Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews

Hellboy The Fury #1Hellboy: The Fury #1 of 3
Dark Horse Comics
Mignola & Fegredo

As the final story arc in this King Arthur storyline begins we have the setup to Hellboy's battle with Nimue as well as a new player for the crown of England. This issue is great because it pretty much lays out the story in as straightforward a manner as any Hellboy story has in the past. Usually the Hellboy stories are heavy on the occult and layered with subtle hints, but this issue pretty much spells everything out for the reader and it works because the drama still builds by the end and the action keeps the issue flowing nicely.

Contrary to many Hellboy comic books, this one has a recap. It spreads over two pages and is more visual than text based but it really sums up much of what has occurred nicely over the past few story arcs. It was actually a nice recap because I had forgotten that Hellboy gave away his eye. From there we launch right into the action. Nimue has become something other than a warrior or a witch as Hellboy approaches her castle. It doesn't matter because Hellboy marches right into, headstrong as ever.

However, there is more going on than Hellboy understands. He's left behind Excalibur and Alice seems to have found someone that can wield it and its power. The coming of a new king seems way too straight forward and this can't possibly go in the right direction with a happy ending.

As the issue progresses Hellboy is overwhelmed by Nimue's power and she unveils her next step which is sure to spell out doom for everyone.

The issue is very fast paced which helps to leave the reader wanting more. Hellboy has been in trouble many times before but this time it seems really daunting, more so than usual. The book also possesses such a strong hint of "good" not normally found in a Hellboy comic book. Usually Hellboy defeats evil with a grayer shade of evil and there is rarely a shiny, happy, bright solution to a problem. This issue seems to provide that gleaming moment.

Fegredo has come into his own as the book's artist. No, it's not Mignola, but his style has kept the book as lively and dark as ever. Fegredo presents an exciting story and that's all you can ask for when it comes to Hellboy comics.

Hellboy fighting for England where the world seems to be at stake as well is a pretty good hook for a story. Throw in a girlfriend, King Arthur, Excalibur and Nimue and you have the makings of something great. This arc marks what is sure to be the end of that story. If you haven't jumped onto the Hellboy bandwagon yet then this is your chance. I definitely recommend this comic book.

4.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles