I’ll be honest in saying that Corpse Knight was not even on my radar, sadly. However, after hearing friends and others around my local comic shop (Galactic Comics and Collectibles) discuss their anticipation for this title, I knew I had to give it a shot. I am damn sure glad I did. Michael Chaves gives us a premiere issue that is an original blend of empathy and brutal horror with stunning artwork by Matthew Roberts.
As war ravages France, a young girl named Foy lives in relative peace with her father… until tragedy strikes. As Foy struggles to fend for herself, she’s granted a miracle — her father returns from the dead to protect her. Now, they embark on a sacred quest, confronting murderers, wild animals, wandering armies, and black magic plaguing the countryside. As Foy comes face to face with the dark side of miracles and the secrets of the Corpse Knight, she must question if the man by her side has always been a monster…
Chaves, known for his work on films such as The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, The Conjuring: Last Rites, and The Nun II, takes a the daunting leap from movies to comics with Corpse Knight. This transition can seem easy to most, but really is a test in the creators ability to craft a story in a different format. Yes, storyboarding can be similar, but comics are their own animal. After finishing the first issue, I can safely say that while not absolutely perfect, Chaves gets it.
Corpse Knight is a brutal trip back in time where Chaves lets his artist illustrations breathe and help tell the story. This way of storytelling is typically my favorite. Let us as the reader sit in the scenes a bit and understand the motives and decisions of each of our characters without having to explain each move. Outlining the scene, laying a foundation, and let the artist’s talents speak volumes while the writer adds what is needed to be said. This allowed for some truly unsettling storytelling and letting the imagery sink in.
This first issue is as emotionally driven as it is horrifying and gruesome. It will sit with many people who have lost someone close to them, especially a parent. What lengths you’d be willing to go to have this person back in your life. While, in the real world those people don’t return from the dead to help to join you on a quest, it still brings all the feels of loss.
As I already mentioned, the artwork speaks volumes in this debut. It’s this stunning artwork by Roberts that really took me for the ride. While the illustrations are fantastic, the imagery itself is highlighted by the colors of Rico Renzi. These two creative minds bring a undead horrific story to life in ways I hadn’t expected. This is a gory, and unsettling story that is as visually stunning as it is horrifying. I signed up for a great story and stayed around for the incredible visuals.
Corpse Knight #1 surprised me in the best possible way. It’s a grim, emotional, and visually striking premiere that blends a ton of heart and horror, doing so with confidence. Michael Chaves proves he understands what it takes to craft a great comic, even if this is his first go-around. He lets the story breathe while Matthew Roberts and Rico Renzi’s artwork heightens each page with haunting and unforgettable imagery. Corpse Knight balances brutal horror with real emotional weight, making it a must-read story.
Corpse Knight #1 hit local comic shops on April 22, 2026 from Image Comics.
Corpse Knight #1 Preview
