Comic Review: Heavy Metal Magazine - #001 - 2025

Release Date: May 7, 2025
Publisher: Heavy Metal International
Length: 232 pages

Kickstarter Success: Raised over $780,000 from more than 10,000 backers.

Introduction
It's a thrilling moment to finally have the new Heavy Metal magazine in my hands. This issue was a Kickstarter project and I proudly backed it to get the first number. As a 42-year-old who has been reading this iconic comic my entire life, this feels like being young again. In Sweden, we've had a version of the magazine too and my collection reflects this, a mix of Swedish editions and dominating with the American version. I've often dreamt of learning French to experience the original Métal Hurlant firsthand. Its interesting that that magazine also did a well received Kickstarter for a revival.
Heavy Metal is also the magazine that got me into writing comic stories, some have also been drawn and published here in Sweden. Some with very heavy influence from classic Heavy Metal stories. Maybe someday I have my own stories in future magazine of this new era. 

The Wait – The Angry Mob!

Though the magazine arrived later than its appearance in stores, I completely understand. The overwhelming number of orders caused delays, as the team behind it explained. Some got offended that retail customers got theirs first. To address this, the new Heavy Metal team created a special group for the initial backers, humorously named "The Angry Mob." I love the playful tone behind this idea, even though I'm not angry myself. Being part of "The Angry Mob" feels exclusive and fun, we even have our own area to engage, connect and...

The Cover

The cover of this issue is a masterpiece by the legendary Greg Hildebrandt. It's bittersweet that he didn't get to witness the profound impact this cover has had on this new era of the magazine. The homage to the Heavy Metal movie is unmistakable, the astronaut, Taarna, the car and Loc-Nar. The astronaut depicted reading another Heavy Metal issue: 

#314 (released in February 2022). That was a special variant (Cover B) also drawn by Greg, which included an insightful interview with him. In this new magazine there is also a nice tribute article to him.

The numbering on this new magazine cover stands out too. While initially, I felt a sadness seeing it labeled as "001," the inclusion of the legacy numbering #321 is a nice touch that soothes the sentiment. However, I do miss seeing the year prominently displayed on the cover and spine, it's a detail I've always appreciated and its absence feels like a loss.

One small design quirk caught my eye, the tagline "The World's Greatest Illustrated Magazine" is placed behind Taarna, which is fine in itself, but there's a curious transparency effect on the dragon's wings. It made me wonder why they chose this approach.

The Inside Scoop

The tactile quality of the magazine is exceptional. Just holding it, you can feel the premium materials and admire the pristine clarity of the artwork, a testament to the care put into this revival. The opening message from Frank Forte, Editor-in-Chief, sets the tone beautifully. In his note, he reflects on Heavy Metal's journey from its inception in 1977 to the present, emphasizing that the goal now isn't to "fix" the magazine but to "elevate" it. It's a well-written piece that resonates with long-time readers like me. 

The inside of the magazine is a delightful treat, it feels sturdy yet delicate, much like holding a small kitten, you just wanna take care of it. This issue, spanning an impressive 232 pages, is a perfect blend of nostalgic charm and fresh narratives, offering something for both longtime fans and new readers alike. While I won't touch on every story, here are the highlights that truly caught my attention:

Bug Part 1 by Enki Bilal

What a fantastic start! This story captures the essence of Heavy Metal with its distinctive art style and storytelling. It pulled me in immediately, a strong opening for the issue.

Taarna The Last Taarakian: Rebirth part 1 by Leah Moore, Kohn Reppion, Anna Morozova
Legend of Taarna - Autophonomania by Joseph Michael Linsner

It saddens me that I haven't read the previous stories about Taarna. I've been meaning to for so long but never got around to getting the newer issues. I really love the movie so reading more of her is very intriguing, but times fly right.  I was worried they might not continue her story , but I was pleasantly surprised to see her here, not just once but in two stories, in two different styles. Her presence feels like a reassuring bridge between the magazine's storied past and its future. 

The Mercenary by Vicente Segrelles

Classic Heavy Metal, The Mercenary have been with the magazine from the start. Felt very nostalgic to find it in this number, very fitting. This story evoked mixed emotions, both sadness and intrigue. While I miss the Renaissance-like, oil-painted artwork that once defined it, the digital style used here still works, albeit in a different way.

Cold Dead War: The Aftermath by Craig Wilson

What a pleasant surprise! This short expansion of the WWII zombie tale, based on a story from the Heavy Metal (1981) movie, is a great addition. Having the original 4-part comic, I was thrilled to see this continuation. However, I was a bit disappointed that George C. Romero wasn't involved this time.

Lester: "That Cold Feeling" by Fernando Dagnino

This story's stunning art style draws you into a richly atmospheric world, reminiscent of classic noir. The narrative and visuals come together seamlessly, creating a compelling and memorable reading experience.

Sixella: "The Last Roots" Part 1 by Janevsky

This one transported me to another world entirely. The blue hues in the artwork set a mesmerizing tone that perfectly complements the story. I'm eager to see where this tale leads.

Valentina Part 1 by Sergio Gerasi

Lustful, stylish, and evocative, this black-and-white story reminded me of the works of Manara.
It's exciting to see so many "Part 1" entries, as it hints at future installments of the stories I enjoyed most.

Metal Strips: Zeke & Edsel by Frank Forte

These two quirky characters from the Heavy Metal movie's "Nosedive!!!" sequence are back in a short comic strip created by Frank Forte. The humor and charm of these characters remain intact and the inclusion of "Metal Strips" in the magazine adds a fun, lighter element to balance the longer narratives. Hope for a new Zeke & Edsel in every magazine forward.

Final Thoughts

This issue is pure gold. It's clear that a lot of thought and passion went into curating the stories and artwork. While I skipped over a few tales and was a bit short that just means there are still surprises waiting for you when you pick up your copy.

Now, where's issue #002? I need it in my hands before it hits the stores this time! I'm already impatient to see what the next installment brings! 😄

Rating: 11/10
Links:
Original Kickstarter
Get the comic here: Heavy Metal Official Shop