While you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, it doesn’t mean that you can’t admire it. Each month I find what I believe are the best comic covers of the month. This month a variety of different styles, all of which I believe represent the tones and narratives of the titles they are presenting.
The Punisher #1 by Mitch Gerads
In this new Punisher series, Frank Castle has relocated to Los Angeles and the cover reflects that quite well. The cityscape mixed with the palm trees is a good indication that he is in a different setting than his regular New York. The Los Angeles map in the background also works well to set the location. There are plenty of shadow covering his face making him a dark character, with plenty of mystery. I also like that greens that make it feel like you are looking through night-vision goggles, adding to the military aspect of the character.
Black Widow #3 (Variant Cover) by J.G Jones
This predominantly black and white variant cover by J.G Jones covers the themes of the title quite well. On the left there is the rifle cross-hair, which shows off the action/espionage element of the series. On the right we have a cat that represents Black Widow’s downtime and the more human aspect of the title. In the centre is the exotic setting for the issue, which adds some interest to the title. And finally we have Black Widow herself, with the only only element of her being in colour being her signature fiery hair. All together these elements make for an interesting cover that not only looks great but also gives the reader an indication of what is on offer in the series.
Deceivers #3 by Lorena Carvalho
Not knowing anything about this title, this cover gives the title an espionage feel to it. The way the characters are revealed is common of the genre but is solidified further with top box including bullet holes. The shadow on the female character, along with her pose, gives a sense of mystery to the series, while the second and fourth boxes gives the reader the feeling that there is a chase taking place in the title.
Loki: Ragnarock and Roll #1 Alexis Ziritt
This is a rocking cover and could conceivably be blown up and used as a gig poster for a heavy metal band. The cover is filled with all kinds of Norse and rock imagery which go hand in hand and fit the series well. Alexis Ziritt’s style implements lots of heavy blacks that give the cover a heavier tone, which works well in the context of heavy music. The slightly desaturated colours work well with these tones and the context of the series.
Adventure Time #25 (cover E) by Jeffrey Brown
Jeffrey Brown has made a cover that is similar to a Dungeons & Dragons manual by taking elements from early incarnations, such as the rounded border central image and the diagonal yellow band in the corner, and combining them to make something new. The ways the characters are portrayed in different fantasy roles works well too and helps the theme of the cover.
Also, I quite enjoy Jake as a barbarian.
Hawkeye #15 by David Aja
David Aja continues his run of minimal covers with Hawkeye #15, which uses a crossword to show the credits. This works well within the context of the current storyline, titled “Fun and Games.”
Judge Dredd: Mega-City Two #2 by Ulises Farinas
What I like about this cover is the way the dress-up idea has been done but still made it true to the character. Along with Judge Dredd’s regular uniform there is a Mega City Two uniform and some of the disguises he has used in the series so far. What make this true to the character is the way his face has been left unknown. For who are familiar with that character you will know that Dredd has never been seen with his helmet off* and Ulises Farinas has kept that tradition going.
Fantastic Four #1 by Alex Ross
This is yet another glorious cover from Alex Ross that references the beginnings of the Fantastic Four, while also showing them in their classic uniform. Alex Ross is the go to guy when it comes to painted covers and it is not hard to see why. His technique is fantastic (pun not intended), portraying every little detail and shadow in a manner that is true to life. The poses of the characters are iconic and are in manner that is almost aspirational.
What Was Your Favourite Cover For February?
What are your favourite comic covers from February 2014? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or in the comments below.
* Unless you include the Stalone movie from the 90s.
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