While I was reading Titan Comics‘ new graphic novel Kraken Volume 1 from Shannon Eric Denton with illustrations from David Hartman, I kept thinking how much it reminded me of an Indiana Jones adventure crossed with H.P. Lovecraft. I chuckled as I finished the book and looked at the review blurbs on the back cover and saw a quote from filmmaker Don Coscarelli praising the book as a “gonzo mashup of H.P. Lovecraft and Indiana Jones.” Yep. Coscarelli is wise indeed–it’s as if we share a mind which is probably why I love Phantasm and The Beastmaster so much.
The book, set in a supernatural 1930s, is about an adventurer named Captain Kraken who, after disappearing for three years, returns through a portal in search of allies to stop an evil sorceress from unleashing a horde of monsters on the world. The book is full of occult powers, artifacts, and even some sentient talking skulls. It’s also full of action, old-school adventure, and fun.
Denton has crafted a fun story with a lead character that is cool and witty at the same time. The story is enhanced by unique yet fitting illustrations from Hartman. It’s a fun, easy read– one might even describe it as “comfort reading for monster lovers.”
If you’re a fan of Indiana Jones, H.P. Lovecraft, The Shadow, Doc Savage, etc., check out Kraken. You’ll have a fun time.
You can order the book here.
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