If there are two people in the comic book world that know monsters it’s Steve Niles and Bernie Wrightson. Being the creators of some of the most influential and memorable monster comics ever there’s no need to check their credentials. Plus, with the two of them having worked with the Frankenstein monster before it only makes sense that they would team up to tell this story.
Frankenstein Alive, Alive! is a sequel to Bernie Wrightson’s original graphic novel adaptation of Mary Shelley’s original tale, making it a sequel to the original story in a sense. Now, the original Frankenstein book is one of my all time favorites so like I said earlier, I was skeptical, but considering I adore Niles and Wrightson’s work I was slapped in the face for doubting them.
Picking up right where the original book ends, we get a taste of the Frankenstein monster on his own journey. Niles is no stranger to writing for Frankenstein-like characters so it makes sense that he could so easily step into the voice of the character and make it flow. The voice has the feel of true Gothic literature with enough modern influence on the character that it’s intensely captivating. This monster possess all the qualities that it needs as a blasphemy of science but has enough of a human streak that it can be relatable to readers.
Wrightson’s art is flawless. His style fits into what this story needs and it works. His splash pages are some of the most beautiful art work I have ever seen. It only helps the series too that it’s entirely in black and white. The visual tone and style of it is remarkably reminiscent of old monster movies, which is one of the highest compliments you can pay a book like this in my opinion. You know the earmark of great comic art when you can take away the words and the story is still being conveyed properly and Wrightson’s art is just as wonderful at story telling as Niles’ words.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this comic. If the remainder of the series is as moving and wonderful of a story as the first issue we are in for one hell of a ride. This is one of those rare series that I’m going to want all of the individual issues and the hardcover trade when it comes out. Don’t be surprised when this shows up on my Best comics of 2012 list because it is going to be one tough contender to get past.
