Sledgehammer 44 contains two stories that spin out of the first Lobster Johnson volume about the vril suit. I recommend reading that book first to getSledgehammer 44 contains two stories that spin out of the first Lobster Johnson volume about the vril suit. I recommend reading that book first to get a sense of where Sledgehammer comes from, even if his origin is briefly recapped here. The first story is very action-packed and focuses on a American soldier whose platoon comes into contact with the robot. Some cryptic scenes are sprinkled in and the story ends abruptly. The Black Flame shows up for the second arc which goes in more interesting directions. I also just really like the Black Flame so this one was more up my alley. All in all, this is a solid volume but only for Hellboy completists....more
Like volume three, this is a collection of single issue stories. And like that book, the art is good and the stories are just okay. I’m honestly strugLike volume three, this is a collection of single issue stories. And like that book, the art is good and the stories are just okay. I’m honestly struggling to remember all of them right now. As quick bursts of supernatural pulp, I guess they get the job done, but I definitely like Lobster’s longer stories better. They have more room for the tension and atmosphere that’s intrinsic to the genre....more
Lobster Johnson fights giant robots then goes after Wald and ghost pirates in two stories. This was a pretty fun volume. Nothing ground-breaking, but Lobster Johnson fights giant robots then goes after Wald and ghost pirates in two stories. This was a pretty fun volume. Nothing ground-breaking, but fun. I like how Mignola and Arcudi give the characters more depth in these stories, especially the second one. Cindy, Harry, Wald, and Isog all have their moments. And I sound like a broken record, but I have to give it up to Zonjic again. I love his art. He brings so much pulpy character to these stories, visualizing 30’s New York with ease. I’d also like to bring attention to something that often gets taken for granted in comics: sound effects. I’m not sure who does them, Zonjic or letterer Clem Robbins, but the sound effects really pop off the page in these stories. Look at issue three of “The Pirate’s Ghost” to see what I’m talking about....more
My favorite volume so far. This one differs from the first three in that Lobster is on the defensive for much of the story. The cops are after him andMy favorite volume so far. This one differs from the first three in that Lobster is on the defensive for much of the story. The cops are after him and Cindy is writing a series of articles attempting to expose his identity. Meanwhile, Lobster goes after two vicious wrestlers whose actions expose a deadly plot. I like how Mignola ties this to the previous two volumes, bringing over characters and furthering their stories. This book also gives Lobster a little more depth than before, which is overdue. And Zonjic once again provides very good art. He and Dave Stewart give the book a wonderfully sleek look....more
Five okay stories. The Crimson Lotus one is the best and most linked to Hellboy universe events. The rest are fun but forgettable urban vIgilante yarnFive okay stories. The Crimson Lotus one is the best and most linked to Hellboy universe events. The rest are fun but forgettable urban vIgilante yarns with supernatural undertones. Honestly, Lobster Johnson himself isn’t very interesting here. He’s a static character. The side characters are more developed than Lobster is, which suggests that he probably wasn’t cut out for the six volumes of stories he got. This series seems to be little more than a fun genre outlet for Mignola and co. Next to the epic Hellboy and B.P.R.D. stories, it does’t (and doesn’t try to) stand out.
Great art in this volume, especially from Tonci Zonjic and Sebastian Fiumara. Mignola always manages to bring solid artists to his Hellboy projects....more
The Burning Hand takes place early in Lobster Johnson’s career (1932) as he confronts a territory-hungry mobster whose brutal and unconventional tactiThe Burning Hand takes place early in Lobster Johnson’s career (1932) as he confronts a territory-hungry mobster whose brutal and unconventional tactics wreak havoc on New York City. This story is less tied to Hellboy than the first (though the Black Flame shows up), and I think that’s for the better. Lobster Johnson is very much a pre-Code comic vigilante; any occult or supernatural aspects should be lightly sprinkled in his stories, I feel. Reading this, I couldn’t help but be reminded of another modern pulp vigilante book, Sandman Mystery Theatre. Both do a good job of capturing the feel of pre-Code comics without going full pastiche.
