Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1
Illustrated by: Michael Walsh
Written by: Michael Walsh
Colors by: Toni-Marie Griffin
Image Comics/Skybound
2024
*Spoilers. Classic horror for the modern day. Good, fun, read.
A MODERN-DAY HORROR VISIONARY RESURRECTS ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC MONSTERS
Award-winning creator MICHAEL WALSH (THE SILVER COIN) presents an electrifying new vision of the horror classic. Each issue of the limited series tells the shocking story behind one of the body parts used to create the unforgettable monster in the original film.
In this first issue, Dr. Henry Frankenstein begins his unholy quest to create life by robbing the grave of a decorated police officer. But little does he know that the corpse has a son who is mourning a father — and that this young boy will forever change Frankenstein’s life.
Michael Walsh has delivered something truly special with Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1. This first issue of the limited series breathes new life into one of horror’s most iconic tales, and it does so with a mix of chilling storytelling and stunning artwork. From the moment Dr. Henry Frankenstein begins his dark quest to create life, you’re pulled into a world where the macabre meets the tragic, setting the stage for a gripping new chapter in the Frankenstein mythos.
What really stands out in this issue is the way the art takes the reins in conveying the story. Walsh’s style is gritty and evocative, perfectly capturing the grim atmosphere of a world where science and morality collide. The visuals don’t just complement the narrative—they amplify it, drawing you deeper into the horror with each panel. There’s a haunting beauty to the way the scenes unfold, and the balance between the written word and the imagery is masterfully handled.
The story itself is a fascinating twist on the classic Frankenstein tale. By focusing on the backstory of the body parts that make up the monster, Walsh gives us a fresh perspective on the horror. The subplot involving the young boy mourning his father adds a layer of emotional depth that resonates long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a bold move, but it pays off in spades, creating a narrative that’s both engaging and unsettling.
For fans of horror and Universal’s classic monsters, this series is shaping up to be a must-read. The approach each writer has taken with the Universal Monsters series is unique, and this entry might just be the most compelling yet. While Dracula explored the unseen moments from the classic film and the Creature from the Black Lagoon offered a dark sequel for a new era (which I’m guessing would be after both movie sequels? You can read my Creature review here), Frankenstein dives straight into the heart of the original story, giving us familiar scenes with new characters and fresh twists, sort of like watching a DVD movie containing extra deleted scenes.
Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 is much more than just a great horror comic—it’s a brilliant reimagining of a beloved classic. Walsh and Griffin have called down the lightning on this opening issue, and if the rest of the series can maintain this level of quality, we’re in for something truly extraordinary. This is a comic that horror fans won’t want to miss, and it’s one that’ll leave you eagerly anticipating the next issue.
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