The Maxx: Maxximized, Vol. 1
Written and Illustrated by Sam Kieth
Colored by Ronda Pattison
Lettered by Mike Heisler
Covers by Sam Kieth
IDW Publishing
Release Date: July 2, 2014
Cover Price: Standard Edition $21.99; Limited Edition $125.00

With hi-resolution, freshly scanned prints of the original artwork, along with a series of brand new original drawings in the back, The Maxx: Maxximized, Vol. 1 by Sam Kieth is a consummate success. This limited edition collection from the beloved comic series is luminescent, with cool tones that add a crispness and modern edge.

Although more aesthetically pleasing than maybe a burnt orange or a murky green as in the original comics, the new hues also allow for bright reds, golds, and of course, that famed purple to pop and contrast. We see a more realistic Mr. Gone with cream-colored skin and ruddy highlights, which seem to make him appear even creepier than in the original drawings.

The Maxx: Maxximized #1
Written by Sam Keith and William Messner-Loebs
Art by Sam Keith
Colors by Ronda Pattison
Cover by Sam Keith
IDW Publishing
Release Date: November 27, 2013
Cover Price: $3.99

In the alleyways of the violent and corrupt city lives a behemoth of a man who calls himself The Maxx, clad in a purple superhero jump suit with monstrous yellow gloves each adorned with a large spike. The Maxx fancies himself a protector of the city’s citizens targeted by thugs, though his social caseworker Julie just sees him as another helpless soul that she must contend with. And in the shadows of the city lurks the evil and manipulative Mr. Gone, a master of the pint-sized cannibalistic imps known as Isz.