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Spawn (Single Issues) #1
Spawn #1
2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN, created by TODD McFARLANE. Spawn debuted to the public, selling 1.7 million copies in 1992 and is on track to be the longest running independent comic ever.
23 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 1992
90 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Todd McFarlane
1,846 books442 followersTodd McFarlane is a Canadian comic book artist, writer, toy manufacturer/designer, and media entrepreneur who is best known as the creator of the epic occult fantasy series Spawn.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, McFarlane became a comic book superstar due to his work on Marvel Comics' Spider-Man franchise. In 1992, he helped form Image Comics, pulling the occult anti-hero character Spawn from his high school portfolio and updating him for the 1990s. Spawn was one of America's most popular heroes in the 1990's and encouraged a trend in creator-owned comic book properties.
In recent years, McFarlane has illustrated comic books less often, focusing on entrepreneurial efforts, such as McFarlane Toys and Todd McFarlane Entertainment, a film and animation studio.
In September, 2006, it was announced that McFarlane will be the Art Director of the newly formed 38 Studios, formerly Green Monster Games, founded by Curt Schilling.
McFarlane used to be co-owner of National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers but sold his shares to Daryl Katz. He's also a high-profile collector of history-making baseballs.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, McFarlane became a comic book superstar due to his work on Marvel Comics' Spider-Man franchise. In 1992, he helped form Image Comics, pulling the occult anti-hero character Spawn from his high school portfolio and updating him for the 1990s. Spawn was one of America's most popular heroes in the 1990's and encouraged a trend in creator-owned comic book properties.
In recent years, McFarlane has illustrated comic books less often, focusing on entrepreneurial efforts, such as McFarlane Toys and Todd McFarlane Entertainment, a film and animation studio.
In September, 2006, it was announced that McFarlane will be the Art Director of the newly formed 38 Studios, formerly Green Monster Games, founded by Curt Schilling.
McFarlane used to be co-owner of National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers but sold his shares to Daryl Katz. He's also a high-profile collector of history-making baseballs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 4, 2023
(B+) 76% | Good
Notes: Read in trade paperback. Collective review for issues #1-6 can be found here: Spawn Origins Collection, Volume 1.
Notes: Read in trade paperback. Collective review for issues #1-6 can be found here: Spawn Origins Collection, Volume 1.
March 18, 2024
A ground breaking comic...one of the only original characters to come out of the 'numb 90's' when comic 'variant' gimmicks took the place of good writing/art. The stories I could tell you about 'ruby - prism - glow in the dark - ...' books that friends of mine paid lots of money for that are now worthless! Another reason I really appreciate Spawn - consistency and respect for fans.
February 26, 2019
I don't know why I never read this series before.
January 14, 2022
Bad idea.
A scarred hero is back from the dead, but with no memory of who he was or what he used to do, until one night… 😈
I was astonished by the artwork the first time I read the very first volume. Now that I own the first issue, I can tell, this is a mystery.🤓
I’LL JUST KEEP THIS IN MY COLLECTION, BAGGED & BOARDED IN THE GYM BAG.
January 1, 2016
I picked up most of the first 2 volumes via single issues to try and get some backstory to Spawn and hopefully fill in some blanks for my read of Hellspawn.
Lt Col Al Simmons was killed and sent to hell but made a deal with the devil that he could return to earth after 5 years to see his wife, Wanda. When he is sent back to earth he is disorientated, not remembering why he's there or the details of what he was sent for. He is now one of hells minions complete with powers which he first uses to save a woman from being gang raped.
Also on earth is The Clown/Violator who is there to keep an eye on Spawn but is wreaking havoc, killing off mob bosses by ripping out their hearts. This is keeping detectives Sam and Twitch busy although they feel that they are being mislead somehow.
Loved this, the story and art both drew me in quickly and I'm able to follow the story much better than in the Hellspawn series so this may help me a lot when I go back to it. The art is so different but still amazing, the panels pop with colour and detail and I especially liked how the Clown is drawn much different to Hellspawn but in some ways just as disturbing.
The scene where Spawn is bombarded with memories and has to be comforted by the woman he rescues was a favourite in this issue, a reminder that even though he has superpowers he still has weaknesses.
A great start to the series.
Lt Col Al Simmons was killed and sent to hell but made a deal with the devil that he could return to earth after 5 years to see his wife, Wanda. When he is sent back to earth he is disorientated, not remembering why he's there or the details of what he was sent for. He is now one of hells minions complete with powers which he first uses to save a woman from being gang raped.
Also on earth is The Clown/Violator who is there to keep an eye on Spawn but is wreaking havoc, killing off mob bosses by ripping out their hearts. This is keeping detectives Sam and Twitch busy although they feel that they are being mislead somehow.
Loved this, the story and art both drew me in quickly and I'm able to follow the story much better than in the Hellspawn series so this may help me a lot when I go back to it. The art is so different but still amazing, the panels pop with colour and detail and I especially liked how the Clown is drawn much different to Hellspawn but in some ways just as disturbing.
The scene where Spawn is bombarded with memories and has to be comforted by the woman he rescues was a favourite in this issue, a reminder that even though he has superpowers he still has weaknesses.
A great start to the series.
