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Head Lopper #1
Action. Adventure. Fantasy. Decapitation! ApocalyptiGirl creator Andrew MacLean brings this critically acclaimed indie hit to Image Comics! The dark humored quarterly adventure begins with a double-sized first issue, with eighty pages of story and a premium pin-up gallery. “Head Lopper is what you’d get if Mike Mignola wrote an issue of Brian Wood’s Northlanders by way of James Stokoe’s Orc Stain.”– Multiversity Comics. Variant cover by Rafael Grampá.
94 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2015
20 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Andrew MacLean
81 books149 followersMassachusetts based comic artist, Andrew R. MacLean is the creator of the SNIP SNIP, Head Lopper, and Daruma. His work can also be found in Department O, Colonial Souls, Meatspace, Outlaw Territories, Bad Karma, and others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 12, 2024
Andrew MacLean’s pretty directly-titled comic Head Lopper lives up to its name within just a few pages as our barbarian hero, Norgal, decapitates an evil leviathan! It’s a fantasy adventure about a badass who lops the heads off monsters and carries the decapitated (but still alive) head of Agatha Blue Witch, another apt name as she is, literally, a blue witch! It’s also a pretty good issue!
Like the names, MacLean’s stories get straight to the point: Norgal’s gotta fight a series of monsters to save the lands of Castlebay and Barra. That’s it! After the leviathan, it’s giant wolves, and then giant mountain lizards. if it seems like simple stuff, that’s because it is, but that doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable.
The action is fluidly drawn, kinetic and exciting. Because Norgal’s tiny in comparison to the giants he’s going up against, it means he has to be imaginative and quick with how he deals with the threats which leads to some dynamic panels. MacLean’s style reminds me a lot of Mike Mignola’s art (very much a good thing!), especially given the fantasy/monsters angle.
I love Mike Spicer’s work in general and his colours in Head Lopper are incandescent. Some of the pages have an eerie glow to them, the colours are so vivid. Really beautiful stuff. MacLean colours the third part of the issue and that looks great too - it’s such a good-looking comic!
The adventure genre, with the focus on story, means that the characters are a bit underwritten, particularly Norgal who is the barbarian archetype. Gruff and tough who rarely speaks, there’s not much to him besides being a sword-for-hire. Agatha is the comic relief, the sidekick who natters away because the hero doesn’t - that too is a bit stereotypical - and because she’s a dangerous witch, Norgal keeps her around so no-one else might get hexed by her. (That said, he’s pretty careless with the head in this issue!) What if he just dug a really, really deep hole and buried it? Also, I guess it’s ok to beat a woman if she’s a decapitated head?
Agatha Blue Witch is about the only thing approaching a long-term story as evil characters are after her because she’s powerful (apparently - we don’t see anything in this comic that points to that), which means more foes for Norgal to lop in the future. The series seems a little one dimensional so far but it’s only one issue in. Also, it’s called Head Lopper and it’s swords and sorcery action-centric so it’s probably expecting a bit too much for it to be too layered!
And let’s talk about the physical issue - it’s 80+ pages long! That’s like four regular sized issues in one! Hence the higher price tag and it’s quarterly publication schedule as it’s MacLean writing/drawing/colouring (though Spicer does the majority of the colouring) in the comic - basically, everything!
Head Lopper #1 is a wonderfully illustrated, fine first issue packed with fantasy and violence. The characters/setting/world-building and overall story are all a bit generic but it’s a fun read and if you like your fantasy comics, Head Lopper is definitely worth checking out.
Like the names, MacLean’s stories get straight to the point: Norgal’s gotta fight a series of monsters to save the lands of Castlebay and Barra. That’s it! After the leviathan, it’s giant wolves, and then giant mountain lizards. if it seems like simple stuff, that’s because it is, but that doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable.
The action is fluidly drawn, kinetic and exciting. Because Norgal’s tiny in comparison to the giants he’s going up against, it means he has to be imaginative and quick with how he deals with the threats which leads to some dynamic panels. MacLean’s style reminds me a lot of Mike Mignola’s art (very much a good thing!), especially given the fantasy/monsters angle.
I love Mike Spicer’s work in general and his colours in Head Lopper are incandescent. Some of the pages have an eerie glow to them, the colours are so vivid. Really beautiful stuff. MacLean colours the third part of the issue and that looks great too - it’s such a good-looking comic!
The adventure genre, with the focus on story, means that the characters are a bit underwritten, particularly Norgal who is the barbarian archetype. Gruff and tough who rarely speaks, there’s not much to him besides being a sword-for-hire. Agatha is the comic relief, the sidekick who natters away because the hero doesn’t - that too is a bit stereotypical - and because she’s a dangerous witch, Norgal keeps her around so no-one else might get hexed by her. (That said, he’s pretty careless with the head in this issue!) What if he just dug a really, really deep hole and buried it? Also, I guess it’s ok to beat a woman if she’s a decapitated head?
Agatha Blue Witch is about the only thing approaching a long-term story as evil characters are after her because she’s powerful (apparently - we don’t see anything in this comic that points to that), which means more foes for Norgal to lop in the future. The series seems a little one dimensional so far but it’s only one issue in. Also, it’s called Head Lopper and it’s swords and sorcery action-centric so it’s probably expecting a bit too much for it to be too layered!
And let’s talk about the physical issue - it’s 80+ pages long! That’s like four regular sized issues in one! Hence the higher price tag and it’s quarterly publication schedule as it’s MacLean writing/drawing/colouring (though Spicer does the majority of the colouring) in the comic - basically, everything!
Head Lopper #1 is a wonderfully illustrated, fine first issue packed with fantasy and violence. The characters/setting/world-building and overall story are all a bit generic but it’s a fun read and if you like your fantasy comics, Head Lopper is definitely worth checking out.
February 21, 2020
Fucking bonkers.
March 1, 2016
What a fun read! MacLean brings us the huge, Viking warrior Norgal and his reluctant companion the head of Agatha The Blue Witch. Norgal and the Witch despise each other, but seem to be forced together on their journey. Known as Head Lopper, for his preferred way of dispatching his foes, Noral would rather be called by his proper name.
Monsters, wizards, giants and other bad sorts all seem to be after revenge on Norgal or to steal away the head of Agatha for their own purposes. While there is a lot of comedy, mostly the banter between the two leads, there is also some grim business and things don't always end well for those who happen upon the duo.
MacLean has a four-parter going now which is published on a quarterly scheduled. Highly recommended.
Monsters, wizards, giants and other bad sorts all seem to be after revenge on Norgal or to steal away the head of Agatha for their own purposes. While there is a lot of comedy, mostly the banter between the two leads, there is also some grim business and things don't always end well for those who happen upon the duo.
MacLean has a four-parter going now which is published on a quarterly scheduled. Highly recommended.
March 18, 2021
That was a fun ride! I got a strong Samurai Jack vibe from it. It has a simple plot, beautiful drawn action scenes, and a bad ass hero.
October 18, 2016
Incrível. Uma mistura de God of War e The Witcher com Hora de Aventura. Arte com traços simples e cartunescos, mas o estilo se encaixa perfeitamente com essa fantasia cheia de ação e humor (elementos que sempre me atraem).
O Aparador de Cabeças Norgal decepa monstros pelo mundo, enquanto carrega nas costas a cabeça da Bruxa Azul Agatha, que tenta continuamente atrapalhar e debochar das façanhas do guerreiro, até ele perder a paciência e usá-la como bola de futebol. A cabeça da bruxa aparentemente guarda poderes significativos, e Norgal é arrastado para uma trama onde essa força pode cair em mãos erradas.
O cenário é revelado em pequenos aperitivos, sempre por meio de lutas contra inimigos bizarros e intrigas, e me deixou querendo conhecer mais desse mundo fantástico.
O Aparador de Cabeças Norgal decepa monstros pelo mundo, enquanto carrega nas costas a cabeça da Bruxa Azul Agatha, que tenta continuamente atrapalhar e debochar das façanhas do guerreiro, até ele perder a paciência e usá-la como bola de futebol. A cabeça da bruxa aparentemente guarda poderes significativos, e Norgal é arrastado para uma trama onde essa força pode cair em mãos erradas.
O cenário é revelado em pequenos aperitivos, sempre por meio de lutas contra inimigos bizarros e intrigas, e me deixou querendo conhecer mais desse mundo fantástico.
October 1, 2015
I liked the Norse/traditional folklore elements and the minimalist style, as well as the moments of humor. Looking forward to the next quarterly issue.
December 21, 2020
3.5
This was interesting. Very interesting. I want to read #2, so that's something. There was some good humor.
This was interesting. Very interesting. I want to read #2, so that's something. There was some good humor.
August 9, 2025
Never really caught my attention
There were some very interesting panels in this book. I just couldn't get into the story, though. Definitely just not up my alley
There were some very interesting panels in this book. I just couldn't get into the story, though. Definitely just not up my alley
January 5, 2026
Crtež pout Mignolina u Conanovskoj priči na škotskim visoravnima. Zabavno, ali nedostaje onaj korak da poveže u nešto čarobno. Idem dalje da vidim što močvare kriju.
October 2, 2015
Viking. Man do I love those guys. I always found them so fascinating you know? I should probably watch that tv show and start reading more about them. They are pretty interesting bunch if you think about it. They are powerful warriors, part of clans, worship gods and hell-bent on war. So when I saw the cover I immediately screamed VIKING CROSSOVER WITH MAGIC and I had to get it and read it. I just had too. I mean look at that cover and tell me you're not interested to read what's going on with this sexy gruffly ol' man and the huge blue head companioning him ;)
Meet Norgal the barbarian, or as other people call him, THE HEAD LOPPER (can you guess why?) and with his dim-witted decapitated headed sidekick, Agatha the Blue Witch, as they comes to the Scottish island of Barra only to find a sea dragon attacking its kingdom. However, it seems this recent attack wasn't the only one. Lately more and more monster start to baring their ugly heads, trying to destroying the poor people of Barra and it's king. Can Norgal can get into the bottom of this situation and solve this?
Seems like your typical story. And it does. The characters are not something you ever seen before, but that just works well with Andrew MacLean story, humor and art. You can defiantly see lots of used of Norse mythology and resemblance to Conan the Barbarian. It just so refreshing to not been thrown with too much information on what's going on, leaving us with more desire to know about Norgal and why he's carrying Agatha and how she came to be in his possession. Hack even the villain is straight forward and make sense of why he's so intent on his evil plans and that's good. Sometimes you don't need to strain from the familiar stereotypes of storytelling, not that it's not good. You can create something better by deserting from it but also can create something good and hilarious with the known elements it can offer. Not only that but Andrew's art is reminding me too much of Samurai Jack show's art style and Hellboy's comic book creator, Mike Mignola. Also Mike Spicer job coloring out Andrew's drawing helps out to flash the story and the world better, leaving more to see.
Currently the comics is a limited 4 issues series released quarterly publication due to the fact it's 80 pages long. YES, 80 PAGES PEOPLE. That's a lot, and normally you don't see that much around comic books, especially short limited series. So yeah, even if this series ends, it can always continue a new limited series and open up where we last stopped :D
So, Head Lopper is defiantly a good book to read, if you all up for good ol' sword and sorcery nonsense and hilarious comedy and hella of monsters :3
February 24, 2026
FULL REVIEW ON MY WEBSITE
https://thebookcornerchronicles.com/2...
This comic book gives use a thrilling start to an epic fantasy adventure. At the same time this comic book masterfully combines action, humor, and stunning artwork, setting the stage for a captivating series that had drawn me into its imaginative world.
The story in this comic book follows Norgal, the titular Head Lopper, a stoic warrior with a knack for decapitating monsters and foes alike. Accompanied by the severed head of Agatha, a witch with a sharp tongue, Norgal embarks on a journey that is both dangerous and darkly comedic.
The creators of this comic book create a narrative that balances intense action with moments of levity, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
The character development is a standout aspect of this comic book. Norgal is portrayed as a formidable and enigmatic figure, his silent demeanor and sheer strength making him a compelling protagonist. Agatha, on the other hand, provides a contrasting personality with her witty and sardonic commentary. Their interactions add depth and humor to the narrative, showcasing a unique partnership that is both entertaining and intriguing.
The artwork is a highlight of this comic book because it is capturing the raw energy and fantastical elements of the story. The artwork in this comic book is bold and has its own distinctive style that brings the world to life, with detailed illustrations that enhance the epic scope of Norgal’s adventures. The imaginative creature designs and dynamic action sequences are particularly impressive, immersing readers in a visually striking fantasy realm.
At the same time the artwork in this comic book creates a contrast between the gritty battles and the lush landscapes. This visual cohesion creates an immersive experience that have drawn me deeper into the story of this comic book.
The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a brisk tempo that have kept me engaged from start to finish. The balance between action and character development ensures that the narrative remains dynamic, with each scene contributing to the overarching plot.
The creators of this comic book have the ability to seamlessly blend intense battles with quieter, character-driven moments adds layers to the story, making it both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of heroism and the nature of companionship. These themes are woven into the narrative with subtlety, offering us as readers moments of reflection amidst the action. The interplay between Norgal and Agatha provides a fresh take on the classic hero-and-sidekick dynamic, inviting readers to consider the complexities of their relationship.
https://thebookcornerchronicles.com/2...
This comic book gives use a thrilling start to an epic fantasy adventure. At the same time this comic book masterfully combines action, humor, and stunning artwork, setting the stage for a captivating series that had drawn me into its imaginative world.
The story in this comic book follows Norgal, the titular Head Lopper, a stoic warrior with a knack for decapitating monsters and foes alike. Accompanied by the severed head of Agatha, a witch with a sharp tongue, Norgal embarks on a journey that is both dangerous and darkly comedic.
The creators of this comic book create a narrative that balances intense action with moments of levity, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
The character development is a standout aspect of this comic book. Norgal is portrayed as a formidable and enigmatic figure, his silent demeanor and sheer strength making him a compelling protagonist. Agatha, on the other hand, provides a contrasting personality with her witty and sardonic commentary. Their interactions add depth and humor to the narrative, showcasing a unique partnership that is both entertaining and intriguing.
The artwork is a highlight of this comic book because it is capturing the raw energy and fantastical elements of the story. The artwork in this comic book is bold and has its own distinctive style that brings the world to life, with detailed illustrations that enhance the epic scope of Norgal’s adventures. The imaginative creature designs and dynamic action sequences are particularly impressive, immersing readers in a visually striking fantasy realm.
At the same time the artwork in this comic book creates a contrast between the gritty battles and the lush landscapes. This visual cohesion creates an immersive experience that have drawn me deeper into the story of this comic book.
The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a brisk tempo that have kept me engaged from start to finish. The balance between action and character development ensures that the narrative remains dynamic, with each scene contributing to the overarching plot.
The creators of this comic book have the ability to seamlessly blend intense battles with quieter, character-driven moments adds layers to the story, making it both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of heroism and the nature of companionship. These themes are woven into the narrative with subtlety, offering us as readers moments of reflection amidst the action. The interplay between Norgal and Agatha provides a fresh take on the classic hero-and-sidekick dynamic, inviting readers to consider the complexities of their relationship.
December 17, 2015
A gargantuan first issue that clocks in at 80 pages, collecting the first two indie released issues while also tacking on a really cool brand new chapter on at the end. The art, the storytelling, the characters and the dialogue are all operating at top speed and this monster is a purring action-packed beauty to behold. The first thing to grab you is MacLean's distinctive art style but after you let that settle into brain (and you stop going nuts over it) you'll start to appreciate how well-written this thing is too. Sparse dialogue, perfectly orchestrated action sequences and interesting spins on classic action and fantasy tropes. And that last story, the rock lizards! I flipped out at the design on those things, simple but powerful, felt like it contained that Kirby charm without being a direct ape of his style or approach.
I can't wait for issue 2 in 3 months.
I can't wait for issue 2 in 3 months.
August 3, 2021
This was fun, but a tad bit more understated than I expected. I guess it is because the title spoils a lot of it. Norgal's big quest is defeating a sea monster (he beheads it, it can't be a spoiler because once again it is in the title) and is revealed to have the witch Agatha's beheaded head (once again in the title and this time even on the cover). There will probably be more to do with the baby king or the holy man he took his reward from, but that's all we get in this issue. The art was charming and I thought the sound effects were funny. Not a bad time, but nothing spectacular.
October 3, 2015
Despite ancient wisdom, I did judge this book by its cover and boy am I glad I did! In a nutshell: great art, engaging and hilarious storyline, a nice dose of gore, and all all in a comic that is about three times the size of an ordinary comic. Author/artist Maclean must be doing exactly what fate intended him to do because this was absolutely my favorite of the slew of comics that I've brought home in the last month. Now all I want for Christmas is Head Lopper #2!
