Dracula by Andy Fish

For those of you who prefer your vampires NOT glittering in the sunlight, I highly recommend you check out Andy Fish's long awaited and highly anticipated adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel Dracula!! I just received my personally signed copy of Book One in the series and does not disappoint.

Much like the classic Tod Browning adaptation starring Bela Lugosi, Andy's version takes place in 1931 rather than 1897. Which he explains his reasons for the switch at the end of the first book. He touches upon many of the changes happening at that time such as the Nazi's coming to power.

While keeping many of the elements of Gothic Horror which the story of Dracula is known for, Andy has also infused elements of film noir, action adventure as well as a touch of humor.

Not too much to make the story too jokey or a parody. But enough so the story isn't too, too dark. As someone who enjoys and writes humor, I think it's a very important thing. And also something very difficult to write.

Now we come to Andy's interpretation of Dracula. And I like it. Just from the cover you can tell his appreciation for both the look of Dracula (or Orlok) in the silent film Nosferatu with the overall rat-like appearance and bald head. But in the face, he's maintain that strong sense of nobility and dignity Bela Lugosi gave the character.

The combination of the two gives us a version of Dracula I don't think I've ever seen. And it works really well. He's ancient and diseased with his pointed ears and broken claws. Yet there's strength and dignity in his face.

This is what makes it different from either Max Schreck or Klaus Kinski's plague-ridden Count.

For me, it's more like if Bela Lugosi or Christopher Lee were to do that look for Dracula. But portray them the way they do in their films.

Another thing that shines about the book is Andy's art. His admiration for Jack Kirby shines through in this project. Not in his art style, mind you. But in the way he subscribes to Kirby's approach to art where he's not afraid to try something new as far as projects and styles are concerned.

His artwork in this book is vastly different from the style of work that he did in books like The Tragic Death of Turkey Boy and Fly. The characters in this book for the most part are very photographic looking. His talents as a painter take center stage in this project. But he mixes that with many comic book styles and techniques.

The result is this very satisfyingly brilliant mixed media feel that varies from page to page. It becomes a very exciting action adventure story rather than just a straight horror story.

I highly recommend you order your copy online by clicking the picture above. You will not be disappointed.