me.

NOTE: Killadelphia #27 is also available in a “Noir Edition,” featuring black-and-white line art interiors.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Comics Review: "NIGHT CLUB #2" - If the Teen Titans Were Teen Vampires...

NIGHT CLUB #2 (OF 6)

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Mark Millar

ART: Juanan Ramírez

COLORS: Fabiana Mascolo

LETTERS: Clem Robins

COVER: Juanan Ramírez with Fabiana Mascolo

EDITORIAL: Sarah Unwin

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Juanan Ramírez

28pp, Color, $1.99 U.S. (January 2023)

Rated M / Mature

Night Club created by Mark Millar at Netflix

Night Club is a new six-issue miniseries written and created by Mark Millar and drawn by Juanan Ramírez.  An Image Comics publication and a Netflix production, Night Club focuses on a teen boy who is bitten by a vampire and decides to make the best of his new condition.  Colorist Fabiana Mascolo and letterer Clem Robins complete Night Club's creative team.

Night Club introduces 17-year-old Danny Garcia, who had ambitions to gain fame and fortune as a YouTube star with his friends, DJ Sam Huxley and Amy Chen.  Then, after a terrible accident, a vampire bites him, and his life goes awry.  Instead of living like a stereotypical vampire, Danny decides to live “la vida loca” of a superhero.

As Night Club #2 opens, Danny has just revealed to Sam and Amy that he is a vampire and a vampire who wants to be a superhero.  Plus, he wants them to be a part of his new life!  If they let Danny bite them, they can join him in the superhero team he is forming.  There are wrestling masks to buy and scores to settle, but do Danny and his new jack superheroes really understand what they are and what new limitations they have?

THE LOWDOWN:  Netflix/Millarworld sends me PDF review copies of the their comic books.  Thus, I was lucky enough to get a review copy of the first two issues of Night Club.

In Night Club, writer Mark Millar has created a modern and edgier teen superhero comic book in the spirit of the original Teen Titans of writer Bob Haney and artists Bruno Premiani and Nick Cardy.  Robin, Kid Flash, Aqualad, and then, Wonder Girl were always having such delightful adventures saving the day from bad guys and solving mysteries that involved unusual settings and strange people and beings.

In Night Club, the heroes are the strange and unusual beings, but they are still having fun.  And this fun is infections.  Millar has the uncanny touch of making me feel like I want to join Danny and friends.  Even if you are not inclined to be a vampire, dear readers, Millar makes you want to see his young character be bad – really bad – the kind of bad that is just so fun to watch.

Artist Juanan Ramírez continues to bring Millar's story to life in a graphical storytelling that has enough energy to light up a city.  Ramirez's art is both stylish and gritty and both explosive and smooth.  Fabiana Mascolo's colors make the story pop off the page.  It is as if the story is always throwing confetti in my face.  Even Clem Robins' lettering jumps like a musical score.

Night Club feels infectious and addictive, and the last page of each first two issues makes me jittery because I feel as if the publisher is cutting off the drug that causes my vampire superhero high.  I am recommending Night Club #2 as I did with the first issue.  Drink deeply of its fun.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Mark Millar and of vampire comic books will want to be bitten by Night Club.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Comics Review: "SAVAGE TALES: Winter Special One-Shot" Has Four Hot Stories

SAVAGE TALES: WINTER SPECIAL ONE-SHOT

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Scott Bryan Wilson; David Avallone

ART: Max Fuchs; Eman Casallos; Mariano Benitez Chapo; Hamish Munro-Cook

COLORS: Gab Contreras; Adriano Augusto; Adrian Woolnough; Jorge Sutil

LETTERS: Taylor Esposito

COVER: Arthur Suydam

32pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Rated Teen+

Savage Tales is the title of an anthology comic book series that has been used by both Dynamite Entertainment and Marvel Comics (twice).  Dynamite recently brought its version back as a series of one-shot comic books.

Savage Tales Winter Special One-Shot contains four short comics stories.  There is a Draculina story, “Juicing with the Devil,” which is written by Scott Bryan Wilson; drawn by Max Fuchs; and colored by Gab Contreras.  Next up is a John Carter & Dejah Thoris story, “A Honeymoon on Mars,” which is written by David Avallone; drawn by Emas Casallos; and colored by Adriano Augusto.  Third is Vampirella story, “Crypt Junkies,” which is written by Wilson; drawn by Mariano Benitez Chapo; and colored by Adrian Woolnough.  Last is a Captain Gullivar Jones story, “His War Chapter II,” which is written by Avallone; drawn by Hamish Munro-Cook; and colored by Jorge Sutil.

