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Deconstructing the Metabarons
The second reference guide to the Jodoverse, focused on unveiling the secrets of the Universe's fiercest warrior the Metabarons.
Deconstructing the Metabarons sheds light on the secrets surrounding the celestial clan of warriors, first introduced in the the seminal science-fiction graphic novel, which has become the cornerstone of the Jodoverse, The Incal. This encyclopedic reference book is packed with fascinating insights from the Metabaron's original creators, Jodorowsky and Mœbius, alongside revealing text, and rare and unseen preliminary illustrations from Juan Gimenez. Discover the complexities of the Metabarons' sacred bloodline, traveling all the way their inception, through the tales of the intricacies of the expanded Universe and into the recent relaunch, The Metabaron.
Deconstructing the Metabarons sheds light on the secrets surrounding the celestial clan of warriors, first introduced in the the seminal science-fiction graphic novel, which has become the cornerstone of the Jodoverse, The Incal. This encyclopedic reference book is packed with fascinating insights from the Metabaron's original creators, Jodorowsky and Mœbius, alongside revealing text, and rare and unseen preliminary illustrations from Juan Gimenez. Discover the complexities of the Metabarons' sacred bloodline, traveling all the way their inception, through the tales of the intricacies of the expanded Universe and into the recent relaunch, The Metabaron.
- GenresComicsGraphic Novels
128 pages, Hardcover
Published March 26, 2019
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24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
March 12, 2022
If you're in the market for this book, you likely already know that "The Metabarons" is arguably the greatest sci-fi comics series ever conceived and are a fan of the Jodoverse.
Divided into three sections - Origins, The Metaverse, and Themes - this reference provides great insight into both the fictional characters and universe, as well as the creative and collaborative processes of the (very prolific) creators themselves, with ample oversized visual material - much of it not previously published - as well as beautiful, extremely high quality splash pages of Gimenez' art (the paintings which provided the covers for the original "Metabarons" volumes are especially good).
The "Themes" section is one of its strongest features, with Jodorowsky's favorite motifs of genealogy, tragedy etc. receiving their deserved analysis; we learn about the influence of Tarotology and Greek theater in his creative process, among many other things.
The material is far from left up to the interpretation of the editor: there is extensive insight from Jodorowsky and Gimenez themselves, from thorough interviews and personal writings, providing first-hand creator insight into most aspects of the eleven-year labor of love that was "The Metabarons."
"Deconstructing The Metabarons"' only real weakness - if it can be said to have one - is its lack of an index for the purposes of quick reference, but for a book this well-organized, designed, and edited, this is a minor gripe.
It can be closely scrutinized for its wealth of detail, or simply leafed through to appreciate the art and layout. It's also fairly priced for an oversized hardcover.
Overall, an excellent reference and supplement for one of my favorite comics series of all time. Now I want "Deconstructing the Incal."
Divided into three sections - Origins, The Metaverse, and Themes - this reference provides great insight into both the fictional characters and universe, as well as the creative and collaborative processes of the (very prolific) creators themselves, with ample oversized visual material - much of it not previously published - as well as beautiful, extremely high quality splash pages of Gimenez' art (the paintings which provided the covers for the original "Metabarons" volumes are especially good).
The "Themes" section is one of its strongest features, with Jodorowsky's favorite motifs of genealogy, tragedy etc. receiving their deserved analysis; we learn about the influence of Tarotology and Greek theater in his creative process, among many other things.
The material is far from left up to the interpretation of the editor: there is extensive insight from Jodorowsky and Gimenez themselves, from thorough interviews and personal writings, providing first-hand creator insight into most aspects of the eleven-year labor of love that was "The Metabarons."
"Deconstructing The Metabarons"' only real weakness - if it can be said to have one - is its lack of an index for the purposes of quick reference, but for a book this well-organized, designed, and edited, this is a minor gripe.
It can be closely scrutinized for its wealth of detail, or simply leafed through to appreciate the art and layout. It's also fairly priced for an oversized hardcover.
Overall, an excellent reference and supplement for one of my favorite comics series of all time. Now I want "Deconstructing the Incal."
May 7, 2024
At first glance, Christophe Quillien's "Deconstructing the Metabarons" appears to be nothing more than a pricey indulgence targeted at die-hard Jodorowsky fans. The inclusion of familiar shorts, namely "The Crest of the Castaka" and "The Incal's Dream", as bonus material only reinforces this impression. To add insult to injury, the book's organization leaves much to be desired, with sloppy editing leading to repeated paragraphs and a lack of cohesive structure.
One cannot deny the allure of the book's stunning graphics, though their seemingly arbitrary selection leaves something to be desired. Rather than serving as a meaningful complement to the text, they often feel like mere decoration.
Despite these shortcomings, "Deconstructing the Metabarons" manages to salvage some redeeming qualities. The commentary provided by Jodorowsky and Giménez offers intriguing insights into their creative process and sheds light on thematic elements that may have escaped the notice of even the most dedicated fans.
As a self-professed Jodorowsky enthusiast, I found myself begrudgingly drawn to the book, ultimately deriving enjoyment from its pages. While far from perfect, it succeeds in catering to its target audience. For fans willing to overlook its flaws and embrace its merits, "Deconstructing the Metabarons" may prove to be a worthwhile addition to their collection. Three stars out of five.
One cannot deny the allure of the book's stunning graphics, though their seemingly arbitrary selection leaves something to be desired. Rather than serving as a meaningful complement to the text, they often feel like mere decoration.
Despite these shortcomings, "Deconstructing the Metabarons" manages to salvage some redeeming qualities. The commentary provided by Jodorowsky and Giménez offers intriguing insights into their creative process and sheds light on thematic elements that may have escaped the notice of even the most dedicated fans.
As a self-professed Jodorowsky enthusiast, I found myself begrudgingly drawn to the book, ultimately deriving enjoyment from its pages. While far from perfect, it succeeds in catering to its target audience. For fans willing to overlook its flaws and embrace its merits, "Deconstructing the Metabarons" may prove to be a worthwhile addition to their collection. Three stars out of five.
December 8, 2019
The Metabarons is one of my favorite comics, but I have a weird feeling regarding it, due to Jodorowsky being a creep (i.e. see the production of El Topo).
A nice supplement to the Metabarons series but overpriced and nothing remotely academic other than sourcing together interviews, images and framework.
I was mostly interested in commentary on the new Metabaron cycle (by Jerry Frissen) that focuses on an Epyphite shortage (i.e. imagine if the universe ran out of the Spice Melange in Dune) and the subsequent turmoil that ensues.
The only part that's really worth anything is the "themes" analysis. Well produced, but totally unnecessary.
A nice supplement to the Metabarons series but overpriced and nothing remotely academic other than sourcing together interviews, images and framework.
I was mostly interested in commentary on the new Metabaron cycle (by Jerry Frissen) that focuses on an Epyphite shortage (i.e. imagine if the universe ran out of the Spice Melange in Dune) and the subsequent turmoil that ensues.
The only part that's really worth anything is the "themes" analysis. Well produced, but totally unnecessary.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews