Koshchei The Deathless #1

Writer: Mike Mignola
Artist: Ben Stenbeck
Colorist: Dave Stewart
Letterist: Clem Robins
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics

Koshchei The Deathless is a new series about Koshchei, who we’ve seen in previous issues of Hellboy comics. Koshchei is also written by famed Hellboy author Mike Mignola. This first issue is the first of six within this miniseries about Koshchei and what caused him to become who he is.

Koshchei has always been an interesting character and this miniseries is already making him more intriguing. With Koshchei having a deep history from an old folk tale, he has already lived through a lot of media portrayal. This first issue of this miniseries was an absolute page turner as Koshchei himself explains to Hellboy how he became the way he is.

Mignola obviously knows how to create a fantastic comic book and I love this side project of his. It takes a path down the history of Koshchei, which is both exciting and creepy. Mignola is going very deep within his history to make a great story and it is working. He makes you wonder who to sympathize with repeatedly throughout this issue.

Ben Stenbeck, who has worked previously with Mignola on Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. as well as other projects, really captures the tone of this comic. The artwork is full of dark colors and creatures and blood, which perfectly compliments Mignola’s writing. There is also plenty of action within this issue and is captured in such a captivating way.

Fans of Hellboy and those who aren’t can very much enjoy this first issue within this miniseries. It establishes a great story, intriguing characters, and a dark tone that will leave you wanting more.