PopCultHQ received a preview copy of Hellchild #3 (of 5) from Zenescope Entertainment. In stores on May 18, the creative team for this new mature readers series features writing from Pat Shand, artist Vincenzo Riccardi, colorist Eleonora Bruni, and lettered by Jim Campbell.
Here is PopCultHQ’s spoiler-free review of Hellchild #3 (of 5)…
PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review: Hellchild #3 (of 5)
The Story So Far… thousands of years ago, Hades, the god of the Underworld, had a daughter named Angelica. Because of his own foolish schemes, Angelica was tragically killed. But present day Hades is a changed man. in a committed relationship with vampire hunter, Liesel Van Helsing, Hades has taken to fighting evil. However, as a new threat rises up in New York City, Van Helsing and Hades will be forced to face the consequences of his past evils. This is the story of the Hellchild…
Previously in Hellchild… Liesel Van Helsing and Marian journey to the lower levels of a magical nightclub to stop a group of dark sorcerers from resurrecting the wicked Morgana. But Marian takes over the spell and instead resurrects Hades’ daughter Angelica. However, when she appears before them, it seems that something has gone wrong… Angelica is a vampire! She quickly escapes onto the streets on New York City, where Olaf and his gang of vampire junkies prepare to capture her.
Pat Shand continues to deliver a strong performance in this fascinating tale. He gives us a little more insight into these characters and progresses the story nicely. Being issue three of a five-part series, this midway point is laying the groundwork for what will likely be a full-on collision and epic finale. I. Can’t. Wait.
Hellchild, still dealing with her emotions regarding this new life, is truly a badass. It feels as if her emotions are the catalyst for her new persona and what really drives her. Loving this character and would love to see her possibly spinoff to her own solo title in the near future.
Artist Vincenzo Riccardi’s artwork, and especially the characters, are so on point for this series. He was definitely the right choice as the illustrator who would best represent Shand’s story. Color artist Eleonora Bruni accentuates Riccardi’s battle scenes with vivid and intense colors that inject life into every act of violence and splattering of blood. This artistic duo has such great chemistry!
<In case you missed it, here is PopCultHQ’s spoiler-free review of Hellchild #2>
The way this series began strong, and has progressively gained traction, has me feeling that come issue five I will likely be blown away and may need a change of shorts. You have the trifecta in a creative team with Shand, Riccardi, and Bruni. With their combined output, you can expect a compelling story and top-notch artwork. I only wish the series wasn’t going to end after five issues. Hopefully their work here leads to the trio collaborating on a future project. This creative team from Zenescope has got it going on!
PopCultHQ’s Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Available Covers for Hellchild #3 (of 5):
“PROBLEM CHILDREN”
Angelica’s rampage through New York City comes to an end when she befriends Olaf and his crew of junkie vampires. However, when Jerrik, an ancient monster from Olaf’s past, comes to the city to reprimand him, Angelica will get a taste of true evil. Meanwhile, Van Helsing and Hades continue to hunt the runaway Hellchild, unaware that they’re playing directly into Olaf’s plan.
Be sure to follow the creative team!
Writer Pat Shand:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.shand.7
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/PatShand
- Tumblr: http://patshand.tumblr.com/
Artist Vincenzo Riccardi:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vincenzo.riccardi.71
- Website: http://vinartwork.blogspot.com/
- DeviantArt: http://vinartworks.deviantart.com/
Colorist Eleonora Bruni:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kobracerealmonster
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/KobraWhaaat
- Tumblr: http://imjustanectoplasm.tumblr.com/
- Website: http://peek-aboo.daportfolio.com/