February 13, 2016
wohoa, presneto da mi je zlo všeč... na začetku me je zmotlo čist mal detajlov v risbi, kak prehod iz kvadratka v kvadratek je bil mal nenavaden, me je mal zgubil... ampak kok se izbolša ko se nadaljuje, kok mi je dober lik odsekane glava modre čarovnice Agathe (od kje je dobil to idejo!!!), pa sestri k mu sledita na skrivaj - k ju čist na hitro upelje v zgodbo - sta mi tud čit krasni :)
naslednjo prosim !! :)
naslednjo prosim !! :)
May 24, 2017
I got this issue from Free Comic Book Day, so it might not have everything in it, but it does tell a story. I liked that the protagonist doesn't talk a lot, so much of the storytelling was visual. Just the same, the story is rather cliché so far, and the art style doesn't excite me, either. Just the same, I picked this because it seemed the least bad of the free options I could get with my last remaining book, so it was a smidge better than I would have expected from the title and cover.
December 17, 2022
Un buen cómic de espada y brujería. Tenemos a Norgal, un héroe que va matando bestias y brujas, incluso lleva una a cuestas y la usa como amuleto, se empieza a envolver en el misterio que rodea la isla de Barra.
El dibujo es muy refrescante, porque al ser estilo cartoon lo hace más ágil y el creador conoce el medio, así que eso lo dota de un gran dinamismo que permite que los momentos de acción fluyan muy bien.
El dibujo es muy refrescante, porque al ser estilo cartoon lo hace más ágil y el creador conoce el medio, así que eso lo dota de un gran dinamismo que permite que los momentos de acción fluyan muy bien.
March 3, 2019
Cool story. The art has some great moments but sometimes it just looks sloppy. Worldbuilding and character design are good. I noticed the author is not using the cross-barred "I" which is considered to be unprofessional by the specialists... more than offending the status quo the legibility problem is real...
January 16, 2022
This is the first I have read of this graphic novel. I found it for sale at my local library. I believe this was a stand alone in a larger series but I would have to research more. It is your pretty basic story line and a little predictable at times. Though the art work was beautiful and if has me intrigued to look into more for this character.
June 9, 2023
Confusing to start with
It's okay once you figure out what's going on. The drawing leaves something to be desired and looks a little bit like it's from a newspaper comic. Once it gets going the storyline is kind of interesting. But with the artist talking about only releasing as a quarterly comic I can see where the reader might lose interest quickly.
It's okay once you figure out what's going on. The drawing leaves something to be desired and looks a little bit like it's from a newspaper comic. Once it gets going the storyline is kind of interesting. But with the artist talking about only releasing as a quarterly comic I can see where the reader might lose interest quickly.
March 11, 2018
This is fun, though maybe lacking in drama? That's okay though, since it seems like this is mostly set-up for what's coming next. I love the art a whole lot. Very Mignola-esque, with a unique twist that would feel right at home on old school Cartoon Network. Love it.
December 31, 2019
Head Looper reunion
Liked the illustrations. Was Introduced to Head Looper years ago. Read HL#1 and moved on. Years later I forgot the title and was desperate to find the monster Slayer. I finally found him. This is great
Liked the illustrations. Was Introduced to Head Looper years ago. Read HL#1 and moved on. Years later I forgot the title and was desperate to find the monster Slayer. I finally found him. This is great
Read
June 3, 2020Norgol the head lopper, norgol the decapitor.
Good color artwork,an image freebie. Reminds me of the epic tale of Beowulf. Wandering barbarian is hacking his way through monsters. Cannot trust the people who need his help.
Good color artwork,an image freebie. Reminds me of the epic tale of Beowulf. Wandering barbarian is hacking his way through monsters. Cannot trust the people who need his help.
February 17, 2016
Wonderful violent fun!
February 21, 2016
Definitely will check the trade out (if that's going to happen) - it's a little too long for me to read in single issues.
January 24, 2018
A classic hack and slash adventure!
July 18, 2020
underwhelmed but would try more in the series
October 31, 2020
Promising!
January 27, 2023
Great visual storytelling.
November 12, 2023
Just got the first few pages at Gratis Comic Tag. Not a lot of story yet. Not sure if I'll spend time and money on this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews