The latest launch from Marvel Entertainment's Marvel Now! initiative is Morbius, The Living Vampire. The first issue is in stores Wednesday, Jan. 2nd and is written by Joe Keatinge (Hell Yeah, Glory) with art by Richard Elson and colors from Antonio Fabela.
Fresh from the pages of Amazing Spider-Man (namely, #699.1), Dr. Michael Morbius, Ph.D. is a man with an insatiable bloodlust. Unlike the Marvel Universe's other actual vampires, Morbius gained his bloodlust and other abilities from an experimental cure to a rare blood disease, not from the supernatural. He has struggled since his transformation to keep his bloodlust in check while also being a productive member of society. In this new series, Morbius is looking to escape the eyes of the super community in Manhatten, after a recent escape from The Raft, a prison for super humans. Morbius takes to the forgotten by society Brownsville section of town in an effort to lay low while he ties up loose ends. Naturally, it is not long before he runs afoul of the town's local lead thug, Noah St. Germain.
Keatinge creates a perfect introduction to the character in this initial issue. Readers with little to no knowledge of Morbius will feel comfortable with him by the end of the issue. Keatinge provides Morbius' origin, powers and recent history in a fun narrative that does not bog down the reading experience. All while moving the character forward into a new setting with new adversities. Readers will empathize with Morbius' struggle to lead a normal life and when the end comes they will be wanting the next issue.
Elson's art gives a fresh look to a character that has been around for decades. His backgrounds are fully realized, giving New York and Brownsville distinct looks. Both are welcome changes as most vampire (or even "vampire-ish") books are more style over substance.
Morbius, The Living Vampire, is another successful launch of a character usually seen in a supporting role, now ready to establish himself on his own. Fans should not hesitate to jump on in. The first issue is in Philadelphia area stores tomorrow, January 2, 2013. To find a comic shop near you, go to www.comicshoplocator.com.
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