The animated series from the nineties, Gárgolas returns to the comics at the hands of his creator and with a direct connection to the Marvel Universe
Two worlds colliding
Greg Weismannoriginal creator of Gargoylereturns to sign this special accompanied by the artist Enid Balámthe colorist Raul Angle and the signatory Joe Caramagna. The story starts from a premise as simple as it is irresistible: the villain Diablo discovers that the gargoyles may hide the secret to eternal lifeand he is willing to do anything to achieve it. But obviously I didn’t count on the Manhattan clan’s help Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny and Ben Grimmwilling to stand up to him.
Weisman takes advantage of the cross to rewrite Demona’s mythologythe eternal antagonist of the stone heroes. In the original series, his story was primarily set in 11th century Scotlandbut here the screenwriter gets there Spainwhere he will meet Diablo, one of the oldest enemies of The Fantastic Four. This change not only expands the character’s backstory, but also connects him directly to the magical lore of the Marvel Universe.
Demona’s return and a new story of redemption
The issue opens with Demona saves her adopted daughter, Angelikain a sequence set in the Middle Ages, full of drama and symbolism. This version of Demona shows a more human conflict, and her relationship with Diablo serves to explore her obsession with immortality and her resentment towards humanity. The result is a reinterpretation that maintains its tragic essence, but with a new emotional nuance.
Already in the present, the comic takes us directly to the Baxter BuildingWhere The Fantastic Four they know the Manhattan clan. The opening pages show a clash of cultures and powers – scientific intellect versus ancient mysticism – with moments of humor and wonder typical of Weisman’s style.
Fantastic crossover
In addition to the main plot, the comic includes moments fans won’t want to miss: Tony Stark compares his beard to that of David Xanatosthe meeting between Isaac ChristiansMarvel’s Gargoyle and his “new relatives”, and a succession of alternative covers signed by artists such as Peach type, Gabriele Dell’Otto Yes Skottie Young.
Fantastic Four/Gargoyles #1 presents itself as a 40 page one-shotwith a price of $5.99which promises action, nostalgia and a fusion of science and magic that fits perfectly with the spirit of both worlds.
A new gateway to the Gargoyle universe
Marvel’s move is not accidental. The publisher has been betting on it for some time reviving 90s franchisesand this intersection seems like a first step towards reintroducing Gargoyles to the comics permanently. Having Weisman at the helm ensures respect for the source material, but also the freedom to update it.
If this collaboration is successful, it would not be unreasonable to imagine so new stories of the Manhattan clan together with other heroes of the House of Ideas. Can you imagine Goliath in New York fighting alongside Spider-Man or facing Doctor Doom? Anything seems possible now that Marvel has opened the door between the two universes.
For now the only certainty is this Demona has changed foreverand his new past could have direct consequences on his future. Fantastic Four/Gargoyles #1 arrives next week and promises to be one of those comics that no fan of Marvel or the animated series should miss.