All four stories are lettered by Taylor Esposito.  I am reviewing each story separately.

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, the marketing department at Dynamite Entertainment has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Savage Tales Winter Special One-Shot, which is the second time I have read a Dynamite Savage Tales comic book.

Draculina in “Juicing with the Devil” by Scott Bryan Wilson, Max Fuchs, and Gab Contreras:

Story:  A skinny young man is transformed from weakling to muscular strongman – by a demon.  The cost for this is that the transformed human must join his demon benefactor in a wrestling match against Draculina...

My thoughts:  This is a delightful story, very well drawn and colored.  The writer perfectly captures both the desperation and subsequent self-delusion of a guy who finally gets everything he thought he wanted and more.

John Carter & Dejah Thoris in “A Honeymoon on Mars,” by David Avallone, Emas Casallos, and Adriano Augusto:

Story:  An aerial outing sends John and Dejah on a rescue mission, but the result is the revelation of John Carter's savage past – one that is longer than he expected.

My thoughts:  This story is beautifully drawn by Emas Casallos and colored by Adriano Augusto in a way that remind me of stories from issues of old Heavy Metal and Epic Magazine.  Writer David Avallone deftly reconciles or perhaps, redeems John Carter of some of his past military affiliations, with emphasis on one in particular.

Vampirella in “Crypt Junkies” by Wilson, Mariano Benitez Chapo, and Adrian Woolnough:

Story:  Trash TV junkie, Vampirella, has a chance to appear on her favorite reality television series, “Crypt Junkies.”  The show basically breaks into sealed graves, tombs, crypts, etc. in order to “see the wonders inside.”  But maybe no one should be opening the "Grave of Omuo."

My thoughts:  This is another very well drawn story, and it really conveys the power and tragedy of writer Scott Bryan Wilson's clever tale.  I'd call “Crypt Junkies” one of the few original comic book stories that genuinely mixes the styles of Robert E. Howard and H.P. Lovecraft.

Captain Gullivar Jones in “His War Chapter II” by Avallone, Hamish Munro-Cook, and Jorge Sutil:

Story:  The story opens in France, September 1918.  The Earth man, Gullivar Jones, who once adventured on Mars, is now returned to Earth and trapped in the muck and mire of World War I.  He can wish himself away from this and return to Mars, but now, how is life on Mars?

My thoughts:  Gullivar Jones is the science fiction military man created by Edwin Lester Arnold.  Jones made one literary appearance in the 1905 novel, Lieut, Gullivar Jones: His Vacation.  Now, writer David Avallone is giving him new life in the medium of comics.  I think what Avallone is doing is creating a sequel to a character that was short-lived, or he is, at least, giving new life to an abandoned character.  In two chapters, he and Munro-Cook have breathed new life into Captain Gullivar Jones in a way that is true to old-timey science fiction and is also an intriguing reboot.  What makes me anticipate more of this is that the possibilities are endless … or at least Avallone and Munro-Cook think so.

Wow.  This issue is full of excellent stories, all well lettered by award-winning letterer, Taylor Esposito.  If I have to reluctantly pick a favorite comics story from Savage Tales Winter Special One-Shot, I will have to make a difficult choice.  I think I will go with “Crypt Junkies,” if only for the fact that it feels like it has potential to be a media franchise, but my eye is also on Gullivar Jones.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of anthology comic books will want to read Savage Tales: Winter Special One-Shot.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Comics Review: "KILLADELPHIA #26" - Let Them Blow Ya Mind

KILLADELPHIA #26

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

LAYOUTS: Jason Shawn Alexander

PENCILS: Germán Erramouspe

INKS: Jason Shawn Alexander

COLORS: Lee Loughridge

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Jason Shawn Alexander (Spawn variant); Chris Visions

32pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“There's No Place Like Home” Part II: “No Woman, No Cry”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander.  Published by Image Comics, it centers on a conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia.  The series is currently written by Barnes and drawn by Alexander and Germán Erramouspe.  Colorist Lee Loughridge and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., a vampire!  Father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), werewolves, a witch, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly.  Their adversary is a former First Lady, the vampire Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #26 (“No Woman, No Cry”) opens, Anasi the Spider-God parlays with gods from many pantheons.  How many can he convince that one of the four great demon lords, Corson, is preparing to conquer all the realms?  Can he convince them of Corson's plot?  Will they even give a f**k?

