Exploring the Dark Mysteries of “Hour of the Wolf”
Mad Cave Studios is continuing its bold approach to comics with the upcoming release of Hour of the Wolf, a supernatural thriller that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Written by Mad Cave’s CEO, Mark London, with art by the talented Danilo Beyruth, the series is set to debut on October 23, 2024. This miniseries is part of Mad Cave’s expanding Underworld universe, a shared world where each title can stand alone while contributing to a larger crossover event planned for 2025. Hour of the Wolf will be the second series in this universe, following Revolution 9, and will be followed by Exit City.
The Plot: A Race Against Time
At the center of the story is Owen Blackwood, a seasoned agent of the supernatural organization Wolvenheart. Owen’s latest mission involves destroying a haunted painting that has been terrorizing a seemingly ordinary family. However, things quickly go awry when Owen becomes trapped inside the cursed painting itself. The clock is ticking as Owen has just one hour to complete his mission before he risks losing both himself and the family in a world of shifting realities.
Mark London has described Hour of the Wolf as a fast-paced, horror-packed thrill ride that blends supernatural elements with historical settings. Fans of horror comics will find plenty to love here, with a blend of action, tension, and mystery that keeps the stakes high. The series taps into classic supernatural horror while offering fresh, modern twists that make it stand out.
The Creative Team: Veterans of the Comic World
The creative force behind Hour of the Wolf includes some of the industry’s most exciting talents. Mark London, the writer, is no stranger to crafting intense, character-driven stories. London’s experience with titles like Wolvenheart and Battlecats has equipped him to delve deep into the horror and fantasy genres. In interviews, London has expressed how this story allowed him to return to the Wolvenheart universe while exploring new ideas. He is particularly excited about the interplay between time, history, and supernatural elements in this series.
On the visual side, Brazilian artist Danilo Beyruth brings the world of Hour of the Wolf to life. Beyruth is known for his work with Marvel and Frank Miller Presents, and his dynamic art style fits perfectly with the story’s high-energy, action-driven narrative. Beyruth himself has said that drawing this series was like working on a horror-packed action movie, making every page a visual feast.
Part of a Larger Universe: Underworld and Beyond
Hour of the Wolf is not just a standalone series—it’s an integral part of Mad Cave Studios’ ambitious new Underworld universe. This shared universe is the brainchild of Mark London, who sees it as a chance to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Underworld connects multiple titles—each offering its own unique flavor while building toward a larger narrative. The crossover event Endless Night, set to arrive in 2025, will bring all these stories together in a mind-blowing conclusion.
According to London, the idea behind Underworld was to create something that blends different genres—horror, action, and fantasy—into a cohesive world where anything is possible. Each title in the universe stands on its own, allowing readers to enjoy them independently. However, they all contribute to the grander tapestry that will unfold in Endless Night. This universe is also a tribute to Mad Cave’s early days, with London describing it as a passion project that captures the creative spirit of the studio’s beginnings.
Why You Should Read Hour of the Wolf
We at August Tales had the privilege of receiving an advanced reader copy of Hour of the Wolf, and we were thoroughly impressed. Mad Cave Studios has built a reputation for taking creative risks, and this series is no exception. The pacing is relentless, the art is breathtaking, and the storyline offers just the right mix of supernatural horror and character development. The concept of being trapped within a painting adds a surreal, psychological edge that is sure to resonate with fans of horror and fantasy alike.
For those already familiar with the Wolvenheart universe, Hour of the Wolf provides another thrilling chapter in the story. But even if you’re new to this world, the series stands on its own as a gripping, time-bending horror adventure.
Mark your calendars—Hour of the Wolf hits comic book shops on October 23, 2024. With Mad Cave’s track record of delivering quality content, this is one release you don’t want to miss.
