A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

The Definitive Silver Surfer, 31 Jul 2008
There are only a few of these 'Definitive' collections from marvel and personally they are brilliant, giving the reader the orgins and some of the best stories from a character.

Firstly i love silver surfer and soo much about him the fact that his power is practically limitless and that he doesn't even want it is what is soo gd about silverado himself.

This collection was put together by Stan the man Lee and even has a forward written from him which i very much enjoyed reading.

this collection really puts together everything u need to know about the surfer including his very first appearance and his orgins. there is also the one shot comic Silver Surfer:Parable which in my opinion is a fantastic story and really reflects the character properly.

the only thing i would say is since this book was made some of the sufer's best stories hve been published and really makes you want to read them.

This is a great book for a silver surfer fan or someone who jus wants to be introduced to the character.

with a great variety of artwork and stories you can't go wrong.

A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

The Definitive Silver Surfer, 31 Jul 2008
There are only a few of these 'Definitive' collections from marvel and personally they are brilliant, giving the reader the orgins and some of the best stories from a character.

Firstly i love silver surfer and soo much about him the fact that his power is practically limitless and that he doesn't even want it is what is soo gd about silverado himself.

This collection was put together by Stan the man Lee and even has a forward written from him which i very much enjoyed reading.

this collection really puts together everything u need to know about the surfer including his very first appearance and his orgins. there is also the one shot comic Silver Surfer:Parable which in my opinion is a fantastic story and really reflects the character properly.

the only thing i would say is since this book was made some of the sufer's best stories hve been published and really makes you want to read them.

This is a great book for a silver surfer fan or someone who jus wants to be introduced to the character.

with a great variety of artwork and stories you can't go wrong.

Proper faulty and no mistake Guv!, 15 Oct 2007
I can live with the cliché's, I can live with the patronising ex pat, 'ollywood cockernee type characterisation's, I can even forgive John Byrne (once a legend in this business), but what I cannot forgive is that this is very poor and worst of all NOT FUNNY! It is simply short of the mark and way off target and desperately tries to capture a long dead zeitgeist that probably only ever existed in the minds of Americans watching "The Avengers" re-runs on TV as kids and in the long since dried up comedy brain of John Cleese who clearly spends way to much time in La La Land and out of England to recognise this for the poor excuse of a parody that it fails to be...shame



Superman: True Brilliance!, 21 Sep 2005
This book was fantastic!, The humour in it was very british and i enjoyed it greatly. The appearance of Batman in it wasn't the best idea and i thought even though it was slightly funny how he became Batman, it was a rubbish character. The costume was brilliant and the joke about the british tabloids was very funny too.

'British' in an Austin Powers sort of way, 21 Sep 2005
First, the good points: It's got lovely artwork. 1980's fan favourite (and the man entrusted with the late 80's reboot of the Superman mythos) John Byrne inked over by long-time Alan Davis collaborator Mark Farmer, famed for his 'clean' style. It looks great.

The story is good as well - an opportunity to parody the S** and the rest of the British tabloid press, with Colin (Superman) Clark's newspaper editor boss clearly modelled on a certain fictional Torquay hotelier. There are some lovely twists on the long-familiar Superman stories, including some lovely cartoony moments (how does a teenage Clark stop himself from looking in the girls' changing rooms with X Ray vision?; what if young Clark switched on heat vision whilst looking at a 'hot' girl? etc) Indeed, Clark's parents are more caricatures than 'real' people to keep in with the 'just for laughs' style.

Where I have an issue is with the use of John Cleese as a co-author of the book. I suspect that he's had very little to do with this. True, there are numerous in-jokes hidden away for the fans covering both Python and Fawlty Towers, but would Cleese really have allowed a conversation between Clark and his earthly dad to have allowed the use of the term 'sidewalk' instead of 'pavement'? (Just how British is the writing team?) This has all the hallmarks of one of those Chris Claremont X-Men stories where Britain consists of the Houses of Parliament, Beefeaters, and little else. Austin Powers would feel at home here.

Overall, disposable fun, but I'm glad I borrowed this from the library - it's written as much with one eye on pandering to the preconceptions of the US market as it is on giving us Brits 'our own' Superman story. For a quality alternative in a non-comedy vein, I'd recommend Batman: The Scottish Connection by the all-Scots team of Grant & Quitely. They'd even included Rosslyn Chapel years before the Da Vinci code got there...

And Now for Something Completely Different!!, 04 Mar 2005
This is a refreshing change to the Man of Steel! With the combined talents of Messrs. Johnson, Cleese, Byrne and Farmer, it answers the seemingly bizarre question, "What if??".

Kal-El grows up in the English countryside suburb of Weston-Super-Mare, adopted by the kindly Clarks. They christen him Colin and his powers soon become more of a hindrance than anything else. While his alter-ego in Metropolis had the almost stereotypical, All-American, story-book upbringing, Colin doesn't have it so good, even working for the Daily Smear under the anarchic Perry Whyte-Badger.

I won't give too much away, only to say that it's a hilarious send-up of the Superman legend, that takes a swipe at the notorious image of the British press. It's the first superhero story that had me giggling at the misfortunes of Colin Clark, as he comes to terms with his new-found image. The humour is satirical, very English, and if you're a fan of the off-the-wall Pythonesque humour, you'll enjoy this different take on Superman. The artwork by Alex Bleyaert, displaying all things that are typically British, is bright and outstandingly funny, from the dreary weather to bad teeth....and fish slapping! This book is set to be a comedy classic and would make the perfect gift for any comic-book fan.

A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

The Definitive Silver Surfer, 31 Jul 2008
There are only a few of these 'Definitive' collections from marvel and personally they are brilliant, giving the reader the orgins and some of the best stories from a character.

Firstly i love silver surfer and soo much about him the fact that his power is practically limitless and that he doesn't even want it is what is soo gd about silverado himself.

This collection was put together by Stan the man Lee and even has a forward written from him which i very much enjoyed reading.

this collection really puts together everything u need to know about the surfer including his very first appearance and his orgins. there is also the one shot comic Silver Surfer:Parable which in my opinion is a fantastic story and really reflects the character properly.

the only thing i would say is since this book was made some of the sufer's best stories hve been published and really makes you want to read them.

This is a great book for a silver surfer fan or someone who jus wants to be introduced to the character.

with a great variety of artwork and stories you can't go wrong.

Proper faulty and no mistake Guv!, 15 Oct 2007
I can live with the cliché's, I can live with the patronising ex pat, 'ollywood cockernee type characterisation's, I can even forgive John Byrne (once a legend in this business), but what I cannot forgive is that this is very poor and worst of all NOT FUNNY! It is simply short of the mark and way off target and desperately tries to capture a long dead zeitgeist that probably only ever existed in the minds of Americans watching "The Avengers" re-runs on TV as kids and in the long since dried up comedy brain of John Cleese who clearly spends way to much time in La La Land and out of England to recognise this for the poor excuse of a parody that it fails to be...shame



Superman: True Brilliance!, 21 Sep 2005
This book was fantastic!, The humour in it was very british and i enjoyed it greatly. The appearance of Batman in it wasn't the best idea and i thought even though it was slightly funny how he became Batman, it was a rubbish character. The costume was brilliant and the joke about the british tabloids was very funny too.

'British' in an Austin Powers sort of way, 21 Sep 2005
First, the good points: It's got lovely artwork. 1980's fan favourite (and the man entrusted with the late 80's reboot of the Superman mythos) John Byrne inked over by long-time Alan Davis collaborator Mark Farmer, famed for his 'clean' style. It looks great.

The story is good as well - an opportunity to parody the S** and the rest of the British tabloid press, with Colin (Superman) Clark's newspaper editor boss clearly modelled on a certain fictional Torquay hotelier. There are some lovely twists on the long-familiar Superman stories, including some lovely cartoony moments (how does a teenage Clark stop himself from looking in the girls' changing rooms with X Ray vision?; what if young Clark switched on heat vision whilst looking at a 'hot' girl? etc) Indeed, Clark's parents are more caricatures than 'real' people to keep in with the 'just for laughs' style.

Where I have an issue is with the use of John Cleese as a co-author of the book. I suspect that he's had very little to do with this. True, there are numerous in-jokes hidden away for the fans covering both Python and Fawlty Towers, but would Cleese really have allowed a conversation between Clark and his earthly dad to have allowed the use of the term 'sidewalk' instead of 'pavement'? (Just how British is the writing team?) This has all the hallmarks of one of those Chris Claremont X-Men stories where Britain consists of the Houses of Parliament, Beefeaters, and little else. Austin Powers would feel at home here.

Overall, disposable fun, but I'm glad I borrowed this from the library - it's written as much with one eye on pandering to the preconceptions of the US market as it is on giving us Brits 'our own' Superman story. For a quality alternative in a non-comedy vein, I'd recommend Batman: The Scottish Connection by the all-Scots team of Grant & Quitely. They'd even included Rosslyn Chapel years before the Da Vinci code got there...

And Now for Something Completely Different!!, 04 Mar 2005
This is a refreshing change to the Man of Steel! With the combined talents of Messrs. Johnson, Cleese, Byrne and Farmer, it answers the seemingly bizarre question, "What if??".

Kal-El grows up in the English countryside suburb of Weston-Super-Mare, adopted by the kindly Clarks. They christen him Colin and his powers soon become more of a hindrance than anything else. While his alter-ego in Metropolis had the almost stereotypical, All-American, story-book upbringing, Colin doesn't have it so good, even working for the Daily Smear under the anarchic Perry Whyte-Badger.

I won't give too much away, only to say that it's a hilarious send-up of the Superman legend, that takes a swipe at the notorious image of the British press. It's the first superhero story that had me giggling at the misfortunes of Colin Clark, as he comes to terms with his new-found image. The humour is satirical, very English, and if you're a fan of the off-the-wall Pythonesque humour, you'll enjoy this different take on Superman. The artwork by Alex Bleyaert, displaying all things that are typically British, is bright and outstandingly funny, from the dreary weather to bad teeth....and fish slapping! This book is set to be a comedy classic and would make the perfect gift for any comic-book fan.

synopsis, 22 Jul 1998
The aftermath of Jean bonding with the Phoenix entity to help save the galaxy. Scott and Jean's relationship is falling to pieces as the Phoenix experiences emotions. The ultimate fate of Jean will be decided as she's found guilty for killing billions of lives. Friendship and love between the Xmen and Jean are put to test as never before.

No exaggeration: the best X-Men story ever, 29 Jun 1998
This book reprints the "Dark Phoenix" saga from X-Men 129-137 (circa 1980). This is the story that moved the X-Men from a very good comic book to something truly remarkable. The story was so significant that the original ending had to be changed (the original was later published separately). The Claremont/Byrne combination is phenomenal. The book features a new introduction by Stan Lee. A must read for any X-Men fan.

A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

The Definitive Silver Surfer, 31 Jul 2008
There are only a few of these 'Definitive' collections from marvel and personally they are brilliant, giving the reader the orgins and some of the best stories from a character.

Firstly i love silver surfer and soo much about him the fact that his power is practically limitless and that he doesn't even want it is what is soo gd about silverado himself.

This collection was put together by Stan the man Lee and even has a forward written from him which i very much enjoyed reading.

this collection really puts together everything u need to know about the surfer including his very first appearance and his orgins. there is also the one shot comic Silver Surfer:Parable which in my opinion is a fantastic story and really reflects the character properly.

the only thing i would say is since this book was made some of the sufer's best stories hve been published and really makes you want to read them.

This is a great book for a silver surfer fan or someone who jus wants to be introduced to the character.

with a great variety of artwork and stories you can't go wrong.

Proper faulty and no mistake Guv!, 15 Oct 2007
I can live with the cliché's, I can live with the patronising ex pat, 'ollywood cockernee type characterisation's, I can even forgive John Byrne (once a legend in this business), but what I cannot forgive is that this is very poor and worst of all NOT FUNNY! It is simply short of the mark and way off target and desperately tries to capture a long dead zeitgeist that probably only ever existed in the minds of Americans watching "The Avengers" re-runs on TV as kids and in the long since dried up comedy brain of John Cleese who clearly spends way to much time in La La Land and out of England to recognise this for the poor excuse of a parody that it fails to be...shame



Superman: True Brilliance!, 21 Sep 2005
This book was fantastic!, The humour in it was very british and i enjoyed it greatly. The appearance of Batman in it wasn't the best idea and i thought even though it was slightly funny how he became Batman, it was a rubbish character. The costume was brilliant and the joke about the british tabloids was very funny too.

'British' in an Austin Powers sort of way, 21 Sep 2005
First, the good points: It's got lovely artwork. 1980's fan favourite (and the man entrusted with the late 80's reboot of the Superman mythos) John Byrne inked over by long-time Alan Davis collaborator Mark Farmer, famed for his 'clean' style. It looks great.

The story is good as well - an opportunity to parody the S** and the rest of the British tabloid press, with Colin (Superman) Clark's newspaper editor boss clearly modelled on a certain fictional Torquay hotelier. There are some lovely twists on the long-familiar Superman stories, including some lovely cartoony moments (how does a teenage Clark stop himself from looking in the girls' changing rooms with X Ray vision?; what if young Clark switched on heat vision whilst looking at a 'hot' girl? etc) Indeed, Clark's parents are more caricatures than 'real' people to keep in with the 'just for laughs' style.

Where I have an issue is with the use of John Cleese as a co-author of the book. I suspect that he's had very little to do with this. True, there are numerous in-jokes hidden away for the fans covering both Python and Fawlty Towers, but would Cleese really have allowed a conversation between Clark and his earthly dad to have allowed the use of the term 'sidewalk' instead of 'pavement'? (Just how British is the writing team?) This has all the hallmarks of one of those Chris Claremont X-Men stories where Britain consists of the Houses of Parliament, Beefeaters, and little else. Austin Powers would feel at home here.