At the same time, Abigail Adams, who started the vampire fire, remembers her past:  her childhood, how she meet John Adams, and how they became vampires.  Meanwhile, after having killed a Sangster, General Toussaint Louverture and his Haitian army of monsters continue to slay vampires.  And the General has his sights on another big prize … in the name of God, of course.

THE LOWDOWN:  We are at the second chapter of Killadelphia's fifth story arc, “There's No Place Like Home.”  Before this arc debuted, creators Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander warned readers that they were not prepared for what was coming in the arc.

I doubted.  I mean I didn't doubt as hard as the Apostle Thomas.  However, I believed that because I had been reading Killadelphia from the beginning, I had seen so much...  So what could they possibly do that I would not expect?  What could I see?

New pencil artist Germán Erramouspe and colorist Lee Loughridge have joined a creative team that continues to produces the “world's greatest vampire comics magazine.”  Long time readers are being rewarded for sticking around, but I can say that those who have not yet joined should get started now so that they can eventually get current.  Killadelphia just slays me.

So, yes, I have seen the previously unseen.  I am seeing things … for which I was not prepared, as I was warned.  I believe, and I am still not prepared for what is to come.

NOTE: Killadelphia #26 is also available in a “Noir Edition,” featuring black-and-white line art interiors.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes

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Comics Review: Artist Benjamin Dewey Slays in "VAMPIRELLA Mindwarp #3"

VAMPIRELLA MINDWARP VOLUME 1 #3

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Jeff Parker

ART: Benjamin Dewey

COLORS: Dearbhla Kelly

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: Joseph Michael Linsner

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (November 2022)

Rated Teen+

“The Feast”

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

In 2010, Dynamite Entertainment obtained the character and has been publishing new Vampirella material since then.  The latest is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.  This new series is written by Jeff Parker; drawn by Benjamin Dewey; colored by Dearbhla Kelly; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.  The series follows a mad chase across time and space, as an aged sorceress tries to steal and inhabit Vampirella's body.

Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #3 (“The Feast”) opens in 1969... because Baroness Liesel Gruzal attempted to possess Vampirella's body.  The result was that Vampirella and the Baroness have been projected back into their bodies in the past.  Now, Vampirella finds herself in the middle of a battle with Baron Vadim Gruzal, the Baroness' husband.  Strange battles can yield strange bedfellows.

But what is the Baroness really up to?  Vampirella and Ren, now in the body of Pendragon the Great, a popular magician of the 1930s and Vampirella's friend, have new allies: Adam Van Helsing and Ravashi, the young woman who is a mystic.  They have tracked the Baroness to Bavaria, but can they get to her before Vampirella's enemies get to them?

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #3, which is one of many Dynamite Vampirella comic books I have read.

Vampirella Mindwarp #1 surprised me.  Writer Jeff Parker has made sure that the following issues are living up to that great opening chapter.  Vampirella works best when she is surrounded by a stellar cast of supporting characters, and Parker has created a sterling group:  the good, the bad, and the Vampirella.  They make this story worth following back in time.

Benjamin Dewey's art is simply fantastic.  The plot, the settings, the characters, the moods, the atmosphere:  Dewey brings it all to life with a pop art sensibility that makes Mindwarp more than just another Vampirella comic book.  His storytelling makes Vampirella: Mindwarp one of the best fantasy comic book series around – humorous, delightful, and mystical.  Dearbhla Kelly's colors continue to make the pop art pop off the page, and Jeff Eckleberry's letters capture the crazy rhythm of this story.

Vampirella: Mindwarp #3 is a really good third issue, and it has an ending that will make me return for more.  You should, also, dear readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella comics will want to read Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Comics Review: "NIGHT CLUB #1" - Sink Your Fangs Into This

NIGHT CLUB #1 (OF 6)
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Mark Millar
ART: Juanan Ramírez
COLORS: Fabiana Mascolo
LETTERS: Clem Robins
COVER: Juanan Ramírez with Giovanna Niro
EDITORIAL: Sarah Unwin
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Greg Capullo with Giovanna Niro; Matteo Scalera with Giovanna Niro
28pp, Color, $1.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Rated M / Mature

Night Club created by Mark Millar at Netflix

Night Club is a new six-issue miniseries written and created by Mark Millar and drawn by Juanan Ramírez.  An Image Comics publication and a Netflix production, Night Club focuses on a teen boy who is bitten by a vampire and decides to make the best of his new condition.  Colorist Fabiana Mascolo and letterer Clem Robins complete Night Club's creative team.

Night Club #1 introduces 17-year-old Danny Garcia.  He has roped his pals, DJ Sam Huxley and Amy Chen, into his scheme to gain fame and fortune as a YouTube star.  Things go awry and a vampire bites him.  So what should Danny do?  Should he live like a stereotypical vampire?  Or should he live crazy, sexy, cool like he has always wanted?

THE LOWDOWN:  Netflix/Millarworld sends me PDF review copies of the their comic books.  Thus, I was lucky enough to get a review copy of Night Club #1.

For the past three years, Image Comics has been publishing its best vampire comic book series, Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's Killadelphia.  Now, it appears that Image's may be offering its best vampire comic book miniseries, which I assume will be Night Club.  Mark Millar does what he always does, present a first issue that offers the perfect balance of character introduction, world building, and teasing of what is to come.  I find that I want to be in this world, and I really, really want to know more about it.

Juanan Ramírez's art brings Millar's story to life as a graphical narrative that zips across the pages and crackles with possibilities.  I also like how Ramírez's art always seems to be in the face of the characters, a move which made me want to invest in them.  The colors by Fabiana Mascolo are great, especially the scenes that take place at night and in the dark.  The coloring is another element that makes Night Club #1 stand out from other vampire comic books.  As usual, there is nothing like letterer Clem Robin's score – so to speak.

I'm recommending Night Club #1 because I know that the next issue is when the doors of the series really get blown open.  So you need to come into the club now.  It's a five-star type of place.

Also, to whomever designed that logo:  killer design, boo.  It recalls the spirit of Warren Publications and Hammer Productions.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Mark Millar and of vampire comic books will want read Night Club.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: "KILLADELPHIA #25" - Wherever He Laid His Hat...

KILLADELPHIA #25

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

LAYOUTS: Jason Shawn Alexander

PENCILS: Germán Erramouspe

INKS: Jason Shawn Alexander

COLORS: Lee Loughridge

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: HC Anderson

28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (November 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“There's No Place Like Home” Part I: “A Cold Place in Hell”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander.  Published by Image Comics, it centers on a conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia.  Colorist Lee Loughridge and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., a vampire!  Father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), werewolves, a witch, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly.  Their adversary is a former First Lady, the vampire Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #25 (“A Cold Place in Hell”) opens, Anasi the Spider-God parlays with Corson (the demon lord who raised some … Hell in Baltimore, Maryland in Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog).  Can Anasi save the world and therefore humanity, whose worship sustains many supernatural beings?  Does Corson give a damn?

Meanwhile,  General Toussaint Louverture and his Haitian army have been resurrected by the side of the light for one thing and one thing only: exterminate all vampires.  So what happens when one of our favorite vampires has a confrontation with him?

THE LOWDOWN:  We are at the first chapter of Killadelphia's fifth story arc, “There's No Place Like Home.”  According to the musings of creators Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander, we, the readers, are not prepared for what was coming.

Killadelphia #25 affirms that.  I can say of Barnes and Alexander what I say about Mark Millar and his collaborators:  they not only deliver superb comic books, but they also deliver twists and turns to challenge their readers' imaginations.  One can be cynical, or one can chose to believe that they love their readers.

New pencil artist Germán Erramouspe and colorist Lee Loughridge deliver a burning spectacle of  confrontations and rumination.  I am enjoying their new contributions, but I'm still in a daze because of this issue's sudden turn of events.  And, dear readers, this first chapter is a jumping-on point, so...

NOTE: Killadelphia #25 is also available in a “Noir Edition,” featuring black-and-white line art interiors.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

[This issue contains an afterword by Jason Shawn Alexander.]

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Review: "THE INVITATION" is the Movie Invite You Don't Want

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 70 of 2022 (No. 1882) by Leroy Douresseaux

The Invitation (2022)

Running time:  103 minutes (1 hour, 43 minutes)

MPA –  PG-13 for terror, violent content, some strong language, sexual content and partial nudity

DIRECTOR:  Jessica M. Thompson

WRITER:  Blair Butler

PRODUCER:  Emile Gladstone

CINEMATOGRAPHER:  Autumn Eakin (D.o.P.)  

EDITOR:  Tom Elkins

COMPOSER:  Dara Taylor

HORROR/MYSTERY/THRILLER

Starring:  Nathalie Emmanuel, Thomas Doherty, Sean Pertwee, Hugh Skinner, Carol Ann Crawford, Alana Boden, Stephanie Corneliussen, and Courtney Taylor

The Invitation is a 2022 supernatural horror, mystery,and suspense thriller from director Jessica M. Thompson.  The film focuses on a young woman who is swept off her feet by the chance of meeting members of her long-lost family, who are mysterious and odd.

The Invitation opens in New York City and introduces struggling artist, Evelyn “Evie” Jackson (Nathalie Emmanuel), who is still dealing with the recent death of her mother.  She and her best friend, Grace (Courtney Taylor), make a living freelancing for a catering business.  Evie takes a DNA test from an online company called “UnlockYourPast” and discovers that she has relatives in England.  She meets one of those alleged distant English cousins, Oliver L. Alexander (Hugh Skinner) of London.  Oliver tells Evie that she is related to him via her great-grandmother, Emmaline, who created quite a scandal decades ago.  He also invites her to an upcoming family wedding in Whitney, Yorkshire, England.

Evie and Oliver eventually arrive at New Carfax Abbey where several connected families: the De Villes, the Billingtons, the Klopstocks, and the Alexanders, have gathered for the nuptials.  Evie meets many family members, including the alluring Walter De Ville (Thomas Doherty), who seems to be the focus of everyone's attention.  However, Evie does not meet the bride and groom.  Before long, Evie discovers that not only is New Carfax a strange place, but also that the gathered family members are both eccentric and full of mystery.  It is a mystery that Evie must solve before she falls prey to the four families' darkest secrets.

The Invitation is a vampire movie and not a very good one.  The main reason is the vampire characters.  The film is inspired by author Bram Stoker's 1987 Gothic novel, Dracula.  Film vampires can be alluring and attractive, and they can often be the audience's favorite characters, although they are monsters and are often film villains.  The Invitation's vampires are not alluring and are mostly caricatures of the British upper class or assorted versions of Euro-trash.

The Invitation is not a very good horror movie simply because it is not scary.  Bumps in the night, shifty shadows, random yelps and screams, etc. are more annoying than chilling.  Evie is way too careless and clueless.  I understand that there are plenty of people in the real world who are not wary, who don't understand that when things seem too good to be true, they usually are too good to be true.  In this movie, the extent of Evie's lack of common sense is simply too much; it's irritating.

Also, I don't think that it is a coincidence that Nathalie Emmanuel, the actress who plays Evie, really resembles American actress Meghan Markle.  You know Meghan, right?  She married into an old British family that has its share of conspiracies and family members who are snobs, crypto-racists, and monsters.

The last twenty minutes of The Invitation – before the credits – are actually quite good, but by then it is too late.  I get why the studio and filmmakers would try to hide the fact that this film involves vampires as deep into the running time as they could.  Vampire films generally under perform at the box office, even good ones, which The Invitation is not.  Honestly, the last few minutes of this film could be used as the starting point for an even better film.  I cannot recommend The Invitation, and I want to discourage you, dear readers, from watching it if you have to pay to do it.

3 of 10

C-

★½ out of 4 stars

Tuesday, November 16, 2022

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Comics Review: "VAMPIRELLA Mindwarp #2" is an Excellent Second Issue

VAMPIRELLA MINDWARP VOLUME 1 #2
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Jeff Parker
ART: Benjamin Dewey
COLORS: Dearbhla Kelly
LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry
EDITOR: Nate Cosby
COVER: Joseph Michael Linsner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2022)

Rated Teen+

“1969!”

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

In 2010, Dynamite Entertainment obtained the character and has been publishing new Vampirella material since then.  The latest is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.  This new series is written by Jeff Parker; drawn by Benjamin Dewey; colored by Dearbhla Kelly; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.  The series follows a mad chase across time and space, as an aged sorceress tries to steal and inhabit Vampirella's body.

Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #2 (1969!) opens in the wake of the Baroness Gruzal's attempt to possess Vampirella's body.  With the help of Ren Darton, who once worked for the baroness, Vampirella makes a bid to stop the transference, and that does two things.  First, in the present, it breaks “the Crown of Karu-Hardas of Sumeria,” the relic that the baroness was using to initiate the rite that would put her mind inside Vampirella's body.

