Explore a fresh new direction of Martian Manhunter origin story in DC's Absolute series with insights from writer Deniz Camp.
A Radical Reinvention of a Classic Character
Writer Deniz Camp has described Absolute Martian Manhunter as a “radical reinvention” of the DC Absolute line. After getting a sneak peek of the first issue, it’s hard not to agree! While all the upcoming Absolute books carry an air of mystery, Martian Manhunter stands out as the one we know the least about. However, Camp recently shared some intriguing details in an interview with CBR.
The story centers on John Jones, who becomes intertwined with an alien following a catastrophic terrorist attack. Together, they embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind the attack while navigating their new and shared existence. You can check out the full preview of this groundbreaking series in the gallery below.
Inspiration from the Past
During his interview, Camp discussed how he drew inspiration from the early Martian Manhunter tales crafted by Joseph Samachson, Jack Miller, and Joe Cerda in Detective Comics. These stories infused elements of noir and mysticism that shaped his vision for this new iteration.
“You nailed it. While I do think we’re pretty radical and different, I’m drawing from those early Detective Comics stories. That version of Martian Manhunter was mysterious, almost mystical in his abilities. He seemed capable of anything the story demanded, and his perspective on humanity was crucial,” said Camp.
A New Direction with Familiar Echoes
Camp reminisced about his admiration for previous runs of Martian Manhunter, particularly those by Ostrander, Orlando/Rossmo, and Rob Williams. “I’m a long-time fan of DC and this character. For this project, I wanted something fresh and new while still echoing the feel of those peculiar detective stories,” he explained. Even though John Jones is portrayed as an FBI agent in this narrative, there’s a palpable homage to the past.
The Perfect Artistic Collaboration
Artist Javier Rodriguez is the perfect collaborator for this blend of elements. Camp shared how the project came about: “Scott first told me that the big five were all taken and asked if I had any pitch for a DC character. I took some time, crafted a pitch, and sent it along with Javi’s art. I insisted we needed someone like Javier Rodriguez.”
A Unique Art Philosophy
Camp emphasized Rodriguez’s critical role, saying, “The concept wouldn’t be worth doing without someone like him. My idea wouldn’t work with just any artist. His unique approach has been essential, balancing psychedelic and trippy elements with clarity, which is crucial for the story’s delivery.”
Join the Conversation!
What are your thoughts on Absolute Martian Manhunter? We’d love to hear your opinions in the comments below!
---
In conclusion, Absolute Martian Manhunter is not just a new story; it’s a fresh lens through which we can explore an old favorite. The combination of Camp's storytelling and Rodriguez's art promises a riveting journey that both fans and newcomers will enjoy.
- What themes can we expect to see in the new Martian Manhunter series? The series will explore themes of identity, coexistence, and the search for truth amid chaos.
- Is this Martian Manhunter the same as the previous iterations? While it retains elements from the past, this version is a unique reinterpretation with new challenges.
- Who are some notable artists that have worked on Martian Manhunter? Artists like Ostrander, Orlando, and Rossmo have contributed to earlier stories, influencing this new direction.
- When is Absolute Martian Manhunter set to be released? The release date will be confirmed soon, so stay tuned for updates!
- How can I stay updated on the latest comic book news? Following our site and subscribing to our newsletter will keep you informed!
If you're excited about this new take on Martian Manhunter and want to stay in the loop on all things comics, consider subscribing to our newsletter here!