April 12, 2022
Spawn is conceptually Macbeth. A great warrior cursed with being king. The three witches are Violator; with the devil working for his, or in the case of Lady Macbeth, own gain. And as MacBeth sits on the throne of his mighty kingdom, it is Spawn whom sits on his throne of shit. Above the vagrants, the homeless, the junkies that desperately cry for any shred of humanity that Spawn has left to give. Macbeth only has the power granted to an actual king that no better lets him become any more than what was bestowed initially by the sword and dagger.
“I go, and it is done; the bell invites me.
Hear it not, Duncan, for it is a knell
That summons thee to heaven or to hell."
Paradise lost and our hero stuck fighting in between their eternal war. Al Simmons trying to regain the soul for which he sold to see Wanda again. In the end, with the war between heaven and hell—two business only endowed to their identity of evil and good— in a stalemate, it’s the hell spawn that has to decide, is he Banquo or is he Macbeth? or will he strike both sides to their deserved end.
Todd McFarlane’s Spawn is one Hell—no pun—of a journey that spans around 6 different versions of our anti-hero, in which the only consistency is his obsession with Wanda Sykes and his tendency to brood. Journeying from his initial rebirth, an Amateur Spawn, where he is confused, lost, fallible, and worthy of the reader’s sympathy. Not sure of the extent of his powers, he makes the best of his situation, befriending lost, vagrant souls; and sometimes makes the worst of it, engaging in battles he’s ill-prepared for and putting the one he loves in great physical danger.
For a dead guy, the first form of spawn is tragic; attracting the most depressing romantic climax as he attempts to look human again. Only to return back to his normal charred, maggot infested state right when he’s mustered enough confidence to see his ex-wife. His best friend, Terry, whom married Wanda, is still blindly working for the man who set-up our hero in the first place--while Wynn’s whole goal is to try to ruin Terry’s life (common sense would assume that Terry should have left town a long time ago). To make matters worse, all the city’s violence revolves around Spawn’s sanctuary—the dead zone as it’s sometimes called—his alleyway.
Drama cascades to Spawn’s side of town after Wynn’s experimental weapons are stolen. Tony Twist, Overt-Kill, Billy Kincaid (death by popsicle sticks), Tremor, Cy-gor, Redeemer, The Curse, and of course, Violator are the cast of gangsters, war machines, and religious or sadistic maniacs needed to provide some action for the mostly slow and incremental story. Daunting enemies from both sides of the war, with Spawn only able to call the help of Sam and Twitch and, when she’s not chasing her own demons, the spawn-hunter, Angela. The green world takes care of his lifeline, feeding off of the necroplasm that bleeds out of his chest and granting him new energy if ever on the verge of permanent death. Although it may seem like it, he's not alone in this war.
0:0:0:0
When Malebolgia rips Al Simmons’ heart out, the hell spawn is able free himself from the one thing that is continually holding him back, his humanity. His second form, Anti-Hero Spawn, is a menace. Violent and vengeful. Seeking justice where he can find it. Every where at once, he stalks. Pleading with victims to try their best to stay alive, while being feared by the same people he’s doing his best to save. He tortures child abusers (one of the children, Eddie, becomes the next Redeemer), interrogates and toys with racists, plays games with perverse aristocrats and arrogant occultists. Wielding some kind of clever switch that marries irony with doom to what would generally be considered unusual, but yet deservedly cruel, punishment (the owner of the holocaust lamp being one of the few moments of restraint).
After 100 issues, defeating Malebolgia, and holding back Urizen’s apocalypse, he becomes King Spawn; rewarded dominion over the denizens he never wanted to rule, over all of earth’s demons he has sentenced to hell. In an attempt to make best with what he has been cursed with, he strives to make hell a paradise. But he learns a valuable lesson in the process, for misplacing trust in those who have all the motivations of a killer.
Spawn, just because absolute evil exists, doesn’t mean paradise ever will.
In accordance with what life means now, he puts his nemesis, Wynn, in a permanent state of agony. Never escaping the hell he he has created for himself, as if enthralled by the torture; but when the crown is forsaken, being tricked to open the golden box of Eden, he gets what he thinks he wants: he becomes human again.
“Le roi est morte, vive le roi.”
To be human is everything he ever wanted, and yet he can’t remember why he ever wanted it. With cruel irony, the amnesiac is followed by a deserted shadow that desperately seeks to cling to him. The pagan witch, Nyx, unintentionally brings the Symbiote back to his host. Al, ever closer to his fate means being further away from the woman he loves. The Human Spawn repents everything he has done wrong in the past. Putting Maj. Forsberg out of his misery. And finally destroying the bond between Jason Wynn and the Clown. But for every chance to do what’s right, evil is always there to bring him back down to the level he belongs. As always, “the man who saved the world, but could not save himself.” Clown’s army beats him comatose, and a new Spawn is born. Nyx, the She-Spawn, saves her friend from eternal suffering.
But when bliss is temporary, only the pain endures. Mammon, behind the curtain, triumphs.
In the penultimate issue, the Hell-Spawn returns. The amalgam of former lives. Dozens of innocent lives coalesced as one to become the hunter of Spawns. But like heaven’s angels, spawn is more than just Al Simmons, he's the soul of the dead,“the voices of the dead,” reborn over a very specific amount of time. With the birth of Child Spawn, and Cyan by his side, they become Legion and face destiny together.
Armageddon, where Spawn finally goes up against the Devil and God whom Wanda is cursed to give birth to. The twins, sharing the same face, sharing the same sadistic, masochistic pleasure for receiving and inflicting pain— for the love of torture, death, war, and hate—regardless of their name epitomize the concept of evil.
