At last, as you demanded: The celebrated creative team of Si Spurrier and Aaron Campbell have returned to Hellblazer! John Constantine has cheated death once again-but his heart’s not beating, his body is decaying, and he, his friend Nat, and his son Noah are on the run in America, wanted for murder. Naturally, it’s all John’s fault-it always is. But as it turns out, Dream himself needs John’s help. Something terrible has taken root in America, and it’s using the sand from Dream’s pouch to impose its will. If John can put a stop to it, he might be able to parlay that favor into a chance to save all their lives-but he’s going to more
This is an outstanding opening issue for a much anticipated series. The previous run by Simon Spurrier and Aaron Campbell was an exhilarating thrill ride of magic, mayhem, and humour. 'Dead In America' has started in exactly the same vain. It may cause offense. In fact, it should cause offense. It is offensive in the best possible way. Read Full Review
While John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America is technically a continuation of Spurrier and Campbells run, this issue works as a fantastic debut for readers who may have missed the boat in 2019. Some elements carried over from the previous volumes but this new series works in ideas from the original Sandman run which adds a new layer to this current era. The creative team is giving readers something special. Bidikars lettering is fantastic and adds little touches that nail the nuances of Spurriers script while Bellaire brings Campbells art to new levels. While things might not be looking good for John, it is a great time to be a reader of John Constantine, Hellblazer. Read Full Review
This book is a stunning achievement on multiple levels, including the very fact that it exists at all. 'Dead in America' perfectly balances nostalgia and forward momentum, giving us a story with huge stakes. It feels like every 'Hellblazer' story ever has led readers (and Constantine) to this point. Read Full Review
It remains to be seen if John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America #1 will lead to a new monthly series. Certainly, there's ample room for John Constantine in the Sandman Universe, and the possibility of a crossover with the Nightmare Country spinoff is interesting. If this is to be the last hurrah of John Constantine, however, it is a hell of a good start. Read Full Review
Campbells art is amazing. I love the visual style of the issue and how it perfectly captures the dark and moody tone of the story. Read Full Review
Much like the components of a spell, Dead in America #1 is ultimately about potential. The characters, their dynamics, settings, themes, humor, and style are all displayed, and they are all impressive. Read Full Review
This is a dense, oversized first issue that feels like a classic old-school Hellblazer story in the best way. This version of the character can be a lot, but it's great to have him back in all his filthy glory. Read Full Review
John Constantine Hellblazer: Dead in America #1 exceeded my high expectations and proves how Spurrier and Campbell are in the hall of fame for Constantine's creative teams. Considering the deeper ties to the original The Sandman and a fan-favorite character showing up at the end, the pair demonstrate their passion for the overall series and the necessity for telling the story right now. Read Full Review
Constantine's return to the US included old friends, new enemies, a demonic girl scout and the strange sensation of trying to take care of his son before his decomposing body is too far gone. The halcyon days of Hellblazer have returned, and I couldn't be happier. Read Full Review
A perfect return to John Constantine with just enough of that regretful desire to do something good without actually being able to fully be a ‘good guy’.
Constantine is in serious trouble and he has dragged a couple of generally unknowing accomplices with him.
A couple of great guest appearances with callbacks to previous stories if you’ve read Constantine before. But if you haven’t, read it anyway.
A brilliant jumping on point for a great character who has appeared in other comics and TV shows. This is everything you want from Constantine and everything you need to know about the character.
God, this is just so good. I love you, John. Absolutely living for that totally unprovoked (and yet very deserved) TS Eliot slam.
If this was my last ever version of John Constantine then I would be a very happy old man. Without spoilers all I can really say is great writing and wonderful art all wrapped up in a story that makes me smile from ear to ear. Give yourself a winter treat and delve into Occult the way it should be.
What's the phrase...
We are so back
I was really excited for John's return and I'm happy to say I wasn't disappointed. I loved this issue! It felt like coming home. Si Spurrier nails John's voice and sarcastic sense of humour, although he does make him speak a bit fancy at times. Aaron Campbell's art is suitably dark and moody and fits the creeping horror tone of this book.
Now I really want to dust off the 12 issues of their previous run. If you haven't read that run, do give it a shot. And if you are thinking about picking this up, don't hesitate.
Recommended.
I have a longer review on my blog here: https://wakizashireviews.wordpress.com/2024/01/17/john-constantine-hellblazer-dead-in-america-1-jan-2024-review/
John Constantine, the chain-smoking cynic of the occult, swaps London fog for Florida sunshine (albiet with an iconic double decker bus as his ride of choice) in the debut issue to Si Spurrier’s follow-up to his previous Hellblazer limited series. This first issue sets the stage for a road trip into the dark crevices of the American dream, promising equal parts magic, mayhem, and existential angst. Spurrier captures Constantine's sardonic voice perfectly, lacing witty one-liners with a healthy dose of jaded world-weariness. He deftly weaves the American landscape into the narrative, using its vastness and contradictions as a backdrop for Constantine's internal struggles. This gritty depiction of the darker aspects of the American experien more
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