Hyde Street #1
Review
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis
Publisher: Image Comics/Ghost Machine
Release Date: October 2, 2024
Page Count: 40
Format: Single-issue
Hyde Street #1 delivers a chilling introduction to the darkest corner of Geoff John’s Ghost Machine universe. While some aspects of the premise remain shrouded in mystery, the haunting visuals and intriguing storytelling make for a promising start to this new horror comic.
Hyde Street #1
ReviewWriter: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis
Publisher: Image Comics/Ghost Machine
Release Date: October 2, 2024
Page Count: 40
Format: Single-issue
Hyde Street #1 delivers a chilling introduction to the darkest corner of Geoff John’s Ghost Machine universe. While some aspects of the premise remain shrouded in mystery, the haunting visuals and intriguing storytelling make for a promising start to this new horror comic.
Geoff Johns' Ghost Machine imprint at Image Comics has been making plenty of waves lately–and for good reason. From Rook: Exodus to Gieger, the imprint came out of the gates strong with a collection of titles that deliver unique stories and diverse flavors. So far, it has very much felt like Johns is having the time of his life with the opportunity to explore new kinds of stories with many incredible comic book artists.
However, his latest comic, Hyde Street, might be the most intriguing of them all. Together with beloved artist Ivan Reis, Johns steps out of his comfort zone to explore a horror story unlike anything he’s done before. This new comic takes readers down the darkest corner of the Ghost Machine Universe, promising a journey filled with blood, mystery, and frights. Looking back on the Ghost Machine primer that was released back in January, I remember that this is the one that caught my attention the most.
With that said, keep on reading for my full review of Hyde Street #1!
Overview of Hyde Street #1
In every city lies a pathway to a dark place called Hyde Street. Make one wrong turn and you'll find yourself in a place where death seems like the easy way out. For Mr. X-Ray, he wants out of Hyde Street, and the only way to do it is to confront the one pulling all the strings. He must face all sorts of ghouls and tortured souls if he wants to uncover the dark secrets that lie within this twisted dimension.
Image: Image Comics
Review
What I like most about Hyde Street is how it showcases a different side of Geoff Johns as a comic book creator. I’ve only ever known him for his superhero epics on DC and Ghost Machine, so it's a refreshing change of pace to see Johns tackle a such chilling horror comic head-on. And this first issue doesn’t hold back. The first pages waste no time introducing readers to the strange and horrifying world of Hyde Street. The opening scene sets the tone immediately, with a grotesque, twisted moment that signals this series is unafraid of showing some absolutely messed up content. It’s reminiscent of The Twilight Zone, in how it keeps you constantly wondering what could be lurking around the corner.
Image: Image ComicsAt the center of this nightmarish tale is Mr. X-Ray, an intriguing protagonist whose backstory is carefully introduced in this first issue. There’s a certain swagger to him that makes following his journey through the dark corners of Hyde Street engaging. While parts of his situation—like the full extent of his powers or the exact circumstances of his arrival—remain a mystery, these elements only add to the story’s intrigue. The concept of Hyde Street itself, how it’s a sort of purgatory with a twisted game at its core, is fascinating. The prospect of watching Mr. X-Ray try to weasel his way out of this deathly situation is an exciting hook for the series.
The real standout in this debut issue, though, is Ivan Reis. Known also primarily for his superhero work, Reis’ detailed and expressive art is shockingly a perfect fit for this gruesome horror comic. The characters and settings naturally look terrifying, amplifying the comic’s dark and foreboding atmosphere. His ability to bring the comic’s twisted world to life in unsettling detail is a major highlight. Considering this first issue is only scratching the surface, I’m excited to see more as we start to walk deeper into the world of Hyde Street.
Image: Image Comics
Final Thoughts
Hyde Street #1 marks an intriguing turn for Geoff Johns and his Ghost Machine imprint. The comic successfully establishes a haunting atmosphere and compelling premise, with Ivan Reis' artwork bringing this nightmarish world to vivid life. While I would have liked to see more world-building in this first issue, the strong character work and visceral horror elements make for a promising start. For readers looking to explore the darker side of the Ghost Machine universe, Hyde Street offers a chilling new path to follow. It’s a great showcase of how the exciting new imprint continues to grow in all kinds of directions. Whether you're a longtime fan of Johns' work or a horror comic aficionado seeking a new fix, Hyde Street #1 is well worth stepping into.
Why You Should Read Hyde Street
- Showcases a different side of Geoff Johns' writing with its horror focus.
- Ivan Reis' detailed artwork brings the nightmarish world to life.
- Intriguing mystery and concept that leaves you wanting more
- Expands the Ghost Machine universe in an unexpected direction