Secondly, Vampirella's ploy transports her mind to into the body of Vampirella of 1969!  And Ren's mind is now in the body of an older Pendragon the Great, a popular magician of the 1930s and Vampirella's friend.  This particular year also marks the first meeting of Vampirella and Baroness Gruzal.  It is a deadlier time, and Baron Gruzal is still alive, as are demons with an obsessive taste for a particular vampire.

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #2, which is one of many Dynamite Vampirella comic books I have read.

Vampirella Mindwarp #1 surprised me.  I was really crazy about it, and I wondered if writer Jeff Parker (a writer whose work I like) could deliver a really good second issue.  He does, as he makes the most of Vampirella's sidekick, Ren Darton.  Ren adds some depth of character to the series and allows for Vampirella to be more free-wheeling.  Parker also offers an intriguing collection of occult villains and wackos and some spicy demons.

Benjamin Dewey's art is still pretty and his storytelling is clean, straight-forward and conveys the story in a dynamic manner.  Dearbhla Kelly's colors continue to make the art pop, and Jeff Eckleberry's letters capture the crazy rhythm of this story.

Vampirella: Mindwarp #2 is a good second issue, and it has an ending that will make me return for more.  You should, also, dear readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella comics will want to read Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: VAMPIRELLA VERSUS RED SONJA Volume 2 #1

VAMPIRELLA VERSUS RED SONJA VOLUME 2 #1

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Dan Abnett

ART: Alessandro Ranaldi

COLORS: Ellie Wright

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: Lucio Parrillo

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (November 2022)

Rated Teen+

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

Red Sonja is a fantasy (sword and sorcery) comic book character that debuted in Marvel Comics' Conan the Barbarian #23 (cover dated: February 1973).  Created by writer Roy Thomas and artist Barry Windsor-Smith, Red Sonja was loosely based on “Red Sonya of Rogatino,” a female character that appeared in the 1934 short story, “The Shadow of the Vulture,” written by Robert E. Howard (1906-1936), the creator of the character, Conan the Cimmerian.

Now, once again, American comics' two most Dynamite ho's are in a team-up comic book, Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2.  It is written by Dan Abnett; drawn by Alessandro Ranaldi; colored by Ellie Wright; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.  The new series finds Vampirella and Red Sonja involved with a cosmic collection of superheroes sworn to protect all known universes.

Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2 #1 opens in “Project HQ.”  These are the headquarters of the “The Project,”a cosmic collection of superheroes sworn to protect all known universes.  And Taja Iridessa Henson a.k.a. “Dyna Might” is the newest member.

Dyna Might discovers that her first day is perhaps the worst day ever for The Project.  Earth Plural World 6337 has been shut off from the other Plural Worlds.  Something terrible has attacked it, and that attack has stumped The Project's greatest minds.  But there is one quasi-member who may have the answers.  It's Vampirella of Plural World 2709, whom none of the other superheroes trust because they consider her to be a “daemon.”  Can Red Sonja of Plural World 0666 get something out of Vampirella?  And where does Dyna Might fit in this?

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2 #1, one of many, many Vampirella or Red Sonja comic books I have read.

Judging by this first issue, Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2 has potential.  First, it is written by Dan Abnett, a writer of inventive and imaginative comic books.  As expected, he has filled Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2 #1, interesting concepts if not equally interesting superheroes.  Outside of Vampirella, Red Sonja, and Dyna Might, the rest of these heroes are strictly Dullsville.  Honestly, I don't give a crap about them, but I hope that changes.

The art by Alessandro Ranaldi is stylistically uninspiring, but the storytelling is good.  Ellie Wright's coloring is muddy, and Jeff Eckleberry's lettering is over-the-top.  Comics are a graphical storytelling medium, and here, the graphics lack a spark.  I hope that changes because I think Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2 has the potential to explode.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella and/or Red Sonja will want to read Vampirella Versus Red Sonja Volume 2.

B

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics

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Comics Review: "VAMPIRELLA Mindwarp #1" - Let's Do the Mindwarp Again!

VAMPIRELLA MINDWARP VOLUME 1 #1
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Jeff Parker
ART: Benjamin Dewey
COLORS: Dearbhla Kelly
LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry
EDITOR: Nate Cosby
COVER: Joseph Michael Linsner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (September 2022)

Rated Teen+

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

In 2010, Dynamite Entertainment obtained the character and has been publishing new Vampirella material since then.  The latest is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.  This new series is written by Jeff Parker; drawn by Benjamin Dewey; colored by Dearbhla Kelly; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.  The series follows a mad chase across time and space, as an aged sorceress tries to steal and inhabit Vampirella's body.

Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #1 opens in New Orleans, Louisiana.  Vampirella is in a pitched battle … with a werewolf?!  And it's in the middle of the street.  Many people are witness to this astounding sight, but one watcher in particular is part of plot against Vampirella.  His name Ren Darton, and he has quite a story to tell and a strange place to take Vampirella.

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1 #1, which is one of many Dynamite Vampirella comic books I have read.

I usually enjoy Jeff Parker-written comic books.  I thoroughly enjoyed Future Quest, his twelve-issue, Hanna Barbera remix for DC Comics.  Still, I was surprised at how much I really like Vampirella: Mindwarp.  I have read many Vampirella first issues, but Mindwarp may have been the most fun I've had reading one of them.  Parker offers a confident Vampirella who is more like a trouble-shooter than vampire.  The villain, Baroness Gruzal, is delightfully evil and vile, and Ren make for a good sidekick type.  Plus, Vampirella's battle with the werewolf and the story behind the battle are gold.

Benjamin Dewey's art is pretty and his storytelling is clean, straight-forward and dynamic.  Dearbhla Kelly's colors make the art pop, and Jeff Eckleberry's letters make the story pop off the page.

Vampirella: Mindwarp #1 is freaking awesome.  I want you to read it, and I want to read more of the series – soon.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella comics will want to read Vampirella Mindwarp Volume 1.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: VAMPIRELLA Year One #2

VAMPIRELLA  YEAR ONE VOLUME 1 #2
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Christopher Priest
ART: Ergün Gündüz with Giovanni Timpano (prologue)
COLORS: Ergün Gündüz with Flavio Dispenza (prologue)
LETTERS: Willie Schubert
EDITOR: Matt Idelson
COVER: Collette Turner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (August 2022)

Rated Teen+

“The History of the World”

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

In 2010, Dynamite Entertainment obtained the character and has been publishing new Vampirella material since then.  In the wake of Vampirella Dracula Unholy comes a new series, Vampirella Year One Volume 1.  This new series is written by Christopher Priest; drawn by Ergun Gunduz; colored by Gunduz; and lettered by Willie Schubert.  Hunted seemingly by every natural and supernatural on Earth, Vampirella has taken refuge in an undisclosed location where she questions why she came to our world in the first place.

Vampirella Year One Volume 1 #2 (“The History of the World”) opens in a cave in Mount Sage, Tortola, British Virgin Islands.  There, Vampirella has found sanctuary with her friend/lover, LéGere.  Early in her pregnancy(!), she is recording her history for her unborn child, beginning with the story of preteen Vampirella.

Having fled the elite underground city of New Asema to hide from Lilith's enemies, a preteen Vampirella takes refuge on the surface world, which has been ravaged by a drought caused by her mother's machinations.  Taken in by a wealthy aristocrat, Vampirella learns compassion for Drakulon's underclass.  That leads to a comical petty theft that brings her into confrontation with her mother's mysterious Lieutenant.  He may expose the child's secret and ruin her one chance to escape her mother's influence.  Plus, the origins of the planet Drakulon and of the mysterious alternate reality Earth, “Arcadia,” are discussed.

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Year One Volume 1 #2.  It is one of many Vampirella comic books that have engaged my imagination this last year.

As with his previous Vampirella comic books, writer Christopher Priest offers lots of subplots and many characters.  So far, I have not warmed to Vampirella Year One, but this series may be exactly what Vampirella readers want.  It is by no means mediocre.  I am simply not crazy about it.

I still like the art in this issue, drawn by lead series artist, Ergün Gündüz, and by Giovanni Timpano, who draws the two-page prologues that lead each issue  There is enough Vampirella stuff in this second issue, as in the first, to bring regular bloodsuckers back...

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella comics will want to read Vampirella Year One Volume 1.

