PopCult Rudy Panucci on Pop Culture

Frankenstein Alive Alive

Frankenstein Alive Alive

written by Steve Niles
art by Bernie Wrightson and Kelly Jones
IDW Publishing
ISBN-13: 978-1684053377
$24.99 (on sale at Amazon)

This immaculate hardcover collection of the mini-series is the perfect gift for the fan of gothic horror or just folks who appreciate beautiful comic art on your shopping list.

Inspired by Mary Shelley’s immortal gothic horror tale, Frankenstein Alive, Alive brings new life to the Promethean monster, courtesy of Steve Niles (30 Days of Night) and Bernie Wrightson (Frankenstein, Swamp Thing). Victor Frankenstein’s cobbled together creature continues his adventures, embarking on a journey to discover his own humanity.

Collecting the four-issue series along with an extended gallery section of never-before-seen layouts and pencils by Wrightson, all scanned from the original art.

This is the final art produced by Bernie Wrightson, a master of modern horror art, who lost his battle with brain cancer before the original mini-series was finished. Additional art is supplied in the final chapter by Kelley Jones (at Wrightson’s request), who stepped in to complete the series upon the comic book legend’s untimely passing. This book collects some of the finest work by one of the best artists to ever illustrate comics.

Niles is also a master of the horror comic, as a writer, and he crafted a story that played perfectly to Wrightson’s many strengths. Wrightson had been associated various adaptations and interpretations of the story of the Frankenstein Monster since the mid-1970s, and this book was seen as the crowning achievement of his storied career. It is a real work of art. Kelly Jones also deserves major kudos for stepping into a very challenging position and admirably filling the shoes of Wrightson to finish this work. That he was hand-picked by Wrightson is a testament to his considerable talents.

Using the ISBN code, you ought to be able to order this book from any bookseller, but be advised that Amazon has it for about eight bucks less than the list price.