I really like Tonci Zonjic’s art. He has a nice clean style that’s dynamic when it needs to be. He’s more to my liking than Jason Armstrong....more
Action-packed and pulpy, just what you’d expect from a Lobster Johnson comic. This takes place in 1937 when Nazis are trying to steal American secretsAction-packed and pulpy, just what you’d expect from a Lobster Johnson comic. This takes place in 1937 when Nazis are trying to steal American secrets before the war. Lobster and his crew come across a man in a prototype vril energy suit that leads to Nazis and Memnan Saa, who both have nefarious agendas. There’s a lot packed into the story: Hyperborean dragons, brains in jars, giant snakes, Nazi submarines, and more. I was surprised by how much this ties into the Hellboy universe, though it felt almost too beholden to larger Hellboy events. I would have been totally fine with Lobster Johnson fighting simple mobsters. It’s still a fun read, with lots of action and good dialogue. Also: I love the fictional history pages. I would kill to see those low-budget Mexican movies!...more
Collects the first three Sir Edward Grey stories plus a few shorts. Sir Edward Grey is a paranormal investigator working as an agent for Queen VictoriCollects the first three Sir Edward Grey stories plus a few shorts. Sir Edward Grey is a paranormal investigator working as an agent for Queen Victoria. I’m making my way through Hellboy and I’ve seen him pop up here and there, either in passing reference or brief cameos. Mignola says in the introduction that Grey is his favorite character other than Hellboy, which makes sense given Mignola’s love of all things gothic. The stories, while nothing amazing, are all pretty fun. I like that each one occupies a different genre - the first is urban occult mystery, the second a supernatural Western, and the third a Lovectaftian saga. The best part of this collection, though, is the art. Every story looks fantastic, with lots of atmosphere and awesome monsters. Ben Stenbeck, John Severin, and Tyler Crook were great choices for this series, even if their styles are all slightly different.
While this series so far is largely independent of the larger Hellboy saga, the stories do subtly tie in to certain Hellboy arcs. There’s Grey himself of course, plus the Heliopic Brotherhood of Ra, Henry Hood, and Hypoborea making appearances. This series only expands to scope of the Hellboy universe more. I love that Mignola set it up so he can visit virtually any genre or bring in any type of occult history....more
When Mike Mignola was working on the first Hellboy movie, Dark Horse wanted to promote it with a new series. Weird Tales was the result, an homage to When Mike Mignola was working on the first Hellboy movie, Dark Horse wanted to promote it with a new series. Weird Tales was the result, an homage to the pulp anthology of old and a space for creators to tell out-of-continuity Hellboy stories. The title page lists 57(!) different people which should give you an idea of what this book is like: short stories (10 pages or less) with a variety of moods and art styles. While most of the stories are instantly forgettable, I had enough fun with them. Maybe because it’s the last story is still fresh in my mind, but Craig Thompson’s “My Vacation in Hell” is my favorite in the book. It’s a hilarious tour of Hell with fantastic art. In fact, all these stories have good to great art, suggesting that Weird Tales was more artist-driven affair than writer’s fest. I should note that two Mignola-written stories open the book about Koshchei the Deathless and Baba Yaga. Unsurprisingly, they’re two of the best stories here.
It’s far from essential, but if you want lighthearted Hellboy fun with nice art you’ll get some enjoyment out of Weird Tales....more
The final Plague of Frogs collection contains three arcs that roll right into each other for a single story. It’s an ambitious undertaking that coversThe final Plague of Frogs collection contains three arcs that roll right into each other for a single story. It’s an ambitious undertaking that covers a lot of ground. The scope of the story - and the Hellboy universe as a whole - expands quite a bit in this book, and it seems to be the point when Mignola and Arcudi realized just how big everything was becoming. That said, I found the storytelling here be somewhat convoluted. It’s very plot-driven, which is fine, but the constant focus on the big picture means that emotional and character moments don’t always have the impact they should. Some of the nuance I love from B.P.R.D. is lost. The narrative is very dense and not as smooth as previous arcs; I found myself struggling to keep track of things from time to time, even if I got it by the end. Overall, I enjoyed reading this but I think the execution could have been better.
I understand this leads right into Hell on Earth, which of course I plan to read. I hope it’s on par with Plague of Frogs. Since Mignola is involved, I have to reason to believe it won’t be at least good.
I have to give it to Guy Davis. He draws the hell out of these issues. All those double-page spreads and action scenes are glorious, giving the story the epic feel it needs....more
Here we are, the major turning point for Hellboy as he learns about his bloodline and destiny. As usual, Mignola effortlessly weaves myths, lore, and Here we are, the major turning point for Hellboy as he learns about his bloodline and destiny. As usual, Mignola effortlessly weaves myths, lore, and past Hellboy storylines into a compelling, character-driven story. To be honest, the main appeal of Hellboy for me has been the myth mashups, not Hellboy himself. But that’s beginning to change with “Darkness Calls” and “The Wild Hunt,” where Hellboy’s decisions and pathos are front and center. I really care about him now and feel fully invested in his journey. And I think we have yet to see just how epic Hellboy’s saga will get....more
I’ve been reading the new omnibus editions, but the order I’m sticking to suggests tackling “Darkness Calls” and “Wild Hunt” in between Plague of FrogI’ve been reading the new omnibus editions, but the order I’m sticking to suggests tackling “Darkness Calls” and “Wild Hunt” in between Plague of Frogs volumes three and four. This is correct because the first epilogue in this book references B.P.R.D. events, confirming that it takes place during the Plague storyline. Even if I read it later though, I still would have loved this book because it’s phenomenal. “Darkness Calls” follows Hellboy’s Africa excursion and finds him summoned by witches in England, then confronted by Baba Yaga who wants revenge on him for knocking out her eye. This arc is heavy on Russian folklore and the storytelling is breathtaking at parts. Mignola knows how dark and epic mythology is, and these six issues are proof. There’s a lot going on, but I was glued to the page and, as always with Hellboy, fascinated by how Mignola was using mythology to tell the story. Though I haven’t yet finished Hellboy, I should think “Darkness Calls” is near the pinnacle. Just awesome....more
“The Universal Machine” sees Kate and new guy Devon in France seeking a rare book that could potentially revive Roger. These scenes are juxtaposed by “The Universal Machine” sees Kate and new guy Devon in France seeking a rare book that could potentially revive Roger. These scenes are juxtaposed by the team back at headquarters telling personal stories about death. I love the character work in this arc, with Daimio and Johann’s stories doing much to flesh out their backgrounds. Abe’s story about Hellboy and the Wendigo is very powerful, too. And the stuff in France is prime B.P.R.D.: occult-based, creepy, and exciting. This also marks the first real showcase for Kate, who was already cool and now is awesome. Honestly, it does seem like the frog war is more pressing at the moment, but as a character-driven interlude about death and mourning, this arc succeeds. The final few pages drawn by Mignola are incredibly affecting.
Abe discovers just how insane his past is in “Garden of Souls.” Mignola and Arcudi have been strategically delivering information about Abe throughout the series, and it’s all been building to this. I gotta say, I did not expect some of the stuff revealed here. It’s nuts. I still feel like there’s more to Abe’s past, but I’m sure it’s being withheld for a reason. One more thing: the villains in the Hellboy universe are all compelling. Sure, they might be over-the-top in their evil machinating, but their characterization is always interesting and leaves an impression. The villains in this story are no exception.
“Killing Ground” primarily focuses on Daimio and takes place entirely in the Colorado compound. We learn about his big secret which comes to head with Daryl the Wendigo after he’s transferred to the facility. This story is fairly action-packed and has some surprises by the end. Honestly though, I think this is one of the weaker B.P.R.D. stories. The pacing is off and the last issue is one big infodump. I’m more interested in what’s going on with Liz and Johan than Daimio, but I have to commend Mignola and Arcudi for moving the latter’s story in surprising directions....more
More excellent stories. These issues mark the start of Mignola co-writing with John Arcudi and Guy Davis taking over as the main artist. This is surelMore excellent stories. These issues mark the start of Mignola co-writing with John Arcudi and Guy Davis taking over as the main artist. This is surely a great creative team. First up is “The Dead,” which sidesteps the Plague of Frogs storyline as B.P.R.D. moves their headquarters to Colorado. Shortly after the move they discover a German scientist in a secret sub-basement who may or may not be a little nuts and harboring a long-lost WWII secret. We also meet no-nonsense (and once dead) Captain Daimio, and get more insight into Abe’s past (it’s heartbreaking). While I enjoyed these issues, I found myself agreeing with Daimio that try should be punching frogs by now. Still, it’s a fun read with plenty of an action and right touches of humor and emotion.
“War on Frogs” contains five stand-alone stories taking place early in the war. I get a true sense that this is a war from these issues, with soldiers taking on frogs all over the country (no international frogs yet). My favorites are the last two stories, about a new soldier and Johan, respectively. The latter offers an intriguing glimpse at ghost frogs: where they go when they die and if they still have any humanity left in them.
Things get even bigger in “The Black Flame.” The mythology deepens, the war reaches farther than before, and a new villain - the Red Skull-esque Black Flame - enters the game. This arc has one or two gut-punches. Also, I love that Liz gets the spotlight here. Mignola and Acudi are taking her in such interesting directions, and the epilogue issue nicely spotlights her humanity. She’s probably the most complex character in B.P.R.D. Like “The Dead,” this is an exciting five issues that deftly balances action and emotion, making me rush to pick up the next book.
While I was reading this, I realized I didn’t miss Hellboy. Liz, Abe, Roger, and Johan are fantastic characters on their own....more
The B.P.R.D. stories started experimentally, first with a miniseries then several stories by various creators. The idea was to try out telling storiesThe B.P.R.D. stories started experimentally, first with a miniseries then several stories by various creators. The idea was to try out telling stories in Hellboy’s universe without Hellboy. Fortunately, Mignola set up great characters in Liz, Abe, Kate, and Roger, so focusing on them investigating paranormal happenings was already a good look. And the first story, “Hollow Earth,” confirms this. It’s an exciting, character-driven adventure that feels like prime Hellboy, all secret mountain temples and elder gods. I love the attention given to Liz and Abe, as well as new recruit Johan. These characters are so likable and compelling that I’m already fully invested in their futures. That’s the mark of good storytelling.
The following few stories by different creative teams vary in quality, but none of them are bad. I really like “Drums of the Dead” by Brian McDonald and Derek Thompson about African slaves in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a powerful look at a horrific chapter in history plus a good showcase for Abe. “Dark Waters” is another cool story about witches in a small Massachusetts town (not Salem). Guy Davis’ art is great. The rest of these stories are decent but not very memorable.
Then: “Plague of Frogs.” If this is what the rest of the B.P.R.D. series is like, I’m all in. Damn, this was good. It’s awesome how Mignola reaches back to Hellboy stories like “Seed of Destruction,” “Wake the Devil,” and “Conqueror Worm.” He expands the scope and hints at an even more epic direction for the larger Hellboy universe, while once again providing character development for the team. Abe gets the most attention, as the last issue reveals his origin. There are lots of terrific moments in this story and I’m sure it only gets better from here. Awesome.
My read through Hellboy so far has matched or exceeded my expectations. The collection makes me love the Hellboy universe even more....more
“Conqueror Worm,” the centerpiece of this collection and major turning point for Hellboy, is probably the best story of the series so far. Mignola eff“Conqueror Worm,” the centerpiece of this collection and major turning point for Hellboy, is probably the best story of the series so far. Mignola effortlessly balances action, character, and plot progression while continuing to drop fascinating hints for Hellboy’s past and future. We get a great outing from Roger (who also stars in “Being Human”) plus Lobster Johnson’s introduction. The art is stellar, with some of Mignola’s best visual storytelling to date. Yeah, I had a blast with this one. Incredibly thrilling stuff.
