Mark Chiarello

Story of Hellboy's origin. Magnificent omnibus edition containing story of Hellboy's conjuring and follow up stories in which Hellboy tries to find more about himself while constantly tripping over Rasputin and his machinations.

My first contact with Hellboy was a little bit weird - art was pretty much reduced, at some points it seemed like you had to look at it from a distance to figure out what happens on the page. It was interesting approach and tone and pacing of events was excellent. But then it always seemed bit off - when it comes to art I prefer golden-age comics, for newer art I enjoy Frank Miller for example (not that far from Mignola's black&white-shadow-plays), but for Hellboy it seemed like drawings and paintings lost basic definitions and were just shapes that up close made no sense.

But I enjoyed the story a lot. So after reading omnibus vol #4 (I know, I know but it was a gift and I like to read :) ) I finally got opportunity to read omnibus vol #1. Art is beautiful, much more structured but story-telling and page flow are as always flawless.

After reading omnibus vol #1 it is visible that author was always experimenting with his drawings and coloring and it is clear that later stories show artists skill evolution (albeit little bit radical for my taste).

Excellent story, beautiful art - treat yourself and read it :)

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