Everything Dead & Dying is a Beautiful, Tragic Twist on the Horror Genre (Review)

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In a week filled with fresh comic releases, it’s truly remarkable when something novel catches our attention, and this week that honor goes to the debut series from Image Comics titled “Everything Dead & Dying“. This new series is the brainchild of a skilled creative team comprising Tate Brombal, Jacob Phillips, Pip Martin, and Aditya Bidikar. They masterfully portray a world in all its beauty and ugliness, subtly infusing a glimmer of hope amidst the backdrop of sorrow and tension. Although some story elements might seem familiar, they are skillfully interwoven in a way that’s never been seen before, and it’s already captured our interest profoundly.

The title Everything Dead & Dying holds true to its meaning, even if not exactly as you might anticipate. Your initial assumptions are challenged and toyed with throughout most of the first three-quarters of the issue, leaving you puzzled as you try to decipher connections among the pieces while a melancholic and ominous atmosphere gradually takes hold. It’s only when you think you have a grasp on what this story will be about that it turns everything upside down in the final pages. This unexpected twist will undoubtedly impact not just the protagonist’s path and goal but also the fate of everyone else.



The narrative revolves around an individual named Jack, and it progresses through a bedtime tale he shares with his little girl, Daisy. As the story unravels, you gradually discern Jack’s character and the values he cherishes. However, as the plot thickens, the details become increasingly blurred, painting a heartrending picture of Jack’s life that has grown dire.

Brombal demonstrates his mastery in storytelling, evident in works like “House of Slaughter” and “Green Lantern Dark.” Meanwhile, Phillips and Martin excel in their debut issue, offering unexpected perspective shifts that intensify the horror of this new realm with a raw, gritty edge. Yet, it’s the subtler moments that leave a lasting impact. One notable aspect of the series is how each flashback resonates powerfully both in the past and in Jack’s present situation.

In numerous instances before, we’ve encountered narratives about a dystopian world following a disaster or pandemic. However, much like exceptional tales from the genre, Everything Dead & Dying manages to connect this idea to something profoundly human, giving it depth beyond mere shock factors. This tale is significantly more personal and revolves around Jack’s journey through this harsh environment. While some stories have touched upon aspects similar to Jack’s experiences, none quite match the intensity of his daily struggles, or the emotional toll such losses could inflict on anyone.

This harrowing tale, titled “Everything Dead and Dying,” isn’t for the sensitive or weak-hearted. Those brave enough to venture into its complex world will encounter a deeply emotional story that revolves around loss, love, family, and survival. It’s an unforgettable journey that will linger in your memory long after you’ve turned the final page.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

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2025-09-05 01:10