The two stories of Hellboy in Africa - “The Third Wish” and “The Island” - are definitely important to the overall story, but I think they’re both a little too crammed. It’s like Mignola had to include all this information and couldn’t deliver it cohesively in the space he allowed himself. They’re infodumpy, in other words, answering many questions but in slightly confusing ways. Ah well. There’s still cool stuff here and good character moments for Hellboy.
“Into the Silent Sea,” a pirate story, rounds out the book. Gary Gianni handles the art and co-writes with Mignola. While this one isn’t as vital as the few before it, there’s still fun to be had. I’m a sucker for pirate stories so I really enjoyed it....more
The second short story collection contains 17 entries, taking place between 1961 and 1993. Like the first book, there’s a wide variety here and the hiThe second short story collection contains 17 entries, taking place between 1961 and 1993. Like the first book, there’s a wide variety here and the historic scope is hugely impressive. You can tell Mignola revels in the short story format because he can explore a small idea and get right to the point without the burden of stringing it out over five or more issues. Basically, this is the place where he can integrate even more myths and folklore into the Hellboy universe.
A lot of the stories, especially the shorter ones, are fun and kooky while still maintaining a dark edge. It's the longer stories, though, that are the best. “The Sleeping and the Dead” is probably my favorite - it’s a fantastic vampire saga with several genuinely creepy scenes. The Blackbeard one is pretty awesome, too, as is “The Bride of the Dead.” And I was fascinated by “Makoma,” a retelling of an African folk tale. I’d love to see more Africa-based Hellboy stories....more
There are some great stories here. These shorts are arranged chronologically, taking place from 1947 to 1961 with many featured in Mexico. Once again,There are some great stories here. These shorts are arranged chronologically, taking place from 1947 to 1961 with many featured in Mexico. Once again, I love how Mignola effortlessly integrates mythology into Hellboy’s world. These stories draw from Mexico, Malaysia, Ireland, Scandinavia, and Egypt. There’s even Southern Gothic horror in “The Crooked Man,” one of the best in the collection. Mignola is respectful towards all these cultures while being knowledgeable enough to twist their mythologies in imaginative, creepy, and entertaining ways. My favorite story in this book however doesn’t have to do with mythology: “Sullivan’s Reward” sees Hellboy helping out a schmuck who apparently has been killing people on orders from his new house, which may or may not have an agenda of its own. The ending is a killer. Other stories do a good job handling emotion, like “Hellboy in Mexico” and “House of the Living Dead.” Some are rather funny, though most of these are very short and not as memorable as the rest.
The art is excellent throughout. Mignola illustrates a few stories, with Duncan Fegredo, Gabriel Ba, Fabio Moon, Mick McMahon, and Richard Corben handling others. Corben draws four stories and his art looks fantastic. It’s Fegredo, though, who rises to the top in “The Midnight Circus.” He alternates between ink line and wash, the former depicting the real world and the latter taking place in a more supernatural dimension. It’s a beautiful work....more
I read all Mike Mignola’s DC and Marvel work in preparation for Hellboy. I absolutely loved style in those early works (Triumph and Torment being a faI read all Mike Mignola’s DC and Marvel work in preparation for Hellboy. I absolutely loved style in those early works (Triumph and Torment being a favorite), so my anticipation for Hellboy is sky-high. Is it everything I hoped for and more? Hell fucking yes. This is totally up my alley: paranormal detective stuff mixed with pulpy Nazi fighting, plus a blend of world mythologies, folklore, and dark history. In this omnibus alone, we see vampires, werewolves, homunculi, Baba Yaga, Rasputin, Lovecraftian gods, and Elizabeth Bathory’s Iron Maiden. And that’s just scratching the surface. I was fascinated from the get-go and turned every page excited for what came next. On top of being gloriously gothic, this is such a fun read. I specifically put off Hellboy until I had the entire saga at hand - I love sinking my teeth into long series like this, really immersing myself in the world. I can already tell it was worth the wait. I’m beyond excited for more.
It hardly needs to be said but I love Mignola’s art. Even without reading Hellboy he was one of my favorite comic artists, and my love for his style has grown even after this first book. Many panels here are stunning in their shadowy, gothic darkness....more
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