Overall, disposable fun, but I'm glad I borrowed this from the library - it's written as much with one eye on pandering to the preconceptions of the US market as it is on giving us Brits 'our own' Superman story. For a quality alternative in a non-comedy vein, I'd recommend Batman: The Scottish Connection by the all-Scots team of Grant & Quitely. They'd even included Rosslyn Chapel years before the Da Vinci code got there...

And Now for Something Completely Different!!, 04 Mar 2005
This is a refreshing change to the Man of Steel! With the combined talents of Messrs. Johnson, Cleese, Byrne and Farmer, it answers the seemingly bizarre question, "What if??".

Kal-El grows up in the English countryside suburb of Weston-Super-Mare, adopted by the kindly Clarks. They christen him Colin and his powers soon become more of a hindrance than anything else. While his alter-ego in Metropolis had the almost stereotypical, All-American, story-book upbringing, Colin doesn't have it so good, even working for the Daily Smear under the anarchic Perry Whyte-Badger.

I won't give too much away, only to say that it's a hilarious send-up of the Superman legend, that takes a swipe at the notorious image of the British press. It's the first superhero story that had me giggling at the misfortunes of Colin Clark, as he comes to terms with his new-found image. The humour is satirical, very English, and if you're a fan of the off-the-wall Pythonesque humour, you'll enjoy this different take on Superman. The artwork by Alex Bleyaert, displaying all things that are typically British, is bright and outstandingly funny, from the dreary weather to bad teeth....and fish slapping! This book is set to be a comedy classic and would make the perfect gift for any comic-book fan.

synopsis, 22 Jul 1998
The aftermath of Jean bonding with the Phoenix entity to help save the galaxy. Scott and Jean's relationship is falling to pieces as the Phoenix experiences emotions. The ultimate fate of Jean will be decided as she's found guilty for killing billions of lives. Friendship and love between the Xmen and Jean are put to test as never before.

No exaggeration: the best X-Men story ever, 29 Jun 1998
This book reprints the "Dark Phoenix" saga from X-Men 129-137 (circa 1980). This is the story that moved the X-Men from a very good comic book to something truly remarkable. The story was so significant that the original ending had to be changed (the original was later published separately). The Claremont/Byrne combination is phenomenal. The book features a new introduction by Stan Lee. A must read for any X-Men fan.

Superb plotting by Chris Claremont and great artwork., 26 Nov 2007
This issue comprises the first series of the X-Men issues I missed due to a parental banning order on comics in the late 1970's and what a pleasure it is to catch up on what I missed.
Being a fan of the old X-Men this new series has been a refreshing treat. There are some great story-lines, fantastic artwork and fleshing out old characters, especially the extra background on Nightcrawler and Wolverine. You can clearly read the roots of much of the first X-Men movie here.
Starting off with the X-Men being detained in Canada as Alpha Flight try to get Wolverine back into their fold and it gets better from there.
Old villains return, Mastermind in a new identity which provides a fantastic twist throughout this book, Arkon and Jean's alter-ego Dark Phoenix.
New villains for the X-Men the assassin Arcade, Proteus, the Hellfire Club, Mystique and a new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, the Wendigo and D'Spayre with the Man-Thing guest starring.
To top that off two new mutant heroines are introduced, first the phasing teenager Kitty Pryde who joins the X-Men as Sprite and the Dazzler.
The way the storylines intertwine is first rate, from Mutant X's escape from Muir Island, to the mysterious Jason Wyngarde, the Death of one X-Man in the Dark Phoenix saga and the brilliant Days of Future Past where the future counterpart of newest X-Men returns to the present to try and prevent a future where the Sentinels have taken over, the final twist at the end connecting the Hellfire club to the creation of a new breed of Sentinels. Not forgetting Dr, Strange appearing as Nightcrawler is taken through Dante's version of Hell with the X-Men in tow and Kitty Pryde's first solo outing as an X-Man as the school is attached by a demon.
Chris Claremont has to be congratulated for skilfully keeping so many plot threads in the air here and I look forward to reading the next batch of tales. This is absolutely outstanding.

Xceptionally Marvellous, 28 May 2004
Covering Uncanny X-Men #120 to 144, published between 1979 and 1981, there are some very, very good stories here. We go from Banshee's departure to Sprite's arrival with X-Men alumni and some interesting new mutants (such as Dazzle) guesting fairly regularly. We meet the Hellfire Club, Arcade and lots of other problem foes for our heroes. The Dark Phoenix series is classic stuff right through to Jean Grey's sad death. Scott Summers'/Cyclops Elegy in issue #138 is a fantastic retrospective. We also see Storm succeed Cyclops as the leader of the team. Despite their powers, the characters are portrayed with human feelings and frailties. The story and character development is exceptional. All in all, a highly recommended read.

Essential X-Men Vol.2, 27 Oct 2002
This is the best of volume of the Essential X-Men books. It hs the Dark Phoenix Story, Days of Future Past and the first issues of Shadowcat as an X-Person. Add in the Hellfire Club and the Brood and you have a great book - all X-Fans should have this book in their collection.

If Only The Films Were Like This..., 12 Oct 2002
This graphic novel is excellent - the Dark Pheonix issues are awesome. They treat the reader to an analysis of how a human can comprehend grasping absolute power whilst retaining their sanity, a novel couldn't have done a better job. Totally Worth Buying, even if its tthe only comic series you'll ever buy. Spiderman seems dull in comparison.

The classic years..., 25 Feb 2002
This volume contains the complete "Dark Phoenix Saga" as well as the "Days of Future Past" stories and for those alone is worth the price of admission.Both Byrne and Claremont were at the height of their creative powers and , frankly , these stories have never been equaled or bettered. I have been an avid X-men reader for 20 years now and these are the stories and characters I keep coming back to. My only gripe with this volume is that it's in black and white and while it shows of Byrne's clear line work of to great effect I miss the colors of the costumes, especially Wolverine's!
Anyway, for an afternoon of classic comicbook reading this volume is hard to beat... highly recommended.

A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

The Definitive Silver Surfer, 31 Jul 2008
There are only a few of these 'Definitive' collections from marvel and personally they are brilliant, giving the reader the orgins and some of the best stories from a character.

Firstly i love silver surfer and soo much about him the fact that his power is practically limitless and that he doesn't even want it is what is soo gd about silverado himself.

This collection was put together by Stan the man Lee and even has a forward written from him which i very much enjoyed reading.

this collection really puts together everything u need to know about the surfer including his very first appearance and his orgins. there is also the one shot comic Silver Surfer:Parable which in my opinion is a fantastic story and really reflects the character properly.

the only thing i would say is since this book was made some of the sufer's best stories hve been published and really makes you want to read them.

This is a great book for a silver surfer fan or someone who jus wants to be introduced to the character.

with a great variety of artwork and stories you can't go wrong.

Proper faulty and no mistake Guv!, 15 Oct 2007
I can live with the cliché's, I can live with the patronising ex pat, 'ollywood cockernee type characterisation's, I can even forgive John Byrne (once a legend in this business), but what I cannot forgive is that this is very poor and worst of all NOT FUNNY! It is simply short of the mark and way off target and desperately tries to capture a long dead zeitgeist that probably only ever existed in the minds of Americans watching "The Avengers" re-runs on TV as kids and in the long since dried up comedy brain of John Cleese who clearly spends way to much time in La La Land and out of England to recognise this for the poor excuse of a parody that it fails to be...shame



Superman: True Brilliance!, 21 Sep 2005
This book was fantastic!, The humour in it was very british and i enjoyed it greatly. The appearance of Batman in it wasn't the best idea and i thought even though it was slightly funny how he became Batman, it was a rubbish character. The costume was brilliant and the joke about the british tabloids was very funny too.

'British' in an Austin Powers sort of way, 21 Sep 2005
First, the good points: It's got lovely artwork. 1980's fan favourite (and the man entrusted with the late 80's reboot of the Superman mythos) John Byrne inked over by long-time Alan Davis collaborator Mark Farmer, famed for his 'clean' style. It looks great.

The story is good as well - an opportunity to parody the S** and the rest of the British tabloid press, with Colin (Superman) Clark's newspaper editor boss clearly modelled on a certain fictional Torquay hotelier. There are some lovely twists on the long-familiar Superman stories, including some lovely cartoony moments (how does a teenage Clark stop himself from looking in the girls' changing rooms with X Ray vision?; what if young Clark switched on heat vision whilst looking at a 'hot' girl? etc) Indeed, Clark's parents are more caricatures than 'real' people to keep in with the 'just for laughs' style.

Where I have an issue is with the use of John Cleese as a co-author of the book. I suspect that he's had very little to do with this. True, there are numerous in-jokes hidden away for the fans covering both Python and Fawlty Towers, but would Cleese really have allowed a conversation between Clark and his earthly dad to have allowed the use of the term 'sidewalk' instead of 'pavement'? (Just how British is the writing team?) This has all the hallmarks of one of those Chris Claremont X-Men stories where Britain consists of the Houses of Parliament, Beefeaters, and little else. Austin Powers would feel at home here.

Overall, disposable fun, but I'm glad I borrowed this from the library - it's written as much with one eye on pandering to the preconceptions of the US market as it is on giving us Brits 'our own' Superman story. For a quality alternative in a non-comedy vein, I'd recommend Batman: The Scottish Connection by the all-Scots team of Grant & Quitely. They'd even included Rosslyn Chapel years before the Da Vinci code got there...

And Now for Something Completely Different!!, 04 Mar 2005
This is a refreshing change to the Man of Steel! With the combined talents of Messrs. Johnson, Cleese, Byrne and Farmer, it answers the seemingly bizarre question, "What if??".

Kal-El grows up in the English countryside suburb of Weston-Super-Mare, adopted by the kindly Clarks. They christen him Colin and his powers soon become more of a hindrance than anything else. While his alter-ego in Metropolis had the almost stereotypical, All-American, story-book upbringing, Colin doesn't have it so good, even working for the Daily Smear under the anarchic Perry Whyte-Badger.

I won't give too much away, only to say that it's a hilarious send-up of the Superman legend, that takes a swipe at the notorious image of the British press. It's the first superhero story that had me giggling at the misfortunes of Colin Clark, as he comes to terms with his new-found image. The humour is satirical, very English, and if you're a fan of the off-the-wall Pythonesque humour, you'll enjoy this different take on Superman. The artwork by Alex Bleyaert, displaying all things that are typically British, is bright and outstandingly funny, from the dreary weather to bad teeth....and fish slapping! This book is set to be a comedy classic and would make the perfect gift for any comic-book fan.

synopsis, 22 Jul 1998
The aftermath of Jean bonding with the Phoenix entity to help save the galaxy. Scott and Jean's relationship is falling to pieces as the Phoenix experiences emotions. The ultimate fate of Jean will be decided as she's found guilty for killing billions of lives. Friendship and love between the Xmen and Jean are put to test as never before.

No exaggeration: the best X-Men story ever, 29 Jun 1998
This book reprints the "Dark Phoenix" saga from X-Men 129-137 (circa 1980). This is the story that moved the X-Men from a very good comic book to something truly remarkable. The story was so significant that the original ending had to be changed (the original was later published separately). The Claremont/Byrne combination is phenomenal. The book features a new introduction by Stan Lee. A must read for any X-Men fan.

Superb plotting by Chris Claremont and great artwork., 26 Nov 2007
This issue comprises the first series of the X-Men issues I missed due to a parental banning order on comics in the late 1970's and what a pleasure it is to catch up on what I missed.
Being a fan of the old X-Men this new series has been a refreshing treat. There are some great story-lines, fantastic artwork and fleshing out old characters, especially the extra background on Nightcrawler and Wolverine. You can clearly read the roots of much of the first X-Men movie here.
Starting off with the X-Men being detained in Canada as Alpha Flight try to get Wolverine back into their fold and it gets better from there.
Old villains return, Mastermind in a new identity which provides a fantastic twist throughout this book, Arkon and Jean's alter-ego Dark Phoenix.
New villains for the X-Men the assassin Arcade, Proteus, the Hellfire Club, Mystique and a new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, the Wendigo and D'Spayre with the Man-Thing guest starring.
To top that off two new mutant heroines are introduced, first the phasing teenager Kitty Pryde who joins the X-Men as Sprite and the Dazzler.
The way the storylines intertwine is first rate, from Mutant X's escape from Muir Island, to the mysterious Jason Wyngarde, the Death of one X-Man in the Dark Phoenix saga and the brilliant Days of Future Past where the future counterpart of newest X-Men returns to the present to try and prevent a future where the Sentinels have taken over, the final twist at the end connecting the Hellfire club to the creation of a new breed of Sentinels. Not forgetting Dr, Strange appearing as Nightcrawler is taken through Dante's version of Hell with the X-Men in tow and Kitty Pryde's first solo outing as an X-Man as the school is attached by a demon.
Chris Claremont has to be congratulated for skilfully keeping so many plot threads in the air here and I look forward to reading the next batch of tales. This is absolutely outstanding.

Xceptionally Marvellous, 28 May 2004
Covering Uncanny X-Men #120 to 144, published between 1979 and 1981, there are some very, very good stories here. We go from Banshee's departure to Sprite's arrival with X-Men alumni and some interesting new mutants (such as Dazzle) guesting fairly regularly. We meet the Hellfire Club, Arcade and lots of other problem foes for our heroes. The Dark Phoenix series is classic stuff right through to Jean Grey's sad death. Scott Summers'/Cyclops Elegy in issue #138 is a fantastic retrospective. We also see Storm succeed Cyclops as the leader of the team. Despite their powers, the characters are portrayed with human feelings and frailties. The story and character development is exceptional. All in all, a highly recommended read.

Essential X-Men Vol.2, 27 Oct 2002
This is the best of volume of the Essential X-Men books. It hs the Dark Phoenix Story, Days of Future Past and the first issues of Shadowcat as an X-Person. Add in the Hellfire Club and the Brood and you have a great book - all X-Fans should have this book in their collection.

