Comic Review: Hercules: The Knives of Kush #1 (Radical Comics) By Eddie R

More reality than Myth

Ever since the introduction of comics, there has been a version of the Greek hero Hercules in some forms or fashion. Either based on the myth, or modified to fit with the times, the Greek Demigod has had a constant presence in the comic world for well over 70 years. Different writers and artists have taken this classical character and placed him in some very unique situations. But for some reason, it seemed that unless the character was being used as a fantasy element, most of what was being written was very far away from where the son of Zeus originated, in classical Greek literature. This time around however, this is not the case.




Hercules: The Knives of Kush #1 opens with Hercules and his shipmates being attacked by Lycian pirates just off the shores of their true destination, Egypt. After a short, but decisive sea battle, they must abandon ship and swim to shore. Once there, they encounter a fierce battle taking place between Bandits and some rich Egyptian nobility. Seeing an opportunity, Hercules and his fellow crew mates dive into the action to help the Nobles, offering their services as mercenaries hopefully allowing them to gain safe passage through Egypt. But if the fates have their way, it may look like this meeting of two cultures is much more than what either side had bargained for.

As I read this book, I could see how the attention to detail, both in the art and the story, were being very true to the time period from where this story is taking place. I feel as if this story could be an untold chapter of the ancient tales of Hercules, with the way the characters have been portrayed here. But unfortunately, this incarnation of Hercules seems to be more of a man than a Demigod, which is refreshing to say the least, but it’s also a bit boring. I mean I am glad to see the character being portrayed as having brains and brawn, not just one or the other. But there seems to be something magical lacking which I feel I have grown very accustomed to (damn pop culture). I guess you could say I am used to this character being based more on myth, and to be surrounded by the mystical, not the literal.

The art for the book though is very rich. I have always enjoyed painted comics, and this one does not disappoint. The color pallet suits the time period for which the story takes place quite well, and the use of shadow and form only help enhance the experience, especially through the very graphic battle scenes.

If you would like to see a new take on an old character, and then by all means please give this series a try, but if you’re looking for more myth than man, I would suggest sticking with the version of Hercules you’re already familiar with.

Writer: Steve Moore
Artist: Chris Bolsen

7/10

On sale August 12th

Eddie R
Review Co- Editor