Hellverine #1 is published by Marvel Comics. Written by Benjamin Percy, art by Raffaele Ienco, colors by Bryan Valenza and letters by Travis Lanham. The demon that once inhabited Wolverine has resurrected and possessed his son, Daken. Now, they travel to America, brutally ridding the world of evil.
A sequel to the previous Hellverine series, this issue gets even darker. Blending Wolverine and Ghost Rider, the sickening horror that can be found in both comics is fused together. A nomadic journey is underway in the first issue, moving across dark locations as the demon hunts for criminals to turn into victims. It doesn’t matter if the crime has happened or about to happen, a sickening form of justice is coming for those who commit evil. The stomach lurches several times whilst reading Hellverine #1.
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Percy provides an excellent backstory for Daken’s life and that of Baghra-Ghul, the spirit with which he now shares a body. There is no control for Daken, a passenger when the demon takes over. The methodical pace makes the reader feel helpless, watching him do horrible things. The truth is left for the end of the book, revealing a surprise that makes the actions even more horrifying seeing them a second time around.
On Krakoa, Daken had a period where he was on the side of good. Part of X teams, he was close to heroic. This issue reverts to his life before his time on the living island. It leans on how ruthless and bloody his upbringing was, filled with death and tragedy. He is back from the dead, but this new life isn’t worth relishing. Much of the narration doesn’t follow the action happening in the panel. It is more contemplative, discussing how much he suffers and struggles in his new life.
The demon barely speaks, which makes him more frightening. At the end of Hellverine #1, a guest star appears who is usually a cause for hope and rescue. However, recent events have lessened his power, and the outcome is not what Daken or the reader expects. This confrontation is fascinating as it’s not the usual team-up with that hero. He is usually helpful and kind, if sometimes peculiar. But this meeting has threats, malice, and derision towards Daken.
The art is grim and uncomfortable, which is exactly what the comic needs. The first splash page, which shows the split between Daken and Baghra-Ghul, shows the book’s hardcore edge. Daken has always looked badass. He has tattoos covering his face and a vicious look in his eye. But the Hellverine part elevates the look immeasurably. Ienco adapts the Wolverine costume with Ghost Rider attributes, which is incredible.
The victims look scruffy and unpleasant before Hellverine does anything to them. The issue never shies away from harrowing images, and that bravery is rewarded. What the demon does to them is sickening, and yet you can’t look away.
The colors are glum, reflecting the character’s miserable mood. They only brighten up when hellfire erupts and incinerates anything it touches. The lettering is clear and easy to read, with caption boxes and word balloons matching the comic’s sinister tone.
Hellverine #1 is horror excellence. Percy has chosen the perfect successor to Logan as the host for this demonic parasite. Daken is more violent than his father but has less altruistic morals. It will be interesting to see if Daken’s resolve can be as firm as Wolverine’s in his fight against such fierce evil. Each part of the issue is oppressive, violent, and dark, with little hope found anywhere. Even the hero that appears turns sour and is less than eager to help. It does not bode well for Daken’s future.
Hellverine #1 is available where comics are sold.
Hellverine #1
TL;DR
Hellverine #1 is horror excellence. Each part of the issue is oppressive, violent, and dark, with little hope found anywhere. Even the hero that appears turns sour and is less than eager to help. It does not bode well for Daken’s future.
