Heavy Metal Issue #283, released in November 2016, is themed the "Fear Special" and delves into the darker realms of horror, suspense, and psychological unease.Edited by Grant Morrison, this issue offers a curated collection of stories and artworks that explore various facets of fear.
Key Highlights:
Editorial by Grant Morrison: A six-page piece where Morrison discusses the assembly of the "Fear Special," blending introspection with dark humor.
"Das Fischerhaus": A horror tale by Deric Hughes and Ben Raab, illustrated by Mike May, about a fisherman who encounters a monstrous entity in the woods.
"The Witch": A feature on cover artist David Stoupakis, discussing his artistic journey and the therapeutic nature of his work.
"The Smile of the Absent Cat" (Chapter One): Written by Grant Morrison with art by Gerhard, this story introduces Tommy Catkins, a feline detective navigating a world filled with arcane rituals and dark mysteries.
"Nightfeed": A brief yet impactful story by Juani Roldán and Patricio Delpeche, focusing on a woman's unsettling nighttime routine involving a monstrous presence.
"Constriction": Mike Walton and Daniel Govar present a tale of a woman whose body begins to constrict, leading to catastrophic consequences.
"Semiautomagic: The Hollow Man": A 12-page story by Alex de Campi and Jerry Ordway, featuring Alice Creed as she encounters an actor whose body harbors transformed magical creatures.
"Holiday Offering": Set on October 31, 1938, this story by Diego Agrimbau and Gabriel Ippóliti depicts gangsters reacting violently to Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds" broadcast.
"Zentropa" (Part 3): John Mahoney continues his visually rich sci-fi saga, blending surreal landscapes with intricate storytelling.
"Salsa Invertebraxa" (Part 4): Mozchops delivers the next installment of his insect-centric fantasy narrative, known for its vivid and detailed artwork.
"Separation Anxiety": A story by Thommy Burns and Maxx Marshall, exploring a world inhabited by puppets crafted from the remains of the protagonist's victims.
"Felt": A horror-suspense story by Thommy Burns and Maxx Marshall, examining the psychological unraveling of its characters.
"Gut Ghost": Enzo Garza presents a tale of a ghost-like creature that consumes a man, blending horror with surrealism.