B

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: VAMPIRELLA: Year One #1

VAMPIRELLA  YEAR ONE VOLUME 1 #1
DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Christopher Priest
ART: Ergün Gündüz with Giovanni Timpano
COLORS: Ergün Gündüz with Flavio Dispenza
LETTERS: Willie Schubert
EDITOR: Matt Idelson
COVER: Collette Turner
32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (July 2022)

Rated Teen+

“Sanctuary”

Vampirella is a vampire and female superhero created by the late author and science fiction and horror expert, Forrest J Ackerman, and designed by comic book artist, Trina Robbins.  Vampirella first appeared in Vampirella #1 (Sept. 1969), the debut issue of a black and white horror comics magazine from Warren Publishing.  Writer-editor Archie Goodwin changed the character from a hostess of horror comics to a leading character in her own stories.

In 2010, Dynamite Entertainment obtained the character and has been publishing new Vampirella material since then.  In the wake of Vampirella Dracula Unholy comes a new series, Vampirella Year One Volume 1.  This new series is written by Christopher Priest; drawn by Ergun Gunduz; colored by Gunduz; and lettered by Willie Schubert.  Hunted seemingly by every natural and supernatural on Earth, Vampirella has taken refuge in an undisclosed location where she questions why she came to our world in the first place.

Vampirella Year One Volume 1 #1 (“Sanctuary”) opens in a cave in Mount Sage, Tortola, British Virgin Islands.  There, Vampirella has found sanctuary with her friend/lover, LéGere.  Early in her pregnancy(!), she is recording her history for her unborn child.

The story moves back approximately 60 years to her home planet of Drakulon, specifically the underground paradise, New Asema.  It is a paradise built for the elites by Vampirella's mother, Lilith, the Black Queen.  Blood drought, however, has long plagued the planet, and this shortage of blood has fomented rebellion.  Young Vampirella's life will never be the same.

THE LOWDOWN:  Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles.  One of them is Vampirella Year One Volume 1 #1.  It is one of many Vampirella comic books that have engaged my imagination this last year.

I have read writer Christopher Priest's previous Vampirella titles, such as Vampirella Dracula Unholy and Draculina.  Priest offers some nice intrigue in this first issue of Vampirella Year One, but as of now, I am not interested in the character's past.  Still, Priest, one of my favorite comic book writers, could change my mind.

I do like the art in this first issue, drawn by lead series artist, Ergün Gündüz, and by Giovanni Timpano, who drew the two-page prologue that leads this issue.  There is enough good stuff in this first issue to bring regular bloodsuckers back...

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Vampirella comics will want to read Vampirella Year One Volume 1.

B

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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Comics Review: "KILLADELPHIA #24": Biological Did Bother

KILLADELPHIA #24
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Germán Erramouspe
COLORS: Luis Nct
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Kelley Jones with Luis Nct; Jeff Lemire
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (August 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The End of All” Part VI: “Time to Die”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander.  Published by Image Comics, it centers on a conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., a vampire!  Father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), werewolves, a witch, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly.  Their adversary is a former First Lady, the vampire Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #24 (“Time to Die”) opens, the legendary vampire hunger, Toussaint Louverture, leads his forces into Philadelphia. Meanwhile, See Saw remembers the lessons he learned from the fate of his mailman father.  He is ready to fight.  So are the werewolf Zubiya and her pack, and their ally, Tituba the Stregherian.

George Washington, Founding Father and Vampire King, and his forces watch.  The Sangsters and the allies gather.  The war begins.

THE LOWDOWN:  We have reached the final chapter of Killadelphia's fourth story arc, “The End of All.”  It prepares the way for the next arc, but before it departs, it leaves us with bittersweet and just plain bitter moments.

As much as I totally enjoy the vampire and werewolf bloodshed of this wonderful comic book, I also like the contemplative side of Killadelphia.  Writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander consistently offer many side dramas, focusing on particular characters.  These vignettes illuminate themes or fill in details concerning current or coming story lines and subplots.

In Killadelphia #24, Barnes and Alexander reveal another side of Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw.”  This is the side that will carry See Saw into war, but the authors are never shy about sharing the bitter harvest that America has been for African-Americans for centuries.  There is no glance into Tevin's story that is free of horror.  It is as if Barnes and Alexander are telling us, “This may be dark fantasy, suckas, but this ain't escapism.”  For a moment, the authors made vampires seem less frightening than the adversaries Tevin's father faced.  This won't be the last time the threat of vampires pales before the real horrors of the United States of America...

Although this is the final chapter of the current story arc, it is a perfect time to enter Killadelphia.  It is always a perfect time to enter Killadelphia.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

[This issue contains an afterword by Rodney Barnes.]

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

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Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).