Described as a story that blends 300 and Birdman‘s magical realism, I, Tyrant is an excellent new mythic series. Here’s our spoiler-free review!
Published by Image Comics, I, Tyrant comes from e e zann and Godfarr. The official synopsis reads: Zahhak—a legend with a stark depiction of tyrants—proposes that Hafez toss out his unpromising myth’s conclusion. Hafez must retell it with a Kirby exodus for Zahhak, to give his tale a Miller reboot in the comics industry. Creation myth needs a Devil.
Huge in scope and concept, with numerous shocking, heavy, and visceral moments, I, Tyrant is an intricately woven, character focused narrative. It’s a story about stories. The mythology and lore is deep and complex, tackling the figure of ancient Arab serpent-king Zahhak — a figure rarely covered in fiction, so it was instantly fascinating to see Zahhak in a comic setting.
I, Tyrant blends mythologies, retells myth, twisting reality through fiction. History, identity, and power collide.
Combining Middle Eastern myth with postmodern storytelling, I, Tyrant will feel completely fresh to readers (it did for me, anyway), and the art from Godfarr is spectacular; it seamlessly fits the style and era of the story.
It’s difficult to rate this story so far. There’s elements I love, and the art especially is brutally breathtaking at times. It certainly has the feel of a Miller script, with a splash of the intertwined myth Sandman (especially when it comes to modernising myth), all wrapped up in a very meta narrative. This is a crazy-ambitious comic that celebrates the medium, and yet remains both unique and meaningful. It’s intimate, layered, thought-provoking, and packed with meaning.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next issue! There’s four issues in the series in total, with issue #1 arriving in comic stores on Wednesday, July 30. It’s not perfect, but consider I, Tyrant recommended!
Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5