If Only The Films Were Like This..., 12 Oct 2002
This graphic novel is excellent - the Dark Pheonix issues are awesome. They treat the reader to an analysis of how a human can comprehend grasping absolute power whilst retaining their sanity, a novel couldn't have done a better job. Totally Worth Buying, even if its tthe only comic series you'll ever buy. Spiderman seems dull in comparison.

The classic years..., 25 Feb 2002
This volume contains the complete "Dark Phoenix Saga" as well as the "Days of Future Past" stories and for those alone is worth the price of admission.Both Byrne and Claremont were at the height of their creative powers and , frankly , these stories have never been equaled or bettered. I have been an avid X-men reader for 20 years now and these are the stories and characters I keep coming back to. My only gripe with this volume is that it's in black and white and while it shows of Byrne's clear line work of to great effect I miss the colors of the costumes, especially Wolverine's!
Anyway, for an afternoon of classic comicbook reading this volume is hard to beat... highly recommended.

Brilliant Captain America Action, 23 Jul 2003
The book is set just after the Avengers and the FF's battle with Onslaught in Central Park. Cap is mysteriously transported to Tokyo where a terrorist plot is being hatched, Cap intervenes and this leads him to the terrorist organization Hydra. And after a blockbuster movie is made about him, wherever he goes Cap has to fight of hordes of adoring fans hanging on to his every word, which is a key factor later on in the book, coupled with this Cap also has to face the loss of his beloved shield at the bootom of the ocean. The art is great and modern and the plot is clever and intriguing. Also the book is interspersed with cameo (1-2 pages) appearances from Kang the Conqueror and the Red Skull. Altogether this is a great book for anyone who loves Cap!

Byrneýs Run on FF is a Definite Classic: I Want More!, 28 Aug 2002
I have been a fan of John Byrne's work in comics since I was a young lad, reading X-Men and the occasional Fantastic Four in Swedish translation. When finding this collection at Amazon and learning that it contained Fantastic Four # 232-240 (i.e. the first nine issues written, pencilled and inked by Maestro Byrne), I did not wait long before placing my order. And I was not disappointed. Byrne's work stands the test of time and I easily fell into the stories which revamped the FF in the early 80s. Presenting stories including Ego (the living planet), Dr Doom and the Puppet Master, Frankie Raye's transformation into another human torch, the failed attempt to restore the Thing's human form, and the resettlement of the Inhumans to the blue area on the moon, this trade paperback is a sheer joy to read.

If you are a fan of Byrne, buy this collection! If you are a fan of Fantastic Four, buy this collection! If you just enjoy well-crafted superhero comics (with a whiff of that cosmic perspective), buy this collection! For my own part, I just hope that Marvel releases a second volume. It would be fantastic to read the stories leading up to the Trial of Galactus (and that story as well).

A must have series for any comics fan...or if you like gothic devil coolness!, 21 Apr 2008
No graphic novel collection is complete without some titles, like Watchmen, Knightfall, Sin City and Hellboy!!
I first started reading Hellboy before the first movie came out, I was curious, got one to try and now have them all (and the novels and figures and statues). Seed of Destruction is the first in the series and it jumps straight in to Hellboys life in the B.P.R.D. (bereau for paranormal resreach and defense, kind of like a supernatural CIA). You just see he is a demon working for the agency, and he has a cool coat and a massive stone hand. But as the story goes on, you find he was summoned by Nazis and Ra ra rasputin to help win WW2. But he was saved by Proff. Bruttenholm and now fights for the good guys! Along with Abe Sapien (fish guy) and Liz (Fire starter!). Expect battles with disgusting tentacled Lovecraftian monsters and crazed Nazis. And Nazis do tend to make excellent bad guys! As you progress through the series you find out much more about Hellboys background, and the origins of Abe and Liz too. Its just a great story, well told!

My favourite aspect of the artwork is the black, There is so much darkness throughout and it really sets the tone and sets it apart from other graphic novels. The villains are great, you cannot beat an evil Nazi head in a jar! I love Mignolas fascination with myths from all over the world, especially europe. You get the feeling he puts in lots of research to find just the right gross, creepy myth to use. Its kind of nice to get that european feel for a change, especially if all you read is Marvel and DC!
Recommended!!

This is really FUN!, 07 Jan 2005
Seed of Destruction is Mike Mignola's first graphic album featuring his brilliant Hellboy. The artwork is very Kirbyesque throughout with gothic overtones. Somehow it all works very well. Mignola portrays a quirkiness and humour to the Hellboy character (which is fully realised in Del Toro's new Hellboy movie) and brings to the mix Abe Sapien (almost a modern reworking of Universal's Creature from the Black Lagoon), the incendiary Liz Sherman and, of course, the BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defence).

Seed of Destruction begins with Hellboy appearing after a fiendish nazi experiment by the villain of the piece, Rasputin.

From then on it's a rollercoaster ride of battles with frog-like monsters and tentacled beasts until the final showdown. The book doesn't take itself too seriously which is just as well given the absolutely ridiculous scenario. But, this is really FUN.

Mignola has found his niche and he has come up with a truly original concept, strong characters and atmosphere soaked, adrenaline pumping storylines in his Hellboy series. If you really like comics you can't afford to miss Hellboy.

Refreshing and funny, 28 Apr 2003
Mike's artwork is a breath of fresh air, like Frank Miller his use of black as a colour or to create an image from very little is amazing, although he can be very cartoony, much like Manga can flip between different styles between panes. The inking is also very good in this book and can't be faulted. The use of panes and bubbles is also spot on so it makes the experience very pleasureable reading.
As for the story, I enjoyed this very much, this is possibly because I have read many Lovecraft stories which have obviously been drawn from for this book. There is also a sledge hammer wit about the main character Hellboy that keeps you wanting him to get into these crazy fights with beasts as he is almost a step away from the serious and moody story line. Hellboy is the oddest looking hero I have seen for a comic that is trying to take itself seriously but he is the touch of humour that without which you realise would not make the story 'perfect'.
I hope a Lovecraft type mythos is used more in future Hellboy because this one book has got me hooked.

The birth of a legend, 21 May 2002
This is a truly magnificent graphic novel. Mike Mignola has created something wonderfully different and original... The artwork is excellent- a unique style that fits the 'dark' nature of the story. I recommend this novel to anyone fascinated by the occult, by fairy tales, by aliens and witches and goblins.

Mixing detective and action, 04 Aug 2001
First of all I'd like to advise people who are willing to get into Hellboy to start here. Besides from this being the official first story you also get easily introduced to Hellboy and what he's about here, and the drift into Hellboy-reality is very natural and gentle. Besides from that it's a very nice read as a stand-alone story. It doesn't end with something like a cliff-hanger that makes you need to buy continuing books. It's a book with a beginning and an end.

About the story: It's been over 35 years since Trevor Bruttenholm first found the creature that was later named "Hellboy", a big red creature over 7 feet high, strong as ten men, with a tail and an artificial stone arm. Nobody knows what he is or where he came from, including himself (a thing about which you get more and more hints as time goes by, not only in this particular volume). That was at the end of World War II on the scene of an occult experiment by a Nazi group trying to grab on to probably their last chances of enpowering the Reich. Now, the present, Trevor reaches out to Hellboy, who has since gone on to work for the "Bureau of Paranormal Investigation", because he desperately needs his aid. Weird extra-natural murders are taking place and it's up to Hellboy and his agency to find what kind of mystical powers are on a rampage and, even more important, who unleashed them.

What you have here is a title that especially people who like things like "X-Files" and "Planetary" will like a lot. It's about an agency that goes around the world to solve super-natural crimes and puzzles, but the members of the agency aren't that normal theirselves either. All this in a pretty gritty and dark atmosphere. It's very well-written, everything fits, and what also is really nice is that the creator (Mike Mignola) NEVER gave the story-writing or the art-job away in any of the following books. The creator sticks with his book and it really shows later on, when you see how things keep clicking and keep the same atmosphere. Must-buy for Planetary and X-Files fans and alike.

The Definitive Silver Surfer, 31 Jul 2008
There are only a few of these 'Definitive' collections from marvel and personally they are brilliant, giving the reader the orgins and some of the best stories from a character.

Firstly i love silver surfer and soo much about him the fact that his power is practically limitless and that he doesn't even want it is what is soo gd about silverado himself.

This collection was put together by Stan the man Lee and even has a forward written from him which i very much enjoyed reading.

this collection really puts together everything u need to know about the surfer including his very first appearance and his orgins. there is also the one shot comic Silver Surfer:Parable which in my opinion is a fantastic story and really reflects the character properly.

the only thing i would say is since this book was made some of the sufer's best stories hve been published and really makes you want to read them.

This is a great book for a silver surfer fan or someone who jus wants to be introduced to the character.

with a great variety of artwork and stories you can't go wrong.

Proper faulty and no mistake Guv!, 15 Oct 2007
I can live with the cliché's, I can live with the patronising ex pat, 'ollywood cockernee type characterisation's, I can even forgive John Byrne (once a legend in this business), but what I cannot forgive is that this is very poor and worst of all NOT FUNNY! It is simply short of the mark and way off target and desperately tries to capture a long dead zeitgeist that probably only ever existed in the minds of Americans watching "The Avengers"