But forgive the mistake and sing the praises of the Miracle-Man (Jesus Christ), for there’s a greater creator in the midst!
Spawn defeats 11 of the 12 disciples. Judas kills him but the Miracle Man puts him back together. Spawn claims victory over heaven and hell, over the minions of Rapture and over the resurrection of the four Horsemen. Over Zera, Queen of the Seraphim. His tour of vengeance reigns supreme. Miracle-Man banishes the two deities to battle eternally on top of a desolate Earth. The Hell Spawn becomes a God Spawn and brings everything back together again.
The End Game and everything preceding (issues #165-#195) is extremely underwhelming; and although it begins with his suicide, you learn too much about Al Simmons’ violent past to care about his death. The love between Spawn and Nyx is only ever submissive. And everything good from Armageddon is retconned, as past enemies are brought back again. Even though the art fits the darker tone— darkest of the whole series actually—issue #163 is the best place to stop. With Spawn becoming God and then returning to new earth as Al Simmons. The conclusion that reaches full-circle and gifts Al the ending he deserves.
Overall, the first arc, might just be the best. Some of the best comic writers of all time penning some best looking issues that Tom McFarlane has ever penciled—the look and physics of an adult cartoon (those wide eyes), drenched in anguish, neo-noir. Issue #9, Neil Gaiman creates Angela, spawn’s love interest and exiled angel/huntress. Before meeting her own demise, by the tip of her own spear, and by the hands of the devil whom she’s spent eternity seeking judgement against. A pivotal ending for what once was Image’s most beloved character. Cogliostro, the clandestinely cryptic immortal liaison, somehow always escaping the ire of both heaven and hell, always seems to be in Spawn’s way. For better and for worse. Cog becomes the great benefactor to the hell spawn before becoming his greatest betrayer, Cain.
Alan Moore’s Violator gives the most appropriate origin story for the Phlebiac. Mapping out the circles of hell in issue #8. And Blood Feud, in which gives life to the symbiotic cloak, k7 Leetha. Introducing the sadistically entertaining, Freak, in issue #37. Showcasing madness in vein of treatment for the mentally ill, in which you witness the hell spawn become a sad and pathetic puppet to his own self-hatred; mistakingly doing the work of Freak.
There’s a lot of plot to unravel. Especially when Spawn obtains classified files and goes on a blackmailing tirade. Unveiling some calculated conspiracy that keeps the overarching plot from repeating itself, too much. Police Chief Banks embedded with Billy Kincaid, brings the whole story arc to one uncomfortable intersection between societal and divinity politics; with Wynn’s lust for vengeance perpetually in play. And Sam and Twitch, the perfect partnership to make New York City feel like New York City. The homicide detectives are present for some of Spawn’s most intense moments—when there’s a lot to untangle emotionally—and even at their lamest, the pair do a good Scully and Moulder impersonation, which Bendis does a good job exploring in their solo series.
Oddly enough, though, my favorite Spawn moments are mostly illustrated in the spin-offs. Spawn: the Undead presents episodic storytelling in the fashion of Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits. The most persuasion we’ll ever get from the anti-hero is within these nine issues. Each providing it’s own Serling-esque take on Spawn’s intervention, his influence on the outcome; with regards to the protagonist’s one chance to make things right again.
Spawn: The Dark Ages, or the death and life of Knight Spawn, Lord Covenant, the crusader who fought for heaven who is now reborn as a warrior from hell; who, like our modern day anti-hero, is doing his best to renege on the deal. Niles and Holguin combine Christopher Marlowe’s conceit, and a Faustian aesthetic, with 90’s gore. In other words, fantasy Spawn. Cog’s dark past finally comes to light in this epic tale. Marring the greed of bishops, who bask in the blood trails of the wake of their wars. Children are pawns, a good angel will see her quick demise from an unlikely fellow, and the rise of the “Great Horned Beast” who is madder and more insane than the hell spawn he’s seeking vengeance against. Covenant meets an assortment of these type, getting worse by the third wave. He travels to the mad town of Turnbold, that sentences lepers, and our hero, to be tortured in the pits. Covenant gets the final laugh, though, as the mad regent, Marcellus, is mocked to feast like a cannibal in his own fight for self-preservation before succumbing to Covenant’s blade. The altruistic druid, Gareth, and the admiral Celtic, Iceni, are two unlikely heroes in a world comforted by absolute brutality. They try their best to defend against the evils whom seek the power of the necroplasm; in mad, over their heads, “Lord of the Rings” style defense. And then with a poignant end, as the Bishop Gui is turned into a monster from the necroplasm he consumes, Gareth’s final words, “My only regret is that the world has fallen victim to an order of hateful Gods and vengeful angels.” The re-birth of the Green World might be the most important addition to the main story. As well, as the foreshadowing that befalls upon Covenant, being killed by the demon, Vandal, who he was doomed to never escape from anyway.
And finally, my favorite, Curse of the Spawn. The darkest, pre-Hine/Haberlin, arc of the big four. Tales of Apocalypse Spawn, Daniel Llanso, has the feel of Terminator, but thanks to Dwayne Turner’s gothic art style—colored in sepia— and Alan McLeroy’s profane storytelling, it’s less sci-fi and more like a horrifying homage to medieval painter, Hieronymus Bosch. The Anti-Pope could possibly be the most frightening villain in the whole series. Adorning the mitre above his frozen grin. As the holy father continually enjoys watching his world burn high above Vatican City. While the most frightening hero is the equally monstrous, equally beautiful, Suture (a personal fave). The victim of rape-murder, who is sewn back to life by the gypsy, Odessa; seeking vengeance on all the men who did Gretchen Culver wrong. Curse of the Spawn tells a dozen isolated stories across 23 issues, giving origins to the enemies Spawn has fought in the past, across all different timelines, and extrapolating on the mysterious world that Spawn is fighting to save.
Overall, the experience was just amazing. One I have to admit will only be savored by those whom remembered the phenom that was Spawn. Over 200 issues, plus the countless spin-offs, to finally put it down gives a sense of closure to a world that I was obsessed with as a child.
“I go, and it is done; the bell invites me.
Hear it not, Duncan, for it is a knell
That summons thee to heaven or to hell."
Paradise lost and our hero stuck fighting in between their eternal war. Al Simmons trying to regain the soul for which he sold to see Wanda again. In the end, with the war between heaven and hell—two business only endowed to their identity of evil and good— in a stalemate, it’s the hell spawn that has to decide, is he Banquo or is he Macbeth? or will he strike both sides to their deserved end.
Todd McFarlane’s Spawn is one Hell—no pun—of a journey that spans around 6 different versions of our anti-hero, in which the only consistency is his obsession with Wanda Sykes and his tendency to brood. Journeying from his initial rebirth, an Amateur Spawn, where he is confused, lost, fallible, and worthy of the reader’s sympathy. Not sure of the extent of his powers, he makes the best of his situation, befriending lost, vagrant souls; and sometimes makes the worst of it, engaging in battles he’s ill-prepared for and putting the one he loves in great physical danger.
For a dead guy, the first form of spawn is tragic; attracting the most depressing romantic climax as he attempts to look human again. Only to return back to his normal charred, maggot infested state right when he’s mustered enough confidence to see his ex-wife. His best friend, Terry, whom married Wanda, is still blindly working for the man who set-up our hero in the first place--while Wynn’s whole goal is to try to ruin Terry’s life (common sense would assume that Terry should have left town a long time ago). To make matters worse, all the city’s violence revolves around Spawn’s sanctuary—the dead zone as it’s sometimes called—his alleyway.
Drama cascades to Spawn’s side of town after Wynn’s experimental weapons are stolen. Tony Twist, Overt-Kill, Billy Kincaid (death by popsicle sticks), Tremor, Cy-gor, Redeemer, The Curse, and of course, Violator are the cast of gangsters, war machines, and religious or sadistic maniacs needed to provide some action for the mostly slow and incremental story. Daunting enemies from both sides of the war, with Spawn only able to call the help of Sam and Twitch and, when she’s not chasing her own demons, the spawn-hunter, Angela. The green world takes care of his lifeline, feeding off of the necroplasm that bleeds out of his chest and granting him new energy if ever on the verge of permanent death. Although it may seem like it, he's not alone in this war.
0:0:0:0
When Malebolgia rips Al Simmons’ heart out, the hell spawn is able free himself from the one thing that is continually holding him back, his humanity. His second form, Anti-Hero Spawn, is a menace. Violent and vengeful. Seeking justice where he can find it. Every where at once, he stalks. Pleading with victims to try their best to stay alive, while being feared by the same people he’s doing his best to save. He tortures child abusers (one of the children, Eddie, becomes the next Redeemer), interrogates and toys with racists, plays games with perverse aristocrats and arrogant occultists. Wielding some kind of clever switch that marries irony with doom to what would generally be considered unusual, but yet deservedly cruel, punishment (the owner of the holocaust lamp being one of the few moments of restraint).
After 100 issues, defeating Malebolgia, and holding back Urizen’s apocalypse, he becomes King Spawn; rewarded dominion over the denizens he never wanted to rule, over all of earth’s demons he has sentenced to hell. In an attempt to make best with what he has been cursed with, he strives to make hell a paradise. But he learns a valuable lesson in the process, for misplacing trust in those who have all the motivations of a killer.
Spawn, just because absolute evil exists, doesn’t mean paradise ever will.
In accordance with what life means now, he puts his nemesis, Wynn, in a permanent state of agony. Never escaping the hell he he has created for himself, as if enthralled by the torture; but when the crown is forsaken, being tricked to open the golden box of Eden, he gets what he thinks he wants: he becomes human again.
“Le roi est morte, vive le roi.”
To be human is everything he ever wanted, and yet he can’t remember why he ever wanted it. With cruel irony, the amnesiac is followed by a deserted shadow that desperately seeks to cling to him. The pagan witch, Nyx, unintentionally brings the Symbiote back to his host. Al, ever closer to his fate means being further away from the woman he loves. The Human Spawn repents everything he has done wrong in the past. Putting Maj. Forsberg out of his misery. And finally destroying the bond between Jason Wynn and the Clown. But for every chance to do what’s right, evil is always there to bring him back down to the level he belongs. As always, “the man who saved the world, but could not save himself.” Clown’s army beats him comatose, and a new Spawn is born. Nyx, the She-Spawn, saves her friend from eternal suffering.
But when bliss is temporary, only the pain endures. Mammon, behind the curtain, triumphs.
In the penultimate issue, the Hell-Spawn returns. The amalgam of former lives. Dozens of innocent lives coalesced as one to become the hunter of Spawns. But like heaven’s angels, spawn is more than just Al Simmons, he's the soul of the dead,“the voices of the dead,” reborn over a very specific amount of time. With the birth of Child Spawn, and Cyan by his side, they become Legion and face destiny together.
Armageddon, where Spawn finally goes up against the Devil and God whom Wanda is cursed to give birth to. The twins, sharing the same face, sharing the same sadistic, masochistic pleasure for receiving and inflicting pain— for the love of torture, death, war, and hate—regardless of their name epitomize the concept of evil.
But forgive the mistake and sing the praises of the Miracle-Man (Jesus Christ), for there’s a greater creator in the midst!
Spawn defeats 11 of the 12 disciples. Judas kills him but the Miracle Man puts him back together. Spawn claims victory over heaven and hell, over the minions of Rapture and over the resurrection of the four Horsemen. Over Zera, Queen of the Seraphim. His tour of vengeance reigns supreme. Miracle-Man banishes the two deities to battle eternally on top of a desolate Earth. The Hell Spawn becomes a God Spawn and brings everything back together again.
The End Game and everything preceding (issues #165-#195) is extremely underwhelming; and although it begins with his suicide, you learn too much about Al Simmons’ violent past to care about his death. The love between Spawn and Nyx is only ever submissive. And everything good from Armageddon is retconned, as past enemies are brought back again. Even though the art fits the darker tone— darkest of the whole series actually—issue #163 is the best place to stop. With Spawn becoming God and then returning to new earth as Al Simmons. The conclusion that reaches full-circle and gifts Al the ending he deserves.
Overall, the first arc, might just be the best. Some of the best comic writers of all time penning some best looking issues that Tom McFarlane has ever penciled—the look and physics of an adult cartoon (those wide eyes), drenched in anguish, neo-noir. Issue #9, Neil Gaiman creates Angela, spawn’s love interest and exiled angel/huntress. Before meeting her own demise, by the tip of her own spear, and by the hands of the devil whom she’s spent eternity seeking judgement against. A pivotal ending for what once was Image’s most beloved character. Cogliostro, the clandestinely cryptic immortal liaison, somehow always escaping the ire of both heaven and hell, always seems to be in Spawn’s way. For better and for worse. Cog becomes the great benefactor to the hell spawn before becoming his greatest betrayer, Cain.
Alan Moore’s Violator gives the most appropriate origin story for the Phlebiac. Mapping out the circles of hell in issue #8. And Blood Feud, in which gives life to the symbiotic cloak, k7 Leetha. Introducing the sadistically entertaining, Freak, in issue #37. Showcasing madness in vein of treatment for the mentally ill, in which you witness the hell spawn become a sad and pathetic puppet to his own self-hatred; mistakingly doing the work of Freak.
There’s a lot of plot to unravel. Especially when Spawn obtains classified files and goes on a blackmailing tirade. Unveiling some calculated conspiracy that keeps the overarching plot from repeating itself, too much. Police Chief Banks embedded with Billy Kincaid, brings the whole story arc to one uncomfortable intersection between societal and divinity politics; with Wynn’s lust for vengeance perpetually in play. And Sam and Twitch, the perfect partnership to make New York City feel like New York City. The homicide detectives are present for some of Spawn’s most intense moments—when there’s a lot to untangle emotionally—and even at their lamest, the pair do a good Scully and Moulder impersonation, which Bendis does a good job exploring in their solo series.
Oddly enough, though, my favorite Spawn moments are mostly illustrated in the spin-offs. Spawn: the Undead presents episodic storytelling in the fashion of Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits. The most persuasion we’ll ever get from the anti-hero is within these nine issues. Each providing it’s own Serling-esque take on Spawn’s intervention, his influence on the outcome; with regards to the protagonist’s one chance to make things right again.
Spawn: The Dark Ages, or the death and life of Knight Spawn, Lord Covenant, the crusader who fought for heaven who is now reborn as a warrior from hell; who, like our modern day anti-hero, is doing his best to renege on the deal. Niles and Holguin combine Christopher Marlowe’s conceit, and a Faustian aesthetic, with 90’s gore. In other words, fantasy Spawn. Cog’s dark past finally comes to light in this epic tale. Marring the greed of bishops, who bask in the blood trails of the wake of their wars. Children are pawns, a good angel will see her quick demise from an unlikely fellow, and the rise of the “Great Horned Beast” who is madder and more insane than the hell spawn he’s seeking vengeance against. Covenant meets an assortment of these type, getting worse by the third wave. He travels to the mad town of Turnbold, that sentences lepers, and our hero, to be tortured in the pits. Covenant gets the final laugh, though, as the mad regent, Marcellus, is mocked to feast like a cannibal in his own fight for self-preservation before succumbing to Covenant’s blade. The altruistic druid, Gareth, and the admiral Celtic, Iceni, are two unlikely heroes in a world comforted by absolute brutality. They try their best to defend against the evils whom seek the power of the necroplasm; in mad, over their heads, “Lord of the Rings” style defense. And then with a poignant end, as the Bishop Gui is turned into a monster from the necroplasm he consumes, Gareth’s final words, “My only regret is that the world has fallen victim to an order of hateful Gods and vengeful angels.” The re-birth of the Green World might be the most important addition to the main story. As well, as the foreshadowing that befalls upon Covenant, being killed by the demon, Vandal, who he was doomed to never escape from anyway.
