Review by Sam O'beirn
Dracula. Frankenstein’s Monster. The Wolfman. The Mummy. These were the names of some of the icons of horror from the golden age of film. Beloved by millions around the globe, and at their height, no one was more terrifying. These were the true monsters of film, and then they just faded away from sight.
What happened to them?
In Screamland, a comic released by Image comics, you find out. A five issue mini series, the first four comics are based around each of the monsters themselves, as their agent tries to get the gang back together for one more movie. The final comic shows our heroes through the production of the movie itself, and the outcome for each of the characters. The comic not only gives you an insight into the “Chew ‘em up” world of Hollywood, but an insight into the monsters themselves. Whether they’re sitting at the bottom of a bottle moping that all they ever wanted was to be taken seriously as an actor, working the convention circuit and working in bad science fiction television, or trying to keep an image as a ladies man while keeping in the closet, these monsters have it rough.
Harold Sipe, and Hector Casanova have put together a wickedly funny little read. The artwork is bright, and while it isn’t crisp, you definitely get the feeling of unreality from it. This unreal feeling is excellent during the scenes of Hollywood and the sets. The writing is witty, and you really feel for the monsters as people, not as characters. From the moment we see Frank downing a jack on the rocks, to the horrific ending, we’re hooked. A definite read, if you’re looking for something a little bit classic in your comic horror.
(Issues 1-5, Available from Image Comics)
7/10