Author: Micha

“John Doe” is one of the most iconic works of modern Italian comics, created by Lorenzo Bartoli and Roberto Recchioni. Published between 2003 and 2012 by Eura Editoriale (later Editoriale Aurea), the series is distinguished by its blend of action, irony, and social critique. The concept of following the story of a “Death’s accountant” who decides to rebel against the divine system combines existential themes with a pop and pulp aesthetic.

“Dampyr”, created by Mauro Boselli and Maurizio Colombo in 2000 for Sergio Bonelli Editore, is one of the longest-running and most acclaimed Italian horror comics. The story focuses on Harlan Draka, a dampyr a being half-human and half-vampire, destined to fight against the Masters of the Night, powerful immortal vampires who rule entire territories around the world. Harlan is portrayed as a reluctant hero, marked by the discovery of his true nature and battles against supernatural entities that threaten humankind. From the first issue, there is a commitment to creating a unique mythology that blends European legends with new ideas, offering the audience a dark and engaging atmosphere.

Samuel Stern is an Italian horror series launched in 2019 by Gianmarco Fumasoli and Massimiliano Filadoro for the publishing house Bugs Comics. Set in Edinburgh, the series focuses on Samuel Stern, a bookstore owner with a passion for the occult who has a rather unique occupation: exorcisms.

Brendon, created by Claudio Chiaverotti and published by Sergio Bonelli Editore, is a horror-fantasy series set in a post-apocalyptic world that blends medieval atmospheres with dark and magical elements.

“The Cannibal Family” is one of the Italian horror comics that most stands out for its ability to probe the depths of the human soul, transporting readers into a dark and unredeemable world. Created by Stefano Fantelli and Rossano Piccioni and published by Edizioni Inkiostro, this comic breaks every convention, pushing beyond the limits of traditional horror and leaving a trail of reflection that lingers well beyond the last page. Through the story of a family of cannibals, “The Cannibal Family” explores deeply disturbing themes that intertwine with a ruthless analysis of human nature.

“At the Mountains of Madness” by Gou Tanabe is a manga adaptation of the novel of the same name by H.P. Lovecraft, one of the most celebrated and terrifying works by the author from Providence. Tanabe, known for his ability to bring Lovecraft’s disturbing and mysterious atmospheres to paper, manages to convey that sense of unease and terror that characterizes the author’s narrative, transforming words into images that seem to emerge from alien nightmares. Adapting Lovecraft into a comic is a risky choice, but Tanabe proves to be fully up to the challenge, offering a visual experience that amplifies the original cosmic horror.

Dylan Dog is an Italian horror comic created by Tiziano Sclavi and published by Sergio Bonelli Editore since 1986. The protagonist, a charming London-based private investigator with a dark past, specializes in supernatural and paranormal cases. Armed with irony, charm, and a hefty dose of pessimism, Dylan faces monsters, ghosts, and creatures of all kinds, often reflecting on human nature and its darker sides.