We Called Them Giants Review: A Short Story With a Big Heart

We Called Them Giants

Review

Rating

9

Good

Writer: Kieron Gillen

Artist: Stephanie Hans

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: October 30, 2024

Page Count: 104

Format: Single-issue

Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans deliver a touching standalone graphic novel about connection and communication in a world turned upside down. With its gorgeous art and emotional storytelling, We Called Them Giants is not to be missed.

We Called Them Giants

Review

Writer: Kieron Gillen

Artist: Stephanie Hans

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: October 30, 2024

Page Count: 104

Format: Single-issue

Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans deliver a touching standalone graphic novel about connection and communication in a world turned upside down. With its gorgeous art and emotional storytelling, We Called Them Giants is not to be missed.

Rating

9

Good

Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans, the rockstar creative team behind Image Comics' DIE, are back together to take readers on another emotional ride. We Called Them Giants is a standalone graphic novel that beautifully weaves the tale of a young girl navigating through a strange post-apocalyptic world that flipped overnight. Since announcing the title a few months back, it instantly became one of my most anticipated graphic novels of the year. While Gillen and Hans are both great creators on their own, it’s always magic whenever the two collaborate. 

So does this post-apocalyptic tale live up to its gigantic hype? Keep on reading for my full review of We Called Them Giants.

Overview of We Called Them Giants

One day, Lori wakes up to find that nearly everyone has mysteriously disappeared from the world without any explanation. The only ones seemingly left behind are Annette, Lori's bubbly neighbor, and a gang of ruthless survivors known as the Dogs. Lori and Annette must scavenge through this ruined world, fighting to survive one day at a time. However, their perception of reality is turned upside down when beings known as Giants crash land in their town. But the big question remains—are the Giants friends or foes?

Image: Image Comics

Review

If you're coming into this new graphic novel as a fan of Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans' DIE, you won’t be disappointed with We Called Them Giants. The graphic novel opens with a foreboding and melancholic monologue from the main character, Lori, setting the tone for both her character and the overarching themes of the story. As an adopted child, Lori struggles with deep-seated abandonment issues, causing her to push people away instinctually. In many ways, the story’s events mirror her worst nightmares, as the whole world disappears overnight, leaving her behind to fend for herself. But it’s within this hardship that the beauty of this comic blossoms. The story unfolds with Lori’s character growing and evolving through each grueling and emotional test she faces. Kieron Gillen has crafted a wonderful script that captures both the vulnerability and strength of Lori's character.

Despite the title evoking something big, I love how We Called Them Giants is a short and powerful read. Running just over slightly 100 pages long, it takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that is punchy and heartfelt. Through Gillen's slick writing, you get a firm grasp of unique characters and the mental anguish they overcome to survive their strange world. Even though the graphic novel is a quick read, it doesn’t shy away from taking you through the many shocking and touching moments that are crucial to Lori's growth. By the story’s climactic and emotional conclusion, I was fully enraptured by Lori’s incredible journey.

Image: Image Comics

It should go without saying, but Stephanie Hans’ breathtaking art will blow you away once you open this book. Her textured and vibrant coloring is particularly fantastic as it gives a distinct glow to the graphic novel’s fractured world. Every time the Giants appear, it feels like a massive event—their raw, ethereal nature is truly a sight to behold. I also adore how expressive Hans illustrates the eyes of her characters. They're almost anime-like in their striking intensity, and how just one look expresses so much emotion. This adds an extra layer of impact to the graphic novel's many emotional and pulse-pounding scenes. Considering how excited I was for this book, it’s safe to say that Image Comics has another hit on their hands, come October.

Image: Image Comics

Final Thoughts

We Called Them Giants is a beautiful standalone story that showcases the incredible talents of both Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans. In just over 100 pages, the killer duo delivers a touching tale about the power of human connection in the dreaded face of isolation and fear. With its gorgeous artwork and emotionally resonant storytelling, this Image Comics graphic novel is a must-read for fans of DIE and readers looking to immerse themselves in something new. 

Why You Should Read We Called Them Giants

• It's a quick and touching read about the power of personal bonds and communication.
• Stephanie Hans' art is incredible in this comic from start to finish.
• Kieron Gillen's writing perfectly captures the emotional journey of the main character.