Beyond Mars…beyond physical form…beyond Human Understanding…all that’s left is the ultimate alien: the Absolute Martian Manhunter! Deniz Camp and Javier Rodríguez bring a trippy alien story to the Absolute Universe in Absolute Martian Manhunter #1.

Camp and Rodríguez introduce FBI Agent John Jones, an analytical family man who miraculously survives a bombing without a scratch. Nicknamed “the Martian” due to his cold demeanor, he never believes anything is random and desires to find order. Despite being physically ok from the bombing, an otherworldly entity attached himself to Jones and slowly exposed the agent to his alien viewing, akin to breathing in smoke. Although not a Martian, it takes the name due to the emotional connotations of being different and alien. Like Jones, the Martian feels uncomfortable and has a kindred spirit with the agent. As a result, the story becomes about these two different beings finding common ground and understand each other.

Presenting a much more psychedelic corner of the Absolute universe, the duo channel their love for the 60s and 70s sci-fi comics in the writing and design. Rodríguez’s exquisitely surreal art and panels enhance Camp’s equally dreamlike narrative. It feels like reality is unraveling, forcing Jones to enter dimensions he cannot fully process. If he hopes to find patterns in the chaos of the world, then he will need to fully embrace the unknown waters of the bizarre realities that the Martian inhabits and sees. As Jones sees a much more logical view of the world, the Martian promotes a much messier and more difficult-to-decipher understanding through emotions and memories. The Martian may be how Jones sees the world in a more human light. 

Rodríguez’s designs and colors embrace the entire comic medium to its full extent.  His attention to detail pushes the visuals to the next level. Blurring the lines between the real and the surreal, Rodríguez does some of his best comic work as he pulls out all the stops. With his strong artistic talent, Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 has a distinct emotional visual identity that burrows its way into your brain as it draws you closer. Considering the sheer variety of skills and methods utilized in the issue, it feels like a perfect match with the story and tone of the writing. Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou’s lettering accentuates the writing and art by seamlessly weaving the surreal nature through the typography and layout. And the book’s creative team deserves much praise for the final page that rewards physical issue readers. Without giving much away, it’s an impressive swing that reinforces the issue’s theme.

Camp and Rodríguez’s Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 stands as the perfect alchemy of writer and artist. It pushes what the medium of comics can do both artistically and physically. It promises a mind-bending odyssey as the human mind becomes open to a much different way of viewing life and Earth. Sometimes, it takes an alternate point of view, and sometimes, it can be from an alien consciousness merging with your body and soul.

Story: Deniz Camp Art/Color: Javier Rodríguez
Letterer: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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