REVIEW: Dracula Book One

The Impaler by Matt Wagner and Kelley Jones

Dracula

Book One: The Impaler

Written by Matt Wagner

Art by Kelley Jones

Color by Jose Villarrubia

Letters by Rob Leigh

Oh boy. That was intense.

As Matt writes in the introduction, his and Kelley Jones version of the centuries old, world renown character created by Bram Stoker, is a monster. Plain and simple. He’s a monster from page one. Years before he becomes an undead creature of the night. No tortured soul cursed into evil. No romantic heartthrob to feel empathy for. He’s an evil creature born of humanity, then from hell. And, he is very much the author of his own story.

The Impaler is told from the perspective of the legend himself, Vlad III, Viovode of Wallachia. We enter his story as the Turks as close to overrun his kingdom. His ruthlessness is on display right from the start with impaled enemies and fighting his way out of the the city to save his own life.

As we journey with Vlad and his companion Constantin, they quest past wolves and undead creatures to find the home of Marta Tigen a gypsy sorceress. It is here the true purpose of Vlad’s quest is revealed. He wants to find Satan to grant him the power and skill to defeat the Turks and their Sultan, Mehmet II.

I’m not one for spoilers and going into details for reviews. This is a good size graphic novel and gives off the “big fight” vibe. Both Matt and Kelley leave it all on the field for this story. This is an origin story, not of evil, but of a man driven by his arrogance, hatred and violent nature. He’s not motivated by saving his country. It’s more his ego at play. And, it works so well.

From the moment Vlad leaves Marta Tigen’s home, his pursuit plays out of sacrificing all around him for his goals. Even with dealing with the devil himself, he schemes to kill him after he gets what he wants. Every move is to advance his own selfish want for power to crush all around him. Matt portrays the venom and spite in every bit of Vlad’s dialogue with a little bit of humanity shown in sparse moments. As we witness his rise in power, it’s callous, backstabbing and every bit what we need to see in the son of the Dragon.

Bits of lore and legend we’ve come to know about Dracula are brought in and peppered throughout. And Matt, I know how much you love “Let the Right One In.” Well played in working it into the story.

Art wise, this is master craft by Kelley Jones. I will admit that I haven’t always a big fan of Mr. Jones. Always respected it though. But here? Whoa. It is absolutely the work of a lifetime. Every page is so beautifully composed in texture, flow and yes, gore. Beauty is worked alongside the grotesque. Sprawling, gothic landscapes and chambers are expertly drawn and bring you right into the world. His depiction of Vlad and his visage feels right and goes from regal barbarian to downright horrific. Other characters feel right and round out the feel and tone of the book.

Colors by Jose Villarrubia is a treat. I HATE the overcoloring that is way too prevalent in comics. Typically, it just overpowers the art. But here, Jose works with lushly inked art and works alongside of it. It’s never “too much” and is a great addition to the storytelling to establish mood. As it should be.

Letters by Rob Leigh give characters a voice and Vlad’s narration throughout is stylish and easy to follow.

The Impaler accomplished one of my number one requirements. I wanted more. Yes. This was a nice complete story. But as soon as that last page turned, I needed to see more. It brings me much happyness that I know there;s more to come.

As stated from the start by Matt and Kelley, this is Book One of four. It’s looking like every Halloween for the next couple years, we’ll get an opportunity to support the next installment through Kickstarter.

I got my copy through last year’s campaign. Those who missed it are in luck as Dark Horse Comics is releasing a version right in time for Halloween. You can preorder it here.

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