Savage Tales: Winter 2025 Special #1 – A Pulp Lover’s Paradise
Dynamite Entertainment returns with another thrilling roundtable of pulp heroes in "Savage Tales: Winter 2025 Special #1". This engaging issue features a lineup of legendary characters: Gullivar of Mars, Vampirella, John Carter, Dejah Thoris, and the fierce Red Sonja.
A Martian Adventure with Gullivar
The issue kicks off with Gullivar of Mars, written by David Avallone and illustrated by Hamish Cook with colors by Jorge Sutil. This chapter is the third in the series, yet it stands alone. Gullivar, a 20th-century James Bond-like adventurer, navigates the red planet with wit and precision. His personality contrasts the feral John Carter, offering a refreshing narrative shift.
Originally penned by Edwin Lester Arnold in 1905, Gullivar predates Burroughs’ John Carter. This tale moves swiftly over seven pages, pitting Gullivar against a monstrous Hydra-like beast. The story climaxes with a tantalizing cliffhanger, promising even more excitement ahead.
John Carter & Dejah Thoris Team Up
Next, we dive into an action-packed story featuring John Carter and Dejah Thoris, also written by Avallone, with art by Eman Casallos. Martian soldiers, seeking a bounty on Carter, set the scene for intense combat. Although Dejah Thoris often shines solo, her partnership with Carter is thrilling. They face an army of Martian warriors with radium pistols and clanging swords. This tale, rich in ferocity and blood, harks back to classic pulp fiction roots.
A Gothic Twist with Vampirella
H4
Vampirella’s segment shifts to a gothic tone with David Avallone at the helm, alongside artist Mariano Benitez Chapo. Set in a modern, comedic environment, a social influencer plans a “vampire reveal”. However, real Nosferatu-style vampires crash the party. Vampirella’s intervention to save the YouTube host is reminiscent of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". Her devil-may-care attitude shines through, making her an endearing and captivating protagonist.
Red Sonja’s Striking Tale
Completing the collection is a classic Red Sonja story, originally from 2021’s "Red Sonja: Black, White and Red #1". Written by Kurt Busiek and illustrated by Benjamin Dewey, this piece is a visual masterpiece. The art, limited to black, white, and occasional splashes of red, highlights Sonja’s fiery hair and the crimson blood of a beastly foe. The story intertwines this color concept, crafting a tale both captivating and artfully unique.
An Eclectic Collection for Pulp Enthusiasts
Each story in "Savage Tales: Winter 2025 Special #1" pays homage to its pulp roots without feeling redundant. With diverse characters and art styles, the collection offers an eclectic and engaging experience. For fans seeking action-packed narratives and distinctive artistry, this issue is a must-have. The book guarantees a punch of adventure, even if you’re new to the comic scene.
Read this article and more at August Tales Comics. Your go-to site for trade paperback exchanges and comic book news! Trade. Read. Repeat.
#comics #comicbooks #graphicnovel #graphicnovels #augusttales
Image credit: aiptcomics.com
