A Riveting Return to Cimmeria: Conan the Barbarian Volume 1 Review
Conan The Barbarian Vol 1
Jim Zub words
Roberto De La Torre art
Dean White & Jose Villarrubia colors
Richard Starkings of Comicraft letters
From Titan Comics
Titan Comics brings the legendary Conan the Barbarian back to life in a gripping new tale of lust, terror, and brutality with the newly released trade paperback, featuring Jim Zub's first arc, Bound In Black Stone. Set years after the Battle of Venarium, the weary Conan seeks rest and solitude in his homeland, only to face a mysterious threat from the Pictish wilderness. The narrative thrusts fans into a chilling world where danger is plentiful, trust is scarce, and Conan must once again navigate a perilous journey.
For someone (this writer) not deeply entrenched in Conan lore beyond the iconic movies, the allure of Arnold Schwarzenegger's portrayal, and previous comic runs by Jason Aaron and Kurt Busiek, Jim Zub's storytelling prowess proves compelling. The narrative weaves a complex web of intrigue, challenging Conan to navigate a chaotic and treacherous landscape. The plot is enthralling, keeping readers hooked with every turn of the page.
However, what truly elevates this trade paperback is the collective brilliance of the creative team. Roberto De La Torre's artwork is a visual feast, filling every panel with visceral depictions of bodies, violence, and challenging terrains. The detailed rendering of locales, soldiers, and the undead roaming the Cimmerian plains adds an immersive quality to the storytelling that is hard to resist.
Dean White and Jose Villarubia contribute exceptional colorwork that captures the essence of the Cimmerian setting. The use of cool blues and greens within darker scenes adds an atmospheric touch, making the reader feel the eerie and mysterious elements within the story. Conversely, emotions come alive through the passionate and nuanced coloring, enhancing the overall reading experience.
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One standout character, Brissa of Gurian, adds depth and resonance to the narrative. Her fierceness and compassion make her a compelling addition to the Conan universe, leaving readers eager for more of her story. The hope for future exploration of Brissa's character is palpable, reflecting the success of her inclusion in this tale.
Richard Starkings of Comicraft deserves special mention for impeccable lettering. The seamless integration of text into the stunning visuals contributes significantly to the overall aesthetic appeal. The lettering enhances the reading experience, solidifying the notion that this collection of comics is crafted to the highest standards.
Titan Comics has delivered a powerful and visually stunning reintroduction of Conan the Barbarian. Bound In Black Stone sets a high bar for future installments, and Jim Zub, along with the entire creative team, proves that they understand the assignment. With strong storytelling, stellar artwork, and promising new characters, Conan fans have much to anticipate. This trade paperback is not only a must-read for longtime fans but also an excellent starting point for those new to the savage world of Conan. Titan Comics has undoubtedly placed Conan in a great position, and the future looks promising for the Cimmerian warrior.
Shout out to Titan for sending me a review copy! If you’re looking for more, I know Titan is reprinting those Conan omnibuses, and Savage Sword is out this week! Crom knows what I’ll be reading.
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