And finally, my favorite, Curse of the Spawn. The darkest, pre-Hine/Haberlin, arc of the big four. Tales of Apocalypse Spawn, Daniel Llanso, has the feel of Terminator, but thanks to Dwayne Turner’s gothic art style—colored in sepia— and Alan McLeroy’s profane storytelling, it’s less sci-fi and more like a horrifying homage to medieval painter, Hieronymus Bosch. The Anti-Pope could possibly be the most frightening villain in the whole series. Adorning the mitre above his frozen grin. As the holy father continually enjoys watching his world burn high above Vatican City. While the most frightening hero is the equally monstrous, equally beautiful, Suture (a personal fave). The victim of rape-murder, who is sewn back to life by the gypsy, Odessa; seeking vengeance on all the men who did Gretchen Culver wrong. Curse of the Spawn tells a dozen isolated stories across 23 issues, giving origins to the enemies Spawn has fought in the past, across all different timelines, and extrapolating on the mysterious world that Spawn is fighting to save.
Overall, the experience was just amazing. One I have to admit will only be savored by those whom remembered the phenom that was Spawn. Over 200 issues, plus the countless spin-offs, to finally put it down gives a sense of closure to a world that I was obsessed with as a child.
June 11, 2025
Spawn #1 is dark, moody, and dripping with atmosphere. The art is absolutely striking—bold, dramatic, and full of energy. Story-wise, it’s a bit clunky and exposition-heavy, but it lays down an intriguing foundation with a strong sense of style and mystery.
Al Simmons’ tragic return and fragmented memories create a compelling hook, even if the pacing feels uneven at times. It’s not a flawless debut, but it delivers a unique tone and aesthetic that sets it apart. A solid, if slightly rough, introduction to a character with a ton of potential. 3.5 stars
Al Simmons’ tragic return and fragmented memories create a compelling hook, even if the pacing feels uneven at times. It’s not a flawless debut, but it delivers a unique tone and aesthetic that sets it apart. A solid, if slightly rough, introduction to a character with a ton of potential. 3.5 stars
February 19, 2020
🌳 🐜
Twenty five years pass, I examine the same art, The thief young blood art. Original print, Vinyl image salvaging. The cloak of the witch.
Twenty five years pass, I examine the same art, The thief young blood art. Original print, Vinyl image salvaging. The cloak of the witch.
January 16, 2025
After Spider-Man, Todd spits Spawn spraying, sporting, splurging splash page after splash page spinning his spiel into splattering expenditures of spearheaded sparks & spirits, spacing out, spilling the beans and eventually splitting Image.
Quick flip through :
https://youtu.be/dggcjTfMXAE
November 3, 2019
First time reading a Spawn coming... Yeah it's weird. I like it. I was expecting something a bit more intense but I still like it and for a first one, this is the first Spawn ever, it was a good start. Kind of remind me of The Crow a bit by the premise and the character. Looking forward to continue reading this series!
August 14, 2023
Brilliant art and a promising premise, though not much movement or story in this issue in spite of loads of text and attitude. I hate amnesia and amnesia driven exposition.
March 2, 2025
Decent issue, first one I've actually finished of many disparate volumes, this one grabbed my attention for sure. Dark but not too much, good colour, lots of pop, Todd McFarlane had taste man
September 25, 2020
Image Comics has been putting out these “Image Firsts” books lately, essentially reprints of famous debut comics for only a dollar (which is genius), so you know the first one I had to read was “Spawn,” arguably the most high-profile and successful of the inaugural Image class. What can you say about “Spawn” that hasn’t been said before, most likely by Todd McFarlane himself? Reading it now, decades after McFarlane shocked the comics world by jumping ship on Marvel’s insanely popular “Spider-Man” book to essentially self-publish a grim Batman-esque comic about an assassin who dies and makes a deal with the devil to be reborn, it’s almost quaint how tame it seems by modern standards. There’s a little bit of cursing and some slight nudity but it’s kinda silly to think that the Image boys, the artists who felt under-appreciated by the Big Two so they started their own company, were seen as too mature for their presumably teenaged readership. Comics nowadays go a lot farther, but I suppose books like “Spawn #1” helped blaze that path. The first issue is a little rough in spots, and McFarlane gets a bit heavy with the crosshatching in spots, but it’s a cool comic. The Spawn mythology ended up getting pretty convoluted in the ensuing years but this premier issue is a fun slice of supernatural angst and gritty violence.
December 20, 2017
El comienzo de las aventuras de Spawn, quien después de renacer se da cuenta que ahora es un soldado del infierno con la tarea de reclutar almas para el Malebolgia y hacer frente a las fuerzas del cielo en el Apocalipsis.
Al Simmons regresa sin entender que es lo que está pasando y poco a poco va acomodando las piezas de lo que le ha sucedido, de quien era el antes de morir, a quien amaba, para quien trabajaba, quien lo asesinó,etc.; todo esto haciendo frente a enemigos como la mafia, demonios y ángeles.
Al Simmons regresa sin entender que es lo que está pasando y poco a poco va acomodando las piezas de lo que le ha sucedido, de quien era el antes de morir, a quien amaba, para quien trabajaba, quien lo asesinó,etc.; todo esto haciendo frente a enemigos como la mafia, demonios y ángeles.
