Since this is the initial editon of this column I feel I should
give you a run-down of what this is all about. 1st Down will cover
comics that the reviewer has not read/reviewed before on this
site. Some might be older or more obscure than others, some might
be mainstream titles, but nevertheless we hope to give you an
idea of what’s out there in the ever-expanding world of
comics. Enjoy the experience and try these titles out some time.
On to the title at hand, Incredible Hulk 46, I was pleasantly
surprised. I picked this one up in a bargain-bin at a local mall,
not expecting much and having not read it in years [if ever, I
struggle to remember]. The fondest memories I have of the Hulk
were those really cheesy 80’s TV shows, um when I think
back, maybe those weren’t so fond. I had always pictured
the Jekyll/Hyde relationship of Bruce Banner and the Hulk kind
of cheesy and void of much depth, and so never gave this title
much of a chance. I have been proven wrong; this is a really solid
production and a great looking book.
The story is explained to the new  reader
via a jump-on summary on the first page. From page one you are
thrown head-long into a gripping story of horror, crime and murder
as we follow Bruce Banner “on the run” from the authorities.
The first thing that struck me was that this book seemed to be
aimed at a more mature line of readership than most of Marvels
mainstream stuff.
The cover by Kaare Andrews helps to set the scene with an awesome
horror-esque piece of Bruce Banner in the meanest “cold
sweat” I have seen in ages. The red toning of the image
with the faces peeking out of the darkness helps to perpetuate
the creepiness.
The artwork and story work perfectly together and a strong
choice of colour helps to make this one of the nicest all-round
pieces of production I have seen in a while. Ok so I am a sucker
for Studio F’s colours, they colour one of my favourite
books right now, Humberto Ramos’ Out There, but nevertheless
they simply make this book a joy to look at. Texture in comics
is something relatively new and can be overdone in this Photoshop
age of colouring, bu t
Studio F is definitely one company that seems to get it right.
A limited palette of dark blues, greys and greens along with
the subject matter of hospitals, seedy apartments and morgues
helps to create the spookiness which sets this title apart from
others.
This first read of the Hulk was enough to get me hooked, and
note that it was not a jump-on issue whatsoever. This speaks
volumes of the story-telling and overall hard work that has
gone into this comic. I would really recommend this title to
people who enjoy a super hero style of comic with a touch of
horror and madness thrown in. Considering the Hulk himself does
not even feature in this issue shows the strengths of the tale
told.
Grab this one and enjoy!
Score: 8/10
Written By: Iain Duncan
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Comic Reviews
