Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Hellboy And The B.P.R.D. 1952 #1Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. 1952 #1
Dark Horse Comics
Mignola, Arcudi, Maleev & Stewart

The first issue of Hellboy and the BPRD is everything you would expect from the first adventures of Hellboy. The comic book introduces some of the supporting agents that Hellboy goes on his first mission with and it establishes the complicated relationship with Hellboy and the man that has watched over his childhood, Professor Bruttenholm. Overall, the first issue is a good one and a nice jump-on point for a new reader. I recommend checking this out.

The first few pages help to setup how Hellboy came to be and how his first few years living among humans has gone over with him and those around him. Much of this is established but through the introduction of a case in South America. As the situation is explained to the agents, the bombshell is dropped that Hellboy is to be included on the team.

The team's reactions are mixed and that is a welcome portion of the comic. Hellboy is a complex character and it would make sense that in his youth he rubs some the wrong way while others seem to be buddies with him. However, Hellboy's personality seems somber and extremely muted. I was surprised to see how tame he was, especially after some of the agent's reactions. I hope his wilder side comes out in the coming issues.

The remainder of the book gets down to business as they arrive on the scene. The plot isn't fully revealed but enough is teased to bring the reader back for more issues. The investigation is multiple murders but you just know there is more to it that will be made clear in future issues.

Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle ReviewsThe artwork is fantastic. The art is what makes Hellboy different from every other comic on the market. Dark Horse does a good job of finding the right artist that fits with Mignola's style from when he wrote and drew the character. With Stewart's colors over the pencils, the book takes on the Hellboy classic "look" throughout the book.

Hellboy is a fantastic character with a rich trove of stores. While the main title seems to be on endless hiatus, this will help fill the gap. If you ever wondered about the early Hellboy missions or are just looking to get into the character then this is a great start. I have no doubt the coming issues will be on par with many of the other classics of the character. Give this comic a try.

3.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles