The Horror of Godzilla #1
Creative Team
writers: ETHAN S. PARKER & GRIFFIN SHERIDAN
artist: TRISTAN JONES
colorist: JOSH BURCHAM
letterer: TOM NAPOLITANO
publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
The newest addition to The Kai-Sei Era of Godzilla comics arrives with The Horror of Godzilla written by Griffin Sheridan and Ethan S. Parker and pencilled by Tristan Jones, colors by Josh Burcham and letters by Tom Napolitano.
The story details the first appearance of Godzilla, its immediate consequences, and is an awesome premiere for this 4-issue mini series.
Readers are greeted with a more visceral and intimidating Godzilla than usual. His sense of scale, both visually and within the story being told, makes this #1 an amazing place for any Kaiju fan to dip their toes in the Kai-Sei Era.
Set in Tokyo, Japan in 1954, readers witness the first attack by Godzilla and the trial of key character, Dr. Olivia Morrison. Responsible for awakening the beast by tampering with Kai-Sei energy—a staple to the Godzilla-verse.
Writers Parker and Sheridan balance pacing while world-building and setting up what is expected to be key moments in the story going forward.
Part of this issue focuses on history of this unversed making it an easy entry for new readers and hardcore Godzilla fans.
The Horror of Godzilla emphasizes the terror this classic kaiju brings to those in his way and reminds readers of the casualties that come from Godzilla’s presence. He isn’t a bombastic obstacle to be conquered—and the destruction shows this.
Part of this issue is grounded in courtroom sets juxtaposed to large-scale mayhem giving a balance for readers to experience in the art. Jones, who is critical to the visuals may switch between scenes but keeps the tension in every panel.
Final Verdict
The Horror of Godzilla #1 reminds readers why Godzilla isn’t just King of the Monsters who haunts those in his path. It’s as if he’s death itself. Readers will be left holding their breath (not the atomic kind) for the next issue.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 8 |
| Story/Plot | 8 |
| Art/Line Work | 9 |
| Colors | 9 |
| Final Score | 8.5/10 |
