Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 Honors Iconic Lore
Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 takes readers on a thrilling journey into the origins of Frankenstein’s Monster. Image Comics resurrects this iconic character, blending familiar lore with fresh perspectives. The series, launched by Image Comics, taps into the timeless appeal of Frankenstein while exploring new angles that keep the story compelling.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
In the debut issue, Universal Monsters: Frankenstein revisits key moments from the classic Frankenstein story. Readers witness familiar scenes like grave robbing and Dr. Frankenstein’s iconic “It’s alive!” exclamation. However, writer and artist Michael Walsh, alongside colorist Toni-Marie Griffen, adds depth by focusing on the peripheral characters affected by these events. For example, a young boy who watches his dead father’s hand become part of the Monster highlights the broader impact of Frankenstein’s experiments.
Striking the Balance Between Old and New
Reviving a character as legendary as Frankenstein presents a unique challenge. Creators must avoid both overly familiar retellings and alienating reimaginings. Walsh and Griffen strike a perfect balance, honoring the original while introducing fresh elements. Their approach feels like uncovering “unseen chapters” of a story horror fans have known for 200 years. The writing captures the madness of Dr. Frankenstein without overplaying it, presenting him as a man driven by a desire to conquer death, rather than simply playing God.
Visuals Rooted in Gothic Tradition
The artwork in Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 stays true to the gothic roots of the original story. Walsh and Griffen use a visual style that embraces outdated, yet powerful, mechanical devices capable of reviving the dead. The setting shifts seamlessly from moonlit graveyards to rainy valleys and ancient fortresses, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and haunting.
Looking Ahead: The Challenge of Expansion
With three issues left in the miniseries, the challenge lies in exploring the backstories of the Monster’s various body parts while maintaining a cohesive narrative. The series promises to delve into the histories of the unwilling victims who contributed to the Monster’s creation. This exploration has the potential to re-contextualize the Monster without betraying his established mythology.
A Promising Start
Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 succeeds in honoring the legacy of Frankenstein while hinting at new revelations. Both the writing and artwork are accessible and evocative, appealing to longtime fans and newcomers alike. The series sets the stage for further exploration of the Monster’s origins, promising to reveal more about the characters who contributed to his creation.
Stay tuned for future installments, where the focus will likely shift to the stories behind the Monster’s assembly, offering fresh insights into this iconic figure.
For more insights and updates, visit August Tales Comics—your go-to source for comic book news and trade paperback exchanges! Trade. Read. Repeat.
#comics #comicbooks #graphicnovel #graphicnovels #augusttales