May 7, 2016
My First Spawn comic
I didn't know what to expect and I'm still unsure of how to review it. The graphics were great with detailing here and there that made some a features stand out. Then again, there wasn't much of a story, probably because it was the first one. But I would have preferred that it have a but more gripping feel to it than what I got.
I didn't know what to expect and I'm still unsure of how to review it. The graphics were great with detailing here and there that made some a features stand out. Then again, there wasn't much of a story, probably because it was the first one. But I would have preferred that it have a but more gripping feel to it than what I got.
July 18, 2020
Spawn in action again.
Good color artwork, image comics freebie. The story of Spawn is quite familiar to fans. I think the villains will change some? But McFarlane is good at delivering product.
Good color artwork, image comics freebie. The story of Spawn is quite familiar to fans. I think the villains will change some? But McFarlane is good at delivering product.
July 6, 2021
Compelling Introduction
I’m looking forward to more of Simmons’ background and what may have happened with respect to his wife. If you’re thinking of picking this up, I recommend you do. Great art too!
I’m looking forward to more of Simmons’ background and what may have happened with respect to his wife. If you’re thinking of picking this up, I recommend you do. Great art too!
September 22, 2019
Black guy superhero
June 23, 2025
Pretty good. Not bad.
August 23, 2023
"Spawn #1" heralds the dawn of a dark and visually striking era in the world of comics. Created by Todd McFarlane, this seminal issue introduces readers to Al Simmons, a former government assassin who is resurrected as the antihero Spawn. With its groundbreaking art and gritty narrative, "Spawn #1" marks a pivotal moment in the comic book landscape, redefining the superhero genre with its macabre undertones.
Todd McFarlane's artwork is an undeniable highlight of this debut issue. The pages are a visual spectacle, showcasing McFarlane's distinct style characterized by intricate detailing, exaggerated proportions, and dynamic panel layouts. His use of shadows and lighting creates a moody atmosphere that perfectly complements the dark narrative. Spawn's design, with his intricate, otherworldly symbiotic suit, immediately distinguishes him from traditional superheroes, solidifying his place as an antihero with a twist.
The story itself is a masterful blend of supernatural elements, personal tragedy, and moral conflict. Al Simmons' journey from a government assassin to a supernatural entity seeking redemption is a compelling one, steeped in themes of power, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions. McFarlane does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of human nature, making "Spawn #1" a departure from the conventional superhero fare.
The pacing of the issue is well-balanced, with flashbacks interspersed throughout that shed light on Al Simmons' past and the choices that led him to his current state. This structure adds depth to the character and the narrative, allowing readers to connect with Al's struggles and empathize with his desire for redemption.
While Spawn himself is a central figure, the issue also introduces other intriguing characters, such as Cogliostro, who becomes a mentor figure to Al Simmons. These characters add complexity to the story and hint at a larger universe of supernatural beings and hidden truths.
"Spawn #1" stands as a testament to Todd McFarlane's creative vision and his willingness to push the boundaries of the superhero genre. It challenges readers' expectations, subverting the traditional hero's journey and delving into darker, morally ambiguous territory. This shift was instrumental in paving the way for the more mature and nuanced storytelling that would become a hallmark of the '90s comic book landscape.
In conclusion, "Spawn #1" is a groundbreaking issue that leaves an indelible mark on the world of comics. Todd McFarlane's unparalleled artwork and his bold approach to storytelling revolutionized the superhero genre, giving birth to a complex and visually captivating antihero. If you're a fan of dark, supernatural tales that explore the depths of human nature, "Spawn #1" is a must-read, representing a pivotal moment in the evolution of comics as an art form.
Todd McFarlane's artwork is an undeniable highlight of this debut issue. The pages are a visual spectacle, showcasing McFarlane's distinct style characterized by intricate detailing, exaggerated proportions, and dynamic panel layouts. His use of shadows and lighting creates a moody atmosphere that perfectly complements the dark narrative. Spawn's design, with his intricate, otherworldly symbiotic suit, immediately distinguishes him from traditional superheroes, solidifying his place as an antihero with a twist.
The story itself is a masterful blend of supernatural elements, personal tragedy, and moral conflict. Al Simmons' journey from a government assassin to a supernatural entity seeking redemption is a compelling one, steeped in themes of power, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions. McFarlane does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of human nature, making "Spawn #1" a departure from the conventional superhero fare.
The pacing of the issue is well-balanced, with flashbacks interspersed throughout that shed light on Al Simmons' past and the choices that led him to his current state. This structure adds depth to the character and the narrative, allowing readers to connect with Al's struggles and empathize with his desire for redemption.
While Spawn himself is a central figure, the issue also introduces other intriguing characters, such as Cogliostro, who becomes a mentor figure to Al Simmons. These characters add complexity to the story and hint at a larger universe of supernatural beings and hidden truths.
"Spawn #1" stands as a testament to Todd McFarlane's creative vision and his willingness to push the boundaries of the superhero genre. It challenges readers' expectations, subverting the traditional hero's journey and delving into darker, morally ambiguous territory. This shift was instrumental in paving the way for the more mature and nuanced storytelling that would become a hallmark of the '90s comic book landscape.
In conclusion, "Spawn #1" is a groundbreaking issue that leaves an indelible mark on the world of comics. Todd McFarlane's unparalleled artwork and his bold approach to storytelling revolutionized the superhero genre, giving birth to a complex and visually captivating antihero. If you're a fan of dark, supernatural tales that explore the depths of human nature, "Spawn #1" is a must-read, representing a pivotal moment in the evolution of comics as an art form.
July 17, 2021
Picked up the first issue as a “must have” from a buddy.
I have very little knowledge of Spawn going into this..except for seeing his body on the cover of a VHS at a local shop in the 90’s constantly. This sliver of nostalgia I never even knew the backstory to got me in.
Now .. for something like Spawn and the background, it’s hard to lay it out in one issue. I think there’s a lot that needs to be said and explained and that’s why I’m going 3.5 stars… not because it wasn’t good, because it was. And not because the art wasn’t good, because it was (certainly 90’s at this point - bump it to 4 stars!?) but I need to understand a little more of what’s up here. Certainly intriguing and makes you want the second issue.
I have very little knowledge of Spawn going into this..except for seeing his body on the cover of a VHS at a local shop in the 90’s constantly. This sliver of nostalgia I never even knew the backstory to got me in.
Now .. for something like Spawn and the background, it’s hard to lay it out in one issue. I think there’s a lot that needs to be said and explained and that’s why I’m going 3.5 stars… not because it wasn’t good, because it was. And not because the art wasn’t good, because it was (certainly 90’s at this point - bump it to 4 stars!?) but I need to understand a little more of what’s up here. Certainly intriguing and makes you want the second issue.
September 1, 2024
I'll be honest, I'm not very familiar with the character of Spawn. I have vague knowledge of an unpopular film from the 90's, but that's about it. Even so, this first issue was free online, and I enjoy a good graphic novel, so I thought it was at least worth checking out.
I liked the dark and gritty world built for the anti-hero to do his dirty work. Sure, a crime-ridden urban setting isn't exactly rare in the world of superheroes, but partly that's because it works so well, and privides a lot of room for hero-on-criminal action.
This first issue certainly pulled me in, and I can definitely see myself revisiting the series down the line, hopefully sooner rather than later.
I liked the dark and gritty world built for the anti-hero to do his dirty work. Sure, a crime-ridden urban setting isn't exactly rare in the world of superheroes, but partly that's because it works so well, and privides a lot of room for hero-on-criminal action.
This first issue certainly pulled me in, and I can definitely see myself revisiting the series down the line, hopefully sooner rather than later.
July 20, 2023
I always had an unfair prejudice against Spawn.
From afar, I got the impression that it was edgelord nonsense.
Having actually spent time reading an issue... I think there's some potential for that, but I'm very optimistic that this character is an exceptionally interesting protagonist.
If nothing else, the subversion of his very first heroic episode is super bold and makes him a more complex character than most who are drawn wearing capes. (And what a cape it is! McFarlane's art is pretty captivating.)
I'm excited to continue!
From afar, I got the impression that it was edgelord nonsense.
Having actually spent time reading an issue... I think there's some potential for that, but I'm very optimistic that this character is an exceptionally interesting protagonist.
If nothing else, the subversion of his very first heroic episode is super bold and makes him a more complex character than most who are drawn wearing capes. (And what a cape it is! McFarlane's art is pretty captivating.)
I'm excited to continue!
August 20, 2024
Lieutenant Colonel Al Simmons saved the President from an assassination attempt.
1987 / 1992. Al’s wife is Wanda Blake.
Simmons did covert, black-ops work.
Martin Alexander is trying to move in on Wanda now…
A betrayal.
Twitch. Dead gangsters.
The paranormal illustrations are the strongest—but those parts of the story are also the most mysterious.
The gay newscaster is a rather offensive caricature.
Too hard to follow; too much is unexplained.
(Please learn how to spell cemetery properly.)
1987 / 1992. Al’s wife is Wanda Blake.
Simmons did covert, black-ops work.
Martin Alexander is trying to move in on Wanda now…
A betrayal.
Twitch. Dead gangsters.
The paranormal illustrations are the strongest—but those parts of the story are also the most mysterious.
The gay newscaster is a rather offensive caricature.
Too hard to follow; too much is unexplained.
(Please learn how to spell cemetery properly.)
Read
April 20, 2022I've been trying desperately to find the collection at a good price so I'm left with adding the single issues even though my translated issues doesn't have ISBN numbers.
Spawn doesn't really fit into our perception of modern urban fantasy but at the time a colorful superhero version of Faust was a fresh and interesting idea.
There's still alot of good storytelling early on in the series.
Spawn doesn't really fit into our perception of modern urban fantasy but at the time a colorful superhero version of Faust was a fresh and interesting idea.
There's still alot of good storytelling early on in the series.
June 5, 2025
That first two-page splash introducing Spawn is McFarlane at the height of his powers. Also, he was not shy utilizing the talking heads of news anchors info dumping that he cribbed from Frank Miller's Batman: The Dark Knight Returns.
July 16, 2020
The artwork was fairly well-done -- that was always McFarlane's true strength -- but the storytelling is pretty sub-par. Solid ideas veiled by half-baked crime story and horror cliches with so-so comic-style storytelling that seemed a little dated even in 1992.
July 24, 2022
Great first issue for a heck of an Anti-hero
Todd McFarlane has done what he strived to do. He created a great entry point for a great story. Can't wait to read the next issue with the violator. A good read for sure!
Todd McFarlane has done what he strived to do. He created a great entry point for a great story. Can't wait to read the next issue with the violator. A good read for sure!
November 7, 2022
Great